Nikon AF-S 85mm F1.8 G Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2012.
The lens belongs to the category telephoto prime lenses, a telephoto lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Nikon

At launch 2012 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 85mm F1.8 G:

"Updated and optimized for digital, this fast aperture compact medium telephoto FX-format portrait lens offers crisp and natural image reproduction for stills and HD video.

Fast aperture, medium telephoto portrait lens for exceptional stills and HD video

Designed for use on Nikonīs FX-format D-SLR cameras, this updated medium telephoto f/1.8 lens is great for shooting stills or HD videos. The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G features Nikonīs Internal Focus (IF) system providing fast and quiet AF and produces sharp and clear images at all apertures. Its fast maximum aperture is ideal for taking stills or HD videos under ideal lighting, in low light, head and shoulder portraiture, weddings or concerts. When mounted on a DX-format D-SLR, the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G has an effective field of view of 127mm.

Flattering portraits in any light
Get astonishing low light results

This medium telephoto portrait lens is great for use in the studio, on set or for shooting in available light; producing stills or HD video of people with attractive skin tones and beautiful background blur. With its fast f/1.8 aperture, the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G will capture even low-light situations with stunning brilliance.

Beautiful background blur
Achieve more natural depth of field

When you need to isolate the subject from the background, as when shooting portraits—indoors or outdoors—stills or HD video, the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G renders a beautiful, natural background blur (Bokeh) at its wider aperture settings.

The beauty is in the details
Designed for digital with superior performance

Nikonīs Super Integrated Coating (SIC) enhances light transmission efficiency and offers superior color consistency and reduced flare. Nikonīs Silent Wave Motor (SWM) assures fast, accurate and quiet autofocus as well as full compatibility including autofocus with Nikonīs complete line up of FX- and DX-format cameras."


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 85 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/1,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is extremely bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "HB-62".

Images of Nikon AF-S 85mm F1.8 G

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The lens brightness, f/1,8
  • Works on all sensor types
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Light weight (350 gr)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S 85mm F1.8 G.

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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