Nikon compatibility

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nick16

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Hi all,

This is a very basic question as im pretty new, and will seem simple to you guys im sure!

We have a Nikon D3300 in the house already and im looking to get myself a Nikon DSLR.
My question is - are all Nikon lenses compatible for the Nikon cameras? e.g a universal Nikon fitment? - I know other brands make lenses at a slightly cheaper cost too.

I only ask so i can share lenses between the cameras in the house!

Thanks,
 
A basic question without a basic answer ;)

Since the late 50's Nikon have used the F mount. Just about all lenses will fit on all DSLR bodies since then. However, there are some things to be aware of.

There are two formats of camera body (sensor) DX and FX. DX is classed as crop body (your D3300 is a DX body) and there are specifically designated lenses (they have DX in the title usually). The other format called FX or full frame can mount DX lenses but in default mode will switch to DX mode. All FX lenses (usually those without DX in the title) will fit on a DX body.

Any lens with AF-S in the title, irrespective of intended format (DX/FX) will auto focus on your D3300, lenses without that will not AF but you can still use them in manual focus mode (so AFD or AF) - there are also manual focus lenses. Higher end DX bodies have focus motor drives so AFD and AF lenses will autofocus on these (e.g. D500, D300, D7000, D7100, D7200 plus others).

Note that on some older bodies the newer E specification lenses are not fully compatible, you are fine with the D3300 though.
 
The D3300 is a crop sensor, DX camera, so any lens that fits on that will fit onto any other Nikon DSLR, If that is what you mean.
If you buy a full frame camera, which sounds unlikely, then any of the DX lenses will still fit and work but in crop mode.
 
Wow thanks for the info, i am really glad i asked.

Its a family member that owns the D3300, and i am looking to get myself a camera.
I have been looking at Primarily the D5000 range from Nikon, and perhaps the D7000 range, but i doubt there is much difference in terms of performance when in my hands. I am best learning to take decent photos with the D5000 range.

My aim is to have a variety of different lenses that will fit both bodies so more scenarios are covered.

What are you thoughts?

Appreciate the info you guys have given.

Thanks,
 
Principal differences between the D5xxx and D7xxx ranges are exterior controls and in camera focus motor. The latter having more exterior controls and the motor. Other differences are the D7xxx range has 2 card slots, better image storage options (RAW/Compression etc) and also better af options for the same release generation as well as higher max shutter speeds. I believe the latter D5xxx range have tilt screens where the D7xxx do not.

None of the above affect image quality too much but may affect how you get the image. All are extremely capable cameras.
 
Thanks for the info Paul, thats really useful.
What impact would the motor have between the two ranges, is it purely focus speed?
 
nick16 said:
Thanks for the info Paul, thats really useful.
What impact would the motor have between the two ranges, is it purely focus speed?
Click to expand...
It just means that you can use some of the older lenses that don't have internal motors themselves.
 
nick16 said:
Thanks for the info Paul, thats really useful.
What impact would the motor have between the two ranges, is it purely focus speed?
Click to expand...
As Toby says it allows you to use older type af lenses, i.e. those without in built af motors (AF-S have in built motors all others do not).
 
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