Best Lenses for Nikon D500 2025: Complete Guide with 12 Expert Reviews

The Nikon D500 remains one of the most capable DX-format DSLRs ever made, even in 2025. Its 153-point autofocus system and 10fps burst rate make it a powerhouse for wildlife and sports photography.

After testing dozens of lenses with the D500 over the past three years, I can tell you that the Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR is the best lens for Nikon D500 wildlife photography, while the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX is the perfect all-around starter lens for everyday use.

Your choice of lens dramatically impacts what your D500 can achieve. The right optics unlock this camera’s potential for stunning wildlife shots, beautiful portraits, or breathtaking landscapes. I’ve spent countless hours in the field with these combinations, and I’m here to help you make the best choice for your photography style and budget.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover my top recommendations across all categories, real-world performance insights from actual D500 users, and a clear buying framework to help you build the perfect lens collection without wasting money on glass you won’t use.

Our Top 3 Lens Recommendations for Nikon D500

Nikon D500 Lens Comparison Table

Compare all 12 lenses side-by-side to find the perfect match for your photography needs and budget.

Complete Nikon D500 Lens Reviews

1. Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR – Ultimate Wildlife Photography Lens

The Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR is the undisputed king of wildlife lenses for the D500. I’ve used this combination for bird photography across three continents, and the results never fail to impress. The 750mm equivalent reach on DX format brings distant subjects incredibly close, while the constant f/5.6 aperture maintains consistent exposure throughout the zoom range.

Built with professional-grade weather sealing and three ED glass elements, this lens delivers exceptional sharpness even at 500mm. The vibration reduction system provides 4.5 stops of correction, making handheld shots possible at surprisingly slow shutter speeds. During my testing in Costa Rica, I captured sharp images of hummingbirds at 1/125s – something I wouldn’t attempt with most telephoto lenses.

The autofocus performs admirably, though it’s not quite as lightning-fast as Nikon’s professional 70-200mm f/2.8. For most wildlife situations, it’s more than adequate. The lens takes 77mm filters and includes a removable tripod collar that’s actually comfortable to use – a rarity in this price range.

What really sets this lens apart is its value proposition. While $1,500 isn’t cheap, you’re getting 500mm of reach with VR in a relatively compact package. Used prices around $800 make it even more accessible. Customer photos consistently show tack-sharp bird portraits and dramatic wildlife close-ups that prove this lens was practically made for the D500.

The lens balances well on the D500 despite its weight, though I recommend a monopod for extended shooting sessions. It’s compatible with Nikon’s TC-14E III teleconverter, pushing your reach to 700mm while still maintaining autofocus – a game-changer for bird photographers who need that extra distance.

Who Should Buy?

Wildlife and sports photographers who need maximum reach without breaking the bank. Perfect for birding, wildlife safaris, and outdoor sports where getting close physically isn’t an option.

Who Should Avoid?

Portrait photographers, casual shooters, and anyone prioritizing portability. The weight and specialized nature make it less suitable for everyday carry or indoor photography.

2. Nikon 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR – Best Budget Telephoto Option

The Nikon 55-300mm VR is the perfect entry point into telephoto photography for D500 owners. At just $250, it offers impressive performance that punches well above its weight class. I’ve recommended this lens to dozens of beginners, and the feedback has been consistently positive.

What surprises most users is the VR performance. While not as sophisticated as the 200-500mm’s system, it still provides approximately 3 stops of stabilization. I’ve successfully handheld shots at 1/125s at 300mm – remarkable for a lens at this price point. The 450mm equivalent reach on DX is substantial for wildlife and sports photography.

Optically, the lens performs best between 55-200mm. At 300mm, you’ll notice some softness in the corners, but center sharpness remains good for most applications. The lens uses Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor for autofocus, which is generally quiet and accurate, though not as fast as premium options.

Build quality respects its price point – mostly plastic construction with a metal mount. At 1.28 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight and makes an excellent travel companion. Customer photos frequently show impressive wildlife captures and detailed close-ups that demonstrate what’s possible with budget optics when paired with the D500’s capable sensor.

The minimum focusing distance of 4.6 feet allows for decent close-up shots, making it more versatile than you might expect. While not a macro lens, you can capture frame-filling shots of larger insects and flowers. The 58mm filter thread keeps accessory costs reasonable.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners and budget-conscious photographers wanting to explore telephoto photography. Ideal for travel, casual wildlife shooting, and learning long-lens techniques without major investment.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional wildlife photographers and serious birders who need maximum sharpness and fast autofocus. Also not ideal for those shooting frequently in low light conditions.

3. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX – Perfect Starter Prime Lens

The Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX is quite simply the best first lens you can buy for your D500. After testing it extensively in various conditions – from dim restaurants to bright landscapes – I can confidently say it delivers performance that rivals lenses costing three times as much.

At 7.1 ounces, you’ll barely notice it on your camera. The 52.5mm equivalent focal length on DX makes it perfect for street photography, environmental portraits, and everyday walkaround shooting. The wide f/1.8 aperture transforms the D500’s low-light capabilities, allowing clean images at ISO 1600 and below in most situations.

Sharpness is outstanding from wide open, with only minimal improvement when stopped down. During my testing, I found it delivers tack-sharp results across the frame at f/2.8, making it excellent for group shots and landscapes. The bokeh, while not as creamy as premium lenses, is pleasing and helps subjects pop from backgrounds.

The Silent Wave Motor autofocus is fast and nearly silent – perfect for discreet street photography. Customer photos consistently show beautiful low-light images, stunning environmental portraits, and sharp everyday snapshots that prove this lens’s versatility. Many users report it’s become their most-used lens, rarely leaving their camera.

Build quality feels solid despite the plastic construction. The lens focuses down to 1 foot, allowing for creative close-up perspectives. While it doesn’t have VR, the 35mm focal length and wide aperture make handholding at slower shutter speeds quite manageable in practice.

Who Should Buy?

Every D500 owner should have this lens. Perfect for beginners, street photographers, and anyone wanting a compact, high-quality lens for everyday shooting. The best $200 you’ll spend on your photography.

Who Should Avoid?

Photographers needing telephoto reach or specialized macro capabilities. Also not ideal for those who exclusively shoot portraits requiring longer focal lengths.

4. Nikon 50mm f/1.8G – Affordable Portrait Excellence

The Nikon 50mm f/1.8G proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for professional-quality portraits. After shooting with this lens for countless portrait sessions, I’m consistently amazed by the image quality it produces for just $150. The 75mm equivalent on DX creates beautiful perspectives for portraits without being too tight for indoor use.

What makes this lens special is its wide-open performance. Unlike many budget lenses that need to be stopped down, the 50mm f/1.8G is remarkably sharp even at f/1.8. This allows you to take advantage of the beautiful bokeh and low-light capabilities without compromising sharpness. During portrait sessions, I regularly shoot at f/2.0 for the perfect balance of subject sharpness and background blur.

The autofocus is surprisingly fast and accurate for a lens in this price range. Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor quietly locks onto subjects, making it suitable for events and candid photography. The 58mm filter thread matches many other Nikon lenses, keeping your filter collection compatible.

Customer photos showcase stunning headshots, beautiful indoor portraits, and impressive low-light images that demonstrate this lens’s capabilities. Many users mention it’s their go-to lens for family photos and indoor events where flash isn’t allowed or desired.

At just 6.5 ounces, it’s lighter than many kit lenses. The build quality, while mostly plastic, feels solid enough for regular use. The minimum focusing distance of 1.48 feet allows for tighter portraits and creative close-ups. While it lacks VR, the relatively wide focal length makes handholding at reasonable shutter speeds quite achievable.

Who Should Buy?

Portrait photographers on a budget, indoor event shooters, and anyone wanting classic portrait perspectives without spending on professional f/1.4 lenses. Perfect for family portraits and low-light photography.

Who Should Avoid?

Landscape photographers needing wider angles or wildlife photographers requiring telephoto reach. Also not ideal for those prioritizing build quality or weather sealing.

5. Nikon 105mm f/2.8G VR Macro – Macro and Portrait Master

The Nikon 105mm f/2.8G VR Macro is a specialized lens that excels at both extreme close-ups and beautiful portraits. I’ve used it for everything from flower photography to headshots, and it never fails to impress with its versatility and optical excellence.

The true 1:1 magnification capability allows you to capture life-sized images of small subjects. During my macro photography workshops, students are consistently amazed by the detail this lens reveals – from the intricate patterns on insect wings to the delicate structures of flower stamens. The 157.5mm equivalent on DX provides comfortable working distances for skittish subjects.

Nikon’s VR II technology is a game-changer for macro photography. Handholding at 1:1 magnification is typically challenging due to the shallow depth of field, but the 4-stop VR system makes it possible to capture sharp images without a tripod in many situations. I’ve successfully shot handheld at 1/60s – something unheard of in macro photography just a few years ago.

As a portrait lens, it performs beautifully. The f/2.8 aperture creates lovely background blur, while the 105mm focal length on DX provides flattering compression for head and shoulders portraits. Customer photos frequently show stunning macro details alongside beautiful portraits, demonstrating this lens’s dual nature.

The build quality is professional-grade with weather sealing and a metal mount. The Nano Crystal Coat effectively reduces flare and ghosting, while the ED glass elements ensure excellent color correction. The internal focus design means the lens doesn’t extend when focusing – a practical advantage when working with live subjects.

Who Should Buy?

Macro photographers, nature enthusiasts, and portrait photographers wanting a single lens for both specialties. Perfect for product photography, detailed nature shots, and professional headshots.

Who Should Avoid?

General photographers who don’t need macro capabilities or those on a tight budget. The specialized nature and premium price make it less suitable for casual use.

6. Nikon 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR – Wide Angle Wonder for Landscapes

The Nikon 10-20mm VR brings ultra-wide perspectives to DX-format shooters at an accessible price point. After testing it on landscape architecture assignments across Europe, I can confirm it delivers impressive performance in a compact package that’s perfect for travel.

The 109-degree angle of view at 10mm (equivalent to 15mm on DX) allows you to capture expansive scenes that simply aren’t possible with standard kit lenses. During my time shooting in the Swiss Alps, this lens enabled me to include both foreground flowers and distant mountain peaks in a single frame – something that would require stitching multiple shots with other lenses.

Surprisingly for an ultra-wide at this price, Nikon included VR technology. While not as crucial for wide angles where faster shutter speeds are typical, it does help with indoor architecture shots and low-light landscapes. I found it particularly useful when shooting handheld interior spaces where tripods weren’t allowed.

Optical performance is solid for the price. Center sharpness is excellent even wide open, though corners show some softness at 10mm – typical for this lens type. The VR system’s near-silent stepping motor makes it ideal for video work, with smooth, quiet focus pulls that don’t introduce noise into your audio.

Customer photos showcase dramatic landscape compositions, impressive architectural interiors, and creative wide-angle perspectives that demonstrate this lens’s creative potential. Many users praise its compact size and light weight, making it easy to carry for travel photography where every ounce counts.

Who Should Buy?

Landscape photographers, architecture enthusiasts, and real estate photographers. Perfect for travel photography where you want to capture expansive scenes without carrying heavy equipment.

Who Should Avoid?

Portrait photographers and those primarily shooting in low light. Also not suitable for older Nikon cameras that don’t support AF-P lenses.

7. Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G VR – Lightweight Travel Telephoto

The Nikon 70-300mm VR represents the perfect balance between reach and portability for traveling photographers. At just 14.6 ounces, it weighs less than many standard zoom lenses yet provides 450mm of reach on DX format. I’ve carried this lens on month-long trips across Asia and barely noticed it in my bag.

What impresses me most is the VR performance. Despite the compact size and affordable price, Nikon managed to include their effective vibration reduction system. During testing, I achieved sharp handheld shots at 1/125s at 300mm – remarkable for a lens at this price point. The 450mm equivalent reach brings distant subjects reasonably close without the bulk of larger telephoto lenses.

Image quality is surprisingly good for a travel lens. Center sharpness is excellent across the zoom range, though you’ll notice some softness in the corners at 300mm. The lens uses Nikon’s pulse stepping motor for autofocus, which is virtually silent and ideal for video recording or wildlife photography where noise might disturb subjects.

Customer photos frequently show impressive wildlife shots, detailed travel scenes, and compressed landscape perspectives that demonstrate this lens’s versatility. Many users praise it as the perfect travel companion, providing substantial telephoto reach without the weight penalty of professional lenses.

The compact design extends to the handling – at just 4.9 inches long, it’s easily manageable on the D500. The 58mm filter thread matches many other Nikon lenses, keeping your filter collection compatible. One quirk to note: the VR is controlled through the camera menu rather than a physical switch on the lens.

Who Should Buy?

Travel photographers, casual wildlife observers, and anyone needing telephoto capability without the weight and bulk. Perfect for vacations and everyday carry when you want to be prepared for distant subjects.

Who Should Avoid?

Serious wildlife photographers needing maximum sharpness and professionals requiring robust build quality. Also not ideal for those shooting frequently in challenging lighting conditions.

8. Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR – Budget-Friendly Zoom Solution

The Nikon 55-200mm VR has been the go-to budget telephoto for Nikon shooters for years, and for good reason. At just $133, it offers performance that consistently surprises users. I’ve recommended this lens to countless beginners, and it remains one of the best entry points into telephoto photography available.

The VR system is the standout feature at this price point. Providing approximately 3 stops of stabilization, it makes handheld telephoto shooting accessible to beginners. During my testing with new photographers, they achieved sharp results at 1/125s at 200mm – a testament to how effective the VR is, even in budget optics.

Optical performance respects its price but delivers where it counts. Center sharpness is good throughout the zoom range, making it suitable for portraits and general telephoto work. The 300mm equivalent on DX provides substantial reach for wildlife and sports photography, though you’ll want to stop down slightly for maximum sharpness at the long end.

Customer photos showcase impressive portraits with beautiful background compression, decent wildlife captures, and detailed close-ups that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for quality results. Many users report this lens helped them discover their passion for telephoto photography without breaking the bank.

At 11.8 ounces, it’s incredibly lightweight and makes an excellent addition to a camera bag. The Silent Wave Motor autofocus is quiet and reasonably accurate, though not as fast as premium options. The 52mm filter thread keeps filter costs down, and the included lens hood helps with flare control.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners wanting to try telephoto photography, budget-conscious shooters, and anyone needing a lightweight telephoto for occasional use. Perfect for learning composition with longer focal lengths.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional photographers and serious wildlife enthusiasts who need maximum sharpness and build quality. Also not ideal for those shooting in challenging lighting conditions frequently.

9. Nikon 85mm f/1.8G – Portrait Perfection Lens

The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G is the portrait lens that many photographers never take off their D500. After shooting hundreds of portrait sessions with various lenses, I keep coming back to this one for its combination of sharpness, beautiful rendering, and reasonable price point. The 127.5mm equivalent on DX creates perfect perspectives for headshots and environmental portraits.

What sets this lens apart is its wide-open performance. Even at f/1.8, it delivers stunning sharpness across most of the frame. During portrait sessions, I regularly shoot wide open to take advantage of the creamy, dreamlike bokeh. Subject separation is beautiful without being overwhelming, and the rendering has a quality that makes skin look naturally appealing.

The autofocus system is impressive for a lens at this price. Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor locks onto eyes quickly and accurately, making it suitable for photographing children and events where moments happen quickly. The internal focus design means the lens doesn’t extend when focusing – a practical advantage when working with lighting equipment or in tight spaces.

Customer photos consistently show professional-quality portraits with beautiful background blur, stunning low-light indoor shots, and even some surprising landscape work that demonstrates this lens’s versatility. Many professional photographers include this in their kit as a lightweight alternative to heavier f/1.4 lenses.

Build quality strikes a good balance between weight and durability. At 12.3 ounces, it’s substantial enough to feel professional without being burdensome during long shooting sessions. The 67mm filter thread is standard for portrait lenses, giving you access to a wide range of specialty filters.

Who Should Buy?

Portrait photographers, event shooters, and anyone wanting professional-quality portraits without spending on f/1.4 lenses. Perfect for headshots, weddings, and indoor events.

Who Should Avoid?

Landscape photographers needing wide angles and those who require image stabilization. Also not ideal as a general-purpose lens due to the specialized focal length.

10. Nikon 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR – Versatile All-in-One Solution

The Nikon 18-105mm VR offers the perfect compromise between convenience and quality for everyday photography. After using it as my walkaround lens for everything from family gatherings to travel photography, I appreciate its ability to handle most situations without needing to change lenses.

The 5.8x zoom range covers the most frequently used focal lengths for general photography. From wide landscapes at 18mm to short telephoto portraits at 105mm, this lens handles it all. The 27-157.5mm equivalent range on DX makes it particularly versatile for travel when you want to pack light but still have creative options.

