Best Lenses For D5100 Nikon: Beginner, Sport, Wildlife Photography 2023

If you’re looking for the Best Lenses For D5100 Nikon, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best lenses available for this popular DSLR camera. Lucidcam will look at a variety of factors, such as price, focal length, and image stabilization capabilities, so that you can find the right lens for your needs.

Top 10 Best Lenses for Nikon D5100

Nikon 40mm f/2.8G Lens

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Affordable price point
• Good image quality for macro photography
• Versatile focal length for other types of photography
• Close focusing distance for capturing fine details

Cons:

• Lacks image stabilization
• Autofocus can be slow and noisy in some situations
• Not the best lens for low-light conditions
• Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal-bodied lenses
• Limited to a fixed focal length, which may not suit all photographers’ needs

The sports photography lens nikon is a fantastic option for macro photographers who are looking for a high-quality lens that won’t break the bank. With its close focusing distance and great image quality, it’s a lens that can produce stunning images in a variety of settings.

One of the standout features of this lens is its focal length. At 40mm, it’s not only a great lens for macro photography, but it’s also versatile enough for use in other areas of photography, such as portraits or landscapes.

The best portrait lens for nikon is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for long periods without fatigue.

The image quality produced by the Nikon 40mm f/2.8G lens is also top-notch. With its maximum aperture of f/2.8, it’s capable of producing sharp, detailed images with beautiful bokeh.

The best lens for product photography nikon is also sharp across the frame, even when shooting wide open, which is great for macro photography, where detail is everything.

One potential downside of this lens is that it may struggle a bit in low-light conditions, as the maximum aperture of f/2.8 may not be wide enough to let in enough light. However, considering its affordable price point, this lens is still an excellent value for the performance it provides.

Overall, if you’re looking for a solid macro lens that won’t break the bank, the Nikon best budget lens for sports photography Nikon lens is definitely worth considering. It’s a versatile lens that can be used for a variety of photography applications, and it delivers excellent image quality in most situations.

Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G Lens

Pros:

• Enormous versatility with a focal length range of 18-300mm
• Excellent image quality, suitable for a wide range of photography situations
• The fast and accurate autofocus system
• Lightweight and comfortable to handle
• Performs well in low-light conditions
• Macro photography capability
• Lock to prevent lens creep

Cons:

• Some minor ghosting issues at certain focal lengths
• Not designed for specific types of photography but rather for all-around use

The Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G lens is a versatile all-in-one lens that offers photographers enormous flexibility and convenience. With a focal length range of 18-300mm, it is suitable for a wide variety of photographic situations, from landscapes and portraits to wildlife and sports photography.

The lens is designed to be an all-around performer, making it a great option for those who don’t have the time or inclination to switch between multiple lenses in the middle of a shoot.

The image quality of this lens is excellent, and while some users may complain about minor ghosting issues at certain focal lengths, overall, the image quality is superb.

The lens is compatible with Nikon’s DX-format DSLRs, such as the D5100, and provides a fast and accurate autofocus system that is perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects.

The build quality of the Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G lens is also top-notch. It is lightweight and easy to handle, making it comfortable to use for extended periods of time. It also features a lock to prevent lens creep, a common issue with zoom lenses.

Additionally, the lens performs well in low-light conditions, making it a great option for indoor and outdoor photography.

One aspect of this lens that positively surprised many photographers is its ability to capture amazing macro photos.

The lens has a minimum focusing distance of just 1.48 feet, allowing for detailed and sharp close-up shots. This feature makes the Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G lens even more versatile and useful in a wide range of photographic situations.

Overall, the Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G lens is an excellent all-in-one lens that offers great performance and versatility.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional photographer, this lens is sure to provide you with the flexibility and convenience you need to capture amazing photos in a wide variety of situations.

