Best Low Light Lenses Nikon (2025 Update)

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If you're looking for the best low light lenses for your Nikon camera, there are a few factors to consider before making your purchase. First, ask yourself what type of photography you plan to use the lens for. Are you shooting in low light environments frequently? Do you need a lens with a wider aperture to let in more light? Knowing your shooting preferences will help you narrow down your options.

Another important factor is your budget. While there are many high-end low light lenses available, you don't necessarily need to break the bank to get a quality lens that performs well in low light. Look for lenses with a wide aperture, a high ISO range, and image stabilization technology.

If you're still unsure which low light lens is right for you, consider asking yourself some questions to help you make a more informed decision. What is the maximum aperture you need for your photography? Do you need a lens with image stabilization to prevent blur? What is your budget for a low light lens? By spending time considering these factors, you'll be better equipped to choose the best low light lens for your Nikon camera.

10 Best Low Light Lenses Nikon

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for capturing distant subjects with precision and crispness, this lens features Vibration Reduction and Auto Focus technology.
2
The product is ideal for taking ultra-wide-angle shots with a Nikon digital SLR camera.
3
The product is ideal for capturing sharp and high-quality images with a shallow depth of field.
4
Ideal for Nikon digital SLR cameras, with a versatile zoom range and built-in AF motor.
5
Ideal for capturing wide-angle shots with high clarity, depth, and brightness on Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.
6
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens is ideal for taking sharp and high-quality photos with a DSLR camera.
7
Ideal for Nikon Z-Mount APS-C cameras, providing a larger aperture manual focus lens with compatibility to Z50, ZFC, Z30, Z5, Z6, Z7, Z6II, and Z9 under APS-C mode.
8
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality portraits with a blurred background on Nikon DSLR cameras.
9
This product is ideal for capturing photos with a shallow depth of field and low light situations.
10
This product is ideal for capturing high-quality photos and videos from a distance with its telephoto zoom capabilities.
Ideal for capturing distant subjects with precision and crispness, this lens features Vibration Reduction and Auto Focus technology.
The product is ideal for taking ultra-wide-angle shots with a Nikon digital SLR camera.
The product is ideal for capturing sharp and high-quality images with a shallow depth of field.
Ideal for Nikon digital SLR cameras, with a versatile zoom range and built-in AF motor.
Ideal for capturing wide-angle shots with high clarity, depth, and brightness on Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens is ideal for taking sharp and high-quality photos with a DSLR camera.
Ideal for Nikon Z-Mount APS-C cameras, providing a larger aperture manual focus lens with compatibility to Z50, ZFC, Z30, Z5, Z6, Z7, Z6II, and Z9 under APS-C mode.
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality portraits with a blurred background on Nikon DSLR cameras.
This product is ideal for capturing photos with a shallow depth of field and low light situations.
This product is ideal for capturing high-quality photos and videos from a distance with its telephoto zoom capabilities.

1. Nikon's Renewed 200-500mm Zoom Lens.

The powerful zoom lens is an ideal choice for both FX-format and DX-format DSLRs, offering 500mm and 750mm equivalent zoom respectively. With a fast f/5.6 constant aperture, users can achieve stunning out-of-focus backgrounds and low-light performance, making it perfect for a wide range of photography styles.

Featuring 4 stops of Vibration Reduction, this lens ensures sharp and stable images, even in challenging shooting situations. The specialized Tripod and Sports modes further enhance the lens' stability, making it a reliable choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.

The lens is also compatible with optional TC-14E series teleconverters, allowing for even greater zoom capabilities. For DSLRs that offer f/8 support, the lens is also AF compatible, providing even more flexibility and convenience for photographers on the go.

2. Firefly 15mm: Ultra Wide Nikon Lens With Chip.

This high-quality wide angle lens for Nikon cameras is packed with features to enhance your photography experience. One of the most notable features is the Neutrino coating, which minimizes ghosting, chromatic aberration, and flare for sharper, clearer images. You can trust this lens to capture every detail with precision.

The lens also boasts an ergonomic focus ring, which allows for smooth and easy manual focus. Additionally, the innovative focus lock feature ensures that your focus remains unchanged while you adjust your framing. This makes it easier to capture the perfect shot, even in challenging conditions.

