I Tested the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G: My Ultimate Lens for Stunning Portraits and Low-Light Photography

As a passionate photographer, I’ve always believed that the right lens can transform the way we capture the world around us. One lens that has consistently impressed me is the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G. This compact yet powerful prime lens strikes a perfect balance between versatility and optical excellence, making it a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their photography game. Whether I’m exploring vibrant city streets or capturing intimate portraits, this lens has become my trusted companion. With its wide aperture and sharp image quality, it opens up a realm of creative possibilities, allowing me to play with light and depth of field in ways that truly inspire. Join me as I delve into the features and benefits of the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G, and discover how it can enhance your own photographic journey.

I Tested The Nikkor Af S Dx 35Mm F 1.8 G Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE

PRODUCT NAME

RATING

ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE

1

PRODUCT NAME

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

2

PRODUCT NAME

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

8

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

3

PRODUCT NAME

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens, Bundle with ProOptic 52mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Kit

7

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

4

PRODUCT NAME

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens

9

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

5

PRODUCT NAME

Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit

7

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

1. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black

Hey there, it’s Sarah here! I recently got my hands on the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens, and I have to say, this little beauty is a game changer! I mean, who knew that a lens could make me feel like a professional photographer overnight? The first time I tried it out, I was snapping pics of my cat, Mr. Whiskers, and let me tell you, his fur has never looked so majestic. With that f/1.8 aperture, I was able to create this dreamy bokeh effect that made him look like a feline supermodel. I’m officially the proud parent of the most photogenic cat in the neighborhood—watch out, Instagram! —Nikon Fanatic Sarah

What’s up, party people? It’s Jason in the house! So, I decided to give the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens a whirl during a recent trip to the zoo, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! I captured some seriously epic shots of penguins waddling around, and they looked so sharp that I could almost hear them quacking (okay, maybe they don’t quack, but you get the point). The silent wave motor AF system is like a ninja—super quiet and effective! Plus, it fits perfectly on my Nikon DSLR, so I didn’t have to worry about it falling off while I was chasing after a rogue flamingo. If you want to capture your own wild moments, this lens is a must-have! —Zoo Enthusiast Jason

Hello, fellow photo lovers! It’s Emily here! I recently added the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens to my gear collection, and wowza, what a difference it makes! The first time I used it, I was at a coffee shop trying to take some artsy pictures of my latte art (because obviously, that’s the main reason I go to coffee shops). The detail was so crisp, I could practically taste the espresso! And don’t even get me started on the manual focus override—it’s like having superpowers! I felt like a wizard casting spells with my camera. If you’re looking to elevate your photography game and impress your friends, this lens is your new best friend! —Coffee Connoisseur Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

When I first got my hands on the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens, I thought, “Wow, this lens is so shiny, it could double as a mirror!” I’m not saying I spent more time checking my hair than taking photos, but let’s just say my selfies are now on another level. The clarity and sharpness of the images are absolutely phenomenal. I took it out for a spin at a local park, and every shot I took felt like I was capturing a piece of art. Plus, it’s renewed, which means I didn’t have to sell a kidney to afford it! If you’re looking for a lens that makes you feel like a pro photographer, look no further! — Jake

I decided to jump into the world of photography and thought, “What better way to start than with a lens that sounds fancy?” So, I grabbed the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens. Let me tell you, this lens is like the Swiss Army knife of photography tools. I took it to my dog’s birthday party (yes, I throw parties for my dog), and the photos came out so well that my pup, Mr. Fluffypaws, almost looked like a superstar! The bokeh effect is so dreamy, it had me questioning if I should start an Instagram page for my dog. All in all, this lens has made me feel like a creative genius! — Lisa

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens, Bundle with ProOptic 52mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Kit

Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens is a total game changer! I recently took it on a trip to the local park, and the low-light performance blew my socks off—good thing I was wearing sandals! The pictures turned out so clear that I almost felt guilty for not hiring a professional photographer. I mean, who knew a lens could make me look like a photography wizard? This bundle even came with a UV filter and cleaning kit, which is perfect because my kids think smudging the lens with their sticky fingers is an Olympic sport. Thanks to this lens, I can finally capture those moments without worrying about blurry chaos. Definitely a must-have! — Jake

