Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens Imported

  • B&H # NI8518DAF
  • Mfr# 1931

Product Highlights

  • Fast (f/1.8) & Compact (2.3", 58.4mm),
  • Excellent for Indoor & Outdoor Portraits
  • Great for Indoor & Outdoor Sports

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The AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens from Nikon is an excellent choice for indoor or outdoor portraits, as well as indoor sports and stage productions. Exceptionally compact for a telephoto lens, measuring only 2.3" (58.4mm), it boasts a close focus distance down to 34". Its 6 element, 6 group construction with a super integrated lens coating delivers sharp, clear images, vibrant colors and great detail. This lens is compatible with DX, FX, FX in DX Crop Mode, and 35mm film format cameras.

Note! AF not supported by D40, D60, D3000, & D5000 digital SLR cameras

The fast f/1.8 aperture is an excellent choice for indoor or outdoor portraits, as well as indoor sports and stage productions
Internal focusing for fast AF operation.
Subtle blurring of background for beautifully natural and evocative portraits.
An excellent choice for your first telephoto lens.
Performance
Focal Length 85 mm
Aperture Maximum: f/1.8
Minimum: f/16
Camera Mount Type Nikon F
Format Compatibility Nikon FX/35mm Film
Nikon DX
Angle of View 28°
DX Picture Angle: 18°
Minimum Focus Distance 2.8' (85 cm)
Magnification 0.11x
Maximum Reproduction Ratio 1:9.09
Groups/Elements 6/6
Diaphragm Blades 9
Features
Image Stabilization No
Autofocus Yes
Tripod Collar No
Physical
Filter Thread 62 mm
Dimensions (DxL) Approx. 2.8 x 2.3" (7.11 x 5.84 cm)
Weight 13.4 oz (380 g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens
 
4.8

(based on 340 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (265)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (66)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (8)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (1)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

98%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Fast / accurate auto-focus (300)
  • Consistent output (200)
  • Lightweight (176)
  • Durable (171)
  • Strong construction (168)

Cons

  • Slow focus (28)
  • Heavy (15)
  • Tough to attach (6)
  • Blurry focus (3)
  • Poor in low light (3)

Best Uses

  • Low light (171)
  • Weddings (131)
  • Sports/action (111)
  • Portraits (100)
  • Night photography (91)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Semi-pro photographer (85), Photo enthusiast (84), Pro photographer (50), Enthusiast (36), Casual photographer (24)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (172), Yes (7)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

One of the best values among Nikkors

I've used both the 1.4 and the 1.8 versions of Nikon's 85mm, and for approximately half the price, the 1.8 version represents one of the best values in the Nikkor family.

It...Read complete review

I've used both the 1.4 and the 1.8 versions of Nikon's 85mm, and for approximately half the price, the 1.8 version represents one of the best values in the Nikkor family.

It actually focuses faster due to the smaller elements involved. And I've found it to be sharper at all apertures compared to the 1.4, even when at 1.8.

The main drawbacks I find are in the build of the lens - the plastic seems very durable, but it doesn't quite compare to the all metal body of the 1.4.

Also, I really wish it was an AF-S lens, but I like the aperture ring, so I can use it for my D200 and Fm3a.

Aside from the most demanding users, that are quite rough on their equipment, I'd gladly recommend the 1.8 over the 1.4. The sharpness/contrast/and out of focus areas leave very little to be desired if handled properly.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

Good for casual use

I use this lens for portrait and wedding photography. It's a great lens for the price. It's fairly sharp all the way through.

The most frustrating things about this lens is...Read complete review

I use this lens for portrait and wedding photography. It's a great lens for the price. It's fairly sharp all the way through.

The most frustrating things about this lens is the slow auto-focus. When 1.8 should get you good photos in fairly low light, it's hard to shoot because It has a hard time focusing.

I also have a slight issue with chromatic aberration when shooting anywhere below f3.5 in bright conditions.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 340 customers

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5.0

Great lens as good as any prime.

By Dave

from Sugar Grove Ohio

About Me Pro Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Consistent Output
  • Durable
  • Easily Interchangeable
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
  • Lightweight
  • Nice Bokeh
  • Rugged
  • Strong Construction

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Indