Nikon DX lenses are designed specifically for the APS-C image sensor found on many Nikon digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras. The APS-C sensor is small, with dimensions about 2/3 that of a full-sized (FX) sensor. Nikon VR lenses contain a vibration reduction system that compensates for small camera movements caused by shaking hands or an unstable platform. DX (without VR compensation) and VR lenses in DX format are made by Nikon as well as other manufacturers. Consider your photographic requirements, equipment type and budget when selecting camera lenses.
Instructions
1. Determine the image sensor size on your Nikon camera. All Nikon SLR cameras contain APS-C image sensors except the following models, which contain the full-size, FX sensor: D3, D3X, D3S and D700.
2. Select DX lenses for cameras that use the APS-C image sensor. Calculate the "crop factor" for prime lenses (no zoom or telephoto) because of the smaller size by multiplying the lens focal length by 1.5. For example, if the lens is a 100 mm lens, multiply it by 1.5 because of the smaller sensor and the lens has the same angle of view as if it was a 150 mm lens.
3. Calculate the crop factor for zoom and telephoto lenses by multiplying the minimum and maximum focal length by 1.5. For example, a lens with a range of 70-200 mm has the same angle of view as if it was a 105-300 mm lens.
4. Determine the need for VR capability by evaluating your photographic needs. The VR compensation allows you to avoid camera shake four f-stops slower than traditionally recommended. For example, if you photograph without blur at 1/125 second, you can do the same at 1/8 sec with a VR lens. Use a tripod to eliminate camera movement, but if you don't use a tripod and a small amount of blur is present in most of your photographs, a VR lens may be something you need.
5. Check camera lenses for the DX and/or VR designation before you purchase. The designation is contained within the lens focal length and speed description --- 18-22mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR II DX, for example.
Tags: APS-C image, focal length, image sensor, angle view, APS-C image sensor, because smaller