---
product_id: 1160396
title: "AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras"
brand: "nikon"
price: "€ 1030.66"
currency: EUR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 8
category: "Nikon"
url: https://www.desertcart.nl/products/1160396-af-s-nikkor-85mm-f-1-8g-fixed-lens-auto
store_origin: NL
region: Netherlands
---

# f/1.8 ultra-fast aperture 7-blade rounded diaphragm for creamy bokeh Silent Wave Motor autofocus AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

**Brand:** nikon
**Price:** € 1030.66
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 📸 Elevate your portrait game with Nikon’s sharpest secret weapon!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras by nikon
- **How much does it cost?** € 1030.66 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.nl](https://www.desertcart.nl/products/1160396-af-s-nikkor-85mm-f-1-8g-fixed-lens-auto)

## Best For

- nikon enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted nikon brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Smooth, Dreamy Backgrounds that Pop:** 7 rounded diaphragm blades create buttery bokeh to isolate your subject beautifully
- • **Lightweight & Compact for On-the-Go Pros:** Only 350g with a sleek design that complements your Nikon DSLR perfectly
- • **Whisper-Quiet Autofocus for Discreet Shooting:** Silent Wave Motor ensures fast, silent focus—perfect for candid moments
- • **Shoot Anywhere, Anytime with Low-Light Mastery:** Bright f/1.8 aperture delivers exceptional performance in dim conditions
- • **Capture Stunning Portraits with Effortless Clarity:** 85mm prime lens optimized for sharp, professional-grade images

## Overview

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is a lightweight, medium telephoto prime lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras. Featuring a fast f/1.8 aperture, silent wave motor autofocus, and a 7-blade rounded diaphragm, it delivers sharp images with smooth bokeh and excellent low-light performance. Compatible with FX and DX formats, this lens offers professional-grade optics and a compact form factor, making it a top choice for portrait photographers seeking quality and value.

## Description

To focus using autofocus with manual override (M/A): Slide the lens focus-mode switch to M/A. If desired, autofocus can be over-ridden by rotating the lens focus ring while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway (or, if the camera is equipped with an AF-ON button, while the AF-ON button is pressed). To refocus using autofocus, press the shutter-release button halfway or press the AF-ON button again. The fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 performs brilliantly under any lighting conditions and delivers beautiful, natural background blur that brings out the best in any subject. Compatible Format(s) - FX, DX, FX in DX Crop Mode, 35mm Film.

