Is the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G Really Not Good for Bokeh Photography?
Many photographers, including myself, have been weighing the pros and cons of the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G lens, particularly in relation to its bokeh quality. While some users may express concerns, it's important to consider a few key factors.
What is Bokeh?
Bokeh is the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas in an image. It's a measure of how pleasant and pleasing the blur appears. The Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G is generally well-regarded for its sharpness, compact size, and affordability, especially for crop sensor cameras. While some users may disagree about its bokeh quality, it's important to understand the nuances and factors that influence bokeh.
Bokeh Quality Explained
Bokeh quality can vary based on the maximum aperture and the optical design of the lens. At f/1.8, the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G does not achieve the creamy or smooth bokeh that some might prefer, especially when compared to lenses with larger maximum apertures. For example, a 85mm f/1.4 or f/1.8 would produce a more pronounced and pleasant bokeh effect. However, for a standard prime lens like the 35mm f/1.8G, the bokeh quality is still quite acceptable.
Subject Distance and Background Separation
The quality of bokeh is also influenced by your distance from the subject and the background's separation from the subject. With the 35mm f/1.8G, getting close to the subject can help achieve a nice separation and pleasant bokeh. This is a common technique in photography to create an appealing background blur.
Comparing with Other Lenses
If you're comparing the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G to full-frame lenses or lenses specifically designed for beautiful bokeh, like an 85mm f/1.8 or f/1.4, the differences might be noticeable. However, for a standard prime lens, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G performs admirably in a variety of situations. It's a versatile lens that can be used for portraits, environmental shots, and general photography.
Use Cases and Application
Consider what you plan to shoot. For portraits, environmental shots, or general photography, the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G can yield pleasing results. If you are focused on achieving a very specific bokeh effect, you might want to explore other options like a 50mm f/1.8 or an 85mm f/1.4. However, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G is a solid choice for many types of photography.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
While there may be some complaints about the bokeh quality, many photographers find the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G to be a versatile and effective lens for various situations. If you're looking for a budget-friendly prime lens, it could be a great addition to your kit. Don't let the concerns about bokeh quality dissuade you from considering this lens, as its performance is commendable in many areas.
In the end, the quality of bokeh is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences and the specific situation. Whether the lens is "good" or "not good" for bokeh is ultimately an artistic choice, and what one person finds lacking another might find perfectly acceptable. The Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G can certainly deliver a pleasing bokeh effect, especially when used correctly.
Lastly, as a comparison, I attached a photo I shot this week using my Nikon D5300 and a 18mm-55mm kit lens with a cheap Hoya circular polarizer filter. With the lens stopped down to f/5.6, the bokeh is still quite pleasing. This should only reinforce the notion that the 35mm f/1.8G, despite its wide aperture, can deliver satisfying bokeh, especially with the right settings and techniques.