Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens USA
AF not supported by D40 and D60 cameras.
This item can only be shipped to a US address.
Nikon defocus control offers new creative possibilities for shallow depth-of-field portrait photography. Photographers can fine-tune the foreground or background image area, creating unique blurred effects. Auto-focus option. Accepts 72mm filters. Built-in lens hood.
Note! AF not supported by D40 and D60 cameras
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 105 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.0 Minimum: f/16 |
| Camera Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format Compatibility |
Nikon DX Nikon FX/35mm Film |
| Angle of View |
23° DX Picture Angle: 15° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 3' (91.44 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.13x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:7.69 |
| Groups/Elements | 6/6 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 72 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.1 x 4.4" (7.87 x 11.18 cm) |
| Weight | 1.41 lb (640 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 46 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Strong construction (35)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (34)
- Consistent output (28)
- Durable (23)
- Rugged (22)
Cons
- Heavy (10)
- Blurry focus (3)
Best Uses
- Weddings (21)
- Low light (17)
- Portraits (16)
- Night photography (11)
- Special effects (5)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (12), Semi-pro photographer (10), Pro photographer (6), Professional (5), Semi-professional (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (22)
Most Liked Positive Review
Unbelievable Lens
First of all I need to start this review out by stating that I find this optic to be nothing short of revolutionary. The whole concept of allowing the user to control spherical abberation and...Read complete review
First of all I need to start this review out by stating that I find this optic to be nothing short of revolutionary. The whole concept of allowing the user to control spherical abberation and to choose whether they want a softer foreground or background is phenomenal. The DC ring on the lens adjusts spherical abberation by under or over-correcting for spherical abberation. When a lens is over-corrected for spherical abberation, you have soft out of focus foreground elements and harsh out of focus background elements. When a lens is *under* corrected for spherical abberation, you have the reverse - soft background elements and harsh foreground elements. When the DC ring is set at the neutral position, the lens is given average correction for spherical abberation, which means that both the foreground and background elements will have neutral out of focus characteristics, and they will have a uniform solid disk shape in intensity. This lens has a reputation for fine performance wide open at f/2, and stunning image quality between f/2.8 and f/4. My sample backs up these claims. Not only is the in-focus subject supremely sharp, but by using the defocus control feature you can progressively soften the background (or foreground) from pleasingly soft to effectively un-defined mush. Color and contrast are absolutely top-notch. And, if that isn't enough, you can also set the lens to give a very, very subtle soft focus effect. This effect is far more pleasing and not quite as right in your face as what a high quality soft focus filter would give. Very classy and tasteful soft focus effects can be used for portraits of people who more or less can benefit from a bit of soft focus. But as stated, the effect isn't as obvious as a soft focus filter. This may very well be THE most perfect portrait lens in 35mm photography. Nikon specifically designed this lens around portraiture. However, this lens can also be used as a general purpose lens for photographers who are looking for a medium telephoto lens to use in low light. I have used this lens for theater photography with relatively fast film with great results. Ergonomics and handling of this lens are excellent. Manual focusing is fantastic. Very well dampened. Construction quality is made out of metal (not all that common these days) with Nikon's professional crinkle finish. Comes with build in lens shade. Nikon has never really gotten behind these series of lenses and really sold them to the photographic public. A very high percentage of owners of this lens do not even bother using the defocus control feature, and leave it at neutral. Some photographers have claimed that the DC ring settings have virtually no effect, which is untrue. From one setting (on one side of the ring) to the next the effect is subtle for sure. But the effect of the DC lens have been well established. What is puzzling is that I have even tried to find literature about this lens and have come up empty. It really amazes me that Nikon would put the amount of engineering into a lens like this and then not provide a solid amount of promotion at least amongst professional photographers. In conclusion, I should note that this is a very, very expensive piece of glass. If you are interested in doing first-rate portrait photography, this would be an excellent investment, but if you are not interested in doing portrait photography or distance shots in low light, then this would be a very unwise purchase decision.
Problems Encountered: None, aside from occasionally having the DC ring set to a value different than the aperture I am going to use. Most of the time it is at neutral.
