Established in 1917, Nikon is one of the world’s leading camera and optics manufacturers. Their SLRs and DSLRs have long been staples of professional camera kits, and more recently their new mirrorless lineup (Z-series) has added innovative new features.
A Nikon SLR was the first camera I bought with my own savings (in 1990; a Nikon F-801), and while I’m lucky enough to have the opportunity to shoot with a bunch of different gear, Nikons have been my primary shooting rigs ever since.
These are the posts on this site that mostly or substantially relate to Nikon camera gear.
Adding grid lines to your viewfinder or back screen can be an extremely useful tool for composing your shots, helping with keeping lines level and key elements balanced in the frame. Here's how to enable them in the Nikon Z50 II and the options that are available.
I explain why further down this page, but it's always best practice to format the memory card in the camera that you're using it in. It's quick and easy; here's how to do it on the Z50 II.
Not sure which battery fits your Nikon camera? Even similar models like the Z9 and Z8 don't share batteries — these charts sort out exactly which model you need, plus what to know about third-party options.
The Nikon Z7 III hasn't launched yet, but its expected 8K RAW N-RAW output already tells us what memory cards will be needed to avoid buffer bottlenecks. Here's a pre-release forecast of CFexpress and SDXC cards to budget for, plus how to dodge the dual-slot backup trap.
The Nikon Z6 III is a hybrid monster, but its 6K RAW video and 20 fps bursts will choke standard media. This guide cuts through the marketing fluff to explain the VPG400 standard and which cards are built to handle the heat of the Z6 III's high-bitrate architecture.
There's still no native Nikon Z-mount fisheye, but an old discontinued F-mount lens paired with the FTZ adapter turns out to be a genuinely strong option on the Z8. Here's what you gain, what you lose, and how it stacks up against the newer third-party Z-mount fisheyes.
The Z50 II is a video powerhouse, but its high-bitrate 4K modes will choke standard SD cards. Nikon’s manual is confusing, recommending "Speed Class 3" while actually requiring much faster speeds for top performance. This guide cuts through the jargon to tell you exactly which cards work.
The Viltrox AF 15mm f1.7 Air lens is small, light, pleasingly sharp, and certainly priced attractively. After shooting with it, here's my detailed take on it.
After years shooting the heavier AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G, this Z-mount version became a lens I actually look forward to using. Here's a large set of real-world sample images shot on a Nikon Z8, with notes on how it compares to the AF-S original and the Z 14-30mm f/4 S.
There's a surprisingly large range of options available if you're looking for Nikon Z DX mirrorless lenses. Here's my running list of the alternatives from Nikon and third-party manufacturers.
There's a surprisingly large range of options available if you're looking for Nikon Z full-frame lenses. Here's my running list of the alternatives from Nikon and third-party manufacturers.
180mm is already telephoto territory, but this lens reaches all the way to 600mm on full-frame. Here are uncropped, real-world Nikon Z8 examples across the zoom range so you can see what that reach actually looks like.
A year of real shooting with the Nikkor Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S on a Nikon Z8, from macro close-ups to cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin. Here's a look at the sample images and why its flat-field macro design makes it an unusually capable everyday telephoto.
A Nikon Z8 that suddenly refuses to autofocus is usually not broken — it's a small, easy-to-bump button hiding in plain sight. Here's the exact fix, plus what to check if the menu setting is greyed out.
If you'd like to get a visual sense of the image quality out of the Nikon D850 at high ISOs, here's a selection of high-resolution images I've taken with it.
I've used a lot of different cameras in shooting black and white over the years, but I've found the Nikon Z8 surprisingly fun and well suited to it.
The Z8 has no mechanical shutter, making it dead silent. But if you miss the feedback of a "clack," you can add it back digitally. Here is how to customize the artificial shutter sound.
The Nikon Z8's two card slots can do more than just store photos — set them to overflow, mirror as a backup, or split RAW and JPEG copies automatically.
The Nikon Zf pairs a full-size SD slot with a smaller microSD slot, and how you configure them affects more than storage. Here's how to set overflow, backup, and RAW/JPEG splits properly, plus a backup-mode setting that can silently stop 4K60p video recording.
Like other newer Nikon cameras, the Nikon Zf has a built-in battery check feature. This isn't so much about showing how much charge is left in the battery (although it does that). More interestingly, it can tell you when the battery has reached the end of its working life and is ready to be put out to pasture.
Unlike many other recent Nikon cameras, the Nikon Zf has only one method for formatting the memory cards. Here's how to do it.
My aim in this post is to walk through how to adjust the control ring settings, explore the default settings, and dive into the various options available so you can set it up for your own style of shooting.
I shot the Nikon AF-S and Z 105mm f/2.8 macro lenses side-by-side on my Z8 to settle a practical question: is the Z version's price worth ditching a lens I already own and use constantly.
Every time I turned my Z8 on, my exposure was off by a stop. I thought I had "Auto Reset" enabled, but I missed one critical detail about how the lens control ring behaves. Here is the fix.
One of the most common questions for Nikon shooters is whether the new, high-performance Z-mount mirrorless lenses can be used on older DSLRs. Here is the short answer, the technical "why," and how to manage your lens collection if you use both systems.
A collection of real-world Nikon Zf sample images, shot in RAW across the mixed and variable lighting typical of street and travel photography, then lightly processed to show the camera's true output.
When you check your Nikon's menu, you might see a confusing list of letters like C, LF, MA, or S. Here is exactly what those codes mean — and why updating your camera body might not be enough.
The Nikon Zf's native ISO runs from 100 to 64,000 — but what does that look like on an actual sensor? Here are unedited, straight-out-of-camera RAW and JPG samples across that range, with downloadable files for your own side-by-side comparisons.
Straight-out-of-camera Nikon Zf images from ISO 3200 up to 64,000, shot side by side so you can judge for yourself where the noise becomes a problem — with the native ISO range and full RAW files included.
Lithium batteries degrade over time, but you don't have to guess when to replace them. Your Nikon Z8 has a built-in health checker hidden in the menu. Here is how to find it.
The Nikon Zf has excellent composition tools, but they are turned off out of the box. From the classic Rule of Thirds to the new vertical video guides added in Firmware v3.00, here is the two-step process to get them on your screen.
Unlike the Z8, the Nikon Zf exposes its sensor every time you change a lens. Here is how to ensure the ultrasonic cleaning cycle runs automatically to try to keep those pesky dust bunnies from spoiling your shots.
The new v3.00 firmware adds Film Grain and Bird Detection to your Zf, but you have to install it manually. Here is the step-by-step guide to updating without bricking your camera or losing your settings.
Changed a Nikon Zf setting and can't remember the original value? Here's every menu's default for Firmware v3.01, plus the new menu items v3.00 added, so you can roll back just what you need.
The Nikon Z 40mm f/2 is probably the closest thing to a nifty fifty in Nikon's current Z lens lineup. Here are some photos I've taken with it to go alongside my hands-on review.
I've been out shooting with the small, compact Nikon Z 26mm f/2.8 lens. Here are some photos I've taken with it.
The Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 is small, light, and very reasonably priced. Here are some photos I've taken with it.
The Nikon Zf isn't just for single frames. With its compact size and excellent stabilization, it is a surprisingly capable tool for shooting high-resolution panoramas on the go. Here is the setup I use to capture them without a tripod.
Here's my hands-on review of the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8, a small, light, and cheap prime lens for Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras.
I've been out shooting with the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 prime lens. It's a small, light, and relatively fast prime that is a great option for candids, street, and travel photography. Here's my take on it.
Back-button focus is one of the most useful ways to configure a camera, allowing you to lock focus and reframe without the camera hunting every time you press the shutter. But because of its minimalist, retro design, the Nikon Zf is missing a dedicated AF-ON button. Fortunately, getting this functionality back is just a quick two-step menu tweak. Here is exactly how to repurpose the Zf's AE-L/AF-L button for focus, and how to configure an alternative button so you don't lose the ability to lock your exposure.
This 26mm pancake lens is the smallest lens in Nikon's Z lineup. And yet I'm very impressed with its performance, both in handling and in image quality. It has quickly earned a regular place attached to my camera.
The Nikon Zf pairs a fast UHS-II SD slot with a slower UHS-I microSD slot, a mismatch that can quietly cripple your buffer or video recording if you pick the wrong cards. Here are the best cards for each slot and how to avoid the Backup Mode bottleneck.
The Nikon Z7 II's two card slots use completely different technologies, and pairing them wrong throttles your 10 fps burst to a crawl. Here's how to match CFexpress and SDXC speeds correctly, and when buying a newer CFexpress 4.0 card actually saves you money.
A running list of Nikon lens hood model numbers matched to specific NIKKOR lenses, covering F-mount FX and DX lenses, older manual-focus glass, and Z-mount mirrorless lenses, plus what the HB, HN, HR, and HK codes actually mean.
By default, your Z8 refocuses every time you touch the shutter. That isn't always what you want. Here is how to separate focus from the shutter release — and the hidden menu setting that unlocks Trap Focus.
Sharp, smooth, and reasonably priced, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S is a highly versatile and useful lens in Nikon's expanding lineup of Z-mount primes.
I've tested various aftermarket EN-EL15C replacement batteries for the Nikon Z8, but had trouble finding a compatible option. However, this one not only works but also offers an additional useful feature.
A gallery of real-world sample images shot with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S on a Nikon Z8, meant as a companion to my full hands-on review of the lens. All shots were taken in RAW with default in-camera corrections applied, so you can see exactly what this smaller, filter-friendly alternative…
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S is fast, heavy, and pricey. But it's also optically excellent. Here are some photos I've taken with it.
Getting an "unsupported format" error opening Z8 NEF files on a Mac? Apple only added native support for Lossless Compressed RAWs — not High Efficiency (HE or HE*) — and here's how to work around it for free.
The Nikon Z8 takes the EN-EL15C battery, but not every charger or aftermarket cell works with it. After testing multiple batteries, chargers, and USB-C power sources, here's what actually charges the Z8 and what to avoid.
Here are some practical recommendations on which SD cards will work well in the Nikon Z30.
The Z6 II's two card slots use completely different technologies, and pairing them wrong throttles your 14 fps burst to a crawl. Here's how I choose CFexpress B and SDXC cards, including when a 4.0 card is oddly cheaper than 2.0.
The Nikon Z8 won't update its firmware automatically, and interrupting the process can brick the camera. Here's how to check your current version, install the latest release (v3.11), and avoid the mistakes that cause problems.
The Nikon Zfc is locked to UHS-I speeds, so that expensive UHS-II card in your cart won't do a thing for it in-camera. Here's exactly which SD card, capacity, and format to buy instead.
I've previously posted a detailed review of the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G. Here are some high-resolution sample images I've taken with it.
A gallery of real-world sample images from the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S, shot in RAW on a Nikon Z8 with default in-camera settings rather than lab conditions, meant to complement the full hands-on review of this versatile kit zoom.
A hands-on look at the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S, tested on a Nikon Z8 to see whether this kit lens option earns its premium "S" badge, with real sample images and a verdict on where it falls short.
In this review, I'm focusing on the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S fast prime lens for Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras.
The Z8 has a built-in ultrasonic cleaner, but the menu status seems misleading. Here is how to set it up properly — and why the sensor feels like it is "loose" when you try to clean it manually (and why that is normal).
Dust is the enemy of every mirrorless camera. The Nikon Z8 has a built-in mechanical shield to keep your sensor clean, but you have to know how to turn it on. Here is the quick setup guide and the critical safety warning every owner needs to know.
Small, light, with great optical performance, and affordably priced, there's a lot going for the Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S ultra-wide zoom lens. Here's my hands-on review.
The Nikon Z8 has some really impressive low-light shooting capabilities. Here are some side-by-side examples of high ISO photos taken with the Nikon Z8 from ISO 3200 up to ISO 102400.
Here are some practical visual examples of the zoom range of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S zoom lens.
A 5x zoom range sounds simple on paper, but what does 24mm to 120mm actually look like side by side? Here are practical examples shot on a Nikon Z8, including how close you can really get at each end.
Here's how to set the Nikon Z8 up to shoot (almost) silently.
Your camera screen is subjective; the histogram is objective. But on the Z8, these tools are hidden deep in the menus. Here is how to unlock them — and the specific "Live View" setting that determines if they are telling you the truth or just guessing.
Selecting the "3x3 Grid" in your Nikon Z8 menu isn't enough to make it appear. You also have to enable the display itself. Here is the two-step process to get your Rule of Thirds back.
It is easy to get lost in the Z8's massive menu system. If you want to revert a specific setting without nuking your entire configuration via "Reset All," here is the master list of factory defaults.
From High Efficiency* RAWs to the hidden switch that enables HEIF files, the Z8 offers a lot of ways to save an image. Here is your plain-English guide to every file format, crop mode, and compression setting.
To unlock the Nikon Z8's flagship 8K RAW and 20 fps burst modes, you need a specific tier of CFexpress media. This guide covers the 2.0 vs. 4.0 market shift and how to configure the dual slots to prevent the camera from bottlenecking.
You don't always have to dig through the menu to wipe your memory card. Here is the hidden two-button shortcut to format your cards in seconds — and why you should occasionally use the Full Format option instead.
VR? ED? S-Line? Plena? Nikon lens names are a alphabet soup of confusing abbreviations. This guide decodes them all — from the latest Z-mount tech to vintage manual focus terms — so you know exactly what you're buying.
With a fast maximum aperture combined with a short telephoto, the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G offers wonderful opportunities for isolating a subject from its background and shooting in low light. Here's my take on it.
Fisheye lenses are powerful creative tools, but not all of them work the same way. Some create a floating circle, while others fill the frame with curved drama. Nikon currently offers three very different options — from the vintage 16mm prime to the modern 8-15mm zoom. Here is my breakdown of how they compare.
The Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.4G lens comes with a perfectly good lens hood included. But there's another option I've found to work better for me.
The Nikon D3500 isn't compatible with standard external intervalometers. So it's not practical to shoot a long timelapse sequence of photos natively. But there is still a way to shoot timelapse with a D3500 by connecting it to a computer and using a software intervalometer. Here's how.
Don't overspend on memory cards for your Z5. Here are the best reliable memory cards for the Nikon Z5, plus a guide to UHS-II speeds and the right size to buy.
Nikon hasn't posted any firmware updates for the D3500 yet. If they do, this is what to look for.
The Nikon D3500's continuous mode (aka burst mode) is very useful for capturing fast-moving action. Here's how it works.
Here's a guide on how to reset a Nikon D3500 back to factory settings. This can be useful if you're troubleshooting an issue, selling or trading-in your D3500, or just want to start again with a clean slate of settings.
The Nikon D610 doesn't come with a memory card as standard. But you're going to need one before you start shooting. Here are my practical recommendations on which card to get.
The Nikon D3400 has three separate reset options — a full reset plus two targeted ones for setup and shooting menus — and none of them touch firmware or erase your memory card. Here's exactly what each one changes.
Turning on the D3400's self-timer takes one button press, but it also has delay and shot-count settings worth knowing. Here's how to set it up and put it to use for group shots or long exposures.
The Nikon D3400 can shoot bursts at up to 5 frames per second, but buffer size and flash settings affect how it performs. Here's how to turn on continuous mode, read the buffer indicator, and avoid the quirks that catch people out.
Updating the Nikon D3400's firmware is simple once you know the steps — from checking your current version to downloading, installing, and confirming the update without interrupting it.
Because the Nikon D3500 lacks a cable release port, the built-in self-timer is your best tool for preventing camera shake during long exposures. Here is a quick breakdown of how to engage and customize it
Slower SD cards will quickly choke the Nikon D780's buffer during RAW bursts or 4K video. Here's how I configure the dual UHS-II slots and match card speeds to the camera's actual limits to avoid overspending.
The D500's Slot 1 still says XQD on the box, but a firmware upgrade lets it take far faster CFexpress Type B cards. Here's how to pick the right cards for both slots and avoid a dual-slot setup that silently bottlenecks your buffer.
Not sure which SD card the Nikon Z50 needs? Here are practical, tested recommendations covering compatibility, speed class, and card sizes so you can stop researching specs and start shooting.
The Nikon D850 is a legendary workhorse, but its dual card slot management is spread across two different menus. Whether you're looking for an instant backup or want to separate your RAW and JPEG files, here is a hands-on look at how to configure the XQD/CFexpress and SD slots for a reliable 2026 workflow.
The D850 also has a built-in function that lets you copy from one memory card to the other, which can be a really useful way to make backups on location. Here's how to do it and the options that are available.
Because Nikon's crop-sensor (DX) DSLRs share the exact same lens mount, finding the perfect wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes or tight real estate photography is the same whether you shoot with an entry-level D3500 or a flagship D500. Here are my practical recommendations for the best wide-angle options for your Nikon DX camera.
The Nikon COOLPIX W150 doesn't come with a memory card as standard. But you're going to need one to get out shooting. Here are some practical recommendations on which card to get.
The Nikon COOLPIX B600 doesn't come with a memory card by default. Here are some practical recommendations on which card to get.
It's not easy to know which is the right type of SD card for your camera. Here are my practical recommendations on good choices for the Nikon COOLPIX P900.
