Choosing the Best Lens for Your Nikon D3300 with a Crop Factor of 1.5x
The Nikon D3300, as a crop sensor camera, has a crop factor of 1.5x, meaning that any lens attached to the camera will have an equivalent focal length. This makes it essential to understand how to calculate the equivalent focal length of an 85mm lens on a D3300 for achieving the best results.
Understanding the Crop Factor
The crop factor of 1.5x for the Nikon D3300 means that a 50mm lens on this camera will have the same field of view as a 75mm lens on a full-frame camera. This relationship is calculated using the formula:
Equivalent focal length Focal length times; Crop factor
Calculating the 85mm Equivalent on a D3300
To find the equivalent focal length of an 85mm lens on a crop sensor, we apply the formula:
Equivalent focal length 85mm times; 1.5 127.5mm
Therefore, to get a similar field of view to an 85mm lens on a full-frame camera, you should look for a lens in the range of 85mm to 135mm on your D3300. However, if you want to stay closer to the 85mm equivalent, a 135mm lens would be ideal for a crop frame.
Popular Lens Choices for Portraits on D3300
There are several popular lens choices for achieving the desired 85mm equivalent on a D3300:
50mm Lens
A 50mm lens is a common choice for portraits on many crop sensor cameras, including the D3300. It provides a nice perspective and is often less expensive than other options. However, it’s important to note that a 50mm lens on a D3300 will provide an approximate 75mm equivalent focal length, which is not exact but is suitable for portrait photography.
60mm Micro Nikkor Lens
A 60mm micro lens is another great option for portraits, especially for those who want a slightly longer focal length. When attached to a D3300, a 60mm lens will provide an approximate 90mm equivalent focal length, which is closer to the 85mm ideal. This lens also doubles as a macro lens, providing an excellent depth of field.
58mm f1.4 AF-S G Lens
The 58mm f1.4 AF-S G lens provides an impressive focal length equivalent of 87mm on a D3300. However, it comes with a significant price tag, often four times the cost of the camera itself, making it a less budget-friendly option.
Summary
For most photographers, the 50mm lens is a practical and cost-effective choice for achieving a similar field of view to an 85mm lens on a D3300. If you want a bit more reach and better depth of field, a 60mm micro lens is a better option. For those who are willing to invest in a high-end lens, the 58mm f1.4 AF-S G lens will closely match the 85mm equivalent focal length.
Regardless of your choice, remember to consider the autofocus capabilities and lens quality. AF-S lenses are recommended for better performance and autofocus on your D3300.