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Nikon
Guide to Lenses
Optical technologies
Choosing the right lenses
| Picture Angle | Perspective | Aperture | Special Lenses |

Aperture
photo
f/22
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f/2		 Aperture refers to the lens opening through which light rays pass; aperture blades determine the size and shape of the opening. You can use the lens aperture to control the amount of light reaching the film as well as the picture's depth of field.

Depth of field refers to the apparent sharpness within the picture field, from near to far. The smaller the aperture (i.e., the larger the f-number), the larger the area that will appear in focus. On the other hand, the larger the aperture (i.e., the smaller the f-number), the shallower the area of sharp focus.

If you want to show much of the scene from foreground to background in sharp focus, for example, small apertures like f/16 or f/22 will be ideal. Alternatively, if you want to focus only on the main subject and make the background appear blurred as in studio portraits, use large apertures like f/1.8 or f/2.8.
For freeze action-type shots, even in dim light, pick a lens with a large maximum aperture (i.e., small f-number). This will enable you to use higher shutter speeds.

The maximum aperture of a lens makes a difference when taking indoor shots or twilight pictures in available light. The smaller the lens's maximum aperture (larger f-number), the lower the shutter speed corresponding to the available light -- making it necessary to use a tripod or a flash. For certain picture-taking situations when you don't want to use a tripod or a Speedlight, choose a lens with a large maximum aperture (small f-number).

Note that some Nikkor lenses of the same focal length have different maximum apertures, providing you with an even wider selection of choices.

Special Lenses
Nikon offers a variety of special-purpose lenses that meet the growing demands of specialized photography.
  • DC (Defocus-image Control)-Nikkors create artful background/foreground blur for striking portraits and still-lifes.
  • Micro-Nikkors make close-up pictures revealing.
  • Fisheye-Nikkors provide exotic-looking, extreme picture coverage.
  • PC (Perspective Control)-Nikkors are invaluable for architectural and interior photography.
| Picture Angle | Perspective | Aperture | Special Lenses |

Color of images appearing in this website may differ from the originals.
Specifications are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. December 2003

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