Why professional photographers always choose S-line lenses

Quite the crème de la crème, S-line lenses offer superior coatings, resolution and build. Here’s why our Nikon Creators and Ambassadors hold them close to their hearts
Researching a lens and noticed an ‘S’ on the end? Simply put, S branded products are at the top of the line-up of NIKKOR Z lenses, being developed by Nikon engineers who aim at the very highest levels of optical performance.
S-line lenses are characterised by their superior resolution, bokeh and depth of field, faithful reproduction of point light sources, minimal aberrations, plus extensive coatings to reduce flare and ghosting. They offer sharp, natural reproduction of subjects and superior weather sealing, all complete with faster autofocus. For a deep dive into the tech behind the lens, go here.
What does this all mean in practice? Our Nikon Creators and Ambassadors keep us in the know…
Nikon Team
What’s in our kitbag?


“Outstanding optical performance”
Says who? Food and travel photographer and videographer Solli Kanani
“Since switching to Nikon mirrorless cameras, I’ve invested exclusively in Nikon S lenses, and I couldn’t be happier. I rely on these lenses for their outstanding optical performance and high-quality glass to consistently produce vibrant, sharp images. The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S and NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S lenses have become trusted companions for my street and travel adventures, with fast, accurate focusing that captures every precious moment perfectly. The NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S is an absolute favourite for my food and product photography, offering superb clarity and detail. Every shot inspires me to explore new creative possibilities, and Nikon’s S lenses always deliver the highest quality results.”
“Perfect balance between quality and practicality”
Says who? Portrait and street photographer Dhan Limwattana
“I prefer S-Line lenses because they’re incredibly versatile and really help with my photography. For portrait work, they provide stunning sharpness and natural colour reproduction, which gives the images a beautiful lifelike quality. In street photography, I appreciate the precise and fast autofocus that lets me capture moments without waiting for the focus to lock. The lenses are also lightweight and compact, which is a huge advantage for me when I’m shooting on the go. Overall, the S-Line lenses strike the perfect balance between quality and practicality.”


“Stunning sharpness with dreamy bokeh”
Says who? Visual storyteller and portrait photographer Paula Simon
“Nikon’s S-line prime lenses are pure magic for me as a photographer! I love the creative challenge they bring – without zoom, I have to move, feel the space and truly connect with the women in front of my camera. This pushes me to see the world differently, making every shot more intentional and artistic. The stunning sharpness, dreamy bokeh and way they capture light so beautifully make my heart race every time I press the shutter. These lenses don’t just capture moments – they capture emotions!”
“Superb image and build quality”
Says who? Street photographer Max Streich
“First, I love the image quality. It gives this extra oomph to the picture, and I also love the build quality. Build quality is something that’s important to me because I photograph a lot in the rain, so if the lens’ weather sealing can keep up with that, especially combined with a pro body, then it’s much more superior.”
“Confidence with every shot”
Says who? Landscape photographer Nigel Danson
“As a landscape photographer I’m quite often in tough conditions. Whether I’m in the Arctic, Antarctica or in the pouring rain on top of a mountain, a lens must perform. The S-line lenses are super robust, very well weather sealed and just always work. I’ve never had a problem with them. With an S-line lens, you have the confidence of it always being the sharpest shot, so you know that it’s going to look fantastic if you print big.”


“Perfect blend of performance, reliability and artistry”
Says who? Wedding photographer Gurvir Johal
“I love S-line lenses because they offer the perfect blend of performance, reliability and artistry. Their exceptional sharpness and clarity ensure that every detail, from the intricate lace of a wedding dress to the subtle expressions in a portrait, is captured with precision. The fast and accurate autofocus is a game-changer, allowing me to seize spontaneous moments – like a tearful glance or a sudden laugh – without hesitation. The gorgeous, creamy bokeh these lenses produce adds a beautiful depth to portraits, isolating my subjects in a way that draws the viewer’s attention right where it belongs.
“Additionally, the S-line lenses are built with durability in mind. Their weather sealing gives me confidence to shoot in any environment, whether it’s an outdoor ceremony under unpredictable skies or a windswept engagement session. Their quiet operation ensures I can photograph intimate, emotional moments without causing distraction, and their lightweight design keeps me comfortable throughout long wedding days. Altogether, these lenses enhance my ability to capture timeless, emotive images that my clients cherish.”
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