Review: AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G

This FX-format lens is my go-to lens for portrait and macro work in the DX format. It combines ultra-fast speed with incredible sharpness in an autofocus lens that is manual-focus friendly.

First Impressions: AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G

I was surprised to learn that the AF-S 50mm f/1.4 is not that much larger that the AF-S DX 35mm. It is however heavier, weighing in at 9.8 oz., minus caps and hood. The 35mm is a mere 7.0 oz. by comparison. The large, recessed objective lens gives the AF-S 50mm a serious, intimidating appearance.

Review: AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G

The traditional 50mm f/1.8 “normal” lens is the standard in SLR photography. It provides the most natural perspective, simulating what the human eye sees, and is fast enough for most existing light applications. With the introduction of the DX format with its 1.5x crop factor, a new standard had to be developed, which the AF-S 35mm satisfies.

Review: Minolta MD 50mm f/1.7

Minolta MD 50mm f/1.7

This is an equipment review of a somewhat different nature.

Review: Minolta MC Macro ROKKOR-X 100mm f/3.5

Minolta MC Macro ROKKOR-X 100mm f/3.5

This is an equipment review of a somewhat different nature.

I’ve found working with conventional lenses converted for macro photography using extension tubes, macro reverse rings and closeup lenses quite rewarding. However, since I do posses a dedicated manual-focus macro lens, it also makes sense to use that as well. The only problem is, it’s not a Nikon macro lens, but a Minolta.

What’s New: Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G

It’s nice to see that Nikon is focusing on prime lenses with this new release. What’s amazing is that this is taking place in the wake of Japan’s recent crisis.

This is an important addition to the Nikon lineup, as it adds a low-cost option for DX portraiture, or full-frame shooters taking a walk on the lean side. It may however be somewhat redundant to those who already own the AF-S 50mm f/1.4. If experience reveals that the 1.8 has superior bokeh, it might give it some competition. It will be interesting to see how it fairs in reviews.

It Feels Like a New Camera

I must say, I’ve really been enjoying the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8. It’s given new life to my D90, and is helping me work through my “Rangefinder” phase. I’m still not out of the woods yet, though.

Cherry Blossom Festival

Yesterday was the Cherry Blossom Festival in Branch Brook Park, Newark. It’s always a photofest, and the perfect opportunity to put my AF NIKKOR 20mm 2.8D through its paces.

First Impressions: AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G

This superb little lens was so popular this holiday season, that it sold out completely and was no where to be found. So you can imagine my amazement when I found one quite by accident at my local Best Buy store.

The NIKKOR 20mm f/2.8 in Action

My daughter’s school was having a concert at a local mall today, where she played violin. Naturally my wife and I were there to take pictures, her with her new D3100, and me with my D90. Since she had everything covered with the mighty AF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 zoom, I decided to take along the AF NIKKOR 20mm f/2.8D.

Review: Voigtländer Ultron 40mm f/2.0 SL-II

If you’re looking for a compact, normal lens with a traditional feel, This is the one to get. With the compact dimension of a “pancake” lens, but a little extra room for ease of operation, this manual focus lens is sharp and fast. The focus is so smooth, it will make you reconsider the whole autofocus phenomenon.

Review: AF NIKKOR 20mm f/2.8D

Let me start out by saying that this lens is not really designed for digital cameras. Oh sure, like most Nikon F-Mount lenses, it will fit and function as it should. But digital camera sensors behave differently than film with wide angle lenses.

First Impressions: AF NIKKOR 20mm f/2.8D

I finally received my Nikkor Ultrawide prime today. I’ve been debating this purchase for a while now, but if I’m going to have at least one AF-D lens in my collection, it might as well be the most compact of them all and be compatible with a wide variety of bodies and uses.

Why Is a Fast Lens a High Resolution Lens?

Because high-ISO noise robs your images of resolution, that’s why. It’s also the reason that a high-resolution sensor does not necessarily yield a better image than one with less resolution but more sensitivity.