Mark Ellington
Nikon FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens
Introduction
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens is a premium portrait lens designed specifically for Nikon DSLR cameras. Manufactured by Nikon, a renowned leader in optical technology, this lens is part of the FX format category, making it an excellent choice for both professional photographers and serious enthusiasts looking to elevate their portrait photography. With its ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture, this lens is engineered to deliver stunning results in various lighting conditions, making it a versatile addition to any photographer’s toolkit.
Product Overview
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens features a sleek, black exterior that exudes professionalism and durability. Constructed with high-quality materials, it has a robust build that inspires confidence while shooting in various environments. One of its standout design features is the Nano Crystal Coat, which minimizes lens flare and ghosting – a common issue faced by photographers. This lens not only looks appealing but also has a user-friendly design with a smooth focusing ring and a M/A focus mode switch allowing for quick transitions between manual and autofocus operation.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 85 mm
- Aperture: Ultra-fast f/1.4
- Minimum Focus Distance: 3.0 ft (0.85 m)
- Compatibility: FX and DX formats
- Internal Focus (IF): Provides fast and quiet autofocus
- Nano Crystal Coat: Reduces flare and ghosting
- Part Number: 2195
- Warranty: 1 year coverage for parts
- Color: Black
Experience Using the Product
During my time with the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens, I explored its capabilities in various shooting scenarios. In portrait photography, the lens truly shines, capturing exquisite details and skin tones with incredible clarity. The f/1.4 aperture allows for a beautifully blurred background (bokeh), which emphasizes the subject and adds an artistic touch to the final images.
I also tested the lens in low-light conditions, where its wide aperture performed exceptionally well, allowing me to shoot without raising the ISO excessively. This feature is particularly beneficial for event photography, where lighting can be unpredictable.
The autofocus system is swift and nearly silent, which is a significant advantage when shooting in quiet environments, such as during weddings or intimate gatherings. I particularly appreciated the M/A focus mode switch, which enabled quick adjustments without fumbling through the settings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness and clarity.
- Ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture ideal for low-light conditions.
- Beautiful bokeh effect enhances portrait photography.
- Durable and stylish design with excellent build quality.
- Fast and quiet autofocus performance.
Cons:
- Relatively high price point at $1469.47.
- Weight may be a concern for some users; it is slightly heavier than other lenses in its class.
- No weather sealing, which may limit use in challenging weather conditions.
Conclusion
Overall, the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens is a remarkable piece of optical engineering that delivers outstanding performance, particularly in portrait photography. Its combination of a fast aperture, excellent build quality, and impressive autofocus capabilities makes it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers. While the price might be a barrier for some, the results it produces make it a valuable asset in any photographer’s collection. Whether you are capturing memories at a wedding or creating stunning studio portraits, this lens is sure to unleash your creativity.
