Can a Vivitar telephoto lens (500mm) made for a 35mm camera (Minolta) work on a Nikon digital SLR?

Question

The Minolta is an older, 35mm model (SRT 202)and I want to purchase a digital, SLR, to be able to take bird/flower nature pictures (and of grand kids playing sports). I have the telescopic lens but was told it won't work with the newer cameras. ( I inherited camera and lens).

Answer 1

Sorry, no.  Take it to a camera store where they deal in used equipment.  They might take it in trade for partial payment on a Nikon lens.

Answer 2

There is an adapter to allow using the older Minolta MC/MD mount lenses like your Vivitar 500mm on the newer Canon DSLR cameras. I can't remember seeing one for Minolta MC/MD to Nikon.

IMO your best bet would be to sell the Minolta equipment on eBay and use the money towards a lens for whatever DSLR you buy.

Answer 3

It won't work straight-out on a Nikon body.

There exist adapters to convert between different mounts, but in the case of Nikon's mount design it is possible to make converters from nikon lenses to other maker's bodies, but vice-versa is not practical (you lose the ability to focus at infinity).  In addition you lose most if not all automation on the lens (autofocus, in some cases exposure metering and aperture actuation).