Hows the 85mm f/1.8 lens on a Nikon D7100?

9 years 6 months ago #404930 by Mason Katz
I'm pretty sure the lens buy I make will be this 85mm f/1.8.  I want the 1.4, but my budget prefers the 1.8.  Would be cool to get some feedback from people that have this lens.  Let me know what you think of it.  

Bottom line, would you recommend it to a friend with a limited budget? 


Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #404932 by Screamin Scott
Which one ? The older AF or AF-D or the newer "G "?.... I have the older original AF version that I use on my D7100 & it's great.... A bit long on the crop sensor for portraits, but just move back a little more when you can....The F1.4 is nice, but not to the tune of the price difference. At least not IMHO...

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #404960 by garyrhook
This comparison has arisen before. The 85 f/1.8G is an excellent lens on any body, and is arguably the best value in the Nikon line. It is the next item on my list, right after the D750.

The f/1.4 is superior, but not 3X superior to the f/1.8, based on the cost. It's a beautiful lens, no doubt about it, but I think you need the income to justify that kind of expense. It's the same reason I won't be buying the 16-24 wide angle lens any time soon.

If you have the $500, buy the lens. I've never seen anyone (that actually uses the lens) express regret.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #405020 by ubookoo
I shoot with the 85mm f/1.8 and hands down it is not only my favorite focal length but also my favorite portrait lens of all time.


,
9 years 6 months ago #405944 by Mason Katz
Thank you.  Older one?  I don't know, how do you see this?


Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #405945 by Screamin Scott
If it has an aperture ring, it's an older model. The "D" has a "D" listed on the barrel indicating such. The newer "G" (gelded) versions have no aperture ring & the aperture is controlled thru the camera... The older AF & AFD have the same optical configuration. The "G" has more elements/groups

Mason Katz wrote: Thank you.  Older one?  I don't know, how do you see this?


Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406162 by neal1977

Screamin Scott wrote: If it has an aperture ring, it's an older model. The "D" has a "D" listed on the barrel indicating such. The newer "G" (gelded) versions have no aperture ring & the aperture is controlled thru the camera... The older AF & AFD have the same optical configuration. The "G" has more elements/groups

Mason Katz wrote: Thank you.  Older one?  I don't know, how do you see this?



:goodpost:    someone really knows there gear!


Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406603 by Mason Katz

Screamin Scott wrote: If it has an aperture ring, it's an older model. The "D" has a "D" listed on the barrel indicating such. The newer "G" (gelded) versions have no aperture ring & the aperture is controlled thru the camera... The older AF & AFD have the same optical configuration. The "G" has more elements/groups

Mason Katz wrote: Thank you.  Older one?  I don't know, how do you see this?



I'll be ordering this from either Adorama or B&H new so I'm assuming they are selling the new version vs old stuff.  But good to know how to spot different models.  Thank you for helping me out Scott. 


Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406607 by Screamin Scott
Just be careful that you are ordering the "USA" model & not the less expensive "Imported" or "Grey Market" version. The USA model will get you a Nikon USA warranty, the other will not. That said, the sellers may offer a warranty, but that's a 3rd party , not Nikon...

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024