Since its launch in 2018, the Nikon D3500 has to be one of the top contenders for the best blogging cameras, whether you’re an amateur or professional.
It’s a brilliant entry-level DSLR that is affordable and perfect for anyone wanting to get serious in photography.
With a 24MP sensor, easy-to-use system, 5fps continuous shooting, and all-round excellent image quality, it gives you everything you want in a good camera.
Although, if you're ever looking to improve your photos even more and take professional-looking images, it might be time to get a new lens.
From everyday photography and portraits, to wide-angle landscapes and long-distance wildlife shots, here's the perfect roundup to find the ideal lens for your Nikon D3500.
Need a fast answer? Go for the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G.
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What are some of the different lens types for a Nikon D3500? Let’s dive right in!
A zoom lens is probably what you think of when you picture a photographer, twisting their lens to zoom in or out. That’s because a zoom lens allows you to reframe a scene without physically moving.
It’s a versatile type of lens but may not be as sharp as a prime lens. And because their max aperture is often narrow, less light may be able to enter the lens.
Meanwhile, a prime lens features a fixed focal length and you cannot change the zoom. They are typically much sharper and faster than a zoom lens. So if you’re looking to maximize photo quality and sharpness, this is what you go for.
Up next is the portrait lens. While it’s actually possible to take portraits with any type of lens, some optical features and elements are designed specifically to take flattering shots of the human face. That’s why having a specialized portrait lens can be a gamechanger.
Moreover, portrait lenses are often able to create stunning bokeh. This is basically blurring the background behind your subject to keep the center focus on the human in the frame.
A wide-angle lens is a type of lens that allows you to capture a wider angle of view. This lets you encapsulate an entire landscape in one single image, which can be especially useful for travellers to picturesque places and architecture enthusiasts.
Some ultra-wide-angle lenses even offer a 180-degrees viewing angle. Plus, a wide-angle lens is usually recommended for astrophotography too.
When a photographer says telephoto, the word is almost always synonymous with bulk and weight. That’s because telephoto lenses are huge and heavy, and a nightmare to lug around! So why would anyone want them?
Well, a telephoto lens has a long focus that lets you zoom in really far without losing focus and sharpness. This means you can take photos of subjects that are far away, including sports, wildlife, and nature.
Finally, let’s talk about macro lenses! These are lenses that offer 1:1 or life-sized magnification, so you can represent tiny subjects in closed-up detail that are extremely sharp and crisp. They usually have a close minimum focus distance so you can get up close with your subject.
Macro photography enthusiasts often use this lens to get super closer with their micro-sized subjects. From small insects to the texture of various fabrics, tree barks, and leaves, you name it!
These are some of the most essential factors that make a good lens for the Nikon D3500:
If you skipped the section above, we recommend giving it a quick skim because knowing what lens type you need can be important. Someone who will be travelling light and doing street photography needs a completely different lens from someone else who will be documenting sports events.
Do you need a longer or shorter lens? With or without image stabilisation? These fundamental questions can easily be answered simply by knowing the type of lens that you want.
The focal length of a lens represents its magnification and ability to capture as scene in terms of the field of view. For instance, if you want to be shooting plenty of sceneries and wide-angle architecture, then you’ll have to for a shorter focal length.
On the other hand, a long lens can be more suitable for long-distance wildlife and travel photography. The focal length also affects the minimum focusing distance, or how far away you need to be from your subject in order for the image to stay in focus.
Aperture number is measured in “F”, and a lower number means that the aperture is wider or can let in more light. Meanwhile, a higher aperture number denotes that the lens aperture is more narrow and doesn’t perform as well in low light.
With a narrow aperture like F4, you may have some difficulty getting sharp and blur-free shots in environments that are poorly lit. But they often have a more inexpensive price tag, and can still work if you have a tripod.
Unfortunately, the Nikon D3500 does not come with image stabilisation. But like many other DSLRs or even mirrorless cameras, this shouldn’t put you off. That’s because many lenses for the D3500 feature built-in stabilisation that will ensure sharp photos. Plus, there’s always the option to use a tripod or DSLR camera gimbal!
