The key to macro or close-up photography is to invest in a decent prime lens. Why? You want image sharpness and quality to be your main priority, no matter your chosen aperture setting and focal length.
Detail is another factor in macro photography. Essentially the highest performing macro lenses have a 1:1 reproduction ratio and the distinct ability to be enlarged in post-production.
There are however many different focal lengths to choose from, and the full Nikon camera range certainly makes the lens selection more difficult.
We've shortlisted the best macro lens for Nikon cameras that range from 40mm to 105mm. However, if you are unsure about what lens to pick, opt for between 90mm to 105mm to be on the safe side especially if you are operating on a full-frame camera. This is because when you’re shooting macro, you want to have a balanced distance between you and the subject or object. Too close would be a waste of your time.
Related: The best Nikon cameras
To put it in another way, lenses that are too small in focal length could completely scare off what you are shooting, as you would be too close. In saying that, if you are after the wide-angle format, a shorter focal length is your only option. From the Nikon Nikkor range to common third-party branded lenses (Tamron), find out which Nikon lens is right for you.
The best macro lens for Nikon cameras
Best macro lens for Nikon cameras
1 of 7Nikon AF Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8D Lens
The Nikon AF Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8D Lens is the best macro lens for Nikon cameras if you are after a super compact lens for close-up or general photography. The premium grade Nikon lens captures extremely sharp images, especially at f2.8, and gives you plenty of detail and definition. SpecsAperture: f/2.8, f/32Min focusing distance: 0.22 mFocal length: 60mmDxL: 70x75 mmWeight: 440 g
2 of 7Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm F/2.8G Macro Lens
The AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G lens is a great example of an exception to the distance rule. The wide-angled lens reveals hidden beauty with true 1:1 performance for APS-C sensor and a natural aesthetic. SpecsAperture: f/2.8, f/40Min focusing distance: 0.16mFocal length: 40mmDxL: 69x65 mmWeight: 235 g
3 of 7Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm F/2.8G ED Macro Lens
If you combine incredible optics with advanced technology, you will receive this stunning AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G ED lens. Compatible with DX and FX cameras, the lens not only captures sharp images at a 1:1 life-size but has a very quick f/2.8 aperture, giving you extensive crisp detail of your subjects. SpecsAperture: f/2.8G, f/32 EDMin focusing distance: 60cmFocal length: 60mmDxL: 73x89 mmWeight: 425 g
4 of 7Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR Lens
The Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR Lens is the best macro lens for anyone after a cheaper Nikon alternative. Great for portrait and nature photography, this lens has a professional quality Vibration Reduction II image stabilization system and a Silent Wave Motor, meaning you won't scare away your subjects! SpecsAperture: f/3.5, f/22Min focusing distance: 0.286mFocal length: 85mmDxL: 73 x 98.5 mmWeight: 355 g
5 of 7Tamron 90 mm F2.8 VC USD Lens for Nikon DSLR Camera
The Tamron 90 mm F2.8 VC USD Lens is the best macro lens compatible with Nikon DSLRs. This superb lens designed for full-frame and APS-C DSLRS has an upgraded two Extra Low Dispersion elements, one Low Dispersion element, weather-sealed coatings, and a hybrid optical stabiliser. SpecsAperture: f/2.8, f/32Min focusing distance: 0.30mFocal length: 90mmDxL: Not specifiedWeight: 610 g
6 of 7Sigma 258306 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens
This Sigma 258306 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens is a value for money product compatible with Nikon DSLRs. It not only captures super quiet, sharp, and snappy shots with high detail but has a three-position range limiter switch and optical stabilization with planning and dual static modes. SpecsAperture: f/2.8, f/22Min focusing distance: 0.312mFocal length: 105mmDxL: 78.3x126.4 mmWeight: 725.0 g
7 of 7Nikon AF-S VR Micro NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens
The Nikon AF-S VR Micro NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens is perfect for anyone after a greater working distance for macro photography. Designed for close-up work, it's also versatile for portraits with its sharp level of detail, vibrant colours, and deep contract at any focal distance from infinity to a life-size 1:1 reproduction ratio. SpecsAperture: f/2.8, f/32Min focusing distance: 0.314mFocal length: 105mmDxL: 83 x 116mmWeight: 750 g
£999.00
What to read next:
Emily Farquhar is a Commercial Content Writer for WhatsTheBest, and also writes for Yours.co.uk, heatworld and Closer across beauty, tech, and lifestyle.
Subscribe to the What’s The Best Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews and recommendations from Emily and the rest of the What’s The Best team.