How to Use the Nikon AF-S TC-14E III Teleconverter

By Cameriz Limited | Published: 2026-11-01

Category: How-to Guides

A step-by-step guide to mounting and shooting with the Nikon AF-S TC-14E III, including compatibility checks, autofocus tips, and exposure adjustments.

Quick answer

To use the Nikon AF-S TC-14E III, first confirm your lens is on Nikon's compatible list, then attach the converter between the lens and camera, and expect a 1.4x focal length increase with one stop of light loss. Autofocus works only with supported lenses, so check compatibility before you shoot.

Why compatibility is the first thing to check

The TC-14E III is designed for Nikon F-mount AF-S NIKKOR lenses, but not every AF-S lens is supported. Nikon publishes a compatibility list, and using an unsupported lens can prevent autofocus or cause other issues. Before you mount the converter, look up your exact lens model on that list. If your lens isn't listed, the converter may still attach physically, but autofocus and exposure functionality are not guaranteed. This step saves you from frustration in the field.

What the 1.4x magnification really means for your shooting

The converter multiplies your lens's focal length by 1.4, so a 300mm lens becomes 420mm. That extra reach is handy for wildlife and sports, but it comes at the cost of one stop of light. You'll need to adjust your exposure accordingly—either by opening the aperture (if your lens allows), raising ISO, or slowing the shutter speed. Also, the converter adds a small amount of glass, which can slightly soften fine details; stopping down one stop from wide open often improves sharpness. Keep these trade-offs in mind when deciding whether to use the converter for a given shot.

Step-by-step: mounting and shooting with the TC-14E III

Check lens compatibility: Look up your lens model on Nikon's official compatibility list for the TC-14E III. If it's not listed, autofocus may not work. Common mistake: assuming any AF-S lens will work. Keep the list handy on your phone for quick reference.
Turn off the camera and detach the lens: Power off the camera before removing the lens to avoid dust and electrical issues. Then remove the rear cap from the converter and the front cap from the lens. Common mistake: rushing and dropping a cap or letting dust settle on the glass. Work in a clean, sheltered area to minimize dust.
Attach the converter to the lens first: Align the mounting marks and rotate the converter onto the lens until it clicks. Then attach the lens-converter combo to the camera. Common mistake: trying to mount the converter to the camera first, which makes it harder to align the lens. Listen for the click to confirm secure locking.
Adjust exposure for the one-stop loss: The converter reduces light by one stop. If you were shooting at f/4, you'll now be at f/5.6 effectively. Compensate by increasing ISO, opening the aperture, or slowing the shutter speed. Common mistake: forgetting to adjust and ending up with underexposed images. Use your camera's meter and check the histogram after the first shot.
Fine-tune autofocus if needed: Autofocus may be slower with the converter, especially in low light. Use single-point AF for stationary subjects or continuous AF for moving subjects. If you notice consistent front- or back-focus, use the camera's AF fine-tune feature. Common mistake: expecting the same AF speed as without the converter. Test AF on a static subject before shooting action.

Product facts

Nikon AF-S TC-14E III: The Nikon AF-S TC-14E III is a 1.4x teleconverter for compatible Nikon F-mount AF-S NIKKOR lenses. It gives you extra reach without buying a longer lens, but only if your lens is on the compatibility list.
Nikon AF-S TC-14E III