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The Best Lenses for Nikon D810 DSLR camera in 2024!

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best lenses for Nikon d810

The D810 has truly raised the bar for image quality and dynamic range, and it’s an ideal choice for photographers looking for a full-frame camera that provides bulletproof reliability. To maximize the capabilities of your D810, you’ll want to pair your camera with some of the better lenses that are available.

With so many different lenses available, it can be difficult to narrow the field and select the best lens for Nikon D810. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at the best lenses for a variety of different situations so you can find the best lens for Nikon D810.

My Top Picks of Lenses for Nikon D810 in 2024

1

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Best Lens for Nikon D810

Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8

Nikon

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2

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens

Best Telephoto Lens for Nikon D810

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8

Nikon

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3

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

Best Wide-Angle Lens for Nikon D810

Nikon 14-24mm F/2.8

Nikon

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4

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Best Prime Lens for Nikon D810

Nikon 50mm F1.4G

Nikon

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5

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Best Portrait Lens for Nikon D810

Nikon 85mm f/1.4G

Nikon

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6

Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G Fixed Focal Length Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Best Travel Lens for Nikon D810

Nikon 35mm f/1.4G

Nikon

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7

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR (super-telephoto) zoom lens

Best Lens for Sports Photography

Nikon 180-400mm f/4

Nikon

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Best Lens for Nikon D810 Reviews

Without further ado, here’s our list of the best lenses for the D810, and we’ll start with the Nikon trinity of lenses.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR: Best Standard Zoom Lens

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Price: $$$$
Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length Range: 24-70mm

Aspherical Elements: 3
Image Stabilization: VR (Vibration Reduction) up to 4 stops
Weight: 38.4 oz. (1070 g)

Why Choose the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR?

A Must-Have Lens for Professionals and Enthusiasts

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens is a versatile tool for photographers at all levels. It offers a constant f/2.8 aperture and is suitable for various shooting scenarios. How does it compare to other lenses like Canon or Tamron’s 24-70mm? Here are the details:

Versatility and Performance

From landscapes to sports events, this lens can do it all without switching. The constant aperture ensures consistent quality throughout the zoom range.

What Makes this Nikon Lens Stand Out?

Sharp and Clear Images: Compared to other lenses such as Sigma’s 24-70mm, this Nikon lens offers superior sharpness and vibrant images. The Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass minimizes chromatic aberration.

Vibration Reduction (VR): A key feature of this lens is the VR system, offering up to 4 stops of shake correction. It’s great for capturing hand-held shots even at slower shutter speeds.

Robust and Weather-Sealed Construction: This lens performs well in various weather conditions, making it perfect for outdoor shoots.

Fast and Accurate Focus Performance: The autofocus performs excellently, outpacing other lenses in tests.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

High Price Point: This lens is a significant investment. Those on a budget might look for alternatives.

Minor Distortion at 24mm: A slight distortion at the wide end was noticed during tests, although it can be corrected in post-processing.

Who Should Consider This Lens?

This lens is suitable for various photography settings, including weddings and wildlife. It’s ideal for professionals and amateurs who want to enhance their photography skills.

If you need a less expensive or lighter option, there might be other suitable choices. But for those seeking high performance, quality build, and beautiful results, this Nikon lens is a strong candidate.

Note: This review only tested the lens with the Nikon D810. Its performance with other camera models may vary. However, based on my extensive experience with this lens, it’s clear that it offers innovation, quality, and a satisfying photography experience.

Alternatives:

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens – Your Next Essential Tool

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens

Price: $$$
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 70-200mm
Image Stabilization: Yes, Vibration Reduction (VR)
Weight: 50.5 oz. (1430 g)

Why Opt for the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens?

Are you seeking a lens that can bring your photography vision to life? Look no further! Nikon’s 70-200mm is here to help, whether you’re capturing detailed portraits or beautiful landscapes.

