Reviews > Lens portraits with the Nikon Df
Lens "porn" with the Df: Fisheye-Nikkor 16 mm f/3.5 AI
Bjørn Rørslett:
[ Posted 09 January 2014 - 15:54 Reposted and edited by agreement ]
Another fisheye lens of some reputation is the 16 mm f/3.5 Fisheye-Nikkor AI. I've used this lens in non-AI and AI versions, my current sample of it is AI. This was the first format-filling Fisheye from Nikon. Centre sharpness is exquisite, extreme corners less so but who in their right mind are preoccupied with corners when a fisheye lens is used? Although it is not among the true rarities in the Nikkor universe, clean samples of this 16 Fish are not easily found and asking price can be on the stiffer side of reality. Guess I simply was lucky to get mine at a pretty low price and it looked as coming straight out of its box. (well, that appearance does have changed later).
As with any non-AIS lens, aperture control even with a CPU-modified sample should be performed by rotating the aperture ring on the lens. Using the command wheel of the camera will lead to error in exposure.
Besides bragging about its razor-like sharpness, the 16/3.5 likes being poked in the direction of the sun or other strong point-light sources.
Wally:
Bjørn,
I've got one of these recently, the non-AI version. Unfortunately it misses the 64k front cap. Any hints where I could find one?
Being unsuccessful with my www search so far.
Thanks, Walter
Bjørn Rørslett:
Oh dear, that is one item one would want to be present. The front element is quite unprotected. The cap for the newer 16/2.8 /AIS, AF) unfortunately is too narrow. For transportation you could pick up a smaller Nikon hard case such as the CL-33/34 or similar. Plus if you have the K-ring set ('Lego' kit for photo enthusiasts and DIYers), it came in a small leather case that accepts the lens tightly, but perfectly.
Wally:
Thanks Bjørn, great advice as always :)
pluton:
A generic plastic lens cap, while not as rigid and indestructable as the Nikon original, might be an option and is certainly inexpensive.
These are available in the USA, often at local dealers:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/125295-REG/Kaiser_206964_64mm_Push_On_Lens_Cap.html#!
I have the same lens, and not having a spare cap easily available has me thinking about how to be ready with other improvised alternative ideas, eg: Mason jar lid secured with gaffer's tape, etc.
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