Nikon Nikkor Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro FX Autofocus Lens for Z-Mount, Black {46}

Nikon's 50mm macro prime hits true 1:1 on Z mount.

The NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 reaches 1:1 life-size magnification at a minimum focusing distance of just 16 cm, putting full-frame detail reproduction into one of the most natural focal lengths in photography. At 250 g and 66 mm long with a 46mm filter thread, this is a lens that disappears into a bag and earns daily carry status. The 10-element, 7-group optical formula includes aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements, which keeps chromatic aberration under control at close focus distances where other lenses start to fall apart.

The autofocus system is tuned for close work, with a Focus Limiter switch that constrains the search range when you know your subject is near. Wide open at f/2.8, background separation is strong enough for portraits and food work, not just specimen photography. Weather sealing and a fluorine coating on the front element mean you can shoot in conditions where getting close to a subject also means getting dirty. For Z-mount shooters who want one lens that handles macro, portrait, and everyday duties without switching systems, this is a measured, well-resolved choice.

Who It's For

Food photographers get a lens that fills the frame with a dish at 1:1 magnification while the f/2.8 aperture separates subject from background with real authority. Nature and insect macro shooters will appreciate the 16 cm minimum focus distance paired with weather sealing, since fieldwork is rarely tidy. Portrait photographers shooting on Z-mount bodies gain a 50mm prime that is genuinely sharp wide open, not just stopped down. Documentary and street photographers looking for a compact, full-frame prime that doubles as a close-focus tool will find the 250 g weight easy to justify on any day of shooting.

Key Features

• 1:1 life-size magnification at 16 cm minimum focusing distance
• 10-element, 7-group optical formula with ED and aspherical elements
• f/2.8 maximum aperture for shallow depth of field and background separation
• Weather-sealed with fluorine-coated front element
• Focus Limiter switch optimizes autofocus for close-range work
• 250 g weight and 66 mm length for compact daily carry
• Nikon Z mount with full-frame FX format coverage

FAQ

What's the minimum focusing distance, and does it really hit true 1:1 magnification?

16 cm (6.3 inches) minimum focus, and yes-full 1:1 life-size magnification. You can frame-fill a postage stamp or insect at actual size.

Is this lens weather-sealed?

Yes. It's sealed against dust and moisture, and the front element has a fluorine coating to shed fingerprints and dirt when you're working close to messy subjects.

How does autofocus perform at macro distances?

The AF system is optimized for close work with a Focus Limiter switch that constrains the search range, eliminating hunting when your subject is near. It's virtually silent.

Can you use this as a portrait lens, or is it macro-only?

It works well for portraits. At f/2.8 wide open, the shallow depth of field and 1:1 magnification capability give strong background separation and a three-dimensional rendering.

What's the optical formula, and does it control aberrations at close distances?

10 elements in 7 groups with aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements. This design keeps chromatic aberration under control where other 50mm lenses start to break down at macro distances.

How compact and light is this lens?

250 g (8.8 oz) and 66 mm long with a 46 mm filter thread. It's designed to disappear into a bag and stay on your camera as a daily carry lens.

Does it have noticeable vignetting or distortion?

NIKKOR Z lenses are known for edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal vignetting. The aspherical elements also minimize distortion, which matters when shooting close.