Review: An Extraordinary Performer, a Best Value Buy, Plus Several Alternatives and Some Tips - What a find! This is one of Nikon's best lenses and yet it is one of its cheapest--a remarkable bargain. In particular, it is an exceptionally sharp lens. It just might become the sharpest that you own. You have to try out this lens to appreciate just how excellent it is. And as you know, the better and larger your camera sensor’s size and resolution, the better performance you will get with the right lens & camera coupling. That is what DxOMark’s benchmark tests are based upon, pairings, and you can see on that site that this lens is very highly ranked. Basically it matches the performance ranking of this Nikkor 85 1.8G's heavier big brother that is $1,100 more expensive and equally highly regarded 85 mm f1.4 Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras . In my tests, although I love that lens too, I did not find what I needed in its performance wide open so why pay more? Some of my colleagues counter that it has better glass and a heavier build that is well worth the difference. It is a heftier lens, solidly built but just not the best choice available for my travel kit or budget. In a blind test I doubt I could distinguish which print came from which of these two Nikkor 85mm lenses. On the other end of the price scale, if you are on a tight budget you can still find deals on older 85D auto focus lenses like these ones presently starting around $300 on desertcart, Nikon 85mm f/1.8D Auto Focus Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras - Fixed . There is also a faster, well respected, more expensive model, the 85D 1.4 that still has many loyal fans, Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras . All of these Nikkor 85 mm lenses offer very good to excellent optical quality. In general, from what I have seen over the years I think most newer lenses have more contrast and better color saturation because of improved internal coatings but the optical quality of the older glass is still superb. The "D" models have advantages of distance scales for DoF and infinity hard stops. As a Nikon user you have a lot of 85mm lenses from which to choose. And if you do not need auto focus Nikon's even older lenses might interest you and come at a great price. As a general rule, the problem with manual focus today is that digital cameras do not usually offer view screens that are close to being the most appropriate for manual focus and that is compounded by modern lenses' barrels, except for Zeiss, that no longer make it easy to control critical focus by offering more distance to gradually move the barrel as needed. Yes, I can and do manual focus but it is not remotely as easy as it was to control focus as in the film camera days when cameras used specialized screens and lenses were designed exclusively for manual focus. Otherwise my recommendations would be a bit different. Do I have a list of Cons? Just two. The Nikkor 85G does not have image stabilization. Frankly, that would not be reasonably expected at this price, currently about $476. I have rarely, if ever, had image blur using this lens in the studio or outdoors. In part, that is also explained by using it most of the time between f4 and f5.6 at fast shutter speeds so motion is a less likely factor and the auto focus is dependable. Nonetheless, if you have any problems keeping your camera steady without a tripod, then the lack of VR would not be your best choice. Read on below for an 85 mm lens from Tamron that is also very sharp and it has image stabilization. One problem often reported for this Nikkor that I do see is CA on edges where there is quite high contrast. Thankfully, LR and other programs quickly and easily remove it. An lastly, although not really a con, this lens is not intended to be used for things like landscape photography. It performs best at or near wide open depending upon how much DoF you require. That doesn't mean you can't use it. It is still a good lens stopped down but there are simply better lens choices for things like landscape. You can still go ahead and use it in a pinch. Third party alternatives? There are lots. I would be remiss if I did not mention some of the highly regarded 85 mm lenses that other manufacturers offer including my favorites if budget no longer matters. Zeiss offers several, terrific 85 mm lenses both old and new. But for most folks their higher price and lack of auto focus could be deal breakers. Tamron offers a new, highly rated alternative with auto focus for $749 that is distinguished by being the first 85 mm lens with image stabilization (VC), Tamron AFF016N700 SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD Lens (Black) . I have not used it but but there are sufficient reviews that agree it is exceptionally sharp, that the VC is effective, but there are also some reports of consistent focus issues. In general, if the user is not at fault, there are two common kinds of trouble. Any manufacturer's lenses can suffer from focus shift but thankfully, unless the lens is damaged, that can be fine tuned in-camera to correct by the user. The other kind is more complicated and it only affects third party lenses' in their auto focus compatibility. It is a quite a different focussing issue. All third party lenses can have such problems with Nikon because it does not share its proprietary, secret handshake between camera and lens to ensure the highest level and consistency of auto focus compatibility. Companies have no recourse except to reverse engineer. But care must be taken in doing so to avoid patent infringement. In fact, Nikon successfully sued Sigma for a lot of money on that account c. 2011. Sigma makes my highest recommendation for an 85 mm lens, the recently released, 85 1.4 lens from its renowned Art series, Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Nikon F (321955) which at this time sells for $1,200. What distinguishes Sigma from competitors so far is that it came up with a good, cheap solution that can correct focus shift and any compatibility problems (so far) with Nikon cameras, using its affordable $59 dock, Sigma USB Dock for Nikon . The dock does not work with every Sigma lens but it covers all of the Art series plus some others. I have had excellent results with these lenses. IMO, their 50 1.4 Art lens is the best lens I have ever used in terms of sharpness and resolution although there have been Leica and Zeiss lenses that are also stellar. This Art series is an especially great match for my Nikon D800e. At this moment, the Sigma 85 1.4 Art is the highest rated lens overall at DxOMark. And just like the Sigma 50 1.4 Art, this newly released Sigma 85 1.4 Art lens rivals the performance of the esteemed Zeiss Otus lenses at their respected focal lengths. The Zeiss Otus 85 mm 1.4 lens, Zeiss Otus 85mm f/1.4 Apo Planar ZF.2 Series Manual