Testing Nikon’s Fastest 35mm Lens on Tokyo’s Streets

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S lens is turning heads for good reason. Here's a look at how it performs.

Coming to you from Lucas with EyExplore, this informative video showcases the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S lens. Lucas dives straight into action on Tokyo's bustling streets at dusk, demonstrating why the f/1.2 aperture makes a genuine difference. When capturing candid moments in dim, chaotic environments, a fast shutter speed is essential to freeze motion, and Lucas shows how the f/1.2 aperture helps maintain a manageable ISO—typically around 1,000, even in low light. He contrasts this with narrower apertures like f/2.8, explaining clearly how shooting at slower apertures would lead to impractical ISO settings around 8,000. Without leaning heavily into technical jargon, Lucas proves why that extra bit of aperture matters practically.

Lucas doesn't shy away from the lens' drawbacks either. It's notably large, heavy, and might feel excessive compared to Nikon's 35mm f/1.4. Still, he emphasizes the practical advantages of having more light-gathering capability and faster autofocus. He specifically notes improvements in autofocus accuracy, especially important when shooting spontaneously. His practical experience confirms this lens delivers impressively sharp results even wide open, capturing dynamic street scenes with clarity and style.

Key Specs

• Focal Length: 35mm

• Maximum Aperture: f/1.2

• Minimum Aperture: f/16

• Mount: Nikon Z (Full Frame)

• Angle of View: 63°

• Minimum Focus Distance: 11.8" (30 cm)

• Magnification: 0.2x (1:5 Macro Reproduction Ratio)

• Optical Design: 17 Elements in 15 Groups

• Aperture Blades: 11, Rounded

• Autofocus: Yes

• Image Stabilization: No

• Filter Size: 82mm (Front)

• Dimensions: ø 3.5 x L 5.9" (ø 90 x L 150 mm)

• Weight: 2.3 lb (1,060 g)

What's compelling about this video isn't just gear talk, as Lucas also offers valuable insights about his photographic process. He explains why shooting from hip level using the camera’s articulating screen gives him better spatial awareness and faster reaction time in crowded environments. He openly shares his thoughts about what constitutes an interesting subject and challenges his own biases about photographing tourists in Tokyo versus locals. His honest reflection on this subtle but significant shift in perspective is especially valuable for street photographers.

Lucas further tests the lens against his own Nikon 35mm f/1.4 in a quick but telling comparison, acknowledging that while the f/1.2 offers noticeable advantages, its hefty price and physical size might not justify a purchase for everyone. Still, the results speak volumes: the f/1.2’s superior optical performance and virtually absent chromatic aberration make it highly appealing for professional work, particularly when pristine image quality counts.

Beyond street scenes, Lucas briefly explores creative reflections and silhouette photography, demonstrating practical skills that apply regardless of which lens you're using. His approachable, no-nonsense style of testing makes it easier to see the real-world benefits and occasional trade-offs of investing in high-end optics. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Lucas.