Been digging through some price history data lately. Honestly, if youre trying to save money, keep an eye on the Nikon Direct site for their refurbished sales. I went that route for a Nikon Z 40mm f/2 last spring and the unit was basically brand new. Its got a 9-blade diaphragm which gives decent bokeh for a lens that tiny. If you need more range, the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is usually the one that gets the best discounts during holiday windows. It maintains edge-to-edge sharpness better than the non-S glass, tho the weight goes up to 630g. I usually check KEH or MPB too because their grading systems are pretty reliable if youre trying to dodge the new tax. Just check the glass for fungus or dust, but usually, those sites are solid.

I would suggest being a bit cautious with your timing. Nikon usually runs their official rebates in short windows right before the holiday actually hits.

• Keep an eye on the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S since it is a very reliable starter lens and usually gets a hundred bucks knocked off.
• Make sure you only buy from authorized shops. If you get a gray market version by mistake, Nikon wont honor the warranty if something goes wrong.
• I'd also check prices for the Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 if you want a fast zoom that stays within a reasonable budget.

TIL! Thanks for sharing

I am totally stoked for you! Nikon sales during the holidays are usually legendary, especially for the Z system. The glass is just so incredibly sharp its gonna blow your mind! Ive been obsessed with my setup lately and the colors are just fantastic. Before you dive in tho, I had a couple questions to help narrow it down:

• whats the max youre looking to spend?
• are you chasing that super creamy bokeh for portraits or do you need something wide for landscapes? Technical specs like maximum aperture and weight really matter for these Z bodies, so knowing your style helps a ton. Just let me know and Im more than happy to point you toward the best value for your cash... honestly youre gonna love the upgrade!

You can check Mother's Day Nikon lens deals at Amazon, B&H Photo Video, Adorama.

Can vouch for this

^ This. Also, totally agree on the refurb route since it saves a ton of cash. I usually go that way and then spend the leftovers on a decent cleaning kit or some filters. Just be a bit careful when you're hunting for deals tho:

• watch out for those random third-party sellers on big marketplaces, they can be sketchy
• check the serial numbers if you're buying used from a local guy to avoid stolen gear
• make sure the seller has a solid return policy just in case the glass isnt as mint as they claim Honestly just grab any of the Nikon S-line lenses and you'll be set. You really cant go wrong with their pro-grade stuff because the build quality is insane. I've even done some basic DIY sensor cleaning myself to save money for more glass... it's scary at first but totally worth it. Just take your time and dont rush into a deal that feels off.