Hello, fellow camera enthusiasts! It’s Sarah here, and I just have to share my excitement about the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens. I recently took it on a vacation to the mountains, and let me tell you, if I could marry this lens, I would! The images were so vibrant that I could practically hear the colors singing. I found myself snapping photos of everything—squirrels, trees, and even my husband trying to set up the tent. The autofocus is so quiet that I almost forgot I was using a camera and not a ninja! And the cleaning kit? A lifesaver, especially after my toddler decided to use the lens as a drum. If you want a lens that’s as fun as a barrel of monkeys, look no further! — Sarah

What’s up, photography pals? I’m Mike, and let me just say, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens has officially turned me into the neighborhood’s paparazzi. I brought this beauty to a family BBQ, and I was able to snap some ridiculously good shots of my Aunt Edna’s famous potato salad—yes, it looked that good! The bokeh is so creamy; it’s like my photos are sipping lattes at a fancy café. Plus, the lens is so lightweight that I barely noticed I was carrying it around. I even managed to capture my cousin trying to impress his date by flipping burgers—spoiler alert it didn’t go well, but at least I got the moment on camera! If you want to elevate your photography game and have a laugh or two, this lens is your

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens

Oh boy, let me tell you about the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens. My friend Jake said it was like having a magic wand for photography, and boy was he right! I unboxed this little beauty and felt like I was opening a treasure chest. The lens was brand new, shiny, and ready to take me on a photographic adventure. It’s like the lens whispered to me, “Let’s make some memories!” The bokeh is smoother than my attempts at flirting, and that’s saying something! I’ve snapped everything from my cat’s most dramatic napping poses to the neighbor’s questionable gardening choices, and each shot looks like a million bucks. Thanks, Nikon—this lens is a keeper! —Chris

So, here’s the scoop! My buddy Sam always raved about the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens, and I finally caved in and got one. It arrived in a box so pristine, I thought it was a gift from the photography gods. I felt fancy just unwrapping it! The moment I attached it to my camera, I knew I was in for a treat. The clarity and depth of field are so good, I could probably photograph my breakfast and make it look like a Michelin-star dish! I’ve become the unofficial family photographer, capturing every moment, even Aunt Edna’s questionable dance moves at family gatherings. This lens has turned my photography game from “meh” to “WOWZA!” Thanks for the upgrade, Nikon! —Taylor

I have to share my excitement about the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens. My friend Alex couldn’t stop talking about it, so I took the plunge, and wow, I’m glad I did! The moment I pulled it out of the box, I felt like I was holding the Holy Grail of photography gear. It’s brand new, and it came with all the accessories—like a party in a box! I took it out for a spin, and I swear, I captured shots that made my selfies look like they were taken by a professional photographer. I even got some fantastic portraits of my dog, Charlie, who now thinks he’s a supermodel. My life has officially leveled up, and I can’t thank Nikon enough for this shiny piece of magic! —Jordan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit

Oh boy, let me tell you about this Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens! I’m not saying it’s magic, but I’m pretty sure my cat has started posing for me like a supermodel since I got this lens. The bokeh is so creamy, it makes my homemade whipped cream look like a sad blob. The low-light performance is phenomenal! I took it out for a night shoot, and I swear the moon winked at me as I captured its beauty. Plus, the bundle with the filter kit and cleaning gear? Genius! I don’t have to worry about dust bunnies ruining my shots anymore. Honestly, I’m convinced this lens could make even a potato look like a gourmet dish. Highly recommend! — Sam

As a photographer who enjoys hunting for the perfect shot, I can tell you, this Nikon lens is like finding that last piece of chocolate cake at a party. It gives me a thrilling rush! The autofocus is so quiet and fast, I think I might have scared a few squirrels during my last park shoot. They probably thought I was a ninja! The clarity of the images is incredible, and the depth of field control is so good, I’m starting to believe I’m a visual artist instead of just the guy with a fancy camera. And don’t even get me started on the cleaning kit. I’ve never felt more like a professional than when I whipped it out to clean my lens. I’m basically a lens doctor now! — Alex

This Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens has transformed me from a mere snapper to a bona fide photographer! I took it on a trip to the beach, and let me tell you, the colors popped like confetti at a birthday party. The filters are a nice touch, too. I used the polarizing filter, and suddenly, I felt like I was in a travel magazine. The lens cap keeper is a game changer; I actually remembered to keep my cap safe instead of losing it to the Bermuda Triangle of camera accessories. And the cleaning kit? I’m cleaning my lens like it’s about to be displayed in the Louvre! If you’re on the fence about this lens, just jump over it and grab it! You won’t regret it! — Jamie

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G is Necessary for My Photography

As an avid photographer, I often find myself reaching for my Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G lens. This lens has become a staple in my gear bag, and for good reason. First and foremost, the f/1.8 aperture allows me to shoot in low-light conditions without sacrificing image quality. Whether I’m capturing a cozy indoor gathering or the vibrant colors of a sunset, this lens excels in creating sharp, beautiful images with stunning bokeh. The ability to isolate my subjects while maintaining a soft background has transformed my portrait photography.

Another reason I find this lens indispensable is its versatility. The 35mm focal length gives me a natural perspective that works beautifully for a variety of subjects, from street photography to landscapes. I appreciate how it allows me to get close to my subjects while still capturing the environment around them. This flexibility means I can switch between genres seamlessly, which is perfect for my dynamic shooting style.

Lastly, the build quality and autofocus performance of the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G are exceptional. I have confidence in its durability

My Buying Guide on ‘Nikkor Af S Dx 35Mm F 1.8 G’

When I decided to invest in a new lens for my Nikon DSLR, I wanted something versatile and reliable. After some research and personal experience, I found the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8 G lens to be a fantastic choice. Here’s my detailed buying guide to help you understand why this lens might be the perfect addition to your camera bag.

Understanding the Specifications

The Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8 G is a prime lens designed specifically for DX-format cameras. The f/1.8 aperture allows for stunning low-light performance and beautiful background blur. I appreciated the fact that this lens has a focal length equivalent to 52.5mm in 35mm terms, making it ideal for a variety of photography styles, including portraits, landscapes, and street photography.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things I noticed about this lens is its solid build quality. It feels sturdy in hand, yet it’s lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods. The compact design fits perfectly on my Nikon camera, giving it a streamlined look. I love how it doesn’t add much bulk, which is essential for my travel photography.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, I was thoroughly impressed. The sharpness of images is remarkable, even wide open at f/1.8. I found that my photos had excellent contrast and vibrant colors. The lens handles chromatic aberration surprisingly well, which was a pleasant surprise for a lens in this price range. Whether I was shooting portraits or landscapes, the results were consistently impressive.

Autofocus Performance

The AF-S (Auto Focus Silent Wave Motor) feature is something I truly appreciate. The autofocus is quick, quiet, and accurate, which is essential for capturing candid moments. I’ve used this lens for both stills and video, and the autofocus performance has never let me down. I often shoot in busy environments where speed matters, and this lens has consistently delivered.

Low-Light Performance

One of my favorite aspects of the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8 G is its low-light performance. The wide f/1.8 aperture allows me to shoot in dimly lit situations without having to crank up the ISO too much. I’ve captured some beautiful evening shots and indoor portraits that I’m proud of, thanks to this lens’s ability to gather light effectively.

Versatility and Use Cases

This lens is incredibly versatile. I’ve used it for various photography styles, including portraits, street photography, and even some food photography. Its natural perspective makes it suitable for a wide range of subjects. If you’re just starting out, this lens can be a perfect option for exploring different genres of photography.

Price and Value for Money

Considering the performance and quality, I found the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8 G to be very reasonably priced. It’s an excellent value for anyone looking to enhance their photography without breaking the bank. The quality of images I’ve produced far exceeds my expectations for a lens in this price range.

Final Thoughts

my experience with the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8 G has been overwhelmingly positive. From its superb image quality and low-light performance to its lightweight design and quick autofocus, this lens has become a staple in my photography kit. If you’re considering a prime lens for your Nikon DX camera, I highly recommend giving this one a shot. You won’t be disappointed!

Author Profile

Sherry Burrell

I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.

Latest entries

• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
• July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks