I think that the breadth and strength of any camera system is more about the supporting cast of its lenses, rather than the actual camera bodies themselves. It might seem a little surprising then that Nikon has so far made four different DX (APS-C) format Z-system camera bodies but only one DX format prime lens. That’ll be the Nikon Z DX 24mm f/1.7. Naturally, you can use Z FX (full-frame) lenses on DX format bodies and some are an especially good fit. I pair my Nikon Z fc with a Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 SE most of the time, which is a great match in size, weight and retro styling. However, most full-frame compatible lenses are bigger, weightier and more expensive than they need to be for DX cameras, as they need to produce a bigger image circle to cover a full-frame sensor.
The advent of this Z MC 35mm prime goes some way to redressing the balance. Like the equally new Z 16-50mm f/2.8 VR constant-aperture zoom, it also represents a step up in build quality, having a ‘proper’ metal mounting plate, whereas all other Z DX (and some Z FX) lenses so far have had plastic mounting plates. Combining the natural perspective of a standard prime with a fair amount of macro potential, the Z MC 35mm aims to be one of the best of the best Nikon Z lenses for DX format cameras, as well as one of the best macro lenses.
