View Full Version : Nikon lens designation
In regards to the "D" designation. The difference seems to be the that the "D" version of a lens has 3-D metering and advanced flash metering. Exactly what does this mean? I've seen some reference of the "D" lenses as being faster focusing, but would really love to know the difference b/w the two of them.
JerseyJay
02-24-2005, 6:02 PM
D -- (1992) Adds distance information to the data transmitted to the camera via chip. Distinguished by the D or G after the lens designation.
DC -- Defocus Control lens, allows the photographer to change the degree of spherical aberration in the out-of-focus areas to provide for better bokeh.
DX -- Indicates a lens designed to cover the smaller image circle of the digital camera bodies. May still work on 35mm bodies at some focal lengths.
Not sure if this is any helpful.
Was looking at the first designation on the list there, Jay.
Something along the lines of differences between the following:
85mm f/2.8 versus 85mm f/2.8D
70-210 f/4-5.6 versus 70-210 f/4-5.6D
50mm 1.8 versus 50mm 1.8D
think of "d" as better metering for exposure. esp helpful when using a flash.
here's (http://homepages.ihug.com.au/~parsog/Guy/nikmeter.html) one for you to read. it references the n90 but it gives you the gist.
"d" has nothing to do with autofocus, SWM(silent wave motor) lenses are faster (AF-S)
3D Matrix Metering
With 3D matrix metering, the camera's computer analyses the following data to determine exposure:
#1 - Brightness data from each of eight segments (configured in various combinations)
#2 - Contrast between segments
#3 - Distance Information from the D-type Nikkor lens in use
#4 - Focus status data from the camera's AF system (during composition and after recomposing with AF-lock)
-quoted from the above link