Mark Ellington
Meike 85mm f/1.8 Portrait Lens for Nikon Z
Introduction
The Meike 85mm f/1.8 AF STM Lens is a telephoto fixed prime portrait lens designed specifically for Nikon Z mount cameras, including models such as the Z5, Z6, Z7, and Z9. Manufactured by Meike, a brand known for its affordable yet high-quality photographic equipment, this lens aims to deliver stunning portrait photography with its impressive aperture and autofocus capabilities. With a price tag of just $179.99, it positions itself as an accessible option for both amateur and professional photographers seeking to enhance their portraiture skills.
Product Overview
The Meike 85mm lens showcases a sleek and modern design typical of contemporary lens aesthetics. It is constructed with high-quality materials that lend it a sturdy yet lightweight feel, making it easy to handle during extended shooting sessions. The matte black finish not only provides a professional look but also helps reduce reflections, aiding in discreet shooting environments. A unique feature of this lens is the inclusion of a micro-USB port, allowing users to update its firmware, ensuring compatibility with the latest advancements in camera technology.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 85mm
- Aperture: f/1.8 (wide aperture for low-light performance and background blur)
- Auto Focus: AF STM (Stepping Motor) for quiet and efficient focusing
- Compatibility: Nikon Z mount full-frame mirrorless cameras (Z5, Z6, Z7, Z9) and APS-C frame cameras (Z50)
- Firmware Upgrade: Micro-USB port for online updates
- Part Number: ZN-8518-STM-Z
- Warranty: 1 year
Experience Using the Product
Using the Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens has been a rewarding experience, particularly for portrait photography. The large f/1.8 aperture allows for beautiful bokeh, which brings a professional quality to images, effectively isolating subjects with a creamy background blur. In low-light conditions, the lens performs admirably, capturing sharp images without the excessive noise often associated with higher ISO settings.
The autofocus system is another standout feature. The STM technology delivers quick and silent focusing, making it ideal for candid portrait shots where discretion is key. The lens is versatile enough to handle various photography styles, including architecture and theatre photography, thanks to its ability to capture minute details with clarity.
In outdoor settings, the lens proved to be exceptionally reliable, maintaining image quality even in challenging lighting conditions. However, in some instances, the autofocus struggled slightly in very low light, requiring manual adjustments. Nevertheless, the overall performance remains impressive for its price range.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent image quality with stunning bokeh effects.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable handling.
- Fast and silent autofocus thanks to STM technology.
- Affordable price point compared to other 85mm lenses.
- Firmware upgradability via micro-USB for future-proofing.
Cons
- Autofocus can struggle in very low-light scenarios.
- Some users may prefer a more robust weather-sealed construction.
Conclusion
Overall, the Meike 85mm f/1.8 AF STM Lens is an outstanding addition to any Nikon Z camera user’s kit, particularly for those focused on portrait photography. Its combination of affordability, performance, and quality makes it a compelling choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike. While there are minor drawbacks, such as autofocus performance in very low light, the strengths of this lens far outweigh these concerns. For anyone looking to elevate their photography and achieve perfect portraits, the Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens is a worthy investment.