Previous Equivalent Items Owned: DC is, as mentioned before, fairly unique
Items I Recommend: Nikon SLR, digital or otherwise, and a good subject
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Problems
The copy I received had multiple issues. On my d700, it grossly front-focused (even the recommended fine tune of +20 or R2/F2 didn't fix it). Was also oddly hazy at f/...Read complete review
The copy I received had multiple issues. On my d700, it grossly front-focused (even the recommended fine tune of +20 or R2/F2 didn't fix it). Was also oddly hazy at f/2 when shot from a distance; f/2 soft but usable at close range. {From what I've read, these problems are pretty common for the 105 + D700 combo}[...](yay!). Fingers crossed for copy #2 because I really, really want this lens.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 46 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Food photography
- Portraits
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
This is an amazing lens. It is sharp, fast to focus and it has great color rendition. The out of focus blurring is also wonderful, even without the defocus control in use. The razor thin depth of field means that some care is needed in focusing and shooting. I find that the defocus control, when used, is subtle, adding just a bit to an already very well rendered image.
I really like the build quality, especially the built-in hood and the finish. It is a pleasure to use this lens. Compared to many zooms, this lens is a lightweight, too.
I wondered about the purchase, seeing others' comments that suggested a large AF correction was needed. I did not see the need to correct at all on my D700. If you are on the fence, get the lens. It is one of a vanishing breed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- candid
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
Lens used mostly for taking candid and posed portraits of family and friends. Also worked well with some still shots of still life.
This lens produced more stunning photos than my other 2.8 zoom lenses and my 50mm 1.4 lens.
Len is light and easy to use. Even without adjusting the Defocus Control portrait shots taken without a tripod were sharp. Background faded cleanly, smoothly and beautifully enhancing the subject.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
Fantastic lens. Super sharp wide open. This lens is a great prime tele for general photography but really shines for portraits. The lens renders out of focus backgrounds that are super smooth and creamy. The defocus control takes a bit to master as the differences are not overly visible in the view finder and really require viewing images on your computer to appreciate.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
This is a very interesting lens. It takes time to get used to with the defocus ring. The portraits you will take with this lens you will be amazed. I use this lens with my D7000, which makes this a 157 lens.I plan to purchase a full format camera in the near future, this lens works beautifully with the D7000. I would highly recommend this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Blurry Focus
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
I haven't gotten the hang of the defocus control. Mostly, the images just seem blurry when I use it. I'm hoping this improves with practice. However, the images I've shot so far with this lens have been gorgeous when the DC is set to the same aperture (eliminating the defocus effect). The lens is still very new to me, but the fashion-style portraits I've done with it have that great editorial look that I love. Great bokeh at 2.0. I mostly shoot with the 85, but the 105 might get put into regular rotation.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
Lens is very sharp and good bokeh. Great to use as a portrait lens on a D7000. Defocus controls are easy and produce rich results once someone practices and gets use to it. Lens is incredibly well built as all other Nikon pro lenses.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
I use this lens to take portrait pictures of my newborn.
It take sharp photos even at f2 from corner to corner. It works great at low light.
Hand holding is a bit tricky because this lens is not a VR lens. Auto focus is also a bit slow.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
Took some time to figure out DC control, but it will be a big plus once you get used to it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Blurry Focus
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
The copy I received had multiple issues. On my d700, it grossly front-focused (even the recommended fine tune of +20 or R2/F2 didn't fix it). Was also oddly hazy at f/2 when shot from a distance; f/2 soft but usable at close range. {From what I've read, these problems are pretty common for the 105 + D700 combo}[...](yay!). Fingers crossed for copy #2 because I really, really want this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
This lens is totally awesome and it matches the reviews. The bokeh is absolutely incredible and the subject is tack sharp!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Defocus control
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
I use this lens for mainly portrait shots on a D700. Focal length is very natural for portraits. This lens is SHARP wide open at f2. The DC is unique and gives you just another aspect of the picture to control. Get this or the big brother 135mm f2 dc before they get discontinued! I was choosing between the 135mm and 105mm, but for me I think that is a bit too long. Also the 105mm is a few hundred bucks cheaper. Only thing is that I wish this were AF-S and that it came with a case.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
I use it for portrait photo, mostly.