Focusing Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras is outstanding, manual only, and at $4,400, is by far the most expensive 85mm lens you can buy that fits a Nikon. Zeiss offers other excellent performing 85 mm lenses for less with a Nikon F mount but they all are manual focus only and are still relatively expensive such as the Milvus 85 1.4, Zeiss Milvus 85mm f/1.4 ZF.2 Lens for Nikon F . Older, very good Zeiss 85 mm lenses will be less. I admit that I am a fan of Zeiss. Its lenses have always demonstrated a distinctive look with remarkably attractive color rendering and contrast. Just don't expect to see Zeiss lenses with auto focus for Nikon. Before you buy an 85 mm focal length lens which I will assume is for portraiture, what are the best alternatives? This is a subjective matter. First of all nothing I can recommend is going to be as fine a performer or nearly as inexpensive as this Nikkor 85G AND also be as small and light weight. And of course, if you do primarily want it for portraits, 85 mm has been a favorite focal length for generations. But don’t feel constrained by convention. For example, some people prefer 50mm for portraits. However, if your subject has any feature that is larger than average you might find a 50mm lens exacerbates that. The counter argument would be that knowledgable posing technique and post production can minimize such problems. You will also being working closer to your subject for better or for worse. But if you do prefer a "normal" lens and you especially love bokeh, the Nikkor 58 mm Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 58mm f/1.4G Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras is exceptional for portraits. Sometimes it gets a bad rap but I think it is easily misunderstood because of its intended purpose. It is a kind of speciality lens because of the impressive way it makes distinctive transitions moving between what is sharpest to areas that are out of focus. The bokeh is remarkable, as good or better as anything I have seen. But again, that is a subjective matter. I just do not consider it to be an all purpose normal lens although I know people who disagree although with a few caveats. Overall though, for portraiture, I recommend looking within the focal range of 85, 105, and to a lesser extent, 135 mm primes or else weigh the trade offs in using a relatively light weight zoom like the excellent Nikkor 70-200mm f/4 lens Nikon 70-200mm f/4G ED VR Nikkor Zoom Lens which costs about $1,400. I offer that range because there is never a single answer for all of us about what best suits our personal needs so keep your options open to begin with. If you like to work in low light obviously you will appreciate the fastest lens models at any focal length. But they will tend to be considerably larger, heavier and more expensive. No flying submarine exists although I come back to our little Nikkor 85G 1.8 lens that IMO just might come closest to offering a compelling case for being the best compromise. And you can't beat its quality for the price. Nonetheless, there are several alternatives I have mentioned here that deserve your consideration. If feasible, nothing beats a side by side comparison of lenses using tests that are appropriate in covering everything it is you like to do and that you do the most frequently. See how it feels in yours, the balance with your camera as well as its optics. Those are the keys. Cameras come and go but it is solid planning to buy the best lenses you can when you can. It is very old but wise advice. I wish you great success in your hunt.
Review: Great Lens with Beautiful Bokeh - I was looking at the 85mm lens. I was torn between the 85mm f/1.8G lens and the 85mm f/3.5G Micro lens. While I enjoy taking macro/micro shots, I wanted a lens that was sharp and had good bokeh. I also wanted to use the lens for general photography. I was spoiled using my 40mm f/2.8G micro lens as it does a great job with both micro and general photography. I decided on the 85mm f/1.8G lens. I haven't looked back. This 85mm f/1.8 is a sharp lens with beautiful bokeh. I use this lens with my Nikon D7000 which equates to a focal length of 127.5mm. It took awhile to get used to the distance or focal length. I usually have to take a step or two back to get the object/subject to focus. I currently use the lens for florals and garden pictures. The pictures are sharp from f/1.8 through f/16. The bokeh is beautiful at f/1.8 through f/2.8. Creamy is the word that comes to mind. I've been really happy with the results from this lens. I've posted some pictures in the gallery. There's a few florals (e.g. daylilies) and I also took some pictures of the packaging for this lens. I'll be back to post any updates and additional pictures. ** Update 07/12/12 ** I've had the chance to use this lens over several days taking pictures for a VBS event at my church. This lens does an amazing job with portraits. I set my D7k to Aperture and f/4. The bokeh is beautiful. I like how my focused subject appears to pop out of my pictures. Love this prime lens even at 128mm (DX). I've figured out how far (distance) I need to stand away from my subjects. My pictures are very sharp! Great lens! ** Update 08/09/12 ** This has been my "go to" lens for the last several weeks. I'm using this lens for taking candid shots and portraits of people. I mentioned before that I have to take a step or two back when I compose my pictures. I love doing this as I don't appear to be intrusive with my camera. Sometimes folks don't even notice I'm taking their pictures. I've been using this lens in low light and haven't been disappointed. I love the results I'm getting. ** Update 09/02/12 ** This lens is now on my camera full time. It has become my favorite fixed prime lens (over my 50mm, 40mm, and my 35mm). I'm still getting great results whether photographing inside or outside. My images are always coming out sharp with lovely bokeh. ** Update 09/23/12 ** I used this lens for a class photo shoot using my D7000. Set my aperture around f/4 and f/5.6. I was extremely pleased with the end results. Pictures were sharp. I'm having a blast with this lens! ** Update 11/10/12 ** I'm now a proud owner of the Nikon D600 full frame DSLR camera. I mounted this 85mm lens and what a beautiful combination. Now I know what other reviewers mean when they say it's a fantastic portrait lens. It truly is! I'm getting beautiful results and it's great to be able to use this lens as a true 85mm. ** Update 10/02/13 ** I had another opportunity to use this lens for another class photo shoot, but this time with my D600 camera. The portraits came out beautifully. Sharp pictures with lovely bokeh at f/4. No surprise that this lens and my D600...a great combination. One of the students peered at the back of my camera to see what the pictures looked like. Her comment: "Wow...the pictures are clear!"