Constructed from lightweight ABS material, this lens is designed for easy handling and portability. The Firefly version is particularly lightweight, making it a great option for travel photography. It won't weigh you down, so you can focus on capturing stunning images.

The AE chip included with this lens provides auto metering with Nikon DSLR cameras, making it even easier to get the perfect exposure. You can trust that your images will turn out beautifully every time.

3. Nikon Af-S Nikkor 35mm F/1.8g Ed Fixed Zoom Lens With Auto Focus For Nikon Dslr Cameras (Renewed)

Introducing the fast f/1.8 and compact Nikon FX-format 35mm prime lens, a fixed focal length lens that is perfect for everyday photo and HD video applications. With its versatile features and 63 coverage, this lens is a great addition to any photographer's gear.

One of the standout features of this lens is its ability to provide great depth of field control, allowing for softly blurred backgrounds and excellent low-light performance. This makes it an ideal choice for portrait, landscape and street photographers alike.

What's more, this lens is equipped with advanced Nikon lens technologies that enhance its performance and image quality. These technologies include a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which delivers fast and quiet autofocus, and a Super Integrated Coating (SIC), which reduces ghosting and flare for sharper and clearer images.

It's important to note that this lens is an FX format F-mount lens. While FX and DX lenses can be mounted on all Nikon DSLR cameras, using a DX lens on an FX camera or an FX lens on a DX camera will result in a 1.5x crop factor.

4. Tamron Zoom Lens: 28-75mm F/2.8 Sp Xr (Nikon).

This lens is an excellent choice for those who enjoy shooting in low light conditions and capturing fast action moments. It is perfect for creating beautiful portraits with a shallow depth of field. With a fast 2.8 minimum aperture throughout the zoom range, this lens offers versatility and flexibility in shooting.

The lens comes with a six-year manufacturer's warranty, ensuring that it is a reliable and long-lasting investment. The Nikon mount with built-in focus motor makes it compatible with most Nikon DSLRs and ensures smooth and fast autofocus.

The lens is designed with the latest technology, marked as “Di” (Digitally Integrated Design). It has been specially adapted to meet the higher requirements of digital SLR cameras, both APS-C and full frame. This technological adaptation ensures that the lens delivers exceptional image quality and sharpness with accurate colors.

5. Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm F/1.8 S Ultra Wide Angle Fast Prime Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S lens is an exceptional piece of camera equipment that boasts a wide f/1.8 aperture, making it perfect for low-light photography and creating a beautiful bokeh effect. This lens is packed with advanced Nikon technologies, including ED glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat, which work together to deliver stunningly sharp and clear images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.

One of the standout features of this lens is its all-new multi-focusing system, which allows for fast and accurate autofocusing. This feature is especially useful when capturing moving subjects or when working in challenging lighting conditions. The lens also has a silent stepping motor, which ensures smooth and quiet autofocus performance, making it perfect for shooting video.

The NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S lens is designed to work with Nikon Z mount cameras, offering seamless integration and optimal performance. It is also compatible with over 360 F-mount Nikkor lenses and Teleconverter, making it a versatile addition to any photographer's kit.

6. Nikon Af-S Fx Nikkor 50mm F/1.4g Lens With Auto Focus For Nikon Dslr Cameras

The Nikon F mount for FX and DX DSLRs is an exceptional piece of camera equipment that any photography enthusiast will want to have in their arsenal. With a maximum aperture of F1.4 and a minimum of F16, this lens can handle a wide range of lighting conditions, allowing for versatility in shooting situations.

The Ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time manual focusing offers unparalleled autofocus performance, providing the user with the ability to capture crisp, clear images with ease. The lens also comes with a 58mm filter, making it easy to customize your photography even further.

The minimum focus distance of 0.45m/17.72 inches allows for close-up shots with stunning detail and clarity. The lens hood, HB-47, is included to protect the lens from scratches and damage, ensuring long-lasting use.

This lens is not zoomable, but it does offer a fixed focal length that allows for stunning images with beautiful bokeh. The mount type is Nikon F-Bayonet, making it compatible with a variety of Nikon cameras.

