Lenses are a lot like paintbrushes—each with its own unique properties and purpose. We typically begin categorizing them by focal length, then by aperture range, often asking, Is it a fast lens? From there, we evaluate sharpness, whether the lens is a prime or zoom, and consider its weight, size, and cost. These characteristics not only shape how we shoot, but how we see the world through the viewfinder.
Over the past year, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for vintage lenses and have often thought of Shakespeare’s phrase, “What’s past is prologue.” This journey began when Nikon offered an exceptional deal on the Nikon Z f through their employee purchase program—a camera I couldn’t pass up. The Z f stood out not just for its technical capabilities, but for its nostalgic design, inspired by the classic Nikon FM2 of the 1970s and ’80s. It features tactile dials, a textured finish, and a vintage Nikon logo that echoes the film cameras I first learned on.
Shortly before purchasing the Z f, I made a conscious decision to step out of my comfort zone by exploring wide-angle photography. I had always gravitated toward longer focal lengths, so I picked up a used 16–35mm lens for my Nikon D750. That purchase marked the first used lens I had bought in over a decade, and the experience reminded me of the incredible value and opportunity available in the used lens market—especially as the industry transitions from DSLR (Legacy ) to mirrorless systems.
Not long after acquiring the Z f, I noticed a used Micro-NIKKOR-P·C Auto 55mm f/3.5 lens from the mid-to-late 1970s in the used case at the camera store where I work, Mike’s Camera. Priced at just $30, this legendary macro lens—renowned for its sharpness, minimal distortion, and buttery smooth manual focus—was too good to pass up. That purchase was my entry point into the world of vintage Nikon glass.
Since then, I’ve picked up several additional pre-AI and AI-S lenses, many dating from the 1960s to the 2005. I’ve never thought of myself as a collector, but these legacy lenses have changed the way I shoot. They’ve paired beautifully with the Nikon Z f, enhancing its retro aesthetic while producing character-rich images with unique rendering qualities. Most of my recent work has been shot with these vintage lenses, and I’m continuously inspired by the charm, craftsmanship, and storytelling they bring to each frame.
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