Beginning with a comfortable wide-angle focal length, the Nikon PC-E NIKKOR 24mm f/3.5D ED takes this broad field of view and adds both tilt and shift movements to control focus and perspective. Up to +/- 8.5° of tilt is possible, for focus control; +/- 11.5mm of shift, to adjust perspective and composition; and +/- 90° of rotation is also possible for adjusting the axis of these movements. These movements benefit the wide-angle design, making it ideal for photographing landscapes, interiors, and architectural subjects with perspective and focus control to adjust distortion and depth of field.

Complementing the mechanical layout of the lens is an apt optical design, which includes three extra-low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations for improved clarity and sharpness. Both Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to reduce flare and ghosting for improved contrast in strong lighting conditions. Additionally, Close Range Correction helps to ensure consistent image quality and accurate rendering throughout the focusing range.