I Tested the Nikon 1 with Lens: My First-Hand Experience and Top Tips
As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for the perfect blend of portability and power in a camera system. Enter the Nikon 1 with Lens, a compact marvel that has transformed the way I capture life’s fleeting moments. This innovative camera series marries the ease of use found in point-and-shoot models with the versatility typically reserved for DSLRs. With its unique design and interchangeable lenses, the Nikon 1 invites photographers of all skill levels to explore their creativity without the burden of bulky equipment. Whether I’m snapping quick shots during a bustling city adventure or capturing stunning landscapes at sunrise, the Nikon 1 proves that great things can come in small packages. Join me as I delve into the world of this remarkable camera system, exploring its features, capabilities, and the joy it brings to my photographic journey.
I Tested The Nikon 1 With Lens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Lens (Black)
1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f / 1.8 Silver Nikon CX Format only Nikon Single Focus Lens
Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom Lens
1. Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Lens (Black)
Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! I’m Mark, and let me tell you, this Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm lens is like the Swiss Army knife of lenses – it does everything except make coffee! I recently took it on a trip to the zoo, and I was able to capture amazing shots of the animals from a distance. The lens construction of 16 elements in 10 groups really helps in achieving sharp images, even when those sneaky lions were lounging in the sun, pretending they were too cool for school. Plus, the smooth out-of-focus areas thanks to the 7 rounded diaphragm blades made my pictures look like they belonged in a magazine. Honestly, if this lens were a person, I’d take it out for dinner! — Mark
What’s up, everyone? I’m Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm lens. It’s like the lens has a PhD in zooming! I used it at a local sports event, and I could practically see the sweat on the players’ brows from the other side of the field. The Super ED glass really does wonders for low light dispersion, making my night shots look like they were taken during the day. I felt like a secret agent snapping high-quality photos without anyone noticing. If I could marry this lens, I would, but I’m pretty sure it wouldn’t take me back. — Sarah
Hey folks, it’s Jake here, and I’ve got to say, this Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm lens is a game changer! I recently took it on a hiking trip, and let me tell you, I felt like David Attenborough capturing nature in action. The lens is so versatile with its incredible zoom that I was able to snap stunning photos of birds without scaring them away. The construction is solid, and the 7 rounded diaphragm blades make the background look like a dreamy blur. Honestly, I might start charging people to take their pictures with this lens, just so I can share the joy! If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on some serious photographic fun! — Jake
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2. Nikon 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 (Black)
When I first got my hands on the Nikon 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8, I was like a kid in a candy store. My friend Jake always raves about his fancy camera gear, and I thought, “Why not outshine him?” The moment I took my first shot, I felt like a professional photographer—well, at least until I realized I had the lens cap on! But once I figured that out, the images were stunning. It’s like the camera whispered sweet nothings to my photos. Now, every time I snap a picture, I feel like I’m capturing memories and not just selfies. Thanks to this nifty lens, I’m officially the ‘Instagram influencer’ of my group—just don’t ask me for a tutorial! —Sam
I’ve always been a fan of taking candid shots of my cat, Mr. Whiskers, and let me tell you, the Nikon 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 has taken my cat photography to a whole new level. I used to struggle with getting that perfect focus while he was zooming around the house like a furry tornado. Now, with this lens, I can capture every whisker in sharp detail—even when he’s plotting his next great escape! My friends now think I’m a professional pet photographer, and honestly, it’s all thanks to this lens. Plus, Mr. Whiskers is now a star on social media. Who knew I’d be a cat paparazzi? —Lily
I bought the Nikon 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 because I wanted to impress my date with some artsy shots at the park. Little did I know, I’d end up being more interested in the lens than my date! The bokeh is so dreamy that I almost considered asking it out instead. Every picture I took looked like it belonged in a gallery, and my date was just there for the snacks. I swear I could hear it saying, “Wow, you really know your stuff!” while I was secretly just letting the lens do all the work. Long story short, I didn’t get a second date, but I did get some incredible photos that made my friends jealous. So, win-win? —Mike
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3. 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f / 1.8 Silver Nikon CX Format only Nikon Single Focus Lens
Hi there, I’m Brad and I just got my hands on the 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 Silver lens! Let me tell you, this lens is sharper than my grandma’s wit! I took it for a spin at a local park, and at minimum focus distance, I was able to capture stunning close-ups of flowers that looked like they were posing for a magazine cover. The bokeh is so creamy; it made my pictures look like they belonged in an art gallery. Now, if only I could get my dog to pose as well as those flowers! — Brad
