5 ways to maximise a 35mm prime

Get used to manual focus for video

Although the AF on the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S is super-fast and accurate (eye-AF is particularly useful with such a fast lens), at times you’ll want to control the focus to change subject in a scene. Linear focus means manual focus pulling is smooth and regular and will look natural. Try it out changing focus from a subject in the front of the frame to something at the back to see how you can tell a story in one scene.

Explore extremes of light

The NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S will take in its stride what might be considered adverse lighting conditions with other lenses. Try it out in very low light situations to create images with mood and depth, with the ability to finely balance exposure for the scene. And it’s not just low light, either. The optical construction and coatings of the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S mean that you can shoot with strong light sources such as the sun in the frame. Try it and you’ll see sharp resolution of the subject with soft bokeh.

Test a variety of textures

The resolving power and optical design of the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S make different textures stand out with stunning realism. Try gathering together a range of different textures, from textiles to metal, water and leaves, to see how they are rendered.

Use eye-AF wide open

Take a portrait in either still or video with the lens wide open and engage eye-AF to test the autofocus and bokeh fall-off of the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S. Move in close to the subject for a full-face image to add drama. You can also try this in mono mode to accentuate light and shadow on the face.