## Features

- Fast aperture medium telephoto lens
- Internal focus, focal length: 85 millimeter, minimum focus range: 0.80 meter
- Silent wave motor (SWM). Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
- M/a focus mode switch. Filter-attachment size is 67 millimeter (p=0.75 millimeter)
- Nikon super integrated coating (sic)
- 85 millimeter fixed lens, maximum reproduction ratio 0.12 x

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B006TAP096 |
| Best Sellers Rank | #371 in SLR Camera Lenses |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Built-In Media | AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, CL-1015 Semi-soft Lens Case, HB-62 Bayonet Lens Hood, LC-67 Snap-on Front Lens Cap, LF-4 Rear Lens Cap |
| Camera Lens | The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens is a fast aperture medium telephoto lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras. It features an internal focus system, a focal length of 85 millimeters, and a minimum focus range of 0.80 meters. The lens boasts a silent wave motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus, a rounded diaphragm opening with 7 blades for smooth bokeh, and Nikon's super integrated coatin… |
| Camera Lens Description | The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens is a fast aperture medium telephoto lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras. It features an internal focus system, a focal length of 85 millimeters, and a minimum focus range of 0.80 meters. The lens boasts a silent wave motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus, a rounded diaphragm opening with 7 blades for smooth bokeh, and Nikon's super integrated coating (SIC) for enhanced image quality. The lens is compatible with FX, DX, and FX in DX Crop Mode formats, and it has a filter attachment size of 67 millimeters. With a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.12x, it also offers some degree of macro capabilities. Camera Lens Description The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens is a fast aperture medium telephoto lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras. It features an internal focus system, a focal length of 85 millimeters, and a minimum focus range of 0.80 meters. The lens boasts a silent wave motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus, a rounded diaphragm opening with 7 blades for smooth bokeh, and Nikon's super integrated coating (SIC) for enhanced image quality. The lens is compatible with FX, DX, and FX in DX Crop Mode formats, and it has a filter attachment size of 67 millimeters. With a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.12x, it also offers some degree of macro capabilities. See more |
| Compatible Camera Models | Nikon F-mount cameras |
| Compatible Camera Mount | Nikon F (FX) |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
| Customer Reviews | 4.8 out of 5 stars 2,352 Reviews |
| Focal Length Description | 85 mm |
| Focus Type | Ultrasonic |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00018208022014 |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Item Height | 8 centimeters |
| Item Weight | 350 Grams |
| Lens | Telephoto |
| Lens Coating Description | Super Integrated Coating |
| Lens Design | Prime |
| Lens Fixed Focal Length | 85 Millimeters |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Lens Type | Telephoto |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Maximum Focal Length | 85 Millimeters |
| Minimum Aperture | 16 |
| Minimum Focal Length | 85 Millimeters |
| Model Name | NK85F18G |
| Number of Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Photo Filter Size | 67 Millimeters |
| Real Angle Of View | 18.8 Degrees |
| UPC | 018208022014 |
| Warranty Description | 1 year coverage for labor, 1 year coverage for parts, This warranty doesn't apply to the batteries and software driver that accompany this product |
| Zoom Ratio | 1x |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Nikon
- **Compatible Mountings:** Nikon F (FX)
- **Focal Length Description:** 85 mm
- **Lens Type:** Telephoto

## Images

![AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/615l9jFppDL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Color** options.

