Nikon 35 F2 Vs Canon Fd 35 F2 Concave Comparison

Hey there, fellow shutterbugs! I’m thrilled to sit down with you and chat about two vintage lenses that have earned a special place in my camera bag: the Nikon 35 F2 and the Canon FD 35 F2 Concave. As someone who’s spent years chasing the perfect shot, I’ve put these lenses through their paces, and I’m excited to share my take on the Nikon 35 F2 vs Canon FD 35 F2 debate. Whether you’re a Nikon devotee, a Canon enthusiast, or just curious about classic glass, this comparison will help you pick the right lens for your style.

These lenses hail from the film era, yet they still deliver stunning results on modern cameras. The Nikon 35 F2 is a jack-of-all-trades, offering sharp images and true-to-life colors, while the Canon FD 35 F2 Concave brings a warm, artistic flair, especially for portraits. From build quality to optics, I’ll break down their quirks and strengths based on my hands-on experience. So, grab a coffee, and let’s dive into this Nikon 35 F2 vs Canon FD 35 F2 showdown!

Nikon 35 F2 Vs Canon Fd 35 F2 Comparison

Build Quality and Design

Let’s start with how these lenses feel when you hold them. The Nikon 35 F2 combines a metal barrel with high-quality plastic components, making it surprisingly light. It’s compact enough to slip into a pocket, perfect for long days shooting on the go. I’ve lugged it around city streets for hours, and it never feels like a burden, though the plastic parts can show scratches over time.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave, by contrast, is a hefty, mostly metal beast. It exudes durability, like it could survive a tumble and keep shooting. I’ve used it in dusty, windy conditions, and it’s held up like a champ, but its weight can make your wrist ache after a full day. When mounted, it adds a solid, professional feel to my camera setup.

Aesthetically, the Nikon sports a sleek, black-and-silver look that’s timeless. The Canon’s concave front element gives it a distinctive, almost retro vibe that stands out. Your choice might come down to whether you want a lightweight companion or a rugged, premium-feeling lens.

Optical Performance

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: image quality. Both lenses are optical gems, but they shine in different ways.

Sharpness

The Nikon 35 F2 is a sharpness superstar, especially in the center, even at f/2. Stop it down to f/4, and the edges become razor-sharp, making it ideal for landscapes or detailed cityscapes. I’ve shot sprawling urban scenes with it, and the clarity from corner to corner always impresses me.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave matches the Nikon’s center sharpness but lags slightly at the edges when wide open. By f/4, it delivers crisp images across the frame, perfect for most scenarios. For portraits, where edge sharpness matters less, this lens has never let me down during indoor sessions.

Color Rendition

Color is where these lenses show their personalities. The Nikon 35 F2 renders colors naturally, with no noticeable tint, which is perfect for capturing scenes as they are. I’ve used it for documentary-style street photography, and the true-to-life tones save me hours in editing.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave, however, leans warmer, giving images a golden glow. This is a game-changer for portraits, as skin tones look vibrant and flattering. I’ve shot family sessions with this lens, and clients often comment on the inviting, sunlit feel of the photos.

Bokeh

Bokeh is a matter of taste, and these lenses offer distinct flavors. The Nikon 35 F2 produces smooth, creamy bokeh that gently blurs backgrounds, ideal for isolating subjects in portraits or candid street shots. It’s subtle, letting the subject shine without distraction.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave’s bokeh is more textured, with visible aperture blade shapes creating a swirl-like effect. This can add a painterly quality to images, which I’ve used for creative portraiture. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a unique touch for artistic work.

Depth of Field

At 35mm f/2, both lenses offer a shallow depth of field, but their rendering differs. The Nikon’s blur is soft and even, keeping the focus on your subject in portraits. The Canon’s more pronounced blur can create dramatic, almost cinematic effects, which I’ve played with for experimental shots where the background adds context.

Flare and Contrast

In backlit conditions, both lenses handle flare decently, but the Nikon has a slight edge. I’ve shot into the sun with it, and the flare often appears as subtle starbursts, adding charm without ruining the shot. The Canon can produce more noticeable flare, which can be a creative tool but sometimes requires careful positioning.

Focusing Mechanism

Both lenses are manual focus, a nod to their vintage roots. The Nikon 35 F2’s focus ring is buttery smooth, with just the right resistance. It’s a joy to use during fast-paced street shoots, where I can quickly dial in focus without second-guessing.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave’s focus ring is more damped, offering precise, tactile control. This is great for portraits or close-up work, where nailing focus is critical. I’ve found it especially useful for macro-style shots, though it can feel a tad slow in dynamic situations.

Neither lens has a distance scale, typical for their era, but through-the-lens focusing makes this a non-issue. The Canon’s stiffer ring might appeal to those who prefer deliberate adjustments, while the Nikon’s fluidity suits quick shooters.

