This manual focus lens, produced by Nikon, is a fast prime lens known for its optical quality and compact design. The designation indicates a 50mm focal length, a wide aperture of f/1.4, and adherence to Nikon’s AI-S (Aperture Indexing Shutter) system, allowing compatibility with a broad range of Nikon cameras. This type of lens is often favored by photographers for its ability to create shallow depth of field and perform well in low-light conditions.
Its significance lies in its image quality, build, and user experience. It offers excellent sharpness, pleasing bokeh, and minimal distortion, making it suitable for various photographic applications, including portraiture, street photography, and general-purpose shooting. The all-metal construction provides durability, while the manual focus operation encourages deliberate and precise image-making. Historically, it represents a period of high-quality lens manufacturing and enduring optical designs.