Nikon’s VR system adds practical versatility, allowing handheld shots in lower light than you’d expect from a kit lens. During my testing, I achieved sharp results at 1/30s at 35mm – impressive for a zoom lens at this price point. The VR makes it possible to capture indoor moments without flash, preserving natural ambiance.

Image quality is good for a super-zoom, with best results between 18-80mm. While there’s some softness at 105mm, it’s still usable for web and smaller prints. Customer photos show sharp family portraits, expansive travel landscapes, and detailed close-ups that demonstrate this lens’s real-world capability.

The lens comes with a nice bonus – both a lens hood and soft pouch are included in the box. At 14.8 ounces, it won’t weigh down your camera bag, and the compact profile makes the D500 feel balanced and manageable for all-day carrying.

Who Should Buy?

Travel photographers, family documentarians, and anyone wanting a single lens solution for most situations. Perfect as a first lens upgrade from the kit or as a convenient walkaround option.

Who Should Avoid?

Photographers needing maximum quality or specialized capabilities. Also not ideal for professional work where constant aperture and maximum sharpness are required.

11. Nikon 40mm f/2.8G DX Macro – Compact Macro Photography Choice

The Nikon 40mm f/2.8G DX Macro proves that macro photography doesn’t require heavy, expensive equipment. This compact lens delivers true 1:1 magnification in a package small enough to carry every day. After using it for everything from flower photography to product shots, I’m impressed by its versatility.

The 60mm equivalent on DX makes it more than just a macro lens – it’s also a capable normal lens for general photography. During testing, I found myself using it for street photography and environmental portraits when not shooting macro. The f/2.8 aperture provides decent low-light capability and beautiful background blur for such a compact lens.

True 1:1 magnification allows you to capture life-sized images of small subjects. The close focusing distance of just 6.4 inches lets you fill the frame with tiny subjects. While the working distance is shorter than longer macro lenses, this actually makes it easier to work with in windy conditions where longer lenses struggle.

Customer photos showcase stunning macro details from nature, impressive product photography, and surprisingly good general shots that demonstrate this lens’s versatility. Many users praise it as their go-to lens for food photography and small product work where the 1:1 capability is essential.

At just 8.3 ounces, it’s lighter than many standard prime lenses. The build quality, while mostly plastic, feels solid enough for regular use. Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor provides quiet autofocus, though macro work often benefits from manual focus anyway – and this lens has a smooth, well-damped focus ring for precise adjustments.

Who Should Buy?

Macro enthusiasts, product photographers, and anyone wanting macro capability without the bulk. Perfect for food photography, nature close-ups, and general use as a compact normal lens.

Who Should Avoid?

Wildlife photographers needing more working distance and those primarily shooting portraits. Also not ideal for photographers who need image stabilization.

12. Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 – Third-Party Wide Angle Champion

The Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 offers something rare in ultra-wide lenses – a constant f/3.5 aperture throughout the zoom range. After shooting with it alongside Nikon’s offerings, I can confirm it delivers performance that rivals native lenses while offering better value for money.

The constant f/3.5 aperture makes it more versatile than variable aperture wide angles, particularly for indoor architecture and astrophotography. During my testing shooting interior spaces, I maintained consistent exposure while zooming, eliminating the need to adjust settings when recomposing shots.

Build quality exceeds its price point. The EX series construction feels solid and professional, with better weather sealing than you’d expect at this price. The included petal-type lens hood is actually useful for flare control, unlike some included hoods that are more decorative than functional.

Optical performance is strong in the center frame, with good sharpness even wide open. While corners show some softness at 10mm – typical for ultra-wide lenses – stopping down to f/8 yields excellent corner-to-corner sharpness. Customer photos frequently show dramatic landscape compositions and impressive architectural perspectives.

Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor provides fast, quiet autofocus that’s generally reliable, though not quite as consistent as Nikon’s own AF-S motors. The 82mm filter thread is standard for premium wide angles, giving you access to high-quality filters for landscape work.

Who Should Buy?

Landscape photographers wanting ultra-wide perspectives without breaking the bank. Perfect for dramatic landscape shots and architectural photography where the constant aperture provides advantages.

Who Should Avoid?

Photographers who prefer native lenses or those needing VR. Also not ideal for those primarily shooting people, as ultra-wide angles can distort facial features.

Understanding Nikon D500 Lens Compatibility

The Nikon D500 uses Nikon’s F-mount, which has been around since 1959. This incredible backward compatibility means you can mount virtually any Nikon lens ever made, though some work better than others with modern features like autofocus.

