Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm F1.4G

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm F1.4G is a highly regarded prime lens ideal for portrait photography and low-light situations. Its legendary sharpness, vibrant colors, and stunning bokeh make it a top choice for both professional and enthusiast photographers using the Nikon F (DX) mount.

Build Quality and Design

Built with a robust construction, the 85mm F1.4G feels solid in hand. The exterior has a sleek and elegant design, complemented by a high-quality rubberized focus ring that gives a nice tactile feel when adjusting focus manually. Weighing approximately 600 grams, it’s lightweight considering its capabilities, making it a great option for on-the-go shooting.

Optical Performance

This lens truly shines in terms of optical performance. Delivering exceptional sharpness across the frame, you’ll find images retaining incredible detail even at wide-open apertures. The F1.4 maximum aperture not only creates beautiful shallow depth of field but also excels in low-light conditions, allowing for better performance without sacrificing image quality.

Bokeh and Low-Light Performance

The 85mm F1.4G is known for its dreamy bokeh, produced by its nine-blade rounded diaphragm. This feature enhances the separation between the subject and background, creating that classic portrait look. In low-light situations, the lens performs admirably; its wide aperture pulls in ample light, resulting in clear and well-exposed images without noticeable noise at moderate ISO levels.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the autofocus on this lens is quick, accurate, and virtually silent. It performs well not just in ideal lighting conditions but also holds its own in challenging scenarios. Although, it is important to note that the lens can struggle with tracking moving subjects due to its inherent focal length characteristics, which may concern those who also shoot dynamic scenes.

Compatibility and Use Cases

As part of the Nikon F mount system, this lens can be used with both full-frame and crop-sensor cameras. However, on a DX-format body, the effective focal length becomes approximately 127.5mm, making it a fantastic choice for portrait and wildlife photography but potentially less versatile for wider compositions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image quality with sharpness and contrast.
• Beautiful bokeh for stunning portraits.
• Robust build quality and lightweight design.
• Quick and quiet autofocus capabilities.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to other portrait lenses in this category.
• Not ideal for fast-moving subjects.
• On DX cameras, the effective focal length limits wider composition options.

Verdict

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm F1.4G is an outstanding lens that excels in delivering stunning images, particularly in portraiture and low-lit environments. Its optical performance and build quality justify its price, making it a worthwhile investment for photographers who prioritize image quality and aesthetic appeal. However, be mindful of its limitations with fast-moving subjects and the effective focal length on DX bodies. Overall, this lens is a must-have for anyone serious about portrait photography.