1. Introduction and Overview
This manual provides instructions for the safe and effective use of your Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Wide-Angle Zoom Lens. This lens is designed for Nikon DX-format digital SLR cameras, offering a versatile ultra-wide to wide-angle zoom range. It is ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, architectural interiors, and dynamic perspectives.
The lens incorporates two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and three aspherical lens elements to minimize chromatic aberration and other distortions, ensuring high image quality. Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus operation.
2. Product Features
- Ultra-Wide to Wide-Angle Zoom: Covers a focal length range of 10-24mm (15-36mm equivalent in 35mm format) for diverse photographic needs.
- ED Glass Elements: Two Extra-low Dispersion glass elements reduce chromatic aberration for superior sharpness and color correction.
- Aspherical Lens Elements: Three aspherical lens elements virtually eliminate coma and other types of lens aberration, even at wide apertures.
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM): Enables fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus operation, suitable for both still photography and video recording.
- Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC): Enhances light transmission efficiency and reduces flare and ghosting for superior color consistency and clarity.
- Close Focusing: Capable of focusing as close as 0.24 meters (0.8 feet) from the focal plane.
3. What's in the Box
Verify that all items are present in your product packaging:
- Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Wide-Angle Zoom Lens
- HB-23 Bayonet Lens Hood
- CL-1118 Lens Pouch
- LC-77 Snap-on Front Lens Cap (77mm)
- LF-1 Rear Lens Cap





4. Setup
4.1 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 with the mounting mark on the camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
4.2 Removing the Lens
- Ensure the camera is turned off.
- While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens clockwise until it detaches.
- Attach the front and rear lens caps to the lens and the body cap to the camera.
4.3 Attaching the Lens Hood (HB-23)
The lens hood helps to reduce flare and ghosting caused by extraneous light and provides some protection to the front element. Align the mounting mark on the lens hood with the alignment mark on the lens, then rotate the hood until it clicks into place. To store, reverse the hood and attach it to the lens.
4.4 Attaching Filters
This lens accepts 77mm screw-on filters. Attach filters by screwing them into the filter thread on the front of the lens. Avoid overtightening. Note that using multiple filters or thick filters may cause vignetting at wider focal lengths.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Focus Mode Switch
The lens features a focus mode switch with two settings:
- M/A (Manual-priority autofocus): Allows for instant switching from autofocus to manual focus by rotating the focus ring.
- M (Manual focus): Focus is adjusted manually by rotating the focus ring.
Ensure the camera's focus mode is also set appropriately (e.g., AF-S or AF-C for autofocus, M for manual focus).
5.2 Zooming
To change the focal length, rotate the zoom ring on the lens. The focal length can be adjusted between 10mm (ultra-wide) and 24mm (wide-angle). The lens aperture will vary between f/3.5 at 10mm and f/4.5 at 24mm.
5.3 Depth of Field Scale
The lens includes a depth of field scale to assist with hyperfocal distance focusing, particularly useful for landscape photography. Refer to your camera's manual for specific settings related to depth of field preview.
5.4 DX-Format Compatibility
This is a DX-format lens, designed specifically for Nikon DX-format digital SLR cameras. While it can be mounted on FX-format cameras, the camera will automatically switch to DX crop mode, resulting in a smaller image area and reduced resolution. For optimal performance, use this lens with a DX-format camera.
6. Maintenance and Care
6.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Lens Elements: Use a blower brush to remove dust and lint. For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning fluid to a clean, soft cotton cloth or lens tissue and wipe gently in a circular motion from the center outwards. Do not apply cleaning fluid directly to the lens surface.
- Lens Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use organic solvents like paint thinner or benzene.
6.2 Storage
- Always attach the front and rear lens caps when the lens is not in use.
- Store the lens in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If storing for extended periods, place it in an airtight container with a desiccant to prevent mold and mildew.
6.3 Handling Precautions
- Avoid exposing the lens to water or high humidity.
- Do not leave the lens pointed at the sun for extended periods, as this can damage the lens elements or camera sensor.
- Protect the lens from strong shocks or vibrations.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Lens Not Focusing
- Check the focus mode switch on the lens (M/A or M) and the camera body. Ensure they are set correctly for your desired focus method.
- Ensure there is sufficient light and contrast in your subject for the autofocus system to work effectively.
- Clean the lens contacts on both the lens and camera body with a clean, dry cloth.
7.2 Images Appear Dark or Underexposed
- Verify camera exposure settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO).
- Ensure the lens aperture blades are opening and closing correctly.
- Remove any thick or stacked filters that might be reducing light transmission.
7.3 Image Quality Issues (Softness, Distortion)
- Ensure the lens elements are clean and free from smudges or dust.
- Check for proper focus.
- Wide-angle lenses inherently exhibit some perspective distortion, especially at the edges of the frame. This is normal and can often be corrected in post-processing software.
- For optimal sharpness, consider shooting at apertures between f/8 and f/11.
8. Specifications
| Model Number | 2181 |
| Focal Length | 10-24mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/3.5-4.5 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22-29 |
| Lens Construction | 14 elements in 9 groups (including 2 ED glass elements and 3 aspherical lens elements) |
| Picture Angle | 109° - 61° (DX-format) |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.24 m (0.8 ft) from focal plane at all zoom positions |
| Filter-Attachment Size | 77 mm |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | Approx. 82.5 mm x 87 mm (3.2 in. x 3.4 in.) |
| Weight | Approx. 460 g (1.01 lbs) |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (DX) |
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, service, and technical support, please refer to the official Nikon website or contact your local authorized Nikon service center. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Legal Disclaimer: This product is subject to a 14-day satisfaction guarantee. The serial number for this unit is 2104209.