Best Lenses for Nikon Zf

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links in this guide are affiliate links — see our affiliate disclosure for details.
Short answer: Which lenses are best for the Nikon Zf?
The guide covers the kit lens, then moves to the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 SE, Z 50mm f/1.8 S and Z 24-120mm f/4 S. It also lists the author's current lens setup and advice.
Choosing the right lens for your camera can be as daunting as picking the right shoes for a marathon. It’s a crucial decision that can significantly impact your photography.
First Love: The Kit Lens

The Nikon Z 40mm f/2 SE, available in a kit with the Z f, has a vintage aesthetic that complements the camera. It offers a versatile focal length for everyday shooting, and its compact size makes it easy to carry.
Venturing into Prime Territory

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is the next step up: a sharp prime lens.
Expanding Horizons

The Nikon Z 24–120mm f/4 S is a versatile all-round zoom.
Current Arsenal
- Nikon Z 40mm f/2 SE: Still a beloved option for its compact size, vintage feel, and excellent everyday performance.
- Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S: A top choice for portraits, low-light photography, and achieving beautiful bokeh.
- Nikon Z 24–120mm f/4 S: Perfect for travel, landscapes, and situations needing a versatile zoom that covers a wide range.
Advice to Fellow Photographers
- Start with the kit lens (or a versatile prime like the 40mm f/2 SE): It’s a great way to learn the basics and explore different focal lengths and styles.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different lenses and see what works best for your personal style and the types of photos you love to take.
- Consider your needs: Think about what you like to shoot most and choose lenses that cater to those specific needs. Do you love portraits, landscapes, street photography, or a bit of everything?
Remember, the best lens is the one that helps you capture the images you envision and brings you joy in the process. So, go out there, explore, and find the perfect match for your Nikon ZF!

Photo by Mike Kilcoyne on Unsplash

Photo by Kalen Emsley on Unsplash

Photo by Miron Cristina on Unsplash

Written by
Marien CartelProfessional and Certified Digital Photographer born in the USA, with 22 years of experience in the field of photography.
Related Guides

Nikon Zf vs Fujifilm X100VI
Nikon Zf vs Fujifilm X100VI compared — where each one wins, where it falls short, and who should buy which. Updated for 2026.

Best Nikon lenses for Beginners
Best Nikon lenses for Beginners: Nikon Z 40mm f/2, Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S and Nikon Z 24–70mm f/4 S compared on features, price and who each one suits.

Best Nikon Macro Lenses
Best Nikon Macro Lenses — Tamron 90mm f/2.8 VC and Tokina AT-X 100mm f/2.8 PRO compared, with pros, cons and who should buy which.

Best Lenses for the Nikon D500
Best Lenses for the Nikon D500: Nikon 10–20mm f/4.5–5.6 DX VR and Tokina atx-i 11–20mm f/2.8 CF compared on features, price and who each one suits.

Best Zoom Lenses for Nikon DSLRs
Choosing the right lens for your camera can feel like navigating a maze, especially when you’re looking for that versatile zoom that covers all your bases.

Best Z Mount Lenses for Nikon
The guide picks the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S as the best all-rounder, the Z 24-120mm f/4 S for travel, the Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S for landscapes and the Z 85mm.