The dimensions and weight of a lens should also be an essential factor that you think about. A telephoto lens would obviously be bulkier and heavier than compact prime lenses. Are you planning to travel with your lens? Or do you prefer a heavy-duty lens with professional-level quality, even if it weighs more?
Don’t forget that whatever lens you go for, you may need to make room for other camera accessories too! That’s why we often recommend getting a handy camera backpack to keep all your gear in one place and secure.
On a similar note, let’s not ignore the build quality too. The construction quality of a lens can determine how long it lasts for. Always go for a sturdy lens that feels nice in your hands, and try to look for one with weather-sealing too.
This could make your life so much easier, especially if it rains unexpectedly when you’re shooting outdoors. With the proper dust and splash resistant features, it’s one les thing to worry about.
Finally, you have to consider the price of the lens and how it compares to your budget. How much are you willing to spend for a camera lens, in addition to the cost you initially paid for the Nikon D3500 itself?
If your income relies on the photo and video results from your camera, it might make sense to invest in a more expensive lens. But if you’re simply looking at a hobby, it’s probably wise to set a reasonable budget!
Minimum focus distance: 0.45 m
Focal length: 50 mm
Max aperture: f/1.4
Filter diameter: 58 mm
Weight: 280 g
Size (diameter x length): 73.5 x 54.2 mm
If you ask any photographer for a lens length recommendation, chances are they’d suggest getting a 50mm lens.
With that in mind, the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G is our top pick for a reason. It’s such an amazing all-rounder that can perform in different situations.
From portrait photography where the beautiful background blur can take your photos to another level, to general shots of the streets, landscapes, and events.
The 0.45 minimum focus distance is comfortable enough for you to work comfortably with your subject and elicit a natural response from them.
Meanwhile, Nikon’s advanced Silent Wave Motor technology ensures that AF is super quiet and smooth.
The wide F1.4 aperture means that this lens is a beast in low-light conditions, and you can expect sharp, blur-free photos even when the lighting is poor.
Not only that, this Nikon lens is also travel-friendly, which makes it a delight to pack even for a minimalist backpacking trip to Bali or other destinations.
One problem is that the autofocus may be slower than some other lenses of this capacity. Although considering the budget-friendly price tag, lightweight design, and astounding photo quality, there is no reason to complain!
Minimum focus distance: 0.35 m
Focal length: 18-80 mm
Max aperture: f/2.8
Filter diameter: 72 mm
Weight: 480 g
Size (diameter x length): 80 x 85.5 mm
If you’re looking for a zoom lens that’s versatile, great in low-light conditions, and still lightweight, there’s no more perfect answer than the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR.
In fact, it’s the lightest 5x zoom lens in the world with an f/2.8-4 maximum aperture. The versatile zoom range lets you dabble in everything from portrait to landscape.
The 4 stops of VR image stabilisation means that it’s a dream for low light shooting, even if it’s handheld. You can be sure of blur-free images every time! Not to mention the special Tripod VR mode for minimizing tripod vibration.
Furthermore, it can keep up with Nikon’s DX continuous shooting speed, thanks to the electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism that can sync with the camera shutter.
Although this lens doesn’t come with weather-sealing, there is a nonstick protective fluorine coating on the glass elements that protects the lens from water and dirt smudges.
And despite the impressive focal range, it’s still relatively compact and lightweight for a DSLR lens!
Minimum focus distance: 0.3 m
Focal length: 35 mm
Max aperture: f/1.8
Filter diameter: 52 mm
Weight: 200 g
Size (diameter x length): 70 x 52.5 mm
When it comes to prime lenses for the Nikon D3500, few beat the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX in terms of performance and budget-friendliness.
This is for anyone who is just starting out and wants an all-rounder that can do it all, and doesn’t mind a fixed lens without zoom capability.
Don’t worry, even at an affordable price, this Nikon lens does not compromise its quality or performance.
Its 35mm focal length is for those wanting a “natural” angle of view, while the F1.8 aperture ensures sharp images even in low light, as well as beautiful bokeh for your portrait needs.
Complete with the Silent Wave Motor for advanced AF performance, this lens also features 8 elements in 6 groups for astounding optics.
Whereas the Rear Focusing System that focusing involves moving just the rear lens group for faster results.
