Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens - Second Hand

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G lens is renowned for its exceptional portrait photography capabilities due to its bright f/1.4 maximum aperture, which allows for a shallow depth of field. This feature helps to beautifully isolate subjects from the background, creating a pleasing bokeh effect that enhances the overall aesthetic of portraits. Its short-telephoto focal length also provides a comfortable working distance, allowing photographers to capture intimate portraits without invading the subject's personal space.

The f/1.4 maximum aperture significantly enhances the lens's performance in low-light conditions. This wide aperture allows more light to enter the lens, making it easier to capture sharp images without increasing the ISO too much, which can introduce noise. Photographers can shoot at faster shutter speeds, reducing the risk of motion blur, and still achieve excellent results in dimly lit environments.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G features a rounded nine-blade diaphragm that contributes to its unique bokeh quality. This design allows for smoother, more aesthetically pleasing out-of-focus areas, which is particularly important in portraiture where the background should complement the subject without being distracting. The lens's optical design, combined with its coatings, further enhances the bokeh by minimizing flare and ghosting, allowing for a more pronounced separation between the subject and the background.

Yes, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G lens can be used with DX format Nikon cameras. However, due to the crop factor of 1.5x associated with DX cameras, the effective focal length will be approximately 127.5mm. This makes it more suitable for tighter portraits and can also provide a different perspective on the subject, which some photographers may prefer.

The Nano Crystal Coat and Super Integrated Coating applied to the lens elements are designed to minimise lens flare and ghosting, which can occur when shooting in bright or backlit conditions. These coatings enhance contrast and colour rendering, ensuring that images are clear and vibrant. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who often work in challenging lighting situations, as it allows for greater creative flexibility without compromising image quality.

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology integrated into the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G lens ensures fast, quiet, and precise autofocus performance. This is particularly advantageous for portrait photographers who may need to focus quickly and discreetly during shoots, such as in wedding or event photography. The SWM also allows for full-time manual focus override, giving photographers the flexibility to make manual adjustments if needed, enhancing overall control over the shooting process.

When purchasing a second-hand lens, it's crucial to inspect the physical condition of the lens, looking for any signs of wear, scratches on the glass, or issues with the focusing mechanism. Additionally, check if the lens has been properly maintained and if any previous repairs have been done. It's also advisable to ensure that the lens performs well optically, so testing it on a camera before purchase is a good idea if possible. Understanding the history of the lens, such as how frequently it was used and the conditions it was exposed to, can also provide insight into its current quality.