Your D500 works perfectly with all modern AF-S and AF-P lenses with full autofocus and metering. Older AF-D lenses will mount and meter, but you’ll need to focus manually. Pre-AI lenses require special care and modifications to avoid damaging your camera.

The 1.5x crop factor affects your lens choices in practical ways. Wide-angle lenses become less wide – a 10mm lens behaves like 15mm on full-frame. Telephoto lenses gain reach – a 200mm lens provides the equivalent of 300mm, which is fantastic for wildlife photography.

VR (Vibration Reduction) works on all compatible lenses, providing 2-4.5 stops of stabilization depending on the lens model. This feature alone makes modern lenses worth considering, especially for telephoto work where every bit of stabilization helps.

How to Choose the Best Lens for Your Nikon D500

Choosing lenses for your D500 starts with understanding what type of photography you want to pursue. After helping dozens of photographers build their lens collections, I’ve found that most fall into one of these categories.

For Wildlife Photography: Prioritize Reach

Wildlife photography demands long focal lengths and good autofocus. The 200-500mm f/5.6E VR is the gold standard for serious wildlife work, providing 750mm equivalent reach on your D500. Budget-conscious photographers should consider the 55-300mm VR as an excellent starting point that won’t break the bank.

Remember that wildlife photography often requires patience and persistence. A quality telephoto lens is an investment that will serve you for years. Consider weather sealing if you shoot in challenging conditions – professional lenses like the 200-500mm offer better protection against the elements.

For Portrait Photography: Choose Wide Apertures

Portraits benefit from wide apertures for beautiful background blur and flattering perspectives. The 85mm f/1.8G provides classic portrait perspectives on DX, while the 50mm f/1.8G offers incredible value with excellent results. Both deliver beautiful bokeh that makes your subjects pop.

Consider your shooting environment. For indoor portraits, the 50mm might be more versatile in tight spaces. For outdoor portraits with compression, the 85mm creates more flattering perspectives. Both lenses are sharp enough for professional work at reasonable prices.

For Landscape Photography: Go Wide and Sharp

Landscape photography requires wide angles and excellent sharpness. The 10-20mm options from Nikon and Sigma provide the ultra-wide coverage needed for dramatic landscapes. Constant aperture lenses like the Sigma f/3.5 offer advantages for exposure consistency when shooting panoramas.

Consider filter compatibility when choosing landscape lenses. Many ultra-wide lenses require large, expensive filters. Some use rear filter slots or are designed for filter systems rather than standard circular filters.

For General Use: Versatility is Key

If you want one lens to do everything, consider the 18-105mm VR or the 35mm f/1.8G DX. The zoom covers most situations you’ll encounter, while the prime offers superior image quality and low-light performance in a compact package.

Many photographers find that a two-lens kit provides the best balance – a wide-to-standard zoom like the 18-105mm for general use, plus a prime like the 35mm f/1.8 for low-light situations when image quality is paramount.

Budget Considerations: Smart Investment Strategy

You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with the 35mm f/1.8G DX – it’s the best value and most versatile lens available. Add the 55-300mm VR when you need telephoto reach. Consider specialized lenses like macro or ultra-wide as your photography interests develop.

The used market offers excellent value, especially for lenses like the 105mm macro or 85mm portrait lens. Nikon lenses hold their value well, so buying used often means you can sell later for little loss if you decide to upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After years of shooting with the D500 and testing countless lenses, I can confidently say that building your lens collection is a journey, not a race. Start with the versatile 35mm f/1.8G DX – it’s the best $200 you’ll spend on your photography. Add the 55-300mm VR when you’re ready to explore telephoto photography without major investment.

For specialized photography, invest in quality when you’re certain of your interests. The 200-500mm VR for wildlife, the 105mm macro for close-ups, or the 85mm f/1.8G for portraits – each excels in its domain and will serve you for years. Remember that Nikon lenses hold their value exceptionally well, making them smart long-term investments in your photography journey.

The D500 deserves quality optics to unlock its full potential. Whether you’re capturing wildlife at dawn, portraits in natural light, or vast landscapes, there’s a lens on this list that will help you achieve your vision. Choose based on what you love to photograph, and you’ll never regret the investment in glass that helps you create images you’re proud to share.