It is great product...
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
This is a great lens! The DC takes some getting used to but once you get the hang of it, it adds such a great aspect to the image. The only downer is the focus length ... a bit far away but that is stated in the stats so it wasn't a surprise. I would not hesitate to get this lens - get it, you won't regret it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
The 105 beautifully isolates the subject with it's shallow depth of field and fast glass. The DC function subtly allows you to further de emphasize foreground or background.
The working distance is usable indoors for head shots or body shots for toddlers. To fit more when working indoors I'd recommend the 85. This is a very impressive lens allowing you to take super sharp shots to dreamy, softer shots.
I'd recommend this to others.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- None other than price
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
If you do lots of portraits this is the lens for you. even wedding Portraits in the church at low light it works well.
The DE focus control from the frist time you use it you'll wonder why you didn't buy one earlier.
This lens is available in 135mm as well if your studio is small the 105mm is what you need.
Durable its Nikon, Nikor glass is the best!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Quality Optics
- Sharpness
- Strong Construction
Cons
- noisy AutoFocus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
A superior quality lens with rugged construction. I like the sharpness consistency in most apertures except about a 10-15%(still very acceptable for portraits) lose of sharpness at the end @F-2.0. very typical lens for beautiful portraits. focusing is not fast as silent wave motors which is not important for portraits.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
After shooting several Basketball games on my D700 and portraits you will never want to remove this lens. I have several other Nikkor pro lenses and their is a difference between this lens all others. The sharpness, bokeh, contrast, color even and f/2 is worth all of your money. If you have the money but it now. The focus is amazingly fast for a AF lens. This lens is just Stunning!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
This is a great portrait lens, though DC takes some time to figure out
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
This lens is great. I bought it for my nikon d5000 body, thinking i'd be fine with having to manual focus due to the d5000's lack of an internal focusing motor. (I have other non-AFS lenses and have become very sharp at manually focusing). I was wrong. The lens did not work well on the d5000's body! It would read as in focus in the viewfinder, I would take a picture, and only a few of the times was the picture actually in focus. I'm a professional portrait photographer, so having to throw away 300 photos from a shoot at no fault of my own was quite a pain. The FX lens and the DX body didn't match up- BUT: I bought a nikon d700.... This lens works AMAZINGLY with the full frame sensor FX body. I can't explain how fast the auto-focus is. The colors are incredible, the bokeh is extremely fluid like. It's like a sea of orbs behind the subject. I use this lens primarily for portraits, and it produces a ridiculously sharp picture. I find myself in awe after a portrait session.
All of this being said, you must take into account that the lens does not have VR. Due to this, I have to make sure my ISO settings allow my shutter speed to fire above 1/30-1/40th, or you will get a blurry picture when hand holding the camera due to the length of lens. Although, opening up your aperture to its lowest f2 would help with shutter speed, sometimes you want f/4 -f5.6 for the look. I have played with the defocus control, and I have to say that I can't find much of a use for it right now. It's interesting to use but in all honestly, at the amount I've tried using it I can not find that much of a noticeable difference.
This lens is incredible if you're doing portraits, just don't make the mistake of buying it for a base that does not have a focusing motor built into the camera. If you have a d700, d3x, or d3s.... not having this lens is a shame. Buy it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Sleek and sexyyy
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Nikon Telephoto AF DC Nikkor 105mm f/2.0D Lens:
My main reason for purchasing this lens is because of the f2 aperture. Great bokeh and great low light lens! Focus is fast enough for me on a d700. I opted not to go with the f2.8 macro because i don't need macro ability. This 105 focal length at 3 feet away is all i need to take pics of flowers at weddings. I'm very pleased with the f2 lens! I don't use the defocus control that much, the f2 aperture is great as is.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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What's in the Box
- Built-In Hood
- 72mm Front Cap
- LF-1 Rear Cap
- 5-Year Warranty (1-Year International + 4-Year USA Extension)
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