7. Z-Mount 35mm Wonder Lens For Nikon

The TTartisan 35mm F0.95 is a top-of-the-line APS-C standard-length lens, specifically crafted for use with mirrorless digital cameras. It offers an equivalent focal length of 52.5mm and is perfect for everyday shooting such as portraiture, street, nightscape, landscape, and reportage photography.

One of the key features of the TTartisan 35mm F0.95 is its large f/0.95 maximum aperture, which makes it ideal for low-light photography and selective focus techniques. The 10-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing out-of-focus quality, giving you more control over depth of field.

The lens is designed with a compact and lightweight retro tactile metal body, weighing in at only 267g. It's robustly constructed with 7 elements in 5 groups and incorporates two high-index elements that help to suppress a variety of aberrations while producing high color accuracy and sharpness.

Manual focus design gives you refined and smooth control, with a minimum focusing distance of 35cm. The all-metal lens barrel features engraved depth of field and focusing scales, and the metal lens mount offers increased durability between the lens and camera.

The TTartisan 35mm F0.95 is crafted with aviation aluminum and anodized using a multi-layer coating that has been applied to individual elements. This reduces flare and ghosting, producing greater contrast and color accuracy when working in strong lighting conditions.

8. Nikon Af-S Fx Nikkor 85mm F/1.4g Lens With Auto Focus For Nikon Dslr Cameras

Introducing the Ultra-fast f1.4 classic portrait lens with Nano Crystal Coat, perfect for capturing stunning portraits with exceptional clarity and detail. This lens boasts a focal length of 85 mm, making it ideal for close-up shots, and a minimum focus distance of 3.0 ft. (0.85m).

This lens is compatible with both FX and DX formats, including FX in DX Crop Mode, and has been optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both types of cameras. With a closest focusing distance of 0.85 m, you can capture even the tiniest details with precision and accuracy.

The M/A Focus Mode Switch allows for quick changes between manual and autofocus operation, making it easier to switch from one mode to the other depending on your shooting needs. Additionally, the Internal Focus (IF) feature provides fast and quiet autofocus, ensuring that you can capture your shots without any distracting noise.

This lens is perfect for photographers who want to capture stunning portraits with exceptional clarity and detail. Whether you're a professional or amateur photographer, this lens is sure to take your photography to the next level. With its outstanding performance and reliable quality, you can trust this lens to deliver outstanding results every time.

9. Nikon Af-S Fx Nikkor 50mm F/1.8g Lens With Auto Focus For Nikon Dslr Cameras

Introducing the Fast and Compact FX Format Prime Lens, upgraded to f/1.8, designed to elevate your photography game. With a picture angle of 47 degrees and a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.15X, this lens boasts a focal length of 50 millimeters and a minimum focus distance of 1.48 feet (0.45 meter).

Crafted with a newly developed optical system, this lens features an exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for a quiet and smooth autofocus experience. The M/A focus mode switch allows for seamless switching between autofocus and manual focus modes, while the filter thread of 58 millimeters adds versatility to your photography setup.

Measuring approximately 2.83 inches in diameter and 2.01 inches in length (from the camera lens mounting flange), this lens is optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both FX and DX format DSLRs. Its aspherical lens element guarantees clear and sharp images.

While not zoomable, this lens delivers exceptional performance, with an ability to capture stunning portraits and landscapes. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, while its fast aperture allows for low light shooting without compromising on image quality.

10. Nikon Af-S Nikkor 70-200mm F/2.8e Fl Ed Vr Lens

The camera lens being reviewed is a versatile and high-quality piece of equipment that any photography enthusiast would appreciate. With a minimum focus distance of 3.6 feet (1.1 meter), the lens allows for stunning close-up shots with great clarity and detail. The diaphragm blades, numbering at 9, allow for smooth and beautiful bokeh, making it easy to achieve a professional-looking image.

The lens is compatible with FX/35 millimeter format, and the minimum aperture is f/22, which allows for fantastic depth of field control. The focus distance indicator ranges from 1.1 am to infinity, making it easy to focus on subjects near or far. This feature is especially useful in capturing nature and wildlife.

Additionally, the lens accepts screw-on filters, allowing for even more creative control over the final image. With over 360 F-mount Nikkor lenses and a variety of Nikon system accessories, the photographer has endless opportunities to expand their creative vision.