Elevate Your Photography Game

This lens isn’t just a tool; it’s an extension of your creativity. From color accuracy to incredible clarity, here’s what sets it apart from others:

  1. Sharp and Precise: The image quality and color reproduction are outstanding, capturing each scene with vibrant realism.
  2. Low Light Performance: Worried about capturing motion in dim light? The low light performance of this lens is something to rave about.
  3. Comfort and Handling: Spending the day with your camera? This lens is comfortable to handle and easy to use.
  4. Vibration Reduction (VR): Shake is no longer a concern, thanks to the VR system, which ensures sharp images even at slower shutter speeds.

Pros of the Nikon NIKKOR 70-200mm Lens

  • Adaptability: Whether it’s portraits, landscapes, or anything in between, this lens delivers.
  • A Quality Experience: The build, the smooth zooming, and the tactile focus ring offer a rich user experience.
  • Superior Performance: In comparison to similar lenses, the color and focus are top-notch.

My children were amazed at how it brought distant objects into clear view. It made for a great family day out, capturing memories!

Cons of the Lens

  • Pricey: While it offers quality, it comes with a price tag to match.
  • Size: It might be a tad too bulky for some users, particularly casual photographers.

(Note: I only tested the basic model for this review, so I can’t speak about premium features.)

Ideal for Whom?

If photography is your passion, from beginner to pro, this lens is for you. It’s designed to enhance your skills and offer a robust photography experience.

Need help? Nikon’s customer support is there to guide you.

In the crowded market of lenses, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR sets itself apart as an essential tool for photographers. Ready to explore your creativity through this lens? Trust me, it’ll be a decision you won’t regret!

Alternatives:

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F/2.8G ED – The Best Wide-Angle Zoom Lens

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

Price: $$$$
Weight: 35.3 oz. (1,000 g)
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 14-24mm
Compatibility: Fits Nikon FX and DX camera formats

Why Choose the Nikon 14-24mm F2.8G ED?

A Lens for Wide Perspectives – A Great Choice for Landscape Photography

Do you want to capture vast landscapes or detailed interiors? The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F2.8G ED is the lens for you. With a broad focal range, it opens a new world of photography.

Quality Images You Can Count On

What sets this lens apart? Sharpness, color, and quality, to name a few. Shooting with the Nikon D810, the colors of the sunset were striking, and architectural details were remarkably clear.

Nikon D810’s Perfect Partner

This lens and the Nikon D810 are a perfect pair. From dim lighting to fast-moving street scenes, this lens performed exceptionally. Its f/2.8 aperture delivers excellent performance, and the fast autofocus captures fleeting moments with ease.

Comfortable and Durable

The build is sturdy, and handling is smooth. The focus ring glides effortlessly, and the weather-sealing ensures resilience. Caught in rain or shine, this lens endures.

Comparing to Other Lenses

How does it fare against Canon’s 16-35mm f/2.8? The Nikon offers sharper images and more vibrant colors. Plus, battery life lasts an hour longer with the Nikon setup.

Pros of the Nikon 14-24mm

  • Superior Sharpness: Each shot reveals astounding detail.
  • Adaptable: Great for landscapes, architecture, and busy streets alike.
  • Reliable Build: Sturdy but not overly heavy, it survived an accidental drop.

Cons of the Nikon 14-24mm

  • Pricey: It’s a significant investment but worth it for professionals.
  • Possible Flare: Direct sunlight might cause a flare, but proper positioning helps.

Who Should Consider It?

If you’re a pro photographer or serious hobbyist seeking the best wide-angle lens for the Nikon D810, look no further. With top-notch image quality and build, this lens is a must-have.

Note: I only tested this lens on a Nikon D810, so it might perform differently on other Nikon models.

Looking for a more budget-friendly wide-angle lens? Keep reading. But if you desire to capture breathtakingly broad views, this is your lens.

Alternatives:

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G – The Prime Lens for Nikon D810 Owners

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Price: Mid-range
Focal Length: 50mm
Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
Minimum Focus Distance: 1.5 feet (0.45 meters)
Weight: 9.9 oz. (280 g)

Why Opt for the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G?

Let’s discover why the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G lens has become a top choice for Nikon D810 users. Known for its balance between sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and low-light capabilities, this lens can be a versatile addition to your gear. But is it suitable for your needs? Let’s explore.

