1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use, care, and maintenance of your Nikon 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF AF Zoom Nikkor Lens. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Keep this manual accessible for future reference.
2. Product Overview
The Nikon 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF AF Zoom Nikkor Lens is a versatile wide-angle zoom lens designed for Nikon F-mount cameras, including both FX (full-frame) and DX (APS-C) format digital SLR cameras. It features a focal length range of 18-35mm, making it suitable for landscapes, architecture, and general wide-angle photography.
Key features include:
- ED Glass Element: One Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass element minimizes chromatic aberration, enhancing image sharpness and color fidelity.
- Aspherical Elements: Minimize distortion and contribute to a more compact and lightweight design.
- Internal Focusing (IF): The lens length does not change during focusing, allowing for a fixed front element and easier use of polarizing filters.
- M/A Mode: Allows for quick switching between autofocus and manual focus operation without needing to change settings on the camera.
- Close Focusing: Capable of focusing down to 1.1 feet (0.34 meters) for superior optical performance even at close distances.
Image 2.1: The Nikon 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF AF Zoom Nikkor Lens, showcasing its overall design.
3. Setup
3.1 Attaching the Lens
- Ensure the camera is turned off.
- Remove the rear lens cap (LF-1) from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
- Align the mounting mark on the lens barrel with the mounting mark on the camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise (when viewed from the front) until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
Image 3.1: Rear view of the lens, showing the F-mount and electrical contacts for attachment to a Nikon camera body.
3.2 Detaching the Lens
- Ensure the camera is turned off.
- While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens clockwise until it stops.
- Carefully remove the lens from the camera body.
- Attach the rear lens cap (LF-1) to the lens and the body cap to the camera to protect them from dust and damage.
3.3 Attaching the Lens Hood (HB-23)
The HB-23 bayonet hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting. It also offers some protection to the front element.
- Align the mounting mark on the lens hood with the alignment mark on the front of the lens.
- Rotate the hood until it clicks into place.
To store the hood, reverse its attachment by aligning the marks and rotating it onto the lens in the opposite direction.
Image 3.2: Front view of the lens with the HB-23 bayonet lens hood attached, designed to minimize flare.
4. Operating the Lens
4.1 Focusing
This lens supports both autofocus (AF) and manual focus (M).
- Autofocus (AF): Set the camera's focus mode to AF. The lens will automatically focus when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Note that automatic focusing will only work on camera bodies that have a built-in autofocus motor.
- M/A Mode: This mode allows for immediate switching from autofocus to manual focus by simply rotating the focus ring. To return to autofocus, press the shutter-release button halfway again.
- Manual Focus (M): Set the camera's focus mode to M. Rotate the focus ring on the lens barrel to achieve desired focus.
4.2 Zooming
To change the focal length, rotate the zoom ring on the lens barrel. The focal length markings (18, 24, 28, 35mm) indicate the approximate focal length. Rotate the ring to the desired position for your composition.
4.3 Aperture Control
As a D-type lens, the aperture is controlled directly from the camera body. Ensure your camera is set to the appropriate exposure mode (e.g., Program, Shutter-priority, Aperture-priority, Manual) to control the aperture setting.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Lens Elements: Use a lens blower brush to remove dust and loose particles. For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean, soft cotton cloth or lens tissue lightly moistened with lens cleaning fluid. Wipe gently in a circular motion from the center outwards. Never use organic solvents such as paint thinner or benzene.
- Lens Barrel: Clean with a soft, dry cloth.
5.2 Storage
- Always attach the front (LC-77) and rear (LF-1) lens caps when the lens is not in use.
- Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid storing the lens with mothballs or camphor, as these can damage lens coatings.
- If the lens will not be used for an extended period, store it in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your lens, consider the following common solutions:
- Lens not focusing: Ensure the camera's focus mode is set correctly (AF for autofocus, M for manual). Check if your camera body has a built-in autofocus motor if using AF. Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens and camera body.
- Image quality issues (e.g., soft images, distortion): Ensure the lens elements are clean. Verify that the lens is securely mounted to the camera body. For distortion, be aware that wide-angle lenses inherently exhibit some degree of distortion, especially at wider focal lengths.
- Lens not recognized by camera: Turn off the camera, detach and reattach the lens, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Clean the electrical contacts.
If problems persist, consult your camera's instruction manual or contact Nikon customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 1998 |
| Focal Length | 18-35mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/3.5-4.5 |
| Lens Type | Wide Angle Zoom |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
| Lens Elements | One ED Glass Element, Aspherical Elements |
| Focus System | Autofocus (AF) with M/A mode, Manual Focus (M) |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.1 feet (0.34 meters) |
| Filter Size | 77mm (LC-77 front lens cap included) |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | Approx. 3.27 x 3.27 x 3.27 inches (83 x 83 x 83 mm) |
| Weight | Approx. 13.1 ounces (371 grams) |
| Included Accessories | LC-77 77mm snap-on front lens cap, LF-1 rear lens cap, HB-23 bayonet hood |
8. Safety Information
- Do not look at the sun or other bright light sources through the lens, as this can cause permanent vision impairment.
- Keep the lens away from water and moisture to prevent damage to internal components.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the lens to strong impacts.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the lens yourself. Refer to authorized service personnel.
- Keep out of reach of children.
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Nikon website. You can also contact Nikon customer service directly for assistance.
Nikon Official Website: www.nikonusa.com