Unfortunately, you may experience some chromatic aberration, as well as vignetting when using the max aperture. But this really isn’t a big deal, especially with how easy post-processing has become nowadays!
Minimum focus distance: 0.85 m
Focal length: 85 mm
Max aperture: f/1.4
Filter diameter: 77 mm
Weight: 595 g
Size (diameter x length): 86.2 x 84 mm
There really is no better choice for portrait photography than to use a prime lens. That’s because the fixed focal length can give you super-sharp photos, and they often come with a fast aperture that will help in low light.
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G has to be the best portrait lens for the Nikon D3500
Even better, this Nikon lens doesn’t just excel in portraiture, but also as a telephoto lens!
That’s right. The same lens that can give you beautiful bokeh in a studio and in the fields can also be used to capture subjects from a distance.
Of course, the fact that it’s not zoomable and has a minimum focus distance of 0.85m might make reframing a scene quite tricky. But with a little bit of time, it’s nothing you can’t get used to.
The wide F1.4 aperture is also quite impressive, while the Silent Wave Motor ensures fast and quiet autofocus with a manual focus override.
Not to mention the Super Integrated Coating and Nano Crystal Coat technologies to reduce ghosting and flares, as well as the most stunning color balance.
Minimum focus distance: 0.314 m
Focal length: 105 mm
Max aperture: f/2.8
Filter diameter: 62 mm
Weight: 720 g
Size (diameter x length): 83 x 116 mm
The most important thing to macro photography is 1:1 magnification, which you can get with the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED.
It allows you to take photos of tiny subjects in life size, and in remarkable sharpness that will leave you breathless.
This lens can be considered as a mid-range macro lens, which gives you the best of a short and long macro lens. It offers a decent working distance so you can photograph insects without spooking them, but is still pretty light that you don’t need a tripod.
With that said, this may not be the lightest nor most compact lens in general. It’s perhaps less ideal for those of you travelling lightly or backpacking across multiple countries at a time.
But for a macro lens, it’s truly superb in all aspects.
From silent and precise AF to the Vibration Reduction image stabilisation that ensures 3.0 stops of blur-free images, even when you’re shooting handheld shooting. This is great for both stills and videos.
The steep price also makes it quite an investment, but if you’re even remotely considering getting into macro photography, we can’t recommend any other lens!
Minimum focus distance: 2.8 m
Focal length: 150-600 mm
Max aperture: f/5
Filter diameter: 95 mm
Weight: 1,930 g
Size (diameter x length): 105 x 260.1 mm
If you’re looking to capture photos from a distance, such as wildlife or sports, then your best bet is to go for a telephoto lens like the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary.
It comes with a dust and splash resistant design to enable outdoor use, while the detachable tripod socket allows for handheld operation - though it’ll be a little heavy still!
It comes with superb photo quality and sharp images, as well as a decent focusing performance.
What we truly love is the innovative zoom lock switch that can fix any focal length. This means a more stable shooting even when you’re positioning the lens upward or downward.
Plus, this is a fantastic feature for long-exposure shots.
The build quality itself is equally impressive. With a TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), this lens has low thermal shrinkage for a more precise construction.
And of course, and this is as can be expected for a telephoto lens, this Sigma lens is relatively heavy and long. Weighing nearly 2 kg and measuring up to 26 cm long, it’s almost certain that you’ll need a tripod to use it.
Minimum focus distance: 1.1 m
Focal length: 70-300 mm
Max aperture: f/4.5
Filter diameter: 58 mm
Weight: 415 g
Size (diameter x length): 72 x 125 mm
If the previous Sigma lens is a bit out of your budget, or if you just want to try your hands in telephoto photography without spending too much, then the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR is perfect for you.
For a fraction of the cost, you can still experience long-distance shooting and try your hands at wildlife photography, for instance. It’s also great for documenting concerts, sports, and landmarks!
You can even use this lens for gorgeous portraits, although the bokeh performance is simply average and not outstanding.
But the best thing about this lens is that it’s extremely lightweight and compact for a telephoto lens, weighing a mere 415 g!
While you can’t expect world-class optics and photo quality, there’s little to complain about this lens for the price it’s at.
