Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 Nikon Z (DX/FX)
Review
The Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 is an intriguing addition to the Nikon Z mount lineup, combining an impressive focal length with a fast maximum aperture that appeals to portrait and low-light photographers alike. With its sleek design and build quality, this lens stands out not just for its performance but also for its aesthetic appeal.
Build Quality and Design
Right out of the box, the Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 offers a robust and professional feel. With a metal construction and a beautifully designed focus ring, this lens is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. Its compact nature makes it ideal for photographers who need a dependable piece of gear that doesn't add substantial weight to their kit. The overall design is visually striking, with a sleek finish that suggests quality.
Optical Performance
When it comes to optical performance, the Sirui Aurora 85mm is a formidable contender. The lens delivers exceptional sharpness across the frame, which is particularly noticeable when shooting wide open at F1.4. This characteristic makes it a fantastic tool for portraiture, as it can create a beautiful separation between the subject and the background. Furthermore, color rendition is pleasing, with vibrant and true-to-life hues.
However, while the sharpness is commendable at F1.4, some users may notice a slight decrease in sharpness towards the corners when shooting wide open. Stopping down to F2.8 or F4 can rectify this issue, making it less of a dealbreaker but something to keep in mind for those who prioritize edge-to-edge sharpness.
Bokeh and Rendering
One of the lens's standout features is its bokeh. The 85mm focal length, combined with the fast F1.4 aperture, produces beautiful out-of-focus areas that can elevate portraits and artistic shots. The lens's nine-blade diaphragm contributes to this creamy bokeh, rendering highlights softly without excessive harshness. It's ideal for isolating subjects against intricate backgrounds, a technique that many portrait photographers cherish.
Autofocus Performance
The Sirui Aurora 85mm has manual focus only, which could be a dealbreaker for some users who prefer the convenience of autofocus. However, the smooth and well-damped focus ring makes it a pleasure to use for manual focus enthusiasts. This can lead to more artistic and intentional focus control, allowing photographers to engage more thoughtfully with their compositions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness, especially in the center
- Beautiful bokeh and background rendering
- High build quality with a robust design
- Compact and lightweight for an 85mm lens
Cons
- Slight edge sharpness drop at F1.4
- Manual focus only, which may not suit every photographer
Verdict
The Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 for Nikon Z is an impressive lens that excels in creating stunning portraits and capturing low-light scenes. With its robust build, exceptional optical qualities, and beautiful bokeh, it is a worthy addition to any photographer's kit, especially for those who appreciate manual focus. Although the lack of autofocus and the minor sharpness compromise at the edges may pose challenges for some, those willing to embrace its strengths will find a reliable, aesthetically pleasing lens that can elevate their photography.