20/02/2026 5:50 am
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Hey everyone! I recently made the jump to the Nikon Z6 II after years of shooting on a D750, and I am absolutely loving the mirrorless experience so far. The EVF and the eye-autofocus have been total game-changers for my workflow. Currently, I’ve just been using the 24-70mm f/4 S kit lens that came with the bundle. While it’s surprisingly sharp for a kit lens and great for general travel, I’m really starting to miss the character and the wide apertures of my old prime lenses.
I’m looking to build out a solid prime lens kit specifically for this body, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by the options in the Z-mount lineup. I primarily shoot a mix of street photography, candid family moments, and some environmental portraits. I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about the "S-Line" primes, particularly the 35mm f/1.8 and the 50mm f/1.8.
My main dilemma is whether to stick with the f/1.8 series or if it's truly worth the massive price jump and weight for the f/1.2 versions. I love shooting in low light—especially blue hour in the city—so that extra bit of light is tempting, but I don't want to lose the portability of the Z6 II. Also, I’ve been looking at the 85mm f/1.8 S for portraits, but I’m worried it might be a bit too tight for the street work I do.
I have a budget of around $1,800 to work with right now. I’m torn between getting a two-lens combo like the 35mm and 85mm, or just investing in one "holy grail" lens for now. I’m also curious if any of you are still using the FTZ adapter with older G-series glass, or if the native Z glass is such a leap forward that I should just sell my old F-mount primes and go all-in on native lenses.
If you were in my shoes and wanted to get the most out of the Z6 II’s sensor, which prime lenses would you prioritize as the absolute best for a versatile kit?
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20/02/2026 6:05 am
tbh i would suggest sticking with the f/1.8 S line. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S is perfect for street work, while the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S is technically flawless for portraits. Be careful with those f/1.2s... they're heavy and might strain your wrist during long shoots. Native glass is a massive reliability leap over FTZ setups tho. Stick with the 1.8s for a lighter, more professional kit!
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20/02/2026 6:35 am
Ok so, i totally get the struggle between the f/1.8 and f/1.2 glass. Honestly, since youre coming from the D750, the biggest thing to understand is that the Z-mount is a total game changer for lens design. Basically, because the mount is so much wider and the flange distance is shorter, Nikon can make these "S-line" f/1.8 lenses that actually outperform the old f/1.4 G-series primes in almost every way. For your $1,800 budget, here is what i recommend to get the most bang for your buck: - Get the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S. It usually goes for around $846 and is literally the perfect street lens. Its light enough to carry all day but sharp enough to blow your mind compared to your old F-mount stuff. - Grab the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S for those portraits. It’s about $796. The bokeh is buttery smooth, and its way more practical for family shots than a massive f/1.2 monster that weighs a ton. - Ditch the Nikon FTZ II Mount Adapter and your old G glass. Seriously, native Z glass is such a leap forward in focus speed and edge-to-edge sharpness that its worth going all-in. This combo keeps you under budget (around $1,650 total) and covers like 90% of what you shoot without breaking your back or your wallet. The f/1.2s are amazing for pros who need that specific look, but for travel and street? Totally overkill imo. anyway, hope that helps! 👍
