Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens and keep it handy for future reference.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is a fast, compact FX-format prime lens optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both FX and DX format Nikon DSLR cameras. It features a newly developed optical system with an aspherical lens element and an exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet and precise autofocus.

2. What's in the Box

Verify that all the following items are included with your Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens:

• 
  Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens

  The primary lens unit, featuring a 50mm fixed focal length and f/1.8 maximum aperture.

• 
  HB-47 Bayonet Lens Hood

  Designed to block stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting, and providing physical protection to the front element.
• 
  LC-58 Snap-on Front Lens Cap

  Protects the front optical element of the lens from dust, scratches, and impacts when not in use.

• 
  LF-4 Rear Lens Cap

  Protects the rear optical element and lens mount from dust and damage when the lens is detached from the camera body.
• 
  CL-1013 Soft Case

  A protective soft pouch for storing and transporting the lens, guarding it against minor bumps and dust.

3. Setup

Follow these steps to prepare your lens for use:

1. Attaching the Lens: Align the mounting mark on the lens with the corresponding mark on your Nikon DSLR camera body (Nikon F (FX) mount). Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place. Ensure the lens is securely attached before use.
2. Removing Lens Caps: Remove the front (LC-58) and rear (LF-4) lens caps before taking photographs.
3. Attaching the Lens Hood: Align the lens hood (HB-47) with the front of the lens. Rotate it until it locks into position. The lens hood helps to prevent stray light from causing flare and protects the front element.

4. Operating the Lens

Understanding the key features of your lens will enhance your photography experience:

• Autofocus (AF-S / Silent Wave Motor): The lens is equipped with Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which enables fast, accurate, and quiet autofocusing. This is particularly beneficial for shooting videos or in situations where noise is a concern.
• M/A Focus Mode Switch: This switch allows for quick switching between autofocus (A) and manual focus (M) modes. In M/A mode, you can instantly override autofocus by rotating the focus ring, even when the camera is in autofocus mode.
• Aperture (f/1.8G): The wide f/1.8 maximum aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and the creation of beautiful background blur (bokeh), making it ideal for portraits and general photography.
• Focal Length: This is a fixed 50mm prime lens, meaning it does not zoom. The 50mm focal length provides a natural perspective, similar to human vision, on full-frame (FX) cameras. On DX-format cameras, it provides an angle of view equivalent to a 75mm lens in FX/35mm format.
• Minimum Focus Distance: The lens can focus as close as 1.48 feet (0.45 meters), allowing for close-up shots of subjects.
• Filter Thread: The lens accepts 58mm screw-on filters. Ensure you use the correct filter size to avoid vignetting or damage.

5. Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will prolong the life and performance of your lens:

• Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces to gently wipe away dust or smudges from the lens elements. For stubborn marks, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Cleaning the Lens Body: The lens body can be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Storage: When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Using the provided soft case (CL-1013) offers additional protection.
• Avoid Moisture: Do not expose the lens to water or high humidity. If the lens gets wet, wipe it dry immediately.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your lens, consider the following common solutions:

• Lens Not Focusing:
  • Ensure the M/A switch on the lens is set to 'A' for autofocus.
  • Check your camera's focus mode settings.
  • Ensure the lens is securely mounted to the camera body.
  • Clean the lens contacts on both the lens and camera body with a clean, dry cloth.
• Image Quality Issues (Blurry, Soft):
  • Check if the lens elements are clean and free of smudges or dust.
  • Ensure you are focusing correctly on your subject.
  • Verify that the lens is not damaged.
• Lens Not Detected by Camera:
  • Remove and reattach the lens, ensuring it clicks into place.
  • Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens and camera.
  • Restart your camera.

For more detailed troubleshooting or issues not covered here, please refer to the official Nikon user manual for your camera or the lens, or contact Nikon support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Your Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens comes with a 5-Year Warranty (1-Year International + 4-Year USA Extension). Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Legal Disclaimer: This product is a USA MODEL with SERIAL #6048913. It includes a full 14-day satisfaction guarantee and a 90-day parts and labor warranty from the seller.

For further assistance, detailed information, or to download the complete official user manual, please visit the official Nikon support website or refer to the PDF document provided by Amazon:

Official Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens User Manual (PDF)

You can also visit the Nikon Store on Amazon for more product information and support resources.