Compatibility and Adaptability

Using these lenses on modern cameras is totally doable, but it depends on your setup. The Nikon 35 F2, with its F-mount, is a breeze to adapt to Nikon DSLRs or Z-series mirrorless cameras using an FTZ adapter. You’ll focus manually, but Nikon’s focus confirmation helps.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave, with its FD mount, works natively on older Canon FD bodies. For EOS DSLRs or mirrorless systems, you’ll need an FD to EF adapter. Some adapters mess with infinity focus, so pick a high-quality one. I’ve adapted both to Sony and Fujifilm mirrorless cameras, and while manual focus takes practice, the results are worth it. Nikon shooters will find the Nikon lens plug-and-play, while Canon FD users will love the Canon lens on vintage bodies. If you’re mixing systems, research adapters to avoid compatibility headaches.

Performance in Different Conditions

Let’s talk real-world performance. In bright daylight, both lenses handle high-contrast scenes well, with minimal flare. The Nikon 35 F2 excels at preserving shadow and highlight details, as I’ve seen in sunny landscape shoots. The Canon holds its own but can look slightly contrastier due to its warm tones.

In low light, the f/2 aperture is a lifesaver. The Nikon’s sharpness wide open makes it my go-to for evening street photography, capturing details without boosting ISO. The Canon’s cozy tones shine in indoor settings, like weddings or events, adding warmth to candlelit scenes.

Vignetting is noticeable at f/2, more so with the Canon, which can be a stylistic choice for dramatic portraits. Both lenses keep distortion low, making them great for architecture or product shots where straight lines matter. For close-ups, the Canon’s 0.3-meter minimum focus distance gives it a slight edge over the Nikon’s 0.4 meters.

Using on Modern Cameras

Adapting vintage lenses to modern cameras is a trend I love, and these lenses are perfect candidates. On my Nikon Z6, the Nikon 35 F2 pairs beautifully with the FTZ adapter, and focus peaking makes manual focusing a breeze. The lens’s compact size balances well with mirrorless bodies, keeping my setup nimble.

The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave, when adapted to my Sony A7R IV, delivers stunning results, though I need a high-quality FD to E-mount adapter to maintain infinity focus. The heavier build can feel front-heavy on lighter mirrorless bodies, but the image quality makes up for it. Both lenses bring a vintage charm to digital sensors that modern lenses can’t replicate.

Modern features like focus peaking and magnification help with manual focus, but practice is key. I’ve found that shooting in aperture priority mode simplifies exposure, letting me focus on composition and focus.

When to Choose Each Lens

Here’s how these lenses stack up in different scenarios:

• Street Photography: The Nikon 35 F2 is my pick for its lightweight build and neutral colors. It’s easy to carry all day, and the accurate tones capture the street’s raw energy.
• Portrait Photography: The Canon FD 35 F2 Concave is a portrait powerhouse, with warm tones and textured bokeh that add personality to headshots or environmental portraits.
• Landscape Photography: The Nikon’s edge-to-edge sharpness at f/4 makes it ideal for landscapes, ensuring every detail from foreground to horizon pops.
• Architecture: Both lenses have low distortion, but the Canon’s vignetting at f/2 can add drama to architectural shots, while the Nikon keeps things clean and even.
• Event Photography: For events, the Nikon’s fast focus ring is great for candids, while the Canon’s warm tones suit intimate, low-light moments.
• Travel and Vlogging: The Nikon’s portability makes it a better travel companion, slipping easily into a small bag for on-the-go shooting.

Comparison Table

Here’s a quick look at how these lenses compare:

Aspect	Nikon 35 F2	Canon FD 35 F2 Concave
Build Quality	Metal with plastic, lightweight	Mostly metal, heavier, premium
Durability	Good for regular use, plastic may wear	Highly durable, handles rough use
Sharpness	Excellent center, great edges at f/4	Excellent center, softer edges wide open
Color Rendition	Natural, neutral	Warm, ideal for portraits
Bokeh	Smooth, creamy	Textured, distinct
Depth of Field	Smooth blur	Pronounced blur
Focusing	Manual, smooth ring	Manual, tactile ring
Compatibility	Nikon F-mount, easy to adapt	Canon FD mount, adapter caveats
Close Focus	0.4 meters	0.3 meters

Decision-Making: Which Lens to Choose?

So, which lens should you pick in the Nikon 35 F2 vs Canon FD 35 F2 debate? If you shoot with Nikon cameras or want a versatile lens, the Nikon 35 F2 is hard to beat. Its lightweight design, neutral colors, and seamless adaptability to modern Nikon systems make it perfect for street, landscape, or general photography. I’ve used it for everything from city walks to nature hikes, and it’s never let me down.

If you’re a Canon user, especially with FD-mount bodies, or love portraiture, the Canon FD 35 F2 Concave is your match. Its warm tones and unique bokeh create images with character, ideal for headshots or artistic work. With the right adapter, it’s a gem on modern systems, and its durability ensures it’ll last.