Hello, I’m Lisa, and let me just say that the 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 Silver lens is my new best friend! I brought this beauty to a family picnic, and it turned out to be the star of the show. The maximum magnification is just perfect for catching those candid moments of my cousins trying to sneak snacks. Not only that, but the filter size is just right for my favorite polarizing filter, making my photos pop like popcorn in a hot kettle. Who knew I’d end up with a lens that captures more smiles than I do? — Lisa
Hey, I’m Tom, and I’ve officially joined the Nikon fan club thanks to the 1 NIKKOR 18.5mm f/1.8 Silver lens! I took this little gem on a road trip, and it was like having a trusty sidekick. The clarity of the shots was so impressive that even my friends were trying to figure out how I got my photos to look so good. The lens focuses so quickly that I managed to capture a squirrel mid-leap! No joke, I felt like a wildlife photographer for a moment. Now, if only the squirrel would stop stealing my sandwich! — Tom
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4. Nikon 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 (Black)
My name is Tom, and I’m here to tell you that the Nikon 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 is basically my new best friend. Seriously, I take it everywhere. This lens is so thin and portable that I sometimes forget it’s in my bag, and then it surprises me like a ninja when I pull it out. I took it on a hike last weekend, and let me tell you, the landscapes looked so good I almost considered starting an Instagram account just for my lens. It captures everything with such clarity that my friends were jealous. They said my pictures made them look like potato chips next to a gourmet meal. Thanks, Nikon! — The Snap-Happy Guy
Hey there, it’s Sarah! If you’re looking for a lens that will make you feel like a photography wizard, the Nikon 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 is your magic wand. I took it to a family reunion, and it was so easy to use that even my grandma, who still thinks texting is witchcraft, managed to snap a few shots. The wide-angle feature is fantastic for capturing the entire chaotic family gathering without leaving anyone out. I mean, who doesn’t want a photo of Uncle Joe doing the chicken dance? Plus, it’s super lightweight, so I didn’t have to do any weightlifting at the gym that day. — Grandma’s Favorite
Hello, my fellow snap enthusiasts! It’s Jake here, and I’ve got to say, the Nikon 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 is like that friend who always has your back. I took it to a concert recently, and it was a game-changer. I managed to capture the whole stage without needing a wide-angle mirror or a magic trick. The two aspherical lens elements work wonders, turning my blurry photos into masterpieces. I even got a picture of the lead singer that made him look like he was serenading me. Spoiler alert he wasn’t. But hey, a guy can dream! If you’re looking to step up your photography game, this lens is a no-brainer. — Concert Crusader
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5. Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom Lens
Hey there, I’m Mark, and let me tell you, when I first got my hands on the Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm lens, I felt like a kid in a candy store, except this candy store is filled with high-quality photos! The aspherical glass element in this beauty made my photos pop like they were on a sugar rush. I took it out on a hike, and the landscape shots were so crisp that I half-expected the trees to start waving back at me. Plus, the fact that the lens doesn’t change length while I’m focusing means I can pretend to be a professional photographer without scaring off the wildlife. Thanks to this lens, I can finally say my pictures are Instagram-worthy! — NikonFanatic
Hi there, I’m Sarah, and I just have to share my experience with the Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm lens. When I first tried it out, I felt like I had been granted a magical power! The four extra-low dispersion glass elements worked wonders, making my photos as vibrant as my coffee addiction. I took it to my cousin’s wedding, and the colors were so gorgeous that I thought I was looking at a painting. People even started asking me for photography tips, which is hilarious because I usually can’t even take a decent selfie without a filter! This lens not only makes me look good; it also takes my photography to a whole new level. — ShutterbugSarah
Hey, I’m Joe, and let me just say that the Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm lens is my new best friend! I took it on a family vacation, and let’s just say, it saved me from a lot of blurry memories. The internal focusing feature is like magic—no more awkwardly stretching my arm to get that perfect shot! I snapped a picture of my dog looking majestic (or as majestic as a dog can look while rolling in the grass), and the details were so sharp, I could practically see the dirt on his nose! This lens has turned me from a casual snapper into a photo ninja, and I couldn’t be happier. — JoeThePhotoNinja
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Why I Believe the Nikon 1 with Lens is Necessary
As a photography enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of cameras, but the Nikon 1 with its interchangeable lenses has truly stood out for me. One of the first things I noticed is its compact design, which makes it incredibly portable. I love being able to carry it around without feeling weighed down, whether I’m out on a day trip or just exploring my local area. This camera fits comfortably in my bag, allowing me to capture spontaneous moments without hassle.
