Mark Ellington
Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Portrait Lens
Introduction
The Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Portrait Lens is a dedicated lens for Nikon F mount DSLR cameras, crafted by Meike, a manufacturer known for providing quality photographic accessories at affordable prices. This lens is primarily designed for portrait photography but is versatile enough to handle a wide range of subjects including architecture and landscapes. With its large aperture, it aims to deliver stunning bokeh and sharp images, making it an attractive option for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
Product Overview
The Meike 85mm F1.8 lens boasts a sleek black design, constructed from high-quality materials that impart a professional feel. The lens features a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches, ensuring it looks pristine even after extended use. A unique aspect of its design is the micro USB firmware upgrade interface, allowing users to update the lens software easily, which is a rarity in this price range.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 85mm (127.5mm equivalent on APS-C)
- Aperture: Wide f/1.8 with 9 diaphragm blades for smooth bokeh
- Lens Construction: 9 elements in 6 groups
- Auto Focus: Fast and accurate focusing mechanism
- Compatible Cameras: Nikon F mount DSLRs including D850, D750, D780, D610, and others
- Price: $179.99
- Part Number: MK-8518 Nikon F
Experience Using the Product
In various shooting scenarios, the Meike 85mm F1.8 lens performs exceptionally well. During portrait sessions, the lens excels at isolating subjects from the background, thanks to its large f/1.8 aperture which creates a creamy bokeh effect. The lens delivers impressive sharpness, even at wider apertures, making it suitable for capturing intricate details in the subject’s features.
In low-light conditions, the lens shows its true colors, allowing for faster shutter speeds without introducing significant noise. Whether shooting indoors or during golden hour, the lens maintained clarity and contrast, producing vibrant images.
For landscapes and architecture, the lens is equally capable. The focal length provides a good perspective that captures wide scenes without distortion, while the sharpness ensures that intricate details are rendered beautifully.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness across the frame
- Large aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh
- Solid build quality with a professional feel
- Firmware upgrade capability for future enhancements
- Affordable price point for the quality offered
Cons
- Autofocus can be slightly slower compared to higher-end lenses
- Some users may prefer a weather-sealed design, which this lens lacks
- Limited to Nikon F mount, not suitable for users of other camera brands
Conclusion
Overall, the Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Portrait Lens is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to enhance their photography skills without breaking the bank. With its strong performance in portraiture, landscapes, and low-light scenarios, it offers excellent value for its price. While it may have some minor drawbacks, the impressive image quality and user-friendly features make it a compelling choice for both beginners and seasoned photographers alike. If you’re in the market for a reliable and capable 85mm lens for Nikon F mount DSLRs, the Meike 85mm F1.8 should definitely be on your radar.
