The Second Most Useful Lens: 85mm/1.4 Nikkor AIS
Written: Apr 27 '00
|
Product Rating:
|
|
|
Pros: Quality, Dependability, Usefulness
Cons: None
|
|
|
| stonehousellc's Full Review: Nikon Nikkor 85mm f/1.4 AIS Lens |
One of the most useful lenses for the family photographer or the working professional, the 85mm is a moderate telephoto perfect for head shots. Just a little longer than the normal lens, this focal length provides a full frame of your subject's head with out the image distortion or subject discomfort caused by getting too close with a shorter lens length. It is the second lens I suggest anyone getting serious about photography buy.
This particular lens, the 85mm/1.4 Nikkor AIS, is faster than most other similar lenses, which allows the photographer to shoot in low light situations without automatically reaching for a flash. When trying to get flattering, candid people pictures, the ability to shoot without annoying bursts of flash can be the difference between success and failure.
The idea of shooting with the lens at maximum aperture and using selective focus to create beautiful portraits is mentioned briefly at the product web site. I have used this technique many times over the years. The resulting image, with very narrow depth of field and critical focus on the eye, is often haunting and evocative.
Like all Nikon lenses I have used, I found this one to be manufactured to the highest standards. The glass provides sharp images and a standard coating provides for stray light control.
The large focus ring, with rubberized grip, provides a firm purchase and makes even minute adjustments easy. The Nikon mounting system is one of the simplest to master making lens change a breeze. The easy on and off front and rear lens covers provide ample protection.
I use this lens almost exclusively for portrait work, both environmental and formal studio styles. While some photographers prefer using a longer lens, I find the image compression at lengths beyond 85mm less appealing. The longest lens I would use for single subject portrait work in 35mm would be the 105mm.
As stated above, once you have reached a stage where you are comfortable with the opportunities provided by the Normal lens, this would be the next step I would suggest.
Recommended:
Yes
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
stonehousellc
|
|
Location: Nashville, TN
Reviews written: 90
Trusted by: 109 members
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2008 Shopping.com, Inc.