It's not easy to know which is the right SD card for your camera. Here are my practical recommendations on good choices for the Nikon COOLPIX B500.
The Nikon COOLPIX P950 doesn't come with a memory card as standard. But you're going to need one before you start shooting. Here are my practical recommendations on which card to get.
It's not easy to know which is the right type of SD card for your camera. Here are my practical recommendations on good choices for the Nikon COOLPIX W300.
The Nikon AF-S 8-15mm fisheye zoom lens is optically excellent and opens up some fun creative opportunities. There are also some quirks when shooting with it.
A set of unedited sample photos from the Nikon AF-S 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED fisheye zoom, shot on a D850, along with practical notes on the lens hood's vignetting quirk, filter limitations, and dedicated accessories.
See exactly how the Nikon D810 handles low light and high ISOs. This gallery features real-world sample images shot from ISO 6400 up to 51,200, processed with zero noise reduction so you can evaluate the true sensor performance.
Here's a collection of high-resolution photos I've taken at high ISOs with the Nikon D800 DSLR to give a sense of what you can expect when shooting with it in low-light situations.
While the Nikon D850 is legendary for its still photography, it is also a highly capable 4K video camera. Here is a complete breakdown of its video resolutions, bitrates, framerates, and HDMI output settings.
The zoom range of this lens isn’t your typical closer-and-further-away views. Here are some practical examples.
If you are formatting your Nikon D850 memory cards by scrolling through the setup menu, you are doing it the slow way. Nikon built a dedicated two-button hardware shortcut into the body specifically so you can wipe cards in the field without digging through menus. Here is exactly how to use it, plus a quick refresher on why your camera — not your computer — should always handle the final format.
This is a collection of sample images I've taken with the Nikon AF Micro-NIKKOR 200mm f/4D IF-ED macro lens.
Here's a collection of sample images that I've shot with the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens for Nikon DSLRs.
Formatting your SD card in the Nikon D3500 wipes it clean and sets up the filesystem the camera needs. It also reduces the risk of corrupted photos and videos. Here's how to do it.
The Nikon D850 is one of the greatest high-resolution DSLRs ever made, but shooting 45.7-megapixel RAW files generates an enormous amount of data. To handle that load, the D850 features a dual-slot system (one XQD/CFexpress slot and one SD slot). However, navigating the post-launch firmware updates, memory card formats, and the inevitable dual-slot bottleneck can be confusing. Here is a practical, tested guide to exactly which memory cards the D850 requires to run at full capacity.
The Nikon D780 doesn't come with a memory card as standard. But you're going to need one before you start shooting. Here are my practical recommendations on which cards to get.
Here's a guide on how to put an SD card in a Nikon D3500, how to format the card to make it ready for use, and how to remove an SD card from a D3500.
The Nikon Z6 has a single card slot that originally only accepted legacy XQD media. Here is how I use the CFexpress firmware upgrade to maximize the camera's buffer and save money on modern cards.
The Nikon D3400 won't shoot a single frame without an SD card, and getting one in correctly is the first thing you'll need to do with your new camera. Here's how to insert, format, and remove it safely, plus a few things worth knowing about the D3400's card slot.
The Nikon Z7 features a single memory card slot that originally only accepted legacy XQD media. This guide covers the CFexpress firmware upgrade, the 2.0 vs. 4.0 market shift, and how to maximize the camera's burst buffer.
Formatting your Nikon D3400's SD card regularly helps prevent file corruption and flags compatibility issues early. Here's exactly where to find the option in the menu and what it actually does to your card.
Here are some sample photos I've taken with a Nikon D3500 to give a sense of how it performs in real-world shooting conditions.
The Nikon D3400 shoots video, and it has surprisingly good video quality at the price point, but it also comes with real limits: 1080p at up to 60fps, low bitrates, a 20-minute recording cap, and no external mic input. Here's exactly what it can and can't do, plus how to start recording.
Here's a rundown of the various features and modes of the Nikon D3500 for shooting video.
Getting photos and videos off a Nikon D3400 isn't obvious if it's your first DSLR. Here are three ways to do it — USB cable, memory card reader, or wireless via SnapBridge — with the upsides and catches of each.
At some point, probably sooner rather than later, you're going to want to get your photos and videos off your Nikon D3500 and edit them on you computer. So here's a straightforward guide on how to do that.
Trying to transfer photos from your Nikon D3500 but the Bluetooth menu is completely grayed out? Discover why standard pairing doesn't work and learn exactly how to connect your camera using the SnapBridge app.