## Questions & Answers

**Q: I am doing a wedding, would this lens be good for a group picture? What is the aperture range?**
A: this is a great lens, and with the 1.8 aperture, it really does low light well.  However, its not going to do very well at group pictures because it can't go very wide.  If you are trying to do group photos at a wedding, looking at a 35mm 1.8 or a 50mm 1.8.

**Q: I  have a 80-200  AFD 2.8 Nikon  lens that I  use on my D600. I shoot people  mainly parties and a few weddings  Is it still  worth getting this lens.**
A: I have an 80-200 AFD 2.8 lens and it is very sharp and takes very nice portraits with good bokeh. I also use it to sneak up on people at weddings and receptions. If you plan on taking a lot of portraits then it would be more convenient to get the 85mm, but if you only take an occasional portrait then just use your 80-200. Be sure to fine tune the autofocus of the 80-200 in your camera. I've been thinking about getting the 85mm but my 80-200 does such a nice job I can't really justify the purchase.

**Q: What are the warranty terms for this lens? Is it 1+4 years (Nikon USA) or other?**
A: 5 years Nikon USA, I love the lens but some chromatic issues on hair. I can fix in photoshop, just an extra step.Great lens other than that. Shot my daughters bday, turned out nice. http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherkeegan/sets/72157642820120425/

**Q: Hello i am a bit confused with fx dx format. Will this work on nikon d7200 and what would the field of view be equivalent to? Thanks in advance**
A: The D7200 is a DX model so it gives you a more zoomed in feel when using a lens. The 85mm will seem to be double the zoom length. The lens will still work, but it will feel more telephoto than an 85mm. If you're looking for a further zoom range, this will work. The quality of the lens is amazing.

This should help: https://photographylife.com/nikon-dx-vs-fx

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Extraordinary Performer, a Best Value Buy, Plus Several Alternatives and Some Tips
*by J***E on May 14, 2017*

