Choosing the Best Nikkor Lens for Photojournalism Photography
Choosing the Best Nikkor Lens for Photojournalism Photography
When it comes to photojournalism, the right lens can make all the difference. Whether you're covering a conference, a war zone, or an airliner hijacking, the lens you choose can be the key to capturing the moment. This article will explore the best Nikkor lenses for photojournalism photography based on practical experience and current photography needs.The Versatility of Two Camera Bodies
For most standard press photography, you'll want to have two camera bodies, one fitted with a 24-70mm lens and the other with a 70-200mm lens. This combination allows you to cover a wide range of subjects and distances. However, the lens you use will depend heavily on the assignment at hand.For instance, while covering a conference or doorstepping, a 24-70mm lens will serve you well. But what about those scenarios where you need to distance yourself from the scene, as in the case of the airliner hijacking where the press was confined to a maximum of 500 meters away? Here, an 800-1000mm lens would be necessary, often mounted on a tripod.
Choosing the Right Low-Light Lens
If your photojournalism work involves low-light situations or requires more manageable portability, a low-light lens would be beneficial. The options include: 28mm 35mm 50mm 1.8 or 1.4 24-70mm 2.8 18-140mm 3.5-5.6 (if noise issues are not a concern)Full Frame and DX Subframe Cameras
For full frame cameras, the 24-170mm zoom (or the 24-120mm zoom if available) would be an excellent choice. This lens provides an expansive range that caters to various shooting scenarios. For DX subframe cameras, the equivalent lenses would be the 17-55mm zoom or the 16-80mm zoom.For longer distances, a 80-200mm or a 70-200mm f/2.8 is more realistic. While these longer lenses are essential for most subjects, sports photography may only need a 70-200mm f/2.8 unless you're covering basketball or hockey, where a wider focal range might be needed.
A Workhorse for Photojournalists: The Nikkor 50/1.2 AI
From personal experience, the Nikkor 50/1.2 AI on a Nikon Df was both a pleasure to handle and produced stunning results. The relative smallness of the lens made it perfect for extended events where discreetness is key. Using this lens allowed for natural engagement with subjects, essential for photojournalistic storytelling.Photos taken with the 50/1.2 AI at intermediate apertures (f/2.8 to f/8) showcased remarkable sharpness and detail. Additionally, the lens's handling made it a versatile tool for various photojournalistic environments, from bustling conferences to more solemn events.
Options for DX Subframe Users
If you are using a DX subframe camera, you might consider a 35mm lens. The 35mm 1.4 AIS is a strong choice, and the Zeiss 35/2 is another excellent option, though it may be more challenging to find second-hand. Both lenses are ideal for shooting in low light or against the light, providing the necessary sharpness and detail.Ultimately, the best Nikkor lens for photojournalism depends on the specific needs of each assignment. Whether it's a 50mm f/1.2, a 35mm f/1.4, or a versatile zoom lens, the key is choosing a tool that fits the mission while providing the necessary sharpness, detail, and versatility.