Best Low Light Lenses Nikon FAQs

Are there any affordable low light lenses for Nikon cameras?

Yes, there are affordable low light lenses available for Nikon cameras. One option is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens, which is a great all-around lens that performs exceptionally well in low light situations. It has a wide aperture of f/1.8, which allows for more light to enter the lens, resulting in brighter and sharper images even in low light conditions.

Another affordable option is the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens for Nikon F-mount cameras. This lens has a fast aperture of f/1.4 and is designed specifically for low light photography. It delivers sharp and clear images with minimal distortion and offers a versatile focal length that can be used for a variety of shooting situations.

Both of these lenses are affordable options that provide excellent performance in low light conditions, making them a great choice for photographers looking to capture high-quality images without breaking the bank.

Can I use a prime or zoom lens for low light photography?

Yes, you can use both prime and zoom lenses for low light photography, but there are some differences to consider.

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which means they don't zoom in or out. They often have larger maximum apertures, which allow more light to enter the lens and reach the camera's sensor. This makes them a popular choice for low light photography because they can produce sharp images with a shallow depth of field and creamy bokeh.

On the other hand, zoom lenses have a variable focal length, which means they can zoom in or out. They often have smaller maximum apertures than prime lenses, which means less light can enter the lens. However, some zoom lenses have a constant maximum aperture throughout their zoom range, which can be useful for low light photography.

In summary, both prime and zoom lenses can be used for low light photography, but prime lenses are often preferred due to their larger maximum apertures. However, if you need versatility in your focal length, a zoom lens with a constant maximum aperture can also be a good option.

How do I choose the best low light lens for my Nikon camera?

Choosing the best low light lens for your Nikon camera depends on your specific needs and preferences. Firstly, consider the aperture of the lens. A wide aperture, such as f/1.4 or f/1.8, will allow more light into the camera, resulting in better low light performance. Additionally, a lens with image stabilization can help reduce camera shake in low light situations.

Another important factor to consider is the focal length of the lens. A prime lens with a fixed focal length, such as a 35mm or 50mm lens, can often provide better low light performance than a zoom lens. However, if you need the versatility of a zoom lens, look for one with a wide aperture and image stabilization.

Finally, consider your budget and the intended use of the lens. There are many options available at different price points, so it’s important to choose a lens that fits your needs and budget. Researching and reading reviews from other photographers can also be helpful in making a decision.

What are the best low light lenses for Nikon cameras?

There are several great low light lenses for Nikon cameras, but it ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. One popular option is the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G lens, which is a relatively inexpensive prime lens that offers great image quality and a wide aperture for low light situations. Another option is the Nikon 85mm f/1.4G lens, which is a bit more expensive but offers even better image quality and a wider aperture for even lower light situations. If you need a zoom lens for low light situations, the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E VR lens is a great choice, with a wide aperture and image stabilization for handheld shooting. Lastly, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens is a popular third-party option that offers a wide aperture and great image quality, especially for crop sensor Nikon cameras. Overall, it's important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing a low light lens for your Nikon camera.

What are the best low light lenses for Nikon full-frame cameras?

When it comes to low light photography, having a lens with a wide aperture is essential. Some of the best low light lenses for Nikon full-frame cameras are the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G, and the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G is a classic prime lens that is perfect for low light situations. Its fast f/1.4 aperture allows for a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh, making it great for portraits and indoor photography.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is another great option for low light photography. Its wide aperture allows for a shallow depth of field, making it perfect for portraits and other types of indoor photography.

Lastly, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is a high-quality lens that offers excellent performance in low light situations. Its wide aperture allows for a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh, making it a great choice for portrait and landscape photography.

Overall, these lenses are all excellent choices for low light photography with Nikon full-frame cameras.

What are the differences between prime and zoom lenses for low light photography?

Both prime and zoom lenses have their unique advantages and disadvantages when it comes to low light photography. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which means that they have a wider aperture than zoom lenses. This wider aperture allows more light to enter the camera, resulting in brighter and more vibrant images. Moreover, prime lenses tend to have sharper image quality and produce less distortion compared to zoom lenses. However, prime lenses do not offer any flexibility in terms of focal length and require the photographer to move physically closer or further away from the subject.

