Do the old Nikon lenses for film cameras work for the new digital SLRs?

Question

I'm thinking of purchasing a Nikon D40. My step-dad has a film Nikon that's close to 30 years old. If sizes are compatible and lenses fit, would his old lenses work on my new camera?

Answer 1

No they will not work. Get the 18mm to 200mm VR lens. It's the only lens you will ever need.

Answer 2

The old lenses will mount.  However, if they are manual focus lenses, they will not meter on your D40.

You will have to manually focus them and use an external meter.  This is very do-able, if you are willing to take your time to get the shot right.  Some of those old lenses are probably very high quality and will give you great results.

If you want autofocus and metering, then the lenses will not work as you intend.

To achieve full compatibility, you need a Nikon AF-S or AF-I lens.  Regular AF lenses will meter, but not autofocus.

Hope that clears things up for you!

Answer 3

Anthony gave a very good answer, some of the older Nikon lens will work, to a point.

I have a Nikon D200, and use some lens that I bought back in the '70's,

but I do have to focus these manual lens.

I have a 75-300, 4.5-5.6 Auto Focus, that IS completely auto, everything works great.

I don't think the D40 will use as many "auto" features of "some" lens, as the D200, but no sure there?

I also have an 18-200 VR lens, and if you are looking for a single lens that does a lot, I really like it.

It is on my camera about 80% of the time.

I like that I don't have to worry about dust/dirt, changing lens in the field.