This lens is a prime lens known for its compact design and wide-angle perspective. It is a manual focus optic, a member of a family of lenses introduced by Nikon with a specific mechanical and optical design aimed at enhanced usability and performance on compatible camera bodies. The designation indicates particular features related to aperture control and lens coupling with the camera.
Its significance stems from its versatility in various photographic applications, including landscape, street photography, and general-purpose shooting. The lens offers a relatively fast maximum aperture, allowing for effective low-light performance and shallow depth of field control. Its historical context lies in the era of manual-focus SLRs, where it represented a balance of optical quality, size, and cost, making it a popular choice for both amateur and professional photographers.
