Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena Lens Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens. This telephoto prime lens is designed for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras, offering exceptional optical performance, particularly noted for its wide aperture and distinctive bokeh. This manual provides essential information on the proper use, care, and maintenance of your new lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Product Overview

2.1. Lens Components

The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens features a robust construction with several key components for control and functionality.

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens. This image displays the lens barrel, focus ring, and the front element.

Figure 2.2: Side view of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens, highlighting the L-Fn button and A/M switch.

• Focus Ring: Used for manual focusing.
• Control Ring: Customizable for aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation adjustments.
• L-Fn Button: Assignable function button for quick access to camera settings.
• A/M Switch: Toggles between autofocus (A) and manual focus (M) modes.

2.2. What's in the Box

Upon unboxing, verify that all the following items are included:

• NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena Lens
• LC-82B Lens Cap (front cap)
• LF-N1 Lens Cap (rear cap)
• HB-108 Lens Hood
• CL-C2 Lens Case

3. Setup

3.1. Attaching the Lens

1. Ensure the camera is turned off.
2. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
3. Align the mounting mark on the lens with the mounting mark on the camera body.
4. Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.

Figure 3.1: The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens securely attached to a Nikon Z series mirrorless camera body.

3.2. Attaching the Lens Hood

The HB-108 lens hood helps to reduce flare and protect the front element of the lens.

1. Align the lens hood mounting mark with the mark on the front of the lens.
2. Rotate the hood until it clicks into place.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Focusing

The lens supports both autofocus (AF) and manual focus (M).

• Autofocus (A): Set the A/M switch on the lens to 'A'. The camera will automatically focus on your subject. The lens features a Multi-Focus System with dual STM stepping motors for fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus.
• Manual Focus (M): Set the A/M switch on the lens to 'M'. Rotate the focus ring to adjust focus manually. The manual focus ring can be set to either rotation direction (linear or non-linear) via camera settings.

Figure 4.1: An illustration of the lens's autofocus capability, demonstrating eye-tracking for precise subject focus.

4.2. Control Ring

The control ring is clickless for smooth and precise adjustments. It can be customized through your camera's menu to control:

• Aperture
• ISO sensitivity
• Exposure compensation

4.3. L-Fn Button

The L-Fn button is assignable and can be configured via your camera's custom settings menu to quickly access various functions, such as AF-ON, metering, or playback.

4.4. Aperture Control

The lens features a wide f/1.8 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field. Aperture can be controlled via the camera's command dials or the customizable control ring.

Figure 4.2: A close-up view of the lens's aperture blades, illustrating the mechanism for controlling light and depth of field.

4.5. Optical Characteristics

The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena is engineered for superior image quality:

• Bokeh: Designed to produce large, circular, and smooth bokeh across the entire frame, ideal for portraits and artistic photography.
• Clarity and Precision: Delivers exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness and detail.
• Flare Control: Incorporates Nikon’s Meso Amorphous Coat and ARNEO Coat to effectively suppress flare and ghosting, even in challenging lighting conditions.
• Point Light Reproduction: Renders point light sources, such as city lights or stars, with refined brilliance and minimal sagittal coma flare.

Figure 4.3: An example photograph showcasing the lens's ability to produce smooth, pleasing background blur (bokeh).

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning the Lens

• Lens Elements: Use a blower brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid on the cloth.
• Lens Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use organic solvents like paint thinner or benzene.

5.2. Storage

• Store the lens with both front and rear caps attached.
• Keep 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.

5.3. Handling Precautions

• Do not leave the lens pointed at the sun or other strong light sources for extended periods, as this can damage the camera's image sensor.
• Avoid exposing the lens to water or high humidity.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the lens yourself. Contact authorized Nikon service for assistance.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Nikon customer support or an authorized service center.

7. Specifications

Key specifications for the NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens:

8. Warranty and Support

This Nikon product is covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Nikon website. For technical support, service, or inquiries, please contact Nikon customer service or visit the Nikon Store.