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED

Pros:

• Wide-angle range: The 10-24mm focal length range allows you to capture expansive landscapes or cramped interiors with ease.
• Sharpness and image quality
• Vibration Reduction (VR): The built-in VR system reduces camera shake and helps to produce sharper images in low-light conditions.
• Autofocus (AF): The lens autofocuses quickly and accurately, making it easy to capture fast-moving subjects.
• Lightweight and compact
• It is one of the best wide angle lens for Nikon

Cons:

• Price: This lens is relatively expensive compared to other Nikon DX lenses.
• Slow aperture: With a maximum aperture of f/3.5-4.5, this lens may not be suitable for low-light photography or shallow depth-of-field effects.
• Barrel distortion: The lens exhibits noticeable barrel distortion at its widest focal length, which may require correction in post-processing.
• No weather sealing: This lens is not weather-sealed, so it may not be suitable for use in adverse weather conditions.
• Limited compatibility: This lens is designed for use with DX-format Nikon cameras and may not be compatible with full-frame Nikon cameras.

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED is a wide-angle zoom lens designed for DX-format Nikon DSLR cameras, including the Nikon D5100.

It’s a versatile lens that can be used for a range of photography genres, including landscapes, architecture, and interior photography.

One of the standout features of this lens is its wide-angle focal length range, which allows you to capture sweeping vistas and expansive landscapes.

The lens has a 10-24mm focal length range, which is equivalent to a 15-36mm range in full-frame format. This means you can get up close to your subject and still capture a wide field of view.

The lens features a high-quality optical design, which includes three aspherical lens elements and two extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements.

These elements work together to minimize distortion and aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images with accurate color reproduction.

The lens also features Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, which provides smooth and quiet autofocus performance. This makes it a great option for shooting video, as the lens won’t pick up any motor noise during autofocus.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED is a high-quality wide-angle zoom lens that offers excellent image quality and versatility.

Its wide focal length range, advanced optics, and fast autofocus make it a great choice for a range of photography genres, from landscapes to architecture to interior photography.

NIKON AF-S DX NIKKOR 35MM F/1.8G

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact design
• The large aperture of f/1.8 for great low-light performance and beautiful bokeh
• Fast and accurate autofocus system that is virtually silent
• Versatile and can be used for portrait, landscape, street, and action photography
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Fixed focal length may not be suitable for some types of photography.
• No image stabilization
• Some users have reported issues with the autofocus in certain situations, such as when shooting in low-contrast environments.
• Build quality may not be as durable as more expensive lenses.

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is a budget-friendly yet high-performing lens that is perfect for both beginners and professionals alike.

With a fixed focal length of 35mm, this lens is ideal for portrait, landscape, and street photography, among others. The lens is designed specifically for DX-format Nikon cameras, so it works perfectly with the Nikon D5100.

The build and handling of this lens are impressive. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to use, making it an excellent choice for photographers who are always on the go.

Additionally, the lens has a large aperture of f/1.8, which allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh.

When it comes to performance, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G doesn’t disappoint.

The lens produces sharp and vivid images, even in low-light conditions, and the autofocus system is fast, accurate, and virtually silent. This makes it perfect for use in both photography and videography.

One of the best things about this lens is its versatility. While it is designed primarily for portrait photography, it can also be used for landscape, street, and even some action photography.

It’s a great all-around lens that can handle a variety of situations and lighting conditions.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, high-performing lens that can handle a variety of shooting situations.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this lens is sure to impress with its excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and versatility.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G- Best Nikon Wide-Angle Lens for beginners

Pros:

• The maximum aperture of f/1.8 is great for low-light situations and for creating a shallow depth of field.
• The lens is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and handle.
• The autofocus motor is built-in, providing silent and fast focusing.
• It produces sharp and detailed images with excellent color reproduction.
• It is an affordable lens, making it a great option for beginners or those on a budget.

Cons:

• It has a fixed focal length of 35mm, which may limit its versatility for some photographers.
• It is not weather-sealed, so it may not be ideal for shooting in harsh weather conditions.
• The build quality is not as durable as some higher-end lenses.
• Some users have reported slight distortion at wider apertures, although this can be easily corrected in post-processing.
• It may not be compatible with full-frame Nikon cameras.

The Nikon best prime lens for nikon is a versatile and high-performance lens that is ideal for Nikon D5100 users who are looking for a quality prime lens.

With a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, this lens is excellent for low-light photography and can deliver sharp and detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Its wide aperture also makes it easy to create beautiful background blur, which is perfect for portraits and other types of photography where you want to isolate your subject from the background.

