Hello friends! Today, I’m going to talk about something exciting for all you photography enthusiasts out there: the Nikon 35mm f/2 vs Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave lenses. These lenses are both prime, wide-angle lenses that offer great performance in photography. But you might wonder, which one should you pick for your camera? Let’s break it down together in a super simple way, so even if you’re just getting started with photography or are curious, you’ll be able to understand.
Before we jump into all the details, let’s start with a quick comparison table between the two lenses to give you an easy overview.
| Feature | Nikon 35mm f/2 | Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Nikon F | Canon FD |
| Aperture Range | f/2 – f/22 | f/2 – f/16 |
| Focus Type | Manual | Manual |
| Optical Design | 6 elements, 6 groups | 8 elements, 7 groups |
| Special Features | Compact, lightweight | Concave front element |
| Weight | 245g | 315g |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.25m | 0.3m |
| Filter Thread Size | 52mm | 55mm |
Now, let’s dive deeper and explore each of these lenses to help you figure out which one might be the right fit for your photography journey!
Nikon 35mm f/2: Compact and Versatile!
The Nikon 35mm f/2 is one of those lenses that Nikon shooters love because of its versatility. If you’re looking for a lens that you can carry around easily and use for different types of photography, this one is perfect.
Why is it so popular? First of all, it’s lightweight, which makes it super handy for everyday use, especially if you love street photography, landscapes, or portraits! The f/2 aperture means it can handle low-light situations quite well, which is always a big plus, right? You won’t be worrying too much about lighting when you’re out shooting in the evening or indoors.
Another cool thing about the Nikon 35mm f/2 is how sharp it is, especially in the center of your photos. The colors look great, and even though it’s an older lens, it holds up well compared to modern lenses. So, if you’re using a Nikon DSLR or film camera with an F-mount, this lens is definitely worth considering.
What Makes It Stand Out?
- Lightweight Design: Easy to carry around for long shoots or travel.
- Great for Low-Light: With the f/2 aperture, it handles low-light situations nicely.
- Super Sharp: Excellent sharpness, especially in the center of the image.
Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave: Vintage Power!
Now, the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave lens is something special. It’s got a bit of a retro, vintage feel, and that concave front element makes it really stand out! But, what’s more important is how it performs.
If you’re shooting with an old Canon film camera, this lens is like a little treasure. The FD 35mm f/2 is known for its amazing contrast and sharpness, especially considering it was made quite a few years ago. But don’t let its age fool you! Photographers today still adore this lens for its classic look and the dreamy images it can produce. The colors are rich, and the bokeh (the blurry background effect) is super smooth for a wide-angle lens.
However, it’s a bit heavier compared to the Nikon version, which some people may find a downside. But if you’re after that classic Canon FD lens look, it’s worth the weight! Plus, the concave design of the front glass isn’t just for show—it helps reduce distortion and gives your photos a crisp, unique look.
Why Choose the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave?
- Vintage Charm: Perfect for film shooters or anyone who loves a retro lens.
- Smooth Bokeh: Surprisingly nice bokeh for a wide-angle lens.
- Classic Image Quality: Rich colors, sharpness, and unique rendering thanks to the concave element.
Nikon 35mm f/2 vs Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave: Which is Better?
This is the big question, isn’t it? Which one is better? Well, it really depends on what you’re after!
If you want a lightweight, modern-feeling lens that works great on Nikon digital and film cameras, the Nikon 35mm f/2 is the way to go. It’s compact, sharp, and versatile. Perfect for anyone who wants a simple but powerful lens for everyday photography.
But if you’re a fan of the vintage look and are shooting with a Canon FD-mount film camera, or if you just love that classic film-era image quality, the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave is your go-to lens. Yes, it’s heavier, but the charm and character it brings to your photos are worth it. The concave element gives it a unique feel that you won’t find in many other lenses.
Why You Might Love the Nikon 35mm f/2:
- Super lightweight and easy to carry around.
- Excellent sharpness, especially in the center.
- Works well in low-light situations with its f/2 aperture.
- Affordable option for Nikon shooters.
Why You Might Love the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave:
- Beautiful vintage design with a concave element that enhances image quality.
- Great color rendering and contrast for a lens of its age.
- Smooth bokeh that makes portraits and wide-angle shots look amazing.
- Classic Canon look—perfect for film enthusiasts or anyone who loves the retro aesthetic.
Which Lens Should You Buy?
Alright, so if you’re still on the fence, here’s a quick breakdown based on what you might want:
- If you shoot digital with a Nikon camera and want something simple, light, and sharp, the Nikon 35mm f/2 is a fantastic choice. It’s great for landscapes, street photography, and even portraits.
- If you love film photography or vintage lenses, and you’re using a Canon FD-mount camera, or you just want that classic Canon feel, go for the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave. It’s heavier but delivers dreamy images that will give your photos a timeless look.
My Personal Take
If you ask me, both of these lenses are winners in their own right. It’s not really about which one is “better”—it’s more about what kind of photographer you are and what camera system you use. The Nikon 35mm f/2 is amazing for practical, everyday photography with modern cameras. On the other hand, the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave gives you a magical, vintage feel that’s perfect for anyone who loves the charm of film and classic optics.
I’d say go with the Nikon lens if you’re after something more versatile and modern. But if you’re a fan of the old-school, timeless photography, the Canon FD lens is going to make you fall in love with every shot you take.
There you have it, folks! The Nikon 35mm f/2 and the Canon FD 35mm f/2 concave lenses are both excellent options, but they serve slightly different purposes. One is lightweight, modern, and versatile, while the other is a bit heavier, full of vintage charm, and perfect for those who love classic photography.
Whether you choose the Nikon or the Canon, you’re in for a treat! Both lenses deliver stunning image quality, and they can really elevate your photography skills. So, which one are you going to pick?