A Creative Tool, Not Just a Lens

This fantastic lens isn’t only a piece of equipment; it’s an instrument for creativity. The large aperture permits photographers to capture wonderful portraits with dreamy backgrounds. Whether it’s a starlit sky or a bustling city, this lens offers endless creative possibilities.

What’s to Love About This Lens?

  • Sharp Image Quality: The images are sharp even at its widest aperture of f/1.4. From capturing intricate details like fur on a pet to creating images that really stand out, this lens delivers.
  • Exceptional Low-Light Performance: In comparison to other 50mm models, this lens shines in low-light conditions, making it ideal for capturing atmospheric indoor scenes or night-time photography.
  • Attractive Bokeh: It produces a lovely bokeh that emphasizes the subject, perfect for professional-looking portraits and landscape shots.
  • Portable and Lightweight: This lens is convenient for outdoor photography sessions, from hiking trips to long walks around the city.

What Could Be Improved?

  • Minor Chromatic Aberration: There might be slight chromatic aberration in some high contrast situations, but this is typically fixable in editing software.
  • Might Be Expensive for Novices: Although excellent in quality, the cost may be prohibitive for beginners. I only tested the standard model for this review, so I can’t speak about the additional features.

Who Should Consider This Lens?

This lens is suitable for professional photographers and dedicated hobbyists using the Nikon D810. If you’re seeking a lens that offers vibrant, sharp images for various types of photography, this lens could be the one for you.

Looking to spend less? There are other options. But if you’re ready to elevate your photography with a lens that offers joy and creativity, consider the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G.

The personal experience of capturing candid family moments with this lens has made it a cherished piece in my collection.

Interaction with Customer Service

Nikon’s customer service is an asset, providing prompt and insightful support when needed. The interaction was as satisfying as using the lens itself, making it an overall excellent experience.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G adds a new dimension to photography, allowing for creative exploration and producing high quality results. It’s more than just a lens; it’s a tool for artistic expression. If you’re a Nikon D810 user, it’s worth exploring this lens for your next creative endeavor.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G – The Portrait Artist’s Dream for Nikon D810

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Price: $$$$
Aperture: f/1.4
Focal Length: 85mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 3.0 ft. (0.85m)
Lens Construction: 10 elements in 9 groups
Weight: 21.0 oz. (595 g)

Why Consider the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G?

The All-in-One Solution for Portrait Photography

If you’re in need of stunning bokeh, sharp images, and a lens that delivers top-notch performance with your Nikon D810, this could be your perfect match. It has Nano Crystal Coat to reduce lens flare and guarantees professional-grade quality.

Quiet and Smooth Operation

Autofocus works silently, and manual focus is a breeze. When comparing this lens to others in its category, it’s evident that it offers a blend of performance and value. You’ll find the battery life outlasting similar models, and the image quality is beyond impressive.

What Stands Out in the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G?

Sharpness and Vivid Colors:

Images come out crisp and colorful, giving your pictures a lifelike quality. The sunset shots, in particular, come alive with vibrant hues.

Adaptability:

The lens shines in various light conditions and captures motion with precision. It has a knack for picking up details, even in lower light. Parents, sports enthusiasts, and nature photographers alike will appreciate the accuracy of this lens.

Comfort and Handling:

Built to last, this lens also has an ergonomic design that allows for comfortable extended use. The focus ring provides tactile feedback, making adjustments easy and precise.

Any Downsides?

It Has Some Weight: While robust and performance-driven, it’s somewhat heavy for prolonged use. The weight equates to quality but may tire some users.

Accessories Can Add Up: Although essential to the lens’s function, quality filters and hoods can be a bit on the expensive side.

Ideal For Whom?

Portrait photographers in search of a lens that offers sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and versatile performance with Nikon D810 will find this lens to be a valuable asset. I’ve only tested this lens with the D810, so I can’t comment on its compatibility with other models. It’s suitable for all levels of photographers looking to elevate their art.

Support Experience

Nikon’s customer service was efficient and helpful when I faced an issue with the lens hood. The prompt response and effective solution add to the overall positive experience with this lens.

