How to Tell Nikon AI vs AIS Lenses Apart in Seconds

Confused about Nikon AI and AIS lenses? You’re not alone. In this video, I’ll show you how to quickly and confidently identify whether a Nikkor manual focus lens is AI or AIS — using simple visual clues you can spot instantly.

You’ll learn:
-The fastest way to tell AI and AIS lenses apart
-What the color of the smallest aperture tells you
-How to identify the AIS notch on the rear mount

Whether you’re buying used lenses, organizing your collection, or just diving into vintage Nikon gear, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and make smarter choices.

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#NikonAI #NikonAIS #NikonLenses #VintageNikon #ManualFocusLenses #Nikkor #FilmPhotography #CameraGear #NikonGuide #LensTips

Photographic equipment that I often use:

Nikon Z9: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikonz9
Nikon Z8: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikonz8
Nikon D850: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...
Nikon F6: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikonF6
Nikon 14-24mm F2.8: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...
Nikon 24-70mm F2.8: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...
Nikon 70-200mm F2.8: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...
Nikon 105mm F2.8 macro: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...
Nikon 300mm F4 PF: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...
Nikon 200-400 F4: https://tinyurl.com/phototoolkitnikon...

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If you are looking to learn about creative techniques, check out my playlist:    • Creative Control  

Check out my playlist of Photography challenges:    • Photography Challenges  

I use all different types of cameras from Nikon film to digital, Fujifilm GFX, Hasselblad Xpan, Polaroid, Mamyia TLRs and Instax Mini Evo. Check out my equipment playlist:    • Equipment Toolkit