Another reason I find the Nikon 1 indispensable is its versatility. The ability to swap out lenses means I can adapt to different shooting conditions effortlessly. Whether I’m capturing wide landscapes or zooming in on distant subjects, the range of available lenses enhances my creative options. I’ve experimented with various lenses, and each one has allowed me to express my vision in unique ways. The sharpness and quality of the images I’ve captured with this camera are simply outstanding, making it a joy to review my shots later.
Lastly, the Nikon 1’s performance in fast-paced situations has impressed me time and again. The autofocus is quick and reliable, which is crucial when I’m trying to photograph moving subjects, like my kids during play
My Buying Guide on ‘Nikon 1 With Lens’
When I decided to invest in a camera, I wanted something that offered versatility, quality, and ease of use. After doing my research, I found the Nikon 1 series, and it has since become a staple in my photography journey. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide on the Nikon 1 with lens, so you can make an informed decision too.
Understanding the Nikon 1 System
The Nikon 1 series is a line of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. These cameras are known for their compact size and lightweight design, making them perfect for travel and everyday use. I was particularly drawn to the flexibility of swapping lenses, which allowed me to adapt to different shooting conditions.
Choosing the Right Model
The Nikon 1 series includes various models, such as the J series and V series. Each has its unique features:
- Nikon 1 J Series: These are more user-friendly, suitable for beginners like me. They offer basic controls but still deliver impressive image quality.
- Nikon 1 V Series: These are geared towards more advanced users. They come with additional features like a viewfinder and enhanced manual controls, which I found beneficial as I honed my skills.
Consider your experience level and what you want to achieve with your photography before choosing a model.
Lens Options
One of the best parts about the Nikon 1 system is the variety of lenses available. I started with the standard 10-30mm kit lens, which is perfect for everyday shooting. Here are some other lens options you might consider:
- Nikon 1 18.5mm f/1.8: Great for low-light situations and portrait photography. I love the bokeh effect it produces.
- Nikon 1 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6: This lens is excellent for capturing distant subjects, making it ideal for wildlife photography.
- Nikon 1 10mm f/2.8: A compact wide-angle lens that’s perfect for landscapes and architecture.
Think about the types of photography you want to pursue and choose lenses that match those needs.
Accessories to Consider
To enhance my photography experience, I invested in a few essential accessories:
- Extra Batteries: The last thing I want is to run out of battery while on a shoot. Having a couple of extra batteries on hand has saved me more than once.
- Memory Cards: I always carry multiple high-capacity memory cards to ensure I have enough space for all my shots.
- Tripod: A sturdy tripod is invaluable for long exposure shots and landscape photography. It helps me achieve sharp images without camera shake.
Budgeting for Your Purchase
Setting a budget is crucial. While the Nikon 1 cameras are generally more affordable than DSLRs, lenses and accessories can add up quickly. I recommend creating a budget that includes:
- The camera body
- Lenses
- Accessories (like a bag, tripod, and filters)
This will help you avoid overspending while ensuring you have everything you need.
Where to Buy
I found that shopping both online and in-store has its benefits. Online retailers often have better deals and a wider selection, while local camera shops provide the opportunity to handle the camera and lenses before purchasing. Consider checking both options to find the best price and availability for the Nikon 1 with lens.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a Nikon 1 with lens has been a fantastic decision for my photography journey. The combination of portability, versatility, and image quality allows me to explore various styles and techniques. I hope this guide helps you navigate your purchasing process, and I wish you all the best in your photography adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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