Melville, NY—The Nikon Nikkor Z40mm F2 SE is a new special edition lens with a heritage design. The lens design takes inspiration from the era of iconic manual Nikkor lenses.
This fast aperture, compact prime lens is a union of old and new. The result is a stylish lens with the modern optical tech for Z series mirrorless cameras. Whether looking for a super-small lens with a familiar feel or just a fan of the retro aesthetic, photographers can use the lens with any Nikon Z series camera.
“This lens hits every sweet spot. It’s designed with a cool vintage look, while being fast, sharp, affordable and super compact,” said Jay Vannatter, executive vice president, Nikon Inc.
Nikon Nikkor Z40mm F2 SE Features
With a distinctive look, the Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 (SE) is a special edition of the Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 that’s meant to pair with the heritage-styled Z fc. The lens is also small enough to accompany APS-C mirrorless cameras like the Z 50 or Z 30. Moreover, it is a light, compact option for a “walk-around” lens for Z 5, Z 6II and Z 7II users.
Furthermore, the new lens features intricate knurling based on careful study of the authentic, original Nikkor design. The lens body has a grip similar to manual lenses. However, it also features modern design elements, such as a control ring for customization. Photographers can use the control ring to assign adjustments to focus, ISO, aperture and exposure compensation.
In addition, its fast f/2 aperture makes it a solution for low-light shooting with a shallow depth of field. Consequently, it can produce dramatic separation of the subject from the background. What’s more, since the lens is so portable, it’s also an option for taking sharp street photos and candid portraits.
The special edition lens offers a natural angle of view (60mm-equivalent on a DX body) that’s ideal for shooting portraits, stills and standard perspective videos. And it can achieve artistically blurred backgrounds. Additionally, the lens focuses as close as 0.96 foot, which makes it a solution for capturing food and top-down photos of décor and tablescapes.
More Specs
The lens is built with 6 elements in 4 groups, as well as a 9-blade diaphragm to create natural out-of-focus area. Moreover, the electronic diaphragm delivers precise aperture control for stable exposure during continuous shooting.
Further, a small-diameter, high-torque STM (stepping motor) in the AF mechanism ensures quiet, fast, accurate operation. It also realizes a balance of compact size and AF control performance. Plus, content and video creators will appreciate the quiet operation and natural focus shift that allows from close focusing to infinity; reduced focus breathing; and smooth aperture control.
Finally, the lens employs sealings that prevent dust and water droplets from entering. Ultracompact, it weighs approximately 6 ounces and is 1.8 inches in length.
Nikon will release the Nikkor Z 40mm f/2 (SE) in early 2023. It will have a suggested retail price of $309.95.