For those not tied to a brand, both lenses are fantastic, but your shooting style matters. I lean toward the Nikon for its all-around performance, but the Canon’s artistic flair wins for portraits. Rent or borrow both to see which clicks with you. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a slice of photographic history that delivers stunning results.

Conclusion

Whether you go for the Nikon 35 F2 or the Canon FD 35 F2 Concave, you’re investing in a lens that’s stood the test of time. These vintage beauties bring a character to your images that modern lenses often lack. As someone who’s shot with both, I can vouch for their quality and charm. So, pick one up, hit the streets or the studio, and let’s create some unforgettable photos together!

FAQ: Nikon 35mm f/2 vs Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave

1. What are the key differences between the Nikon 35mm f/2 and Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave lenses?

The Nikon 35mm f/2 is a lightweight, versatile lens with sharp, neutral images, making it ideal for landscapes and street photography. The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave offers a warmer color tone and distinctive bokeh, perfect for portraits. Both are manual focus lenses from the film era but can be adapted to modern cameras. The Nikon feels more portable, while the Canon has a sturdier, all-metal build.

2. Which lens is better for portrait photography?

For portraits, I’d recommend the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave. Its warm color rendition gives skin tones a natural, flattering glow, and its textured bokeh adds an artistic touch to the background. The Nikon 35mm f/2 is great too, but its neutral tones might not provide the same emotional warmth that portraits often benefit from.

3. Can these lenses be used on modern digital cameras?

Absolutely! Both lenses can be adapted to modern cameras, though they require specific adapters. The Nikon 35mm f/2 works seamlessly with Nikon DSLRs and Z-series mirrorless cameras using the FTZ adapter. The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave can be adapted to Canon EOS systems with an FD-to-EF adapter, but you’ll need a high-quality one to maintain infinity focus. For other systems like Sony or Fujifilm, third-party adapters are available, but manual focus is a must.

4. What is the build quality like for each lens?

The Nikon 35mm f/2 has a mix of metal and high-quality plastic, making it lightweight and easy to carry, though the plastic might show wear over time. The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave is mostly metal, giving it a heavier but more durable feel. If you’re tough on your gear, the Canon might be more appealing, but for portability, the Nikon is hard to beat.

5. How do the lenses perform in low light conditions?

Both lenses excel in low light thanks to their f/2 aperture, which allows for faster shutter speeds or lower ISO settings. The Nikon 35mm f/2 has a slight edge in edge sharpness even at wider apertures, making it great for situations where you need every bit of detail. The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave also performs well, with its warm tones adding a cozy vibe to indoor shots.

6. Are there any specific adapters recommended for using these lenses on modern cameras?

For the Nikon 35mm f/2, I recommend the Nikon FTZ adapter if you’re using a Z-series mirrorless camera—it’s straightforward and maintains EXIF data. For the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave, a high-quality FD-to-EF adapter is essential for Canon EOS DSLRs to ensure infinity focus. For other systems, adapters from brands like Metabones or Novoflex are reliable choices.

7. Are there any known issues or common problems with these lenses?

Vintage lenses like these can sometimes show wear on the focus rings or require cleaning after years of use. The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave’s early versions used radioactive thorium in their glass, which can cause a yellow cast over time, but this is rare in later models. Both lenses are generally reliable if well-maintained, but it’s always a good idea to check for any signs of wear before purchasing.

8. How do the lenses compare in terms of sharpness and color rendition?

The Nikon 35mm f/2 is incredibly sharp across the frame, especially when stopped down to f/4, with neutral colors that capture scenes as they are. The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave is also sharp but may have slightly softer edges at wider apertures. Where it shines is in color rendition—its warmer tones are perfect for portraits, giving images a timeless, golden-hour feel.

9. Is one lens more suitable for street photography than the other?

For street photography, I’d lean toward the Nikon 35mm f/2. Its lightweight build makes it easy to carry all day, and its neutral colors capture the raw energy of urban environments accurately. The smooth bokeh also helps isolate subjects in busy scenes. That said, the Canon’s unique bokeh can add a creative twist if you’re into more artistic street shots.

10. Can these lenses be used for video shooting?

Yes, both lenses are great for video, especially on modern mirrorless cameras that support manual focus. Focusing during video might require more attention since they’re manual, but tools like focus peaking and magnification on modern cameras make it manageable. The Nikon offers a clean, neutral look, while the Canon’s warm tones can give your footage a cinematic feel.

11. What is the history behind the Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave lens? The Canon FD 35mm f/2 Concave is part of Canon’s FD mount series, introduced in 1971. Its concave front element gives it a unique optical design, contributing to its distinctive bokeh and warm color rendition. Early versions used radioactive thorium in their glass, which can cause a yellow cast over time, but this is less of an issue in later models. It’s a lens with a rich history, beloved by photographers for its optical quality and vintage charm.