It features VR stabilisation and stepping motors for silent autofocus, both of which can be helpful when capturing stills and videos.
Minimum focus distance: 0.24 m
Focal length: 10-24 mm
Max aperture: f/3.5
Filter diameter: 77 mm
Weight: 440 g
Size (diameter x length): 83.6 x 84.6 mm
For a wide-angle lens, the Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD is among one of the best out there for the Nikon D3500.
It’s mid-range in terms of pricing and can be a great lens to have in your kit. It’s also decently compact and light for a DSLR lens, which makes it ideal for travelling too.
We do recommend getting this Tamron lens if you’re planning to visit scenic places, for example like Ireland.
It features 16 lens elements in 11 groups, including an XLD and LD element for minimal color fringing and chromatic aberration. Not to mention the moisture and weatherproof construction that can help your lens last longer.
With Vibration Compensation, a new HLD focus motor for superb AF performance, and a full-time Manual Focus override.
This is an overall great lens for shooting landscapes: cities, beaches, mountains, streets, anything!
Plus, we love the soft matte finish of this lens which gives it an extremely stylish and expensive look.
There’s even an AF/MF toggle on the barrel of the lens, which will make switching between focus modes much easier.
Minimum focus distance: 0.49 m
Focal length: 18-200 mm
Max aperture: f/3.5
Filter diameter: 72 mm
Weight: 560 g
Size (diameter x length): 77 x 96.5 mm
There’s nothing wrong with getting specific lenses if you already know the type of photography you’re into, but sometimes getting an everyday lens that’s versatile is the right choice.
In that case, the NIKON 18-200MM F/3.5-5.6G may have everything you want in a good lens.
From landscape and portraits, to wildlife, events, and street photography, this Nikon lens can do it all, and rather impressively if we might say. That’s all thanks to its powerful 11x zoom.
It can even produce pretty good bokeh if you ever want to blur the background for portraits, although of course a prime lens would still be better at this.
The fact that it’s affordable is also very appealing, making this an excellent lens for anyone who is just starting out and wants an all-round lens to explore different types of photography.
We must say that it’s not super good in low-light conditions. You can crank up the ISO or increase the exposure in post-processing, but the quality won’t be the same as with a wide-aperture lens.
Minimum focus distance: 0.45 m
Focal length: 50 mm
Max aperture: f/1.8
Filter diameter: 58 mm
Weight: 185 g
Size (diameter x length): 72 x 52.5 mm
Last but not least is the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G, an obvious best friend for any of our fellow travellers out there.
Weighing just 185 g, it’s a super compact and lightweight lens that is absolutely perfect for a backpacking trip to countries like Thailand.
It’s also bright and sharp so you can use it both in blazing outdoor places and poorly lit rooms alike.
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G comes with Super Integrated Coating (SIC) to enhance the efficiency of light transmission, which also ensures consistent colors and less flare.
Meanwhile, the Silent Wave Motor delivers fast, preys and silent autofocus.
Oh, and did we mention it’s super affordable too?
It really depends on what kind of lens you personally need. We’d recommend the affordable NIKON 18-200MM F/3.5-5.6G for anyone who is just starting out. For a higher quality but more expensive option, try the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR.
Yes, the Nikon D3500 is good for photography. We would even go as far as saying that it’s among the best DSLR cameras out there, especially for beginners looking to get into manual photography. It’s got everything you need to take great photos: easy menus, excellent quality, and an amazing battery life.
When shooting with the Nikon D3500, you can choose between saving your images in RAW or JPEG (or both). We’d recommend sticking with RAW files to get the best image quality, although you will have to go through post-processing before actually using the photos.
The D3500 has no weather-sealing or waterproof qualities, which means it may not survive in rugged, adverse conditions. While it can probably survive slight humidity and light rain, it’s always better to be safe and avoid using the camera in extreme outdoor conditions.
That’s all for the best lenses for your Nikon D3500.
From travel-friendly and affordable options, to sturdy, high-quality telephoto lenses suitable for a professional, we talked about them all.
And while we’ve tried to be as extensive as we can, it’s possible that we missed some good lenses.
Are there any great lenses that didn’t make it to our list?
Which of these lenses will you be going for?
Let us know in the comment section below!
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