Trying to shoot wide 16:9 or square 1:1 photos on your Nikon D3500? While you can't change the aspect ratio before you press the shutter, you aren't completely out of luck. Here is exactly how to crop and resize your images directly in-camera.
Here's a collection of full-size sample images I've shot with the Nikon Z7 full-frame mirrorless camera.
By default, the Nikon D3300's Live View will turn itself off after 10 minutes. You can bump that up to a maximum of 30 minutes. Here's how.
By default, the Nikon D5300's Live View will turn itself off after 10 minutes. You can bump that up to a maximum of 30 minutes. Here's how.
If you want to drastically improve your video quality for Zoom meetings or live streams, you don't need a dedicated webcam. Here is exactly how to connect your Nikon DSLR (including the D3000, D5000, and D7000 series) to your computer using USB or an HDMI capture card.
By default, the Nikon D5600's Live View will turn itself off after 10 minutes. You can bump that up to a maximum of 30 minutes.
By default, the Nikon D3400's Live View will turn itself off after 10 minutes. You can bump that up to a maximum of 30 minutes.
By default, the Nikon D3500's Live View will turn itself off after 10 minutes. You can bump that up to a maximum of 30 minutes. Here's where to find that setting.
Even in the age of mirrorless, the 36.3MP Nikon D810 remains a favorite for its incredible base-ISO dynamic range. I’ve updated this gallery with sample images ranging from broad daylight to challenging low-light conditions to help you decide if this legendary DSLR still fits your workflow in 2026.
You can't charge the Nikon D3500's battery in the camera. So here's a rundown of your options.
Unlike many cameras, the Nikon D3400 won't charge its battery over USB while it's still in the camera. Here's why, which charger and battery models you actually need (EN-EL14a, MH-24), and which aftermarket options are worth considering.
Keeping your camera's firmware up-to-date gives you the benefit of the latest bug fixes and features. Here's how to check the firmware version and update the firmware on the Nikon D850.
Keeping your camera's firmware up-to-date gives you the benefit of the latest bug fixes and features. Here's how to check the firmware version and update the firmware on the Nikon Z7.
Nikon buries your shutter count in hidden photo metadata, not the camera menu — but you can pull the exact number for free in about a minute, on Mac or Windows, no software required.
That narrow ring near the camera body isn't just for manual focus — Nikon calls it the Control Ring, and it can be reassigned to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation. Here's exactly where to find that setting in the Z6/Z7 menus, for both photo and video modes.
Here's a collection of photos I've taken recently with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S zoom lens. All of these were shot on a Nikon Z7 body.
Here are some practical examples of the zoom range of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S, with side-by-side examples shot at 24mm and 70mm.
The Nikon D3500 has several options you can choose relating to image quality, image file formats, and size. Here's a rundown of what they mean and which is best for what.
There are a few different ways to change aperture on the Nikon D3500. Which method you use depends on the lens and shooting mode you're using. Here's a guide.
Changing the aperture on a Nikon D3400 depends on your lens and shooting mode. Here's exactly which dial or button to use in Aperture-Priority and Manual mode with common lenses.
Looking for the right filter size? You don't need to guess. I've compiled a master list of lens diameters for the entire Nikon lineup — from the latest Z-mount releases (like the Plena) to vintage manual focus glass — so you can buy the right screw-in filter every time.
If the Bluetooth option on your Nikon D3400 is grayed out, that's normal — it can only be activated through the SnapBridge app, not the camera's Bluetooth menu. Here's exactly how to pair it and fix common connection problems.
The Lv Live View toggle has moved for the Nikon D3500. Here's where to find it.
Yes, the Nikon D3400 shoots video up to 1080p60, but starting a recording isn't obvious. Here are direct answers to the video, RAW, battery, and Wi-Fi questions readers keep asking about it.
A rundown of some of the good options for batteries and chargers that are compatible with the Nikon D3500, including Nikon's own as well as some good ones from aftermarket manufacturers.
A practical guide on how to change ISO on a Nikon D3400, including manual and Auto ISO options.
Just like old-school film cameras, the Nikon D3400 has options for imprinting date and time information in the bottom corner of the photo. Here's how it works.
Remember those time and date stamps that you used to be able to get embedded in the bottom corner of your prints? The Nikon D3500 can do that too. Here's how it works.