What a find! This is one of Nikon's best lenses and yet it is one of its cheapest--a remarkable bargain. In particular, it is an exceptionally sharp lens. It just might become the sharpest that you own. You have to try out this lens to appreciate just how excellent it is. And as you know, the better and larger your camera sensor’s size and resolution, the better performance you will get with the right lens & camera coupling. That is what DxOMark’s benchmark tests are based upon, pairings, and you can see on that site that this lens is very highly ranked. Basically it matches the performance ranking of this Nikkor 85 1.8G's heavier big brother that is $1,100 more expensive and equally highly regarded 85 mm f1.4 Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras . In my tests, although I love that lens too, I did not find what I needed in its performance wide open so why pay more? Some of my colleagues counter that it has better glass and a heavier build that is well worth the difference. It is a heftier lens, solidly built but just not the best choice available for my travel kit or budget. In a blind test I doubt I could distinguish which print came from which of these two Nikkor 85mm lenses. On the other end of the price scale, if you are on a tight budget you can still find deals on older 85D auto focus lenses like these ones presently starting around $300 on Amazon, Nikon 85mm f/1.8D Auto Focus Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras - Fixed . There is also a faster, well respected, more expensive model, the 85D 1.4 that still has many loyal fans, Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras . All of these Nikkor 85 mm lenses offer very good to excellent optical quality. In general, from what I have seen over the years I think most newer lenses have more contrast and better color saturation because of improved internal coatings but the optical quality of the older glass is still superb. The "D" models have advantages of distance scales for DoF and infinity hard stops. As a Nikon user you have a lot of 85mm lenses from which to choose. And if you do not need auto focus Nikon's even older lenses might interest you and come at a great price. As a general rule, the problem with manual focus today is that digital cameras do not usually offer view screens that are close to being the most appropriate for manual focus and that is compounded by modern lenses' barrels, except for Zeiss, that no longer make it easy to control critical focus by offering more distance to gradually move the barrel as needed. Yes, I can and do manual focus but it is not remotely as easy as it was to control focus as in the film camera days when cameras used specialized screens and lenses were designed exclusively for manual focus. Otherwise my recommendations would be a bit different. Do I have a list of Cons? Just two. The Nikkor 85G does not have image stabilization. Frankly, that would not be reasonably expected at this price, currently about $476. I have rarely, if ever, had image blur using this lens in the studio or outdoors. In part, that is also explained by using it most of the time between f4 and f5.6 at fast shutter speeds so motion is a less likely factor and the auto focus is dependable. Nonetheless, if you have any problems keeping your camera steady without a tripod, then the lack of VR would not be your best choice. Read on below for an 85 mm lens from Tamron that is also very sharp and it has image stabilization. One problem often reported for this Nikkor that I do see is CA on edges where there is quite high contrast. Thankfully, LR and other programs quickly and easily remove it. An lastly, although not really a con, this lens is not intended to be used for things like landscape photography. It performs best at or near wide open depending upon how much DoF you require. That doesn't mean you can't use it. It is still a good lens stopped down but there are simply better lens choices for things like landscape. You can still go ahead and use it in a pinch. Third party alternatives? There are lots. I would be remiss if I did not mention some of the highly regarded 85 mm lenses that other manufacturers offer including my favorites if budget no longer matters. Zeiss offers several, terrific 85 mm lenses both old and new. But for most folks their higher price and lack of auto focus could be deal breakers. Tamron offers a new, highly rated alternative with auto focus for $749 that is distinguished by being the first 85 mm lens with image stabilization (VC), Tamron AFF016N700 SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD Lens (Black) . I have not used it but but there are sufficient reviews that agree it is exceptionally sharp, that the VC is effective, but there are also some reports of consistent focus issues. In general, if the user is not at fault, there are two common kinds of trouble. Any manufacturer's lenses can suffer from focus shift but thankfully, unless the lens is damaged, that can be fine tuned in-camera to correct by the user. The other kind is more complicated and it only affects third party lenses' in their auto focus compatibility. It is a quite a different focussing issue. All third party lenses can have such problems with Nikon because it does not share its proprietary, secret handshake between camera and lens to ensure the highest level and consistency of auto focus compatibility. Companies have no recourse except to reverse engineer. But care must be taken in doing so to avoid patent infringement. In fact, Nikon successfully sued Sigma for a lot of money on that account c. 2011. Sigma makes my highest recommendation for an 85 mm lens, the recently released, 85 1.4 lens from its renowned Art series, Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Nikon F (321955) which at this time sells for $1,200. What distinguishes Sigma from competitors so far is that it came up with a good, cheap solution that can correct focus shift and any compatibility problems (so far) with Nikon cameras, using its affordable $59 dock, Sigma USB Dock for Nikon . The dock does not work with every Sigma lens but it covers all of the Art series plus some others. I have had excellent results with these lenses. IMO, their 50 1.4 Art lens is the best lens I have ever used in terms of sharpness and resolution although there have been Leica and Zeiss lenses that are also stellar. This Art series is an especially great match for my Nikon D800e. At this moment, the Sigma 85 1.4 Art is the highest rated lens overall at DxOMark. And just like the Sigma 50 1.4 Art, this newly released Sigma 85 1.4 Art lens rivals the performance of the esteemed Zeiss Otus lenses at their respected focal lengths. The Zeiss Otus 85 mm 1.4 lens, Zeiss Otus 85mm f/1.4 Apo Planar ZF.2 Series Manual Focusing Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras is outstanding, manual only, and at $4,400, is by far the most expensive 85mm lens you can buy that fits a Nikon. Zeiss offers other excellent performing 85 mm lenses for less with a Nikon F mount but they all are manual focus only and are still relatively expensive such as the Milvus 85 1.4, Zeiss Milvus 85mm f/1.4 ZF.2 Lens for Nikon F . Older, very good Zeiss 85 mm lenses will be less. I admit that I am a fan of Zeiss. Its lenses have always demonstrated a distinctive look with remarkably attractive color rendering and contrast. Just don't expect to see Zeiss lenses with auto focus for Nikon. Before you buy an 85 mm focal length lens which I will assume is for portraiture, what are the best alternatives? This is a subjective matter. First of all nothing I can recommend is going to be as fine a performer or nearly as inexpensive as this Nikkor 85G AND also be as small and light weight. And of course, if you do primarily want it for portraits, 85 mm has been a favorite focal length for generations. But don’t feel constrained by convention. For example, some people prefer 50mm for portraits. However, if your subject has any feature that is larger than average you might find a 50mm lens exacerbates that. The counter argument would be that knowledgable posing technique and post production can minimize such problems. You will also being working closer to your subject for better or for worse. But if you do prefer a "normal" lens and you especially love bokeh, the Nikkor 58 mm Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 58mm f/1.4G Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras is exceptional for portraits. Sometimes it gets a bad rap but I think it is easily misunderstood because of its intended purpose. It is a kind of speciality lens because of the impressive way it makes distinctive transitions moving between what is sharpest to areas that are out of focus. The bokeh is remarkable, as good or better as anything I have seen. But again, that is a subjective matter. I just do not consider it to be an all purpose normal lens although I know people who disagree although with a few caveats. Overall though, for portraiture, I recommend looking within the focal range of 85, 105, and to a lesser extent, 135 mm primes or else weigh the trade offs in using a relatively light weight zoom like the excellent Nikkor 70-200mm f/4 lens Nikon 70-200mm f/4G ED VR Nikkor Zoom Lens which costs about $1,400. I offer that range because there is never a single answer for all of us about what best suits our personal needs so keep your options open to begin with. If you like to work in low light obviously you will appreciate the fastest lens models at any focal length. But they will tend to be considerably larger, heavier and more expensive. No flying submarine exists although I come back to our little Nikkor 85G 1.8 lens that IMO just might come closest to offering a compelling case for being the best compromise. And you can't beat its quality for the price. Nonetheless, there are several alternatives I have mentioned here that deserve your consideration. If feasible, nothing beats a side by side comparison of lenses using tests that are appropriate in covering everything it is you like to do and that you do the most frequently. See how it feels in yours, the balance with your camera as well as its optics. Those are the keys. Cameras come and go but it is solid planning to buy the best lenses you can when you can. It is very old but wise advice. I wish you great success in your hunt.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great Lens with Beautiful Bokeh
*by S***E on July 4, 2012*

