* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon 135mm f/3.5 NIKKOR AIS Manual Focus Lens {52}
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All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
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Standard accessories included
Nikon 135mm f/3.5 AIS: a manual-focus classic built for F-mount shooters.
The 135mm focal length has long been a favorite for portrait and documentary work, and this AI-S version gives you full aperture indexing with Nikon F-mount film and DSLR bodies. At f/3.5, there is enough separation between subject and background to isolate a face or a detail without the focus-critical edge of a faster lens, a practical choice when you want control without anxiety. The 52mm filter thread is a common size, so you likely already have the right glass for it.
AI-S coupling means the camera body can read and communicate aperture data correctly, which matters on bodies that support stop-down metering or programmed exposure modes. This is a fully manual focus lens, so it rewards photographers who are comfortable working deliberately. That patience pays off: manual glass forces you to slow down and commit to the frame before you press the shutter, which tends to produce more considered work. At this focal length, it fits naturally into a kit for portrait, travel, or event shooting where a short telephoto perspective does most of the compositional lifting.
Who It's For
Portrait photographers shooting on Nikon F-mount DSLRs or film bodies will find the 135mm field of view gives flattering compression without requiring close physical proximity to subjects. Film photographers working with manual-body Nikons get full AI-S aperture coupling and a focal length that handles both portraiture and candid street work. Photographers building a compact, affordable manual kit benefit from the 52mm filter thread, which matches a range of other common Nikon primes and keeps filter costs down.
Key Features
- 135mm focal length for portraits, documentary, and travel work
- f/3.5 maximum aperture with practical subject separation
- Nikon F-mount with AI-S coupling for full aperture indexing
- Manual focus for deliberate, considered composition
- 52mm filter thread for standard accessories
- Compatible with F-mount film SLRs and DSLRs
FAQ
- What's the difference between AI-S and earlier Nikon manual-focus couplings?
- AI-S (Automatic Indexing-S) lets the camera body read and communicate aperture data correctly, which enables stop-down metering and programmed exposure modes on compatible bodies. Earlier manual couplings didn't have this two-way communication.
- Can I use this lens on film and digital Nikon bodies?
- Yes. The F-mount AI-S coupling works with any F-mount camera that supports manual focus - both film SLRs and DSLRs. Your DSLR will meter and expose correctly with the AI-S coupling.
- Is 135mm a practical focal length for portraits?
- Yes. It compresses facial features pleasantly and creates subject separation without the extreme focus-critical depth of a faster telephoto. At f/3.5, you get enough background isolation for controlled portraiture without the narrow working distance of an f/2 or faster lens.
- What filter size does this lens use?
- 52mm. It's a common size, so you likely already have circular polarizers, ND filters, or other glass that fits.
- Is this lens fully manual?
- Yes. Autofocus is not available. You focus by hand and set the aperture ring manually. The AI-S coupling only handles aperture communication to the camera body.
- How does manual focus affect shooting speed in events or travel?
- It slows you down intentionally. You commit to focus before pressing the shutter rather than relying on AF acquisition. This tends to produce more deliberate framing and fewer wasted frames, which many photographers prefer for event and travel work.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 135mm |
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Mount | Nikon F (AI-S) |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F Mount Ai-S |
| Lens Type | Short Tele / Portrait |
| Max Focal Length | 135mm |
| Min Focal Length | 135mm |
Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .
Exceptions
- New
- New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
- Like New
- Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
- As Is
- Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
Like New Minus
Like New Minus
Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus
Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent
Excellent
Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Bargain
Bargain
Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Ugly
Ugly
Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.
