prime35mmdiscontinued
Nikkor 28mm f/2 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2006
The fast 28mm for available light photography. Excellent close focus capability with CRC. The 9-blade aperture produces smooth bokeh that's rare in wide-angles. A favourite for environmental portraits.
Known for
- Street photography
- Environmental portraits
- Documentary
- Low light wide-angle
Considerations
- Soft corners wide open
- Some distortion
- Less sharp than f/2.8 at shared apertures
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)3/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance3/5
CA Control3/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control3/5
Bokeh: Pleasant, smooth
Rendering: Character wide open, sharp stopped down
Color: Neutral
Common Issues
- Focus ring wear
- CRC mechanism stiffness
Buying Guide
Choose this over the f/2.8 for speed and subject isolation. Check CRC mechanism works smoothly through the focus range. The 9-blade aperture is a bonus.
Specifications
MountNikon F
Focal Length28mm
Max Aperturef/2
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades9
Min Focus0.25m
Filter Size52mm
Weight265g
Optical Design
FormulaRetrofocus
Elements8
Groups8
CoatingNIC (Nikon)
SpecialCRC (Close Range Correction)
Pricing
£300 - £450
Typical used price
Mint: ~£550
Less common than f/2.8, moderate premium
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error