Nikon AF NIKKOR 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6 D Autofocus IF Lens {72}

Nikon 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6 D: wide-to-telephoto F-mount workhorse.

The 24-120mm focal range covers wide-angle through medium telephoto in a single barrel, making it a practical choice when switching lenses isn't an option. At 24mm you have enough coverage for architecture and interiors; at 120mm, enough reach for casual portraits and compressed travel shots. The variable f/3.5-5.6 maximum aperture is the trade-off for that range, so this lens rewards shooters who understand light than those leaning on maximum aperture as a crutch.

Internal Focus handles autofocus by moving an internal lens group, which keeps the overall length consistent during focus adjustments, useful when you're working close to a subject and don't want balance shifts interrupting your timing. The D-type designation means the lens transmits distance information to compatible Nikon bodies, improving flash exposure calculations in i-TTL situations. A 72mm filter thread is standard enough that most filter kits will cover it without adapters.

This is a proven F-mount optic for Nikon film bodies and digital DSLRs alike. If you're building an one-lens kit around a Nikon F-mount body and expect to shoot across a wide range of focal lengths in a single session, the 24-120mm range does real work.

Who It's For

Travel photographers working from a single body will find the 24-120mm span covers most situations without a bag full of primes. Documentary and event shooters who rely on i-TTL flash can take advantage of the D-type distance data for more accurate flash exposures on compatible Nikon bodies. Street photographers who want wide coverage at 24mm and occasional reach at 120mm without changing lenses mid-scene have a practical tool here. Nikon film shooters looking for a walkaround zoom on F-mount bodies also fit squarely in this lens's wheelhouse.

Key Features

• 24-120mm focal range for wide-angle through telephoto in one lens
• Variable f/3.5-5.6 maximum aperture across the zoom range
• Internal Focus (IF) maintains consistent barrel length during autofocus
• D-type lens transmits distance data for improved i-TTL flash metering
• Nikon F-mount compatibility with film and digital bodies
• 72mm filter thread

FAQ

What focal length range does this lens cover?

24-120mm, giving you wide-angle coverage for architecture and interiors at 24mm, and medium telephoto reach for portraits and travel shots at 120mm - all in one lens.

How does Internal Focus work on this lens?

Internal Focus (IF) moves an internal lens group during autofocus rather than extending the barrel, so the overall lens length stays consistent when you focus and the balance doesn't shift mid-shot.

What's the maximum aperture?

f/3.5 at 24mm and f/5.6 at 120mm - variable across the zoom range. You're trading maximum aperture for a compact design and extended focal length.

What does the D-type designation mean?

The lens transmits distance information to compatible Nikon bodies, which improves flash exposure calculations in i-TTL metering situations on film and digital SLRs that support D-type lenses.

What filter size does this lens use?

72mm. That's a common size, so most filter kits will fit without needing adapters.

Is this lens for film or digital cameras?

It works with both Nikon F-mount film bodies and digital DSLRs. The optical design is proven across both formats.