The Nikon D3000 series (D3100 through D3500) shares the same hardware limits, so one card recommendation covers them all. Here's what the SDHC, UHS-I, and speed-class codes actually mean, and why the fastest, priciest cards on the shelf won't help your camera.
After years of favoring the 24mm f/1.4G and struggling to love the bulky 14-24mm f/2.8, I finally put the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED to the test on the road, checking sharpness, build, and handling with real-world sample photos.
A gallery of real-world photos shot with the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED on a Nikon D810, left unedited by Lightroom's lens corrections so you can judge vignetting, sharpness, chromatic aberration, and distortion for yourself.
I've been out shooting with the Nikon D3400. Here's a collection of images taken across the D3400's ISO range (ISO 100 through ISO 25600) to give a sense of how it performs under low light conditions at high ISOs.
The Nikon D7200 doesn't come with a memory card as standard. But you're going to need one before you start shooting. Here are my practical recommendations on which cards to get.
The Nikon D7500 uses the EN-EL15a battery, but the original charger isn't the only option worth knowing about. Here's a hands-on look at genuine Nikon batteries and chargers alongside tested third-party picks from Wasabi, Watson, and NITECORE.
Here's a selection of photos I've taken with the D7500 to give a sense of how it performs under real-world shooting conditions.
To give a sense of the Nikon D7500's high-ISO performance, I've put together a some example photos I've taken with it at a range of ISO settings.
A guide to changing the ISO on a Nikon D7500, including an explanation of the D7500's Auto ISO feature.
The Nikon D7500 has built-in virtual horizon tools that provide a more precise alternative to the old-fashioned bubble level method of making sure you're shooting level. Here's how to use the three different versions of it.
If I had to pick one lens to take with me to the ends of the earth, it would be this one: Nikon's 24mm f/1.4G. Here are some example photos I've shot with it.
The Nikon D7100 is a fantastic DSLR, but buying the fastest modern SD card is a waste of money. Here are the exact memory card requirements, real-world speed limits, and practical recommendations for dual-slot shooting.
The Nikon D5000 series (including the D5600, D5500, and D5300) are incredibly capable, enthusiast-level DSLRs, but they do not come with memory cards. If you are shopping for an SD card to put in yours, you will likely be steered toward the fastest, most expensive premium cards on the market. Do not buy them. Because these cameras share older internal hardware, paying for premium memory card speeds is a complete waste of money. Here is exactly what memory card you need, and how to keep your cash.
Here are some samples of photos I've taken with Nikon's AF-P 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR to give a sense of how it performs in real-world shooting. It's a versatile zoom lens designed for Nikon's F-mount DX DSLRs.
There are two methods to formatting the memory card on the Nikon D7500. One of them is obvious; one of them isn't. Here's my straightforward guide to both methods.
The Nikon D7500 is a fantastic, highly capable DSLR, but its older memory card slot means you can easily overpay for modern SD cards your camera physically cannot utilize. Here is a clear-eyed look at the D7500's exact hardware limits and the most reliable UHS-I cards to keep your camera running smoothly.
Shot side by side, these two 28-300mm lenses look nearly identical on paper. But real-world testing reveals clear differences in price, weight, sharpness, and vibration reduction worth knowing before you buy.
After months shooting with the Nikon 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR on the D810 and D800, here's a hands-on look at sharpness, distortion, vibration reduction, and whether this all-purpose travel lens earns its versatile reputation.
A look at real-world photos shot with the discontinued Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, from full wide-angle to 300mm zoomed in, plus notes on current used pricing versus its original MSRP.
A look at how the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G performs in practice, from flower and product macro shots to a vignetting test across apertures, based on real-world use.
The Nikon D3400 doesn't offer the option to choose a different aspect ratio when taking photos, but here's a partial workaround that works for small numbers of images at a time.
Here are some practical examples that show the zoom range of the Nikon 18-55mm lens in case you're trying to decide which lens bundle to go with.
A collection of photos I've taken with a Nikon D5500 to give an idea of how it performs in real-world shooting conditions.
Here's a selection of photos I've taken with the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom lens that gives an idea of how it performs under real-world shooting conditions.
For the past few months I've been shooting a Vello BG-N7 battery grip on a Nikon D810. It retails for only a fraction of the cost of Nikon's own battery grip. Here's my hands-on review of the Vello grip.
A hands-on look at the Nikon AF-S 17-55mm f/2.8G DX lens through a collection of real-world travel photos, showing exactly how its constant f/2.8 aperture performs across the zoom range.
A look at how the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR performs beyond spec sheets, with real-world sample photos across a range of subjects and shooting conditions.
This is a selection of photos I've taken with a Nikon 50mm f/1.4G to give an idea of how it performs in real-world shooting. It's an extremely versatile lens and one of my favorites.
The Nikon NIKKOR-Fisheye 16mm f/2.8D lens is designed for Nikon's F-mount full-frame FX DSLRs. It provides a dramatic wide-angle fisheye look that can be very effective. Here's a selection of photos I've used it on to give a sense of how it performs under real-world shooting conditions.
Here's a hands-on look at what the Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G VR ED delivers in the field: a gallery of real shots taken across various conditions, paired with a detailed review of the lens.
This is a selection of photos I've taken using the Nikon 105mm f/1.4 lens. My emphasis with these shots is leaning more toward travel and everyday photography rather than the more common target for this lens of portrait photography.
Running low on power mid-shoot is inevitable, so here's a practical look at Nikon D3400 battery and charger options — from the stock EN-EL14a to Wasabi Power spares and USB chargers worth carrying.
The Nikon D3400 offers several ways to change ISO, from quick manual adjustments with the Fn button and dial to customizable Auto ISO behavior. Here's how each method works, and when to use it.
I put four popular circular polarizing filters, from Hoya, Tiffen, B+W, and Nikon, through the same side-by-side test on one camera and lens to see how their strength, color, and sharpness actually compare.
When you are in the middle of a shoot, stopping to dig through menus just to wipe a memory card breaks your momentum. Fortunately, Nikon built a physical, two-button shortcut into many of its professional and enthusiast DSLRs — including the D850, D810, D800, D750, and D610. In my workflow, this is the only way I format cards in the field. Here is exactly how to use the quick format shortcut.
A look at real Nikon D3400 sample photos, shot mostly RAW with the 18-55mm kit lens and 50mm prime across varied lighting, with settings listed for each shot and full-resolution versions to click through.
Nikon removed the D3400's Easy Panorama mode, so getting a seamless panorama now means shooting overlapping tiles manually and stitching them yourself. Here's the full two-step process, from camera settings to software.
The Nikon D3400 DSLR has two color space options in its settings. Here's an explanation of which to use when.
The Nikon D3400 has a number of options you can choose relating to image quality, image file formats, and size. Here's a rundown of what they mean and which is best for what.
Sigma has two super telephoto zoom lenses in their current range. Lately I've been putting the less expensive and smaller model through its paces.
Nikon has come out with a new version of its 24-70mm zoom lens that adds Vibration Reduction. I've been shooting with it for a few weeks now. Here's my review.
I've been out shooting with the Nikon D5300 DSLR with a Nikon NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. It's a versatile combination, especially for something like travel photography. Here's a selection of images I've taken with it to give a sense of how it performs under real-world shooting conditions.
Now that spring has finally arrived, here's a hands-on review of using the Nikon 200mm f/4D IF-ED macro lens for outdoor flower photography.
A hands-on review of Sigma's flagship super telephoto zoom for sports and wildlife photography.
For years, if you wanted the best 35mm f/1.4, you bought Nikon or Canon. Then Sigma released the "Art" series and shook tings up. At nearly half the price of the Nikon equivalent, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM isn't just a budget alternative — it's optically excellent and a very attractive alternative. Here is my field test.
The 35mm focal length is the storyteller's lens — wide enough for context, tight enough for portraits. Nikon’s f/1.4G version promises optical perfection with Nano Crystal coatings and a 9-blade diaphragm. But shooting wide open at f/1.4 reveals some quirks that require careful calibration. Here is my hands-on review.
A hands-on look at Nikon's tiny, discontinued AF Fisheye-Nikkor 16mm f/2.8D — how it handles sharpness, low light, filters, and spherical panoramas, plus how it compares to the 10.5mm and 14-24mm.
After months shooting the Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G VR handheld on a D800, here's how its sharpness, autofocus, and vibration reduction hold up against the 70-200mm f/2.8 for travel and general telephoto work.
My name is David Coleman, and this is my site. I take photos for a living. Seven continents. Dozens of countries. Up mountains. Underwater. And a bunch of places in between. I'm based in Washington, D.C.
This site is where I post practical photography help, tips, and troubleshooting.
All posts and reviews on this site are written by me. And I only review gear with which I have personal hands-on experience. By a photographer, for photographers. More about me.
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