PC-E Nikkor 24mm f/3.5D ED; A Pro Perspective Control Lens
George Schaub, August, 2008
Created chiefly for the high-end Nikon D300 and D3, the new 24mm PC (Perspective
Control) lens from Nikon can also be used on other Nikon D-SLR cameras, such
as the relatively new D60 on which I tested it, albeit with some loss of full
automation and functionality. Being a manual focus lens it can also mount on
most Nikon film SLRs as well; being a PC lens it is unique in both operation
and function, which is mainly to control perspective and enhance depth of field
options with its tilt and shift functions. It is quite a bit larger (3.2x4.3”
diameter/length) and heavier (25.7 oz) than you might be used to for a 24mm
fixed focal length lens, but one look at it tells you why. Forward from the
lens mount sits a tilt and shift mechanism with various knobs and locks that
allow you to tilt the lens 8.5° to and fro and shift 11.5mm plus and minus.
The lens will revolve so you can work vertical or horizontal as well, although
this only works with the D300 and D3 of modern D-SLRs, with some others blocking
that rotation.
PC-E Nikkor
24mm f/3.5D ED Lens |
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The larger knobs atop and on the side of the lens are for tilt and
shift adjustments; the smaller locking knob (on the right side of
the lens) keeps adjustments in place after they are set. The aperture
stop-down button, for checking depth of field and for use with manual
exposure operation in cameras other than the D3 or D300, is atop
the lens.
All Photos © 2008, George Schaub, All Rights Reserved |
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The lens is constructed for pro use with three aspherical elements, three
ED glass elements, a “Nano Crystal Coat,” a Nikon Super Integrated
Coat, and rounded nine-blade diaphragm. Max and min apertures are f/3.5 and
f/32 respectively, with a very nice 0.7 ft close-focusing distance. The build
and functionality is reflected in the price, which we found averaged about $2000
from various reputable vendors in an online search.
If you look at the back of the lens you will notice the rear element is recessed
into the barrel. This so-called retrofocus-type construction allows the lens
to be swung to and fro because the coverage of the lens circle exceeds the diameter
of the sensor or film. Being a “full frame”-type lens it covers
35mm film format and FX-type sensors; for DX sensors (commonly called APS-C)
the Nikon multiplier is 1.5, making this a 36mm equivalent on DX cameras. In
addition, the construction of the lens itself allows for the tilts and shifts
without causing undue vignetting, although you should watch for that with some
more extreme movements.
Planes Of Sharpness |
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While perhaps not the main reason for having this lens, the ability
to have what appears to be two planes of sharpness interrupted by
out-of-focus areas at two different distances from the lens might
open up some creative thinking. While trends come and go, I can
see this as a wonderful tool for fashion and the illustration trade,
such as greeting cards and calendars. |
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Those who will find this lens most practical are pro architectural, interior,
and travel and stock shooters. Those who do this work on a more casual basis
and who have invested in an advanced image-editing program might be able to
emulate the effects after exposure, or look to a Lensbaby for the effect. This
lens, however, is a Lensbaby on steroids.
The PC-E Nikkor grants you incredible ability to control and manipulate depth
of field, such that you can throw it completely out of whack (having odd planes
of focus) or increase the sharpness of planes of focus in directions that would
be impossible in a non-PC lens. Don’t have enough depth of field even
at f/22 to keep a receding stone wall or fence sharp near to far? Simply shift
the lens to match or closely match the angle at which it recedes from the camera
position and you can get all of it sharp.
Close Focusing |
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Add the ability to tilt and shift to the close-focusing distance
of 3/4 of a foot and you have some fascinating options for florals
and close-up photography in general. |
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