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Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2D Lens

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Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2D Lens - Main image
$287.97 $449.95 In stock

Category: SLR Interchangeable Lenses

Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2D Lens
Legendary Portrait Prime – Exclusive Defocus Image Control (DC), Fast f/2 Aperture, Rear Focus System & Built-In Retractable Hood

The Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2D is a specialized medium-telephoto prime lens engineered for full-frame FX-format and DX-format Nikon F-mount cameras. Widely regarded as a premier portrait optic, it features Nikon’s proprietary Defocus Image Control (DC) technology, which allows photographers to physically manipulate the degree and placement of foreground or background spherical aberration to customize background blur and subject isolation.

Complementing its defocus control, the lens features a bright f/2 maximum aperture that provides shallow depth-of-field control and low-light capability. Individual optical elements are treated with Super Integrated Coating (SIC) to minimize flare, ghosting, and internal reflections, delivering high contrast and color fidelity in backlit environments. Its rear-focusing (RF) system maintains a constant overall lens length while driving fast, responsive autofocus via camera screw-drive AF motors. The durable, classic metallic barrel includes a rounded 9-blade diaphragm for natural bokeh rendering and an integrated retractable lens hood.

Key Features & Performance Highlights

Exclusive Defocus Image Control (DC): Dedicated control ring allows precise adjustment over foreground or background blur quality for creative portrait isolation.

Bright f/2 Maximum Aperture: Excels in low-light environments and provides precise control over selective focus and shallow depth of field.

Super Integrated Coating (SIC): Suppresses internal reflections, flare, and ghosting for maximum contrast and color accuracy.

Rear Focus (RF) Internal Design: Moves only the rear optical group during focusing, maintaining lens length and optimizing AF response speeds.

Classic All-Metal Build with Built-In Hood: Features durable metal construction, a physical aperture ring, and an integrated pull-out lens hood.

Technical Specifications

Lens Type: Medium Telephoto Portrait Prime Lens

Lens Mount System: Nikon F Native (FX Full-Frame & DX Format Compatible)

Focal Length: 135 mm (35mm Equivalent on DX: 202.5 mm)

Maximum Aperture: f/2.0

Minimum Aperture: f/16

Minimum Focus Distance: 3.6 feet / 1.1 m

Optical Construction: 7 Elements in 6 Groups

Special Functions: Defocus Image Control (DC Ring)

Optical Coatings: Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC)

Focus System: In-Body Screw-Drive AF (Requires Camera Body with Internal AF Motor) & Rear Focus (RF)

Camera Compatibility Note: Autofocus requires camera bodies with an AF motor; manual focus only on D3000-series, D5000-series, D40, D40X, and D60

Aperture Control: Physical Aperture Ring with Lock Switch

Diaphragm Design: 9-Blade Rounded Iris

Built-in Accessories: Integrated Retractable Lens Hood

Filter Thread Diameter: 72 mm

Dimensions (Diameter x Length): Approx. 3.1 x 4.7 inches / 79.0 x 120.0 mm

Weight: Approx. 1.80 lb / 815 g

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Customer Reviews (4.4 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Madison ★★★★★

Picked this up for portrait work and the retractable hood is a nice touch—keeps the lens compact when not in use. The f/2 aperture gives beautiful separation, and the rear focus system is quiet and quick.

Madison ★★★★★

The defocus control on this 135mm f/2 is incredible for softening backgrounds without losing sharpness on the subject. I shot a whole session at f/2.8 and every frame had that dreamy, professional look I was hoping for. The built-in retractable hood is a clever touch too.

Natalie ★★★★★

The defocus control on this lens is incredible for portraits, letting me dial in just the right amount of softness. It's become my go-to for headshots, and the built-in hood is a nice touch that keeps flare down.