Controlling Defocus IMAGE-MAKING Image Blur

CONTROLLING DEFOCUS IMAGE–MAKING IMAGE BLUR

While pushing the DC ring lock release button. rotate the DC ring toward the R (rear) side to blur the background. or toward the F (front) side to blue the foreground (see illudt, A). To effectively blur background or foreground images. turn the DC ring so the f-number on the DC ring (aligned to the DC ring index) is same as the aperture in use. Turning the ring beyond the aperture in use lets you creste a soft-focus effect.

•Defocus control should always be performed before focusing. If you rotate the DC ring after focusing, or during focus lock in autofocus photography. your subject will be out of focus.

•With the DC ring at either the F or R side, the distance scale may not show the correct distance.

•The effect of defocus image control depends on subject conditions such as subject-to-background distance. subject-to-foreground distance, etc.

•Image blur cannot be verified through the viewfinder. To obtain the desired effect, take a series of shots with the DC ring at various settings.

FOCUSING

This lens can be used for both autofocus and manual focus.

To select autofocus, while pressing the A-M ring lock release button, turn the A- M ring so that “A” aligns with the A-M index. Also, set the camera’s focus mode selector to autofocus position.

To select manual, turn the A-M ring so “M” aligns with the A-M index. Also, set the camera’s focus mode selector for manual focus.

•With a Nikon autofocus camera, improperly setting the camera’s focus mode selector and lens’ A-M ring may damage the camera body.

RECOMMENDED FOCUSING SCREEN

Various interchangeable focusing screens are available for Nikon cameras to suit any type of lens or picture-taking situation. Those which are recommended for use with your lens are listed below.

For determining the frame type and focusing

Screen

	EC-B/	A/L B C	D E G1 G2 G3 G4 H1 H2 H3 H4	J K P M R T U
Camera	EC-E	A/L B C	D E G1 G2 G3 G4 H1 H2 H3 H4	J K P M R T U
F6
F5 with DP-30			(+0.5)
			(+0.5)
F5 with DA-30		(+0.5)	(+1.0)	(+0.5)
		(+0.5)	(+1.0)	(+0.5)

F4 with DP-20

F4 with DA-20

◎= Ideal

○= Can be used even though part of the view is a little hard to see △= Split image focusing is possible. but focusing is inaccurate

（）= Correction value for center-weighted metering

When using the F6, you can correct the exposure value by setting “b6: Screen Conpensation” to “Except for B and E” in the Customize menu.

When using a camera model othre than B or E. set this to “Except for B and E” regardiess of whether the correction weight is set to “0” When using the F5.set the compensation for the exposure value in custom setting number 18. When using a camera from the F4 series, turn the exposure adjustment diat for the finder screen to set the compensation.

For details, reter to the instruction manual for the camera you are using. Blank: Unsuitable

However, when using the M screen, this value is not used in order to allow you to use a rate of 1 to 1 or higher for close-up photography.

When using a camera other than one listed above with a B2/B3, E2/E3, or K2/K3 screen refer to the B, E, or K column respectively.

MINIMUM APERTURE LOCK

For Programmed auto or Shutter-priority auto exposure shooting. use the minimum aperture lock lever to lock the lens aperture at f/16.

1.Turn the aperture ring so that f/16 on the aperture scale is alignae with the white aperuture indes dot.

2.Slide the lock lever in the direction of the aperuture ring so the white dot on the lever aligns with the orange dot (Illust. B).

To release the lock, slide the lever in reverse direction.

USING BUILT-IN LENS HOOD

Pull out the hood and turn it counterclockwise for two rotations (see Illst. C). To store, turn the hood clodkwise and push back.

AF DC-NIKKOR specifications

The Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR is a distinguished family of lenses that stands out for its unique design and optical capabilities, making it an exceptional choice for portrait photographers and enthusiasts alike. The lens, characterized by its Defocus Image Control (DC) feature, is primarily favored for its ability to produce beautifully defocused backgrounds, enhancing the subject sharpness while allowing for creative control over the depth of field.

One of the primary features of the AF DC-NIKKOR lenses is the DC control ring. This innovative element enables photographers to adjust the amount of defocus in the foreground and background independently. By rotating the DC ring, users can shift the focus characteristics, providing a versatile way to customize the look of images. This level of creative control is particularly beneficial in portraiture, where the emphasis on the subject is paramount, and the background can either be softened or enhanced according to the photographer’s vision.

Moreover, the optical design of the AF DC-NIKKOR lenses is engineered with high-quality glass elements that minimize aberrations and color fringing, resulting in stunningly sharp images. The lenses typically feature a circular aperture, which contributes to a pleasing bokeh, or the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas. This characteristic is essential for portraiture, where a soft background allows the subject to stand out prominently.

The autofocus mechanism in the AF DC-NIKKOR lenses is another noteworthy aspect. They are equipped with Nikon’s Autofocus (AF) system, which ensures quick and precise focusing even in variable lighting conditions. Photographers can rely on the lens to quickly adapt to changes in the scene, allowing them to capture fleeting moments with confidence.

Additionally, the build quality of the AF DC-NIKKOR lenses is robust, featuring a durable exterior that can withstand the rigors of fieldwork. The lenses are generally designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry for extended periods, which is particularly advantageous for portrait photographers who often shoot in various locations.

The AF DC-NIKKOR series is a blend of tradition and modern technology, appealing to both classical photography styles and contemporary demands. With its unique defocus capabilities, exceptional optical performance, and reliable autofocus system, the Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR is an ideal choice for photographers looking to elevate their portrait work through innovative lens design.

Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR Controlling Defocus IMAGE-MAKING Image Blur, Focusing, Minimum Aperture Lock

Models: AF DC-NIKKOR