On the other hand, Zoom lenses offer a variety of focal lengths, which means that they can be used in a wide range of scenarios. While they may not have as wide an aperture as prime lenses, they still have the ability to capture good low light shots. Zoom lenses, however, may produce more distortion and may not be as sharp as prime lenses. They are also generally more expensive than prime lenses.

Overall, choosing between prime and zoom lenses for low light photography depends on the photographer's preferences and the specific shooting conditions. Both types of lenses can produce stunning low light photography, and it's up to the photographer to decide which lens would work best for their needs.

What features make a lens ideal for low light photography?

When it comes to low light photography, there are a few key features that make a lens ideal for this type of shooting.

Firstly, a wide aperture is essential as it allows more light to pass through the lens, resulting in brighter and clearer images even in dimly lit environments. A lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8 or wider is ideal for low light photography.

Secondly, a lens with image stabilization (IS) can be very useful for low light photography. This feature compensates for camera shake, which is more likely to occur in low light settings where slower shutter speeds are required. IS can help to produce sharper images even when shooting handheld.

Thirdly, a lens with a focal length that suits your needs is important. For example, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing landscapes and cityscapes in low light, while a telephoto lens is better for capturing subjects from a distance in low light situations.

Finally, a lens with high-quality glass elements and coatings can help to reduce lens flare, ghosting, and other image quality issues that can occur when shooting in low light.

Overall, a lens with a wide aperture, image stabilization, suitable focal length, and high-quality glass elements can make a big difference in producing high-quality low light photographs.

What is the maximum aperture of the best low light lenses for Nikon?

The maximum aperture of the best low light lenses for Nikon varies depending on the specific lens model. However, some of the most popular low light lenses for Nikon cameras have maximum apertures ranging from f/1.2 to f/1.8.

For example, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G has a maximum aperture of f/1.4, which allows for exceptional low light performance and shallow depth of field. Another popular low light lens option is the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G, which has a maximum aperture of f/1.8.

It's important to note that a wider aperture (lower f-number) allows more light to enter the lens, which is essential for shooting in low light conditions. However, wider apertures also result in a shallower depth of field, which may or may not be desirable depending on the intended use of the photo.

Overall, the maximum aperture of the best low light lenses for Nikon is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a lens for low light photography.

Which Nikon lenses are ideal for low light photography?

Nikon offers a wide range of lenses that are ideal for low light photography. The first lens that comes to mind is the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G lens, which is both affordable and versatile. With its wide aperture of f/1.8, it allows more light to enter the lens, resulting in brighter and sharper images, even in low light conditions.

Another great option for low light photography is the Nikon AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens. This lens is perfect for capturing wide-angle shots, and its fast maximum aperture of f/2.8 makes it an excellent choice for low light conditions. It also has built-in vibration reduction (VR) technology that helps to minimize camera shake, resulting in sharper images.

For those who are looking for a telephoto lens, the Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR lens is an excellent choice. With its fast maximum aperture of f/2.8, it allows more light to enter the lens, resulting in brighter and sharper images, even in low light conditions. It also has built-in vibration reduction (VR) technology that helps to minimize camera shake when shooting handheld.

Overall, Nikon offers a wide range of lenses that are ideal for low light photography. It's important to choose a lens that suits your specific needs and shooting style.

Which Nikon lenses have good image stabilization for low light photography?

Nikon offers several lenses with excellent image stabilization for low light photography. One of the most popular options is the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens. This lens features Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which provides up to four stops of image stabilization to help reduce camera shake in low light conditions.

Another great option is the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR lens. This lens also features Nikon's VR technology, providing up to four stops of image stabilization. The fast f/2.8 aperture allows for faster shutter speeds in low light situations, making it easier to capture sharp images.

For those on a budget, the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR lens is a good choice. This lens is designed specifically for DX-format Nikon DSLRs and features Nikon's VR technology, providing up to four stops of image stabilization. While the aperture isn't as fast as the previous lenses mentioned, it is still capable of capturing sharp images in low light conditions.

Overall, any lens with Nikon's VR technology will provide excellent image stabilization for low light photography. It's important to consider factors such as aperture, focal length, and budget when choosing the best lens for your needs.

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