Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper use and care of your Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED prime telephoto lens. Designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, this high-performance lens offers a fast f/2.8 aperture, making it suitable for various photographic applications including photojournalism, sports, and portraiture. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Product Overview
Key Features
- Lens Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups (1 ED element)
- Picture Angle: 13 degrees 40 minutes
- Minimum Focus Distance: 5 ft. (1.5 meters)
- Maximum Reproduction Ratio (Macro Setting): 1:6.6
- Attachment / Filter Size: 72mm
- Internal Focusing (IF): Maintains constant lens length during focusing.
- Built-in Collapsible Hood: Provides convenient lens protection and flare reduction.
- A/M Switch: Allows quick changes between autofocus and manual focus.
- Extra-low Dispersion (ED) Glass: Ensures high resolution and contrast, minimizing chromatic aberration.
What's in the Box
- AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED Fixed Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Built-in Lens Hood
- CL-38 Hard Lens Case
- LC-72 Snap-on Front Lens Cap
- LF-4 Rear Lens Cap
Setup
Attaching the Lens
To attach the Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED lens to your Nikon F (FX) mount DSLR camera:
- Remove the rear lens cap (LF-4) from the lens and the body cap from your camera.
- Align the mounting index mark on the lens barrel with the corresponding mark on your camera's lens mount.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place, indicating it is securely locked.
Image: The Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED lens with its rear cap removed, revealing the F-mount for attachment to a camera body.
Compatibility Note
This lens features an AF-D type design. Autofocus functionality is not supported by Nikon D40 and D60 cameras. For these models, manual focus operation will be required. For optimal autofocus performance, use with Nikon DSLR cameras that have a built-in autofocus motor.
Operating the Lens
Autofocus and Manual Focus
The lens is equipped with an A/M (Autofocus/Manual) switch to easily toggle between focusing modes. Ensure the switch on the lens matches the setting on your camera body to prevent potential damage to the camera's autofocus motor.
- Autofocus (A): Set the A/M switch to 'A' for automatic focusing. This lens provides quick and accurate autofocus, making it effective for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Manual Focus (M): Set the A/M switch to 'M' to manually adjust focus using the focus ring on the lens.
Image: The Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED lens, highlighting the A/M switch and the textured focus ring for mode selection and manual adjustment.
Aperture Control
The lens features a fast maximum aperture of f/2.8, allowing for excellent low-light performance and creative depth-of-field control. The aperture can be controlled via the camera body or, if supported by your camera, using the aperture ring on the lens. For most modern Nikon DSLRs, it is recommended to set the aperture ring to its minimum aperture (f/22) and control the aperture from the camera body.
Using the Built-in Lens Hood
The lens includes a convenient built-in collapsible lens hood. Extend the hood by pulling it forward until it locks into place to reduce lens flare and provide physical protection to the front element. Retract it by pushing it back for compact storage.
Image: The Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED lens with its integrated lens hood fully extended, ready for use.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Lens
To maintain optical quality, keep the lens elements clean. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a lens brush to remove dust. For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning fluid to a clean lens cloth and gently wipe the surface in a circular motion. Avoid touching the glass elements directly with your fingers.
Storage
When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in its CL-38 hard lens case or a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing the lens in areas with high humidity to prevent mold growth.
Troubleshooting
Autofocus Issues
- No Autofocus: Ensure the A/M switch on the lens is set to 'A' and your camera body is set to an autofocus mode. Remember that D40 and D60 cameras do not support autofocus with this lens.
- Slow Autofocus: In low-light conditions or with low-contrast subjects, autofocus may be slower. Ensure adequate lighting or switch to manual focus if necessary. Newer Nikon camera bodies generally offer faster autofocus performance with this lens.
Image Quality Concerns
- Flare or Ghosting: While the lens is designed to minimize these, strong light sources directly entering the lens can cause flare or ghosting. Ensure the built-in lens hood is extended, or use your hand to shade the front element if needed.
- Soft Images: Ensure the lens is properly focused. Check your camera's shutter speed to avoid camera shake, especially when hand-holding this telephoto lens. Using a tripod is recommended for critical sharpness.
Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 5.67 x 3.11 x 3.11 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.68 pounds |
| Item Model Number | 1940 |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Focal Length | 180 mm |
| Lens Type | Telephoto |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
| Filter Size | 72mm |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 5 ft. (1.5 meters) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, service, and technical support for your Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 180mm f/2.8D IF-ED lens, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Nikon website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
