For this project I combined the cutting-edge Nikon Z9 mirrorless camera with a piece of classic Nikon heritage: the Micro-Nikkor 50mm f/2.8 AIS lens. Mounted on a Nikon PB-4 bellows via the FTZ adapter, this vintage manual-focus lens brings exceptional sharpness and a beautifully neutral rendering that has made it legendary among macro photographers for decades.
The Role of the Classic Micro-Nikkor
Unlike modern autofocus lenses, the AIS version is purely mechanical and perfectly suited for bellows work. Its precise focusing ring and long throw make fine adjustments easy, and the optical design delivers sharp detail with excellent flatness of field – ideal qualities for coin and numismatic photography.
Advantages of the PB-4 Bellows
The PB-4 allows tilt and shift movements. By slightly tilting the front plate, I aligned the lens plane with the angled surface of the coin. This application of the Scheimpflug principle ensured the entire coin surface remained sharp, highlighting every engraving and texture.
Controlling the Light
Since the lens sits very close to the subject, a flat coin can easily fall into shadow. By angling the coin slightly and lighting it with a single LED lamp with diffuser, placed on a small tripod next to the camera, I achieved a more even and appealing illumination. The Z9 sat on a low platform with a 3D head, providing precise control in all directions.
Why the FTZ Adapter Matters
The FTZ adapter was essential not only to mount the F-mount lens on the Z-mount camera, but also to provide extra clearance between the Z9 body and the PB-4 bellows. With DSLRs like the D850, the camera grip collides with the bellows unless an extension ring is added. On the Z9, the FTZ adapter itself acts as this spacer, making the classic Micro-Nikkor perfectly usable in this setup.
📷 Result: a harmonious blend of modern mirrorless performance and vintage optical craftsmanship, producing sharp, evenly lit macro photographs of coins that emphasize both relief and fine surface texture.
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