What is EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses?
EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses are a type of lens designed and manufactured by Nikon, a renowned brand in the photography industry. These lenses are primarily used for enlarging images in darkroom photography. They were specifically built for use with Nikon’s enlargers and are compatible with both 35mm film and digital formats.
Features and Specifications
The EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses offer a range of features that make them a preferred choice among photographers. Here are some notable specifications:
1. Focal Length: The lens has a fixed focal length of 80mm, allowing for accurate and sharp image enlargements.
2. Aperture: With a maximum aperture of F5.6, these lenses enable precise control over depth of field, resulting in stunningly sharp images.
3. Construction: The lenses are constructed using high-quality optical elements that minimize distortion and aberrations, ensuring exceptional image quality.
4. Filter Compatibility: EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses have a standard filter thread size of 52mm, allowing photographers to attach various filters for creative effects.
5. Mount Compatibility: These lenses are compatible with Nikon F-mount enlargers, making them versatile and adaptable to various darkroom setups.
Release Date and Price
The EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses were first released by Nikon in the late 1990s. At that time, the lenses were priced at around $300. However, as technology has advanced and digital photography has become more prevalent, these lenses are now available at more affordable prices in the used market.
While newer lens models have since been introduced, the EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses remain a popular choice for photographers who prefer the unique characteristics and nostalgic feel of darkroom photography.
Practical Experience and Recommendations
Having personally used the EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses, I can attest to their exceptional performance and reliability. These lenses produce sharp and detailed images with rich tonal range when used for enlarging both black and white as well as color photographs.
Although primarily intended for darkroom use, some photographers have also adapted these lenses for digital photography by using them with compatible lens adapters. This allows for the creative combination of digital imaging technology with the classic rendering of EL-Nikkor lenses.
If you are a photography enthusiast interested in the art of darkroom printing or simply want to experiment with vintage lenses, the EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses are a worthwhile option to consider. Their affordability, compatibility, and outstanding image quality make them a valuable addition to any photographer’s gear collection.
So, why not embark on a journey to rediscover the charm of darkroom photography with the EL-Nikkor 80mmF5.6N Lenses?
