There are several great choices for lenses for your Nikon D810, but you have to decide which one is best for your needs. Consider factors such as focal length, aperture, and image stabilization. Additionally, think about what type of photography you will be doing often to ensure you select a lens that suits your shooting style.
Hello folks! My name is Lavelle and I am a professional photographer and a long-time photography enthusiast. Over the past 14 years, I have been helping clients across the United States with their photography needs. During that time, I have also used several brands of cameras and lenses including Nikon.
In this article, I will go over some of the important aspects that you should look for in a lens for your camera. I will also provide my list of the best lenses for the Nikon D810 and answer some commonly asked questions.
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Key Takeaways
- Look for a lens that is compatible with your camera and can shoot effectively in varying conditions.
- Consider the scene you are shooting and choose a lens that is designed to enhance that scene.
- Pay close attention to key specs on the lens that you choose. Look for things like stabilization and focal length.
The Nikon D810 was introduced to the public in June 2014. It hit the market with a big splash, sporting its 36.3 MP FX format. It is still a favorite of many professional photographers to this day.
Can DX mount lenses fit the Nikon D810?
Yes, while the Nikon D810 is technically an FX camera, DX lenses are still compatible with it. You do have to change your setting to DX Auto Crop whenever you use a DX lens.
Can the Nikon D810 shoot a 4k video?
No, unfortunately, the D810 is not capable of producing 4k videos. It does deliver full high-definition video with frames per second ranging from 24 fps to 60 fps.
What to Look for in a Lens for Nikon D810
Let’s take a look at some things you should consider when looking for a good lens.
- Focus Options: Most lenses either have a manual focus, autofocus, or both focus options. Take into account your skill level when determining which kind of focus option you should have on your lens.
- Compatibility: Another important consideration is the compatibility of the lens with your current camera. Lenses are generally designed to fit either a full-frame sensor or a crop sensor. Ensure that the lens you choose can be used with your camera.
- Maximum Aperture: It is important to understand how much light can come through your lens and how much light you need or want for the scene that you are shooting. All lenses list out the maximum aperture. Consider this information when choosing a lens.
- Image Stabilization: While your camera body may have image stabilization, however, in case it doesn’t or just adds additional stability to your shots, look for a lens with a built-in image stabilization system.
The Best Lenses for the Nikon D810 Reviewed
Here is my list of the best options, along with a quick review of each of them so you understand its pros and cons.
1. Nikon AF-S FX Nikkor 24-120mm (Best Overall)
- Focal Length: 24-120mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/4
- Lens: Standard
- Weight: 1.57 lbs
The Nikon AF-S FX Nikkor 24-120mm is an amazing lens that is versatile, durable, and delivers absolutely beautiful images. This lens can cover wide-angle shots easily and can also deliver short telephoto shots.
The f/4 maximum aperture provides exceptional quality and consistency across the zoom range. Additionally, this lens’ impressive focal range allows you to get crisp shots under many conditions and in varying settings.
This lens has a superb VRII image stabilization system. Providing a platform to eliminate hand/camera shake and distortion, this lens is nothing short of incredible in the stabilization department.
However, it is quite pricey and should be considered a true investment in your craft, otherwise, you are spending a lot of money for a hobby.
My Verdict: This lens is a great all-around choice for your Nikon D810. With exceptional quality and impressive versatility, this 24-120mm is sure to win you over.
2. Nikon AF-S Nikkor 14-24mm (Best Landscape)
- Focal Length: 14-24mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Lens: Wide angle
- Weight: 2.14 lbs
My next choice is the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 14-24mm lens. This exceptional piece of equipment does not disappoint. Perhaps if it were not for the hefty price point, this could very easily move to the top of my list.
The 14-24mm is a premier wide-angle lens that also allows you to shoot interior shots, real estate shots, and landscapes of all types. Its versatility and consistent aperture are qualities that set it apart from other comparable lenses.
The thing I like most about this lens is its element makeup. With three aspherical elements and two low-dispersion elements, this lens all but eliminates distortions and aberrations. It also delivers excellent sharpness and clarity.
The thing that alarms me about Nikon AF-S Nikkor, much like my top choice, is the expensive price tag on it. Also, at more than two pounds, this lens is a heavier option, which is a consideration for professional photographers.
My Verdict: This is an excellent choice to match with your Nikon D810. It is a versatile, dependable, and proven lens that can deliver in multiple settings.
3. Nikon AF FX Micro Nikkor 200mm F/4D IF-ED Fixed Zoom (Best Macro)
- Focal Length: 200mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/4
- Lens: Telephoto
- Weight: 2.62 lbs
The Nikon AF FX Micro Nikkor 200mm fixed zoom lens is my top choice for macro shots. It delivers a 1:1 life-sized magnification and gives you some of the best close-up shots you will ever take.
With a maximum aperture of f/4, this lens is perfect for shooting long distances without losing sharpness or quality. It has two extra-low dispersion elements which help to maintain quality and accuracy.
The close-range correction system on Nikon AF FX Micro is remarkable. This feature allows the lens to correct inaccuracies immediately, even at its full zoom range. This is a great asset to photographers of all skill levels.
Unfortunately, this lens is bulky and a little awkward to handle easily. While most telephoto/macro lenses are bulky, this stretches the mark quite a bit.
My Verdict: When it comes to getting that perfect close-up shot, this choice is virtually impossible to beat. It is a sturdy and dependable lens that is designed with the professional in mind.
4. Nikon AF-S 35mm F/1.8G ED Fixed (Best Portraits)
- Focal Length: 35mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
- Lens: Wide angle
- Weight: 0.67 lbs
The Nikon AF-S 35mm is an absolute beast of a lens for portraits and events. This fixed zoom lens produces exceptional image quality and effectively captures wide areas without losing quality on the edges.
Working in tandem with the D810’s excellent sensor, this lens helps you to create stunning images. The natural field of view on this lens is arguably the best in class from Nikon. The bright f/1.8 aperture gives you great control over your depth of field and works well even in low light conditions.
The standout quality of this lens is the Silent Wave Motor Autofocus system. It delivers fast, precise, and ultra-quiet autofocus functions and also gives you the option to shoot in a full-time manual focus through its onboard override option.
The only area that is of concern with this lens is its durability. It is not made with the same material as other Nikon lenses and because of its lightweight, it feels flimsy. The mechanics of the lens do not also lend it to fare well when dropped.
My Verdict: This is a very good lens and is excellent for events, weddings, portraits, and settings of this nature.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are some really good options for your Nikon D810. Remember to choose a lens that gives you a versatile choice that allows you to shoot in a variety of settings and stays within your budget.
There are some solid choices on the list that will serve you well. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just starting, these lenses will help you capture nice images with ease.
Have you used any of these lenses? Share your experience in the comments below.
As always, enjoy capturing the best moments in your life!
