Mark Ellington
Nikon 18-135mm Zoom Lens for DSLR Cameras
Introduction
The Nikon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens is a versatile and robust option for photographers who seek to capture a wide range of subjects with just one lens. Manufactured by Nikon, a leader in imaging technology, this lens is designed specifically for Nikon DSLR cameras. With a power zoom range of 7.5x, it caters to both amateur and professional photographers, making it suitable for various photography scenarios including landscapes, portraits, and macro shots.
Product Overview
This renewed lens, available in a sleek black finish, features a lightweight construction that enhances portability without sacrificing durability. The use of Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements contributes to its superior optical performance, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize image quality. The lens is packaged in bulk, which makes it more affordable while still retaining high-quality performance.
Appearance and Design
The Nikon 18-135mm lens boasts a modern aesthetic with a clean black exterior. Its compact design and smooth finish give it a professional look, while the rubberized grip around the focus and zoom rings provides ease of use. The lens features a seven-blade rounded diaphragm which helps create beautiful bokeh effects, enhancing out-of-focus elements and adding depth to images. A notable aspect of its design is the 67-millimeter filter attachment size, allowing users to customize their shooting experience with various filters.
Key Features and Specifications
- Zoom Range: 18-135mm, equivalent to 27-202.5mm in 35mm terms
- Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
- ED Glass Element: Yes, for superior optical performance
- Minimum Focus Distance: 1.47 feet throughout the zoom range
- Diaphragm Blades: 7 blades, rounded for natural bokeh
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Warranty: 90 days limited warranty
- Part Number: 2162-cr
User Experience
During my usage of the Nikon 18-135mm lens in various scenarios, I found it to be quite versatile. Whether I was shooting landscapes at 18mm or capturing portraits at 135mm, the lens consistently delivered sharp images with excellent color reproduction. The lens focuses quickly and accurately, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
In low-light conditions, the lens performed reasonably well, though users may need to adjust their settings or utilize a tripod for optimal results. The close focusing capability of 1.47 feet also allowed for decent macro photography, giving me the ability to capture intricate details of smaller subjects.
However, I did notice some distortion at the wide end, which is not uncommon in zoom lenses, but it may require post-processing for those seeking perfectly straight lines.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Versatile zoom range suitable for a variety of photography styles
- High-quality ED glass ensures excellent image clarity
- Lightweight and compact design enhances portability
- Close focusing distance allows for macro photography
- Affordable price point for the quality offered
- 90-day limited warranty provides some peace of mind
Cons
- Some distortion at the wide end
- Performance in very low light may be limited
- As a bulk-packaged product, it may lack retail packaging appeal
Conclusion
Overall, the renewed Nikon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens is a solid choice for photographers seeking a reliable and versatile zoom lens for their Nikon DSLR cameras. Its high-quality optics, compact design, and affordable price make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s kit. While it does have some minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh them, making it a worthy investment for anyone looking to enhance their photography experience.