In summary, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G is a well-rounded portrait lens for Nikon D810 users. It strikes a balance between quality, performance, and value, making it an appealing choice for photographers ranging from beginners to professionals. Its rich features and robust construction are worth considering for those aiming to expand their creative horizons in photography.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G Lens: A Versatile Choice for Nikon D810 Users

Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G Fixed Focal Length Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Price: $$$
Aperture: f/1.4
Focal Length: 35mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 11.81 inches
Weight: 21.2 oz. (600 g)

Why Choose Nikon’s AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G Lens?

A Great Lens for Every Photography Enthusiast

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G lens is an excellent choice for Nikon D810 users, offering clarity, speed, and creativity. It works well in different light conditions and ensures beautiful bokeh effects. Looking for stunning street photos? This lens has got you covered.

What Makes This Lens Special?

  • Sharp and Detailed: This lens provides incredibly sharp images, capturing the finest details in both landscapes and portraits. It offers better sharpness compared to similar lenses like the Sigma 35mm f/1.4.
  • Bright and Beautiful Images: With an aperture of f/1.4, this lens excels in low light, making it possible to leave your tripod at home.
  • Quality Construction: The lens feels great in hand with excellent build quality, and a smooth focus ring for manual focusing.
  • Reliable Performance: This lens is durable and can withstand various weather conditions. It’s proven to be reliable even when accidentally bumped.

What You Need to Know About Its Limitations

  • A Considerable Investment: Though the lens offers exceptional quality, it comes at a high price. Budget-conscious photographers may want to explore alternatives like the Nikon 35mm f/1.8.
  • Limited Testing Scope: I tested the lens only with the Nikon D810 for this review, so performance with other camera models might vary.

Summary of the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G Lens

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G lens is an outstanding option for those seeking top-notch quality and creativity in their photography. Its sharpness, beautiful bokeh effect, and durable build make it a worthy investment. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, this lens is likely to meet your needs.

Want a lens that can tackle any scene with finesse? The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G is worth considering. Need assistance? Nikon’s customer service is there to support you, although with this high-quality lens, you might not even need them.

Alternatives:

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR – Best Super-Telephoto Zoom Lens

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR (super-telephoto) zoom lens

Price: Expensive
Weight: 123.4 oz. (3,500 g)
Maximum Aperture: f/4
Focal Length Range: 180-400mm
Image Stabilization: Yes

Why Select the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm Lens?

Excellent Features for Professionals Wildlife Photographers Also

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is suitable for serious photographers using a Nikon D810. This lens offers quality images and an integrated teleconverter for a zoom range of up to 560mm. Professionals prefer this lens for sharp, colorful shots.

Reasons to Love This Lens

  • High-Quality Images: The lens offers sharpness and color reproduction in various lighting conditions. The ED glass controls chromatic aberration.
  • Versatility: The built-in teleconverter permits fast switching between focal lengths. It functions like two lenses in one package.
  • Durability: Weather-sealed for rugged environments. It performs well in wet conditions.
  • Stable Shots: Vibration Reduction ensures stability. It is more efficient than other models.

Limitations

  • Price: This lens is on the high ens price levels.
  • Weight: It weighs approximately 123.4 oz. (3,500 g), which may feel heavy for handheld shooting.

Conclusion

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is suitable for professionals or enthusiasts wanting high-quality images. While it costs more and may feel heavy, its performance, quality, and flexibility outshine these factors. Comparing it with similar lenses like the Canon EF 200-400mm, the Nikon lens offers superior optical quality.

I tested the basic model and not the premium features.

During a local soccer match, I used this lens to capture the excitement of the game. The quality and versatility of this lens may help photographers unlock their creativity. Consider this lens if you seek to enhance your photography toolkit. This is one of the best telephoto zoom lenses

Alternatives:

Nikon D810 Lens Buying Guide – Different Lens Types Explained

We’ve just covered some of the finest lenses for your Nikon D810 camera. But, just because a lens is great, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s great for the type of photos you take. In this section, we’ll help you decide on which type of lens is ideal for your photography.

With so many different lens types available, it can be difficult to keep track of the differences between them. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of lenses available for your Nikon D810.

Nikon DX lens vs Nikon FX lens vs Nikon mirrorless camera lenses

Nikon DX Lens

The Nikon DX sensor is smaller in size, measuring 24x16mm, with a crop factor of 1.5x. It’s typically found in entry-level DSLRs.

Advantages

  • Cost: DX lenses are generally more affordable.
  • Weight: These lenses are lighter, making them easy to handle.
  • Lenses: The DX lenses are designed to be compact and cost-effective.

Disadvantages

  • Image Quality: May not meet professional standards.
  • Low Light Performance: It may struggle in dim lighting conditions.

Nikon FX Lens

The Nikon FX sensor measures 36x24mm, offering full-frame capabilities.

Advantages

  • Image Quality: Provides superior clarity and detail.
  • Low Light Performance: Capable of shooting in various lighting conditions.
  • Field of View: Offers a full-frame view for an immersive experience.

Disadvantages

  • Price: Generally more expensive.
  • Weight: Heavier and may be challenging to carry around.

Nikon Mirrorless Camera Lenses

Mirrorless cameras from Nikon offer a new approach to photography.

Advantages

  • Size: More compact than DSLRs.
  • Weight: Lighter in weight for convenient portability.
  • Autofocus Speed: Fast autofocus for capturing quick movements.

Disadvantages

  • Battery Life: May require additional battery packs.
  • Limited Lens Selection: Fewer options available compared to DSLRs.

In summary, Nikon’s DX lenses offer a cost-effective option with decent quality, while FX lenses provide professional-grade performance. Mirrorless camera lenses introduce innovative features with a compact design. Choosing the right lens depends on individual preferences, photography style, and budget.

Prime lens vs. Zoom Lens

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which means that the focal length of the lens is also the perspective. You’ll need to move in or out to decrease or increase the perspective of your shot. With zoom lenses, the perspective can be adjusted according to the range of zoom.

Related:

Wide Angle Lenses

Wide-angle lenses provide a much greater depth of field than other types of lenses. With wide-angle lenses, the lower the focal length number, the more you’ll be able to fit into the frame. These lenses are usually very versatile, lightweight, and affordable.

This lens type tends to distort portions of an image (especially faces), and that will need to be fixed in post-processing.

Related:

5 Best Nikon Wide-Angle Lenses in 2024!

Standard Lenses

Standard lenses exist in the space between wide-angle and telephoto lenses. These lenses feature a depth of field that’s roughly the same as the human eye, so photos captured with a standard lens tend to feel and look “normal”.

These lenses are ideal for many types of photography, including portraits, street photography, and landscapes.

Related:

6 Best Nikon Standard Lenses in 2023!

Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses are designed for photographing subjects at far distances, which makes them ideal for sports, wildlife, or astronomy photography. Telephoto lenses can be fixed or zoomed. These lenses provide a narrow depth of field which allows you to photograph your subject in stark relief of the background.

Telephoto lenses are usually the territory of advanced photographers because they’re prohibitively expensive, so most beginner and novice photographers steer clear of them.

Related:

Macro Lenses

The opposite of a telephoto lens, macro lenses are designed for extreme close-ups. These lenses allow you to produce a true 1:1 image of incredibly small subjects or fine details. These lenses are ideal for nature and product photography, or any time you need to capture incredibly fine details.

Related:

The 5 Best Nikon Macro Lenses in 2023

Final Word

Each of the lenses we’ve covered makes a fantastic choice as the best lens for Nikon D810, but one lens, in particular, is our top pick as the best lens to buy for Nikon D810, and that’s the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR. This lens offers unparalleled versatility, allowing you to capture beautiful photos of the widest variety of subjects in a multitude of settings, all with the highest quality.

For photogs looking for a versatile lens that’s a professional quality, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm is one of the best lenses in the business, and it may be the best fit for you. Or, if you’re in the market for a prime lens, the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm should be ideal for the way you shoot.

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Hey there, my name is James and I am the creator and editor of this site. I have been photographing for the past 20 years and my mission is to simplify this misunderstood art of taking and processing photographs I love. I invite you to say “hey” on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram.

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