The lens is built to last, with a solid construction and a lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and handle. The lens features Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology, which provides smooth and silent autofocus performance, making it ideal for video recording as well as still photography.

The lens also features a manual focus override function, which allows you to make fine adjustments to the focus manually, even when the lens is in autofocus mode.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens is an excellent choice for Nikon D5100 users who want a high-quality prime lens that is versatile, easy to use, and delivers excellent image quality in a variety of shooting conditions.

Whether you are shooting portraits, landscapes, or street photography, this lens is sure to deliver the performance and results you need to take your photography to the next level.

Nikon AF S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G- Best Nikon Portrait Lens

Pros:

• Offers excellent image quality with sharpness, contrast, and bokeh.
• The fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 allows for low-light shooting and shallow depth of field.
• Comes with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor for quick and quiet autofocus.
• Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to handle and carry around.
• Good build quality and weather sealing.

Cons:

• No image stabilization, which may result in camera shake and blur in low light situations.
• Autofocus can sometimes be slow in low light conditions or with moving subjects.
• The lens is optimized for portrait photography and may not be as versatile for other types of photography.
• The lens hood is not included in the package and needs to be purchased separately.

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is a fantastic lens for portrait photography on the Nikon D5100. Its focal length of 85mm provides a flattering perspective, allowing you to capture stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh.

The lens has a large maximum aperture of f/1.8, making it ideal for shooting in low-light conditions and achieving shallow depth-of-field effects.

It also features Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology for quick and quiet autofocusing, making it great for capturing candid moments or recording videos.

The lens is built to a high standard, with a durable metal mount and weather-sealed construction to protect against dust and moisture.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is an excellent choice for photographers looking to take their portrait photography to the next level on the Nikon D5100.

Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM

Pros:

• A long zoom range of 150-600mm, making it versatile for a variety of telephoto photography needs.
• Optical stabilization (OS) and hypersonic motor (HSM) provide quick and sharp focusing with reduced camera shake.
• Lightweight and compact design for a lens of this zoom range, making it easier to handle and transport.
• Affordable compared to similar telephoto lenses on the market.

Cons:

• A variable maximum aperture of f/5-6.3 means it may struggle in low-light conditions.
• Some users report softness at the longer end of the zoom range.
• May not have the same image quality as more expensive telephoto lenses.
• Autofocus may be slower in certain situations, such as in low light or when shooting fast-moving subjects.

The Sigma best nikon lens for zoom is a versatile telephoto lens designed for wildlife, sports, and action photography. With a focal length range of 150-600mm, this lens offers a significant zoom reach, allowing photographers to capture distant subjects with ease.

The lens features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around and handle. It weighs 4.25 lbs. (1.93 kg) and has a length of 10.2 inches (260 mm).

The lens features Sigma’s Optical Stabilizer (OS) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images.

It also has a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for fast and quiet autofocus, which is essential for capturing moving subjects. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/5-6.3, which is suitable for shooting in low-light conditions.

Overall, the Sigma lens for Nikon D5100 is an excellent option for photographers looking for a versatile telephoto lens with a long zoom range.

The best wildlife photography lens Nikon offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and effective image stabilization, all at an affordable Nikon D5100 price point. It’s a great option for wildlife and sports photographers who want to capture distant subjects without breaking the bank.

Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM

Pros:

• Fast and constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 throughout the zoom range, allowing for better low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
• Optical stabilization (OS) compensates for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld and resulting in sharper images.
• High-quality construction with a durable metal mount and a solid feel in hand.
• Smooth and quiet autofocus thanks to the Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM).
• Versatile focal length range of 17-50mm, making it suitable for a variety of photography genres such as travel, landscape, portraits, and more.

Cons:

• Relatively heavy and bulky compared to other lenses in its class, which may make it less suitable for extended handheld shooting sessions.
• Some users have reported issues with autofocus accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions.
• Some chromatic aberration (color fringing) and distortion may be present in certain situations, although this can be corrected in post-processing.

The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens is a versatile zoom lens designed for use with APS-C format DSLRs, such as the Nikon D5100. With a maximum aperture of f/2.8, this lens is capable of producing sharp, well-exposed images in low-light situations.

The lens also features optical stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produces sharp images even when shooting handheld.

The lens is constructed with high-quality materials and features a professional build, making it a durable and reliable option for photographers who need a lens that can withstand heavy use.

The autofocus system is fast and accurate, thanks to Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) technology, which allows for quick and quiet focusing. Additionally, the lens features a close focusing distance of just 11 inches, making it well-suited for close-up photography.

Overall, the Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens is an excellent choice for photographers who are looking for a versatile, high-quality zoom lens for their Nikon D5100.

Whether shooting portraits, landscapes, or street photography, this lens delivers sharp, detailed images with excellent color and contrast.

Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM- Best Nikon Lens for Zoom

Pros:

• The large aperture of f/1.8, which is rare for a zoom lens and allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field
• Fast and quiet autofocus with hypersonic motor (HSM)
• Solid build quality with metal exterior and Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce ghosting and flare
• Versatile focal length range of 18-35mm, suitable for a variety of genres

Cons:

• Limited focal length range compared to other zoom lenses
• The heavy weight of 28.6 oz (810g) may be a concern for some photographers.
• Designed for APS-C cameras, so it may not be compatible with full-frame cameras.
• Higher price point compared to other similar lenses in its class

The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 ART DC HSM is a lens that has garnered much attention and praise among photographers since its release.

Part of Sigma’s Art line of lenses, this zoom lens is designed for APS-C cameras and has a focal length range of 18-35mm, making it a versatile choice for a variety of photography genres.

One of the most impressive features of this lens is its large aperture of f/1.8, which is rare for a zoom lens. This allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create a shallow depth of field with beautiful bokeh.

The lens also features a hypersonic motor (HSM) that provides fast and quiet autofocus, making it suitable for both photography and videography.

The build quality of the Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 ART DC HSM is also noteworthy. It has a solid, professional feel, with a metal exterior and a weight of 28.6 oz (810g).

The lens is also designed with Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce ghosting and flare, which can be particularly useful in bright, backlit scenes.

Overall, the Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 ART DC HSM is an excellent lens for photographers who are looking for a versatile, high-performance zoom lens with a large aperture. Its build quality, autofocus speed, and image quality make it a standout choice in its class.

It’s well-suited for a variety of genres, including landscape, street, portrait, and event photography.

Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and handle.
• Excellent image quality and sharpness, even at the closest focusing distance.
• The wide aperture of f/2.8 allows for good performance in low-light situations.
• The affordable price point for a macro lens.

Cons:

• Limited focal length may not be suitable for all types of macro photography.
• No built-in vibration reduction or image stabilization, which could be a concern when shooting handheld at close distances.
• Autofocus can be slow and noisy, which may be a problem for some photographers.

The Nikon AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is a compact and lightweight macro lens designed specifically for Nikon DX-format cameras.

It is a versatile lens that offers a minimum focus distance of just 6.4 inches, allowing you to capture stunning close-up shots with great detail and clarity.

The lens features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that provides fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus, which is ideal for shooting macro photography.

Additionally, the lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which allows for great performance in low-light situations and also creates a beautiful shallow depth-of-field effect.

The build quality of the Nikon AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is impressive, with a sturdy construction that is designed to withstand heavy use. The lens is also equipped with Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating, which helps to reduce flare and ghosting while improving contrast and color accuracy.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is an excellent choice for photographers who want to capture stunning macro shots with their Nikon DX-format cameras.

Its compact and lightweight design, combined with its fast autofocus and excellent image quality, make it a highly versatile lens that is perfect for capturing the smallest details in your photos.

6 Tips To Help When Buying a Nikon D5100 lenses

If you’re in the market for a new lens for your Nikon D5100, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you make the right purchase. Here are six tips to help you when buying a Nikon D5100 lens:

• Consider your needs: Before you start shopping, think about what you’ll be using the lens for. Will you be shooting in low-light conditions? Will you need to zoom in from a distance? Do you need a wide-angle lens for landscapes? Knowing your needs will help you narrow down your options.
• Look for compatibility: Not all lenses are compatible with the Nikon D5100, so make sure to check that any lens you’re considering is compatible with your camera model.
• Check the aperture: The aperture of a lens determines how much light can enter the lens and affects the depth of field. A wider aperture (represented by a lower f-number) is better for low-light conditions and for creating a shallow depth of field.
• Consider the focal length: The focal length of a lens determines the angle of view and how close you can zoom in on a subject. Different lenses have different focal lengths, so choose one that suits your needs.
• Look for autofocus capabilities: Autofocus is a useful feature for many types of photography, so make sure the lens you’re considering has autofocus capabilities.
• Read reviews: Finally, before making a purchase, read reviews from other photographers to get an idea of the lens’s performance and any potential issues to look out for.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect lens for your Nikon D5100.

FAQs

What is the best lens for portrait photography with the Nikon D5100?

For portrait photography with the Nikon D5100, the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G lens is a popular choice. Its wide aperture of f/1.8 allows for beautiful bokeh and shallow depth of field, making it ideal for creating stunning portraits.

The 50mm focal length is also versatile, allowing for both full-body and head-and-shoulder shots. Another option is the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens, which offers a longer focal length and even a shallower depth of field for more dramatic portraits.

What is the best lens for landscape photography with the Nikon D5100?

For landscape photography with the Nikon D5100, wide-angle lenses are a great choice. The Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED lens is a popular choice, with a focal length range that allows for both wide-angle and zoomed-in shots.

Another option is the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X116 Pro DX II lens, which offers a wider aperture for low-light conditions and a slightly wider focal length.

What is the best lens for low-light photography with the Nikon D5100?

A: For low-light photography with the Nikon D5100, lenses with wide apertures are key. The Nikon 35mm f/1.8G lens is a great choice, with a wide aperture of f/1.8 and a versatile focal length for both indoor and outdoor low-light situations.

Another option is the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens, which offers a wide aperture and a zoom range for added versatility.

What is the best lens for sports photography with the Nikon D5100?

For sports photography with the Nikon D5100, best Nikon sports lenses with fast autofocus and a longer focal length are important. The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens is a popular choice, with a wide aperture for fast shutter speeds and a focal length range that allows for both close-up shots and zoomed-out action shots.

Another option is the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM lens, which offers an even longer focal length and image stabilization for added stability during action shots.

What is the best all-purpose lens for the Nikon D5100?

The Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a great all-purpose lens for the Nikon D5100, offering a versatile focal length range and image stabilization for added stability in low-light conditions.

Another option is the Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC lens, which offers a similar focal length range and image stabilization at a more affordable price point.

What are the best wildlife photography lens nikon?

There are many great Nikon lenses for wildlife photography, but the best lens will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the top options:

• Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR – This is a versatile lens that offers a long zoom range, making it ideal for capturing wildlife from a distance. It also has vibration reduction (VR) technology to reduce camera shake.
• Nikon 300mm f/4E PF ED VR – This lens is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for extended periods of time. It also has excellent sharpness and VR technology.
• Nikon 600mm f/4E FL ED VR – If you need the ultimate telephoto reach, the Nikon 600mm f/4E FL ED VR is a top-of-the-line option. It’s large and heavy, but the image quality is unparalleled, and the VR technology helps to minimize camera shake.
• Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR – This lens is another versatile option, with a zoom range that covers everything from wide-angle to telephoto. It also has VR technology and a fast autofocus system.

What type of lenses is compatible with the Nikon D5100?

The Nikon D5100 compatible lenses have a Nikon F mount. This includes lenses from Nikon, as well as third-party brands such as Sigma and Tamron. However, it’s important to note that the D5100 is an APS-C camera, which means that lenses designed for full-frame cameras will have a different effective focal length on the D5100.

Read more:

How To Clean Camera Lens 2023: Top Full Guide

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nikon D5100 is compatible with a wide variety of lenses. Whether you are looking for low-light performance, prime lenses, or telephoto zoom lenses, there is something for every photographer.

By following these six tips when buying a lens for your Nikon D5100 DSLR camera, you can find the perfect lens that meets your needs and budget. Take the time to research and compare different lenses and their features to get the best value for your money. Thank you for reading