Can I use Nikon AI or AI-S manual lenses on a D5100, and how is aperture controlled?
Asked 2/3/2017
2 views
2 answers
0
I use a Nikon D5100 with the AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G and I'm considering an older manual-focus Nikon lens such as a 50mm or 85mm because they can be inexpensive used. Before buying one, I want to understand compatibility.
Does it matter whether I choose an AI or AI-S lens for use on a D5100? Also, can the camera control aperture with these manual lenses, or do I need to set aperture on the lens itself? I've read advice about setting the aperture ring to f/22 before mounting, but I'm not sure whether that applies to older manual lenses.
I'd also like to know if there are any important limitations when using these lenses on the D5100.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
4
1) I don't think that AI versus AI-S matters, as far as lens compatibility goes. The S was an extra mechanical feature that was developed just before electronic communication between lens and body was developed, so few bodies (maybe just one film body?) do anything with the feature.
2) It doesn't appear to be the case. From my own experience and other sources on the web Nikon DSLRs will not automatically control the aperture of an AI/AI-S lens.
NOTE -- Also, it seems that with an AI/AI-S lens mounted on a D5100 you would loose the ability to use the in-camera light meter.
Originally by user2228. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2228
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
On a D5100, AI vs. AI-S generally does not make a meaningful difference for basic compatibility. The AI-S changes were mainly for older mechanical body features, not something your D5100 really uses.
With AI/AI-S manual-focus lenses, the D5100 does not control the aperture electronically. You set the aperture on the lens’s aperture ring yourself. The “set it to f/22” advice applies to later Nikon lenses that have electronic aperture control from the camera body, not to classic manual AI/AI-S lenses.
A key limitation is metering: with an AI/AI-S lens on a D5100, you lose the in-camera light meter. That means exposure will need to be determined manually, using test shots/histogram or external metering.
So, yes, these lenses can be an inexpensive way to experiment, but expect fully manual operation: manual focus, manual aperture on the lens, and no in-camera metering on the D5100.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI9y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Why can’t a Nikon D3200 control aperture on a Nikon 55mm f/2.8 AI-S lens?
Is there a Fuji X to Nikon F adapter that supports AI-S aperture coupling without stop-down metering?
Can 1980s Nikon AI lenses be used on a Canon 60D with an adapter?
Best Nikon DSLR body to use older AF and AI-S Nikon lenses
Should I upgrade my Nikon DSLR body or invest in lenses first?