The all-plastic 18-55mm AFP is super sharp, focuses ultra fast and super close. It's a complete winner. This lens is no longer in production. Get today's 18-55mm II if you're buying new. Today's 18-55mm II appears to be the same lens with different cosmetics. The rest of this was written several years ago for this original, discontinued lens. Compatible models with limited functions:D5, D810 series, Df, D750, D7200, D7100, D5200, Nikon 1 series with the FT1

When used on DX cameras, it sees the same angle of view as a 28~85mm lens sees when used on a 35mm or FX full-frame camera. The very best protective filter is the Hoya multicoated HD3 55mm UV which uses hardened glass and repels dirt and fingerprints, and is also multicoated. The numbers in mm on them indicate their focal length. Prime lenses usually have a single focal length, while zoom lenses have numerous focal lengths. Try out different angles and elevations to capture your subject at different angles and make it more unique.The 18-55mm provides a focal length ranging from reasonably wide-angle to short telephoto. Unlike prime lenses with a fixed focal length, with them, you can comfortably zoom in or out to get the desired photo without moving your body.

The cheapest and simplest 18-55mm AF-S II is the best. This VR version is almost as good. The more expensive 16-85mm and 18-200mm lenses are different: they have veiling flare as well as ghosts. It gets super-close, and it's super sharp. Your only sharpness limitation will be that there is zero depth-of-field at macro distances; in this shot only some of the face and some of the hands are actually in focus.

Ease of Use

While the 18-55mm is not considered wide, the 18mm offers a moderately wide-angle glass, excellent for landscapes and architecture. The 55mm range is more relevant for portraits, passport photos, and when one wants to capture small details like macro photography.