Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.4D

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.4D is a classic prime lens that has won the hearts of portrait photographers around the globe. Designed for the Nikon F mount, it offers a focal length of 85mm, making it an excellent choice for creating stunning portraits with a beautiful separation of subject from the background due to its impressive f/1.4 aperture. This lens excels in low-light conditions, allowing for shooting in environments where other lenses may struggle.

One of the standout features of this lens is its sharpness. From wide open at f/1.4 to f/8, it consistently delivers impressive detail. The bokeh produced is creamy and smooth, enhancing the aesthetic quality of portrait shots. The lens also demonstrates minimal distortion, making it suitable for capturing natural-looking images without excessive warping around the edges. It’s also constructed with a weather-sealed design, allowing for a bit of peace of mind when shooting outdoors in less-than-ideal conditions.

However, there are downsides to this lovely piece of glass. Being a manual focus lens, the AF Nikkor 85mm might present challenges for those who rely heavily on autofocus, particularly in fast-paced shooting scenarios. Additionally, though it has a solid build quality, it's not the lightest lens on the market. This could be a concern for photographers who prefer to travel light, especially if they plan on carrying multiple lenses throughout the day.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image sharpness throughout the aperture range.
• Gorgeous, creamy bokeh ideal for portraiture.
• Minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.
• Weather-sealed for outdoor shooting.

Cons

• Manual focusing may deter those who prefer fast autofocus.
• Heavier compared to some other portrait lenses.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.4D is a remarkable lens that excels in its field, offering unparalleled sharpness and beautiful background blur suitable for portrait photography. While it does have some shortcomings, notably in the areas of weight and autofocus capability, the lens's exceptional image quality and build make it a worthy investment for serious photographers looking to enhance their portrait work. If you're comfortable with manual focusing and appreciate the artistry of a fast prime lens, this one should certainly be on your radar.