In April this year, Nikon announced the release of a new prime lens, AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G. This is the latest release in Nikon’s range of AF series of lenses which has been picked off the shelf by many photographers the world over.This new offering from Nikon is all set to usher in the next level of wide photography by producing sharp vivid HD photos and videos. Compatible with cameras that support HD to Full HD videos, the lens hit the Indian shores just a few weeks ago. The lens is bound to find its takers in serious amateurs who have not yet fancied long zoom photography that much.

AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G has an impressive large (f/1.8) aperture that offers a very natural bokeh without having to fondle so much with focus rings. Here is a short review of AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G.

The design

AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G is not a break from NIKKOR’s tried and tested technology which has propelled these lenses to their level today. It is just another advancement which promises to deliver more in imaging. The lens features eleven optical elements in nine groups with two aspherical elements to ensure that the glass is not only durable but offers maximum versatility. The lens also features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) which makes zooming or focus a silent, smooth and a precise affair. This feature will score some brownie points with users who like shooting HD videos as they can zoom or focus without any fear of unwanted sounds creeping in the clip.

Another feather in AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8Gdesign is its Nano Crystal Coating that prevents ghosting and flare. This will in turn help in producing vivid high resolution photos and HD videos even in very bright sunny days or in low light conditions. To ensure durability, the lens features a strong weather-sealed metallic hood.

Ease of use

AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G is a user friendly glass that can be used in a variety of camera bodies. It can be even with the older camera models that do not have a built-in autofocus motor in them. The rubberized focus ring makes handling of the lens easier and even the size and the overall design encourages shooting without making it a cumbersome asset. Though the lens does not have Vibration Reduction (VR) system, it is equipped with the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to makes up for the limitation.

The lens also features two focus modes to offer photographers more freedom when it comes to focusing. These modes include manual (M) and autofocus with manual override (M/A). With this, photographers can have full control of focusing depending on the scene they are dealing with.

Key Specifications

• Focal length 28 mm
• Maximum aperture f/1.8
• Minimum aperture f/16
• Angle of view (135) 75°
• Angle of view (DX) 53°
• Lens construction 11 elements in 9 groups
• Nano Crystal Coat
• 2Aspherical lens element
• Minimum focus distance -- 0.25 m/0.85 ft
• Maximum reproduction ratio --  0.22x
• AF drive system Built-in SWM
• Fixed Attachment ring
• No. of diaphragm 7 (rounded)
• Rear focusingsystem
• Manual and M/A focusing
• Filter-attachment size 67 mm
• Lens mount material Metal
• Maximum diameter x length Approx. 73.0 x 80.5 mm/
• 2.9 x 3.2 in.
• Weight Approx. 330 g

Verdict

Unlike many wide angle lenses that greatly distort images on the edges,AF-S NIKKOR 28mm F/1.8G produces images void of such adverse distortions. Its large aperture is a key selling point since creating beautiful bokehs is made almost effortless. The aperture is also fast enough to provide bright view finder images. This highly anticipated lens is surely a great buy if you can acquire it straight away. However, since this lens is a just a few weeks old in India, pricing is still at premium, pegged at around Rs. 43,000. If you are those who like waiting for the price to come down, its price may dip considerably in the coming months.