Nikon Nikkor Z 85mm F1.8 S

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon Nikkor Z 85mm F1.8 S is a prime lens designed for the Nikon Z mirrorless camera system. Known for its impressive optical performance and versatility, this lens is a solid choice for portrait photographers, event shooters, and those looking to create stunning images with a beautiful bokeh effect.

Build Quality and Design

The lens features a robust construction, with a high-quality metal housing that gives it a premium feel. It is also weather-sealed, making it a suitable option for outdoor photography in various conditions. The design is sleek and compact, which enhances the overall portability of the system, a significant benefit for photographers on the go. The rounded diaphragm with 9 blades contributes to the lens’s ability to produce a pleasing out-of-focus area, ideal for portraits.

Optical Performance

When it comes to image quality, the Nikkor Z 85mm F1.8 S does not disappoint. The lens offers excellent sharpness across the frame, even when shot wide open at F1.8. Contrast and color rendering are impressive, producing images with remarkable depth and vibrancy. Distortion and chromatic aberration are minimal, ensuring that your portrait shots are clean and professional. The lens also features a fast and quiet autofocus system, which is perfect for both still photography and video recording, allowing for smooth transitions without distracting noise.

Usability

One of the standout features of this lens is its versatility. The 85mm focal length is ideal for portraiture, providing a flattering compression that enhances facial features while maintaining a comfortable working distance. The F1.8 aperture allows for beautiful subject isolation, which is particularly beneficial in busy environments. The lens’s manual focus override adds to its usability, allowing photographers to fine-tune focus as needed—an essential feature in portrait sessions where precision is crucial.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and weather-sealing
• Amazing sharpness and optical performance
• Fast and quiet autofocus
• Beautiful bokeh and subject isolation
• Versatile for various shooting scenarios

Cons

• Slightly larger than some competing 85mm lenses
• Price may be higher compared to non-S lenses in the same category

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon Nikkor Z 85mm F1.8 S is a top-tier lens that delivers on all fronts—optics, build quality, and usability. It's a fantastic choice for portrait photographers seeking a reliable and high-performing lens that enhances their creative expression. While it may come at a premium price, the results you can achieve with this lens make it worth the investment. Whether you're shooting portraits, events, or even street photography, the Nikkor Z 85mm F1.8 S is undoubtedly a lens that should be considered for your Nikon Z system.