New NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S Lens: Versatile Innovation

The new NIKKOR® Z 35mm f/1.2 S lens brings an exciting twist to Nikon‘s S-Line series, promising a blend of technical prowess and creative flexibility. Designed for mirrorless cameras, this lens is geared toward both photographers and filmmakers who want to capture stunning environmental portraits with a natural, expressive feel.

Design & Optical Innovation

At first glance, the lens impresses with its classic 35mm focal length paired with a remarkably fast f/1.2 maximum aperture, which allows users to capture more ambient context in a single shot while isolating subjects with a shallow depth-of-field. The advanced optical design features three ED glass elements and one aspherical ED element, reducing false color aberrations and ensuring that images remain sharp and vibrant even in challenging lighting conditions.

Rendering with Character

One of the standout aspects of the NIKKOR® Z 35mm f/1.2 S lens is its ability to deliver smooth and attractive bokeh. The lens excels at rendering soft, gradual transitions in the background that emphasize the main subject with a balanced mix of detail and atmosphere. Whether capturing candid moments at an event or delicately recording textures such as skin and hair, the lens manages to preserve a natural authenticity, even when rendering reflective elements like jewelry with exceptional clarity.

Focus and Video-Ready Features

For those requiring precise focusing, the lens features a multi-focusing system using stepping motors (STM) that ensures fast and accurate autofocus for both still images and video production. Its video-optimized design includes a clickless control ring for smooth adjustments, silent focusing to minimize unwanted noise, and suppressed focus breathing to maintain a stable angle of view during focus shifts. These attributes make it an effective tool not only for photography but also for filmmakers seeking reliable performance in dynamic shooting scenarios.

Durability and Customization

Practicality meets performance in the build quality of the NIKKOR® Z 35mm f/1.2 S lens, which is designed with a symmetrical layout around the aperture to support its excellent optical capabilities. The lens also offers enhanced customization through two L-Fn buttons that enable quick adjustment of various settings during shooting. Its robust construction is further highlighted by dust and drip-resistant sealing, making it a durable choice for a variety of shooting environments.

In summary, the NIKKOR® Z 35mm f/1.2 S lens is a sophisticated yet accessible option for creative professionals looking to expand their visual storytelling toolkit. Its combination of a fast aperture, innovative optical design, reliable autofocus, and video-friendly features makes it a versatile addition to Nikon‘s mirrorless lineup. With a release slated for late February 2025 at a suggested retail price of $2,799.95, this lens is set to become an intriguing option for both photographers and filmmakers.