I was looking at the 85mm lens. I was torn between the 85mm f/1.8G lens and the 85mm f/3.5G Micro lens. While I enjoy taking macro/micro shots, I wanted a lens that was sharp and had good bokeh. I also wanted to use the lens for general photography. I was spoiled using my 40mm f/2.8G micro lens as it does a great job with both micro and general photography. I decided on the 85mm f/1.8G lens. I haven't looked back. This 85mm f/1.8 is a sharp lens with beautiful bokeh. I use this lens with my Nikon D7000 which equates to a focal length of 127.5mm. It took awhile to get used to the distance or focal length. I usually have to take a step or two back to get the object/subject to focus. I currently use the lens for florals and garden pictures. The pictures are sharp from f/1.8 through f/16. The bokeh is beautiful at f/1.8 through f/2.8. Creamy is the word that comes to mind. I've been really happy with the results from this lens. I've posted some pictures in the gallery. There's a few florals (e.g. daylilies) and I also took some pictures of the packaging for this lens. I'll be back to post any updates and additional pictures. ** Update 07/12/12 ** I've had the chance to use this lens over several days taking pictures for a VBS event at my church. This lens does an amazing job with portraits. I set my D7k to Aperture and f/4. The bokeh is beautiful. I like how my focused subject appears to pop out of my pictures. Love this prime lens even at 128mm (DX). I've figured out how far (distance) I need to stand away from my subjects. My pictures are very sharp! Great lens! ** Update 08/09/12 ** This has been my "go to" lens for the last several weeks. I'm using this lens for taking candid shots and portraits of people. I mentioned before that I have to take a step or two back when I compose my pictures. I love doing this as I don't appear to be intrusive with my camera. Sometimes folks don't even notice I'm taking their pictures. I've been using this lens in low light and haven't been disappointed. I love the results I'm getting. ** Update 09/02/12 ** This lens is now on my camera full time. It has become my favorite fixed prime lens (over my 50mm, 40mm, and my 35mm). I'm still getting great results whether photographing inside or outside. My images are always coming out sharp with lovely bokeh. ** Update 09/23/12 ** I used this lens for a class photo shoot using my D7000. Set my aperture around f/4 and f/5.6. I was extremely pleased with the end results. Pictures were sharp. I'm having a blast with this lens! ** Update 11/10/12 ** I'm now a proud owner of the Nikon D600 full frame DSLR camera. I mounted this 85mm lens and what a beautiful combination. Now I know what other reviewers mean when they say it's a fantastic portrait lens. It truly is! I'm getting beautiful results and it's great to be able to use this lens as a true 85mm. ** Update 10/02/13 ** I had another opportunity to use this lens for another class photo shoot, but this time with my D600 camera. The portraits came out beautifully. Sharp pictures with lovely bokeh at f/4. No surprise that this lens and my D600...a great combination. One of the students peered at the back of my camera to see what the pictures looked like. Her comment: "Wow...the pictures are clear!"

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Love this for portrait!
*by F***S on April 9, 2013*

I bought this for quick portraits and great blur and man it's fantastic. The f/1.8 is tact sharp and at great alternative to the much pricier f/1.4 option ($1500). The performance between the 2 lens is marginal. If you're getting paid as a pro photographer then you may get the f/1.4 but for the rest of us (I gather 95% of us), this f/1.8 is a great alternative. If you google around the web for the reviews, you will find this f/1.8 AF-S be a close second to the f/1.4 with what I would summarize as F/1.4 lens having 2-5% improvement in the picture quality when it comes to better light and better blur. I'll save the $1000 and still produce great quality pictures with this F/1.8. 1. Super light weight 2. Fast focus 3. Tact sharp 4. Awesome low light performance 5. Great bokeh Below is a summary of how I use all of my lens today and I hope it will help you find what you are looking for if you have similar needs as mine: * AF-S 50mm f/1.4: Great for infants and walk-around lens on the street. I use this lens most of the time for infant pictures because 1) I don't want to use flash when infants have their eyes open even if I have a softbox/umbrella. 2) lightweight 3) low light performance at f/1.4. I also uses this when I'm out of the house because it's not in-you-face when you pull it out of you bag so people won't notice you. This lens also makes me move around a bit to be more creative vs. just zoom in and out. 50mm lens makes me think more about the shots. * AF-S 60mm f/2.8 micro: Great macro lens: I use this for very close up shots. I can get as close to less than an inch away even though the minimum focal length isn't listed as being 1 inch away. You will want good lighting since flash will be useless when you are this close to the subject. I take photos of baby lips, eyes, face, hands and feet, & other objects such as jewelry * watches. Basically any fairly stationary subjects that I want to highlight the details and intentional imperfections/wrinkles, etc. I sometimes wonder if I should use this all the time instead of my 50mm but I find the 50mm better at non-macro shots because it focus faster and lets in 4 times more light. * AF-S 85mm f/1.8 : I use this most of the time for adult portraits and it has very good low light performance as well. I choose this over the f/1.4 version because the other reviews I've read on the web did not justify the extra $1000 spend for marginal performance improvement and unless I am getting paid to take pictures all the time, I don't see the need to pay the extra cost for the f/1.4. This lens also makes me move around a bit to be more creative vs. just zoom in and out. * AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8: I use this when I just don't know what kind of pictures I could be taking and need to have zoom & I don't have to move around as much. While I don't take landscape pictures (24mm) often, I will use this for a large group outing, birthday parties when I may need to get a wide shot of a lot of people in a room and be able to have a little bit of zoom capability and not have to walk up so close to the people's face. This allows me to get some candid shots when needed. It's fairly heavy at 2 lbs and huge when you put on the hood so I almost never use this lens when I'm on the street because it attracts a lot of unwanted attention. I wouldn't want this hanging on my neck or shoulders for a long period of time. * AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8 vr2 : This is one of my favorite lens only because I can use it for portraits as well (with some lighting support) and I can get really good candid shots since I can be much farther away 10-20ft from my subjects and able to get a nice picture. I do have to crop at times to get rid of the cluttered background but with the D600 camera, I have enough megapixel details to crop my pictures when needed. This is obviously a monster lens so I avoid taking it for street photos even though I've had some nice pictures and experiences on the street but it's so big... I've had people stopping me asking me if I'm a paparazzi and which celebrity I am stalking..... haha. It's almost over 3 lbs so I definitely wouldn't want this hanging on my neck or shoulders for a long period of time. * AF-S 70-200mm f/4: this is also a great lens and a fantastic alternative to the 2.8 version. At over $1000 less, this is a bargin and great lens if you're taking photos at good lighting conditions (outdoor, have flash or good indoor lighting). Otherwise it may be problematic for you at F/4.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Tiffen 67UVP Slim 67mm UV Protection Filter for Camera Lens, Clear Optical Glass, Impact Resistant Made in USA

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