Nikon introduces the Z series full-frame pancake lens
Feb 7, 2023
Nikon introduces the lightest Z series full-frame pancake lens ever. With a versatile 26 mm focal length, short minimum focusing distance, and sharp NIKKOR Z optics, this wide-angle prime lens might be small but it’s ready for big ideas. Photographers will be able to capture standout shots from their own unique perspective.
Weighing 125 g (approx.), and just 23.5 mm long (approx.), this super-slim and lightweight wide-angle prime lens is brilliant for creative, on-the-spot photography. It’s so unobtrusive it gives discretion a new name. Even the included bayonet hood doesn’t add any real bulk, and the hood can be fitted with 52 mm filters for even more creative options. Despite its diminutive size, this pancake lens has a reassuringly solid build—the lens mount is metal, and the lens barrel and all moving parts are sealed to protect from dust and water droplets.
Equally at home shooting street scenes, landscapes, interiors, and more, the NIKKOR Z 26mm f/2.8 lets photographers turn every opportunity into a creative opportunity. The wide Z mount combines with the lens’ wide f/2.8 maximum aperture to deliver great low-light performance, and photographers can use faster shutter speeds to freeze action without sacrificing brightness. For closer work, focusing is sharp with the camera just 20 cm away from subjects—and bokeh can be accentuated at close distances for artful-looking background blur. Video shooters and vloggers can take advantage of the lens’ wide field of view and suppressed focus breathing to shoot great-looking footage, ideal for everything from sweeping wide shots to interviews that create a real sense of place.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager, Nikon Europe, says: “This brilliantly versatile pancake prime might be the slimmest lens in our current line-up – but its solid build is pure NIKKOR Z. Its compact dimensions and steadfast performance make it an attractive go-to candidate for photographers who want a discreet companion, and it makes an excellent walk-around lens. It represents great value for money and it’s an excellent addition to any kit.”
Summary of key features: NIKKOR Z 26mm f/2.8
26 mm wide-angle pancake prime lens: versatile 26 mm focal length (39 mm equivalent on DX-format cameras) with fast f/2.8 aperture. Shoot with clarity and sharpness in low light or freeze action without sacrificing brightness.
The slimmest full-frame wide-angle lens in the Nikon Z line-up: weighs just 125 g (approx.) and measures 23.5 mm (approx.) long.
Excellent close up: the minimum focus distance of just 20 cm allows for close-up shooting, and the wide aperture lets users accentuate bokeh for beautiful background blur.
Tough: the metal lens mount gives this thin pancake lens a reassuringly solid build. The lens barrel and all moving parts are sealed to prevent dust and water droplets from entering the lens.1
Great for video: the wide field of view and suppressed focus breathing ensure users can shoot great-looking footage with ease.
Customisable control ring: the smooth, silent control ring can be set to control ISO, aperture, exposure compensation, and more.
Filter ready: 52 mm filters can be attached to the included bayonet lens hood.
Comment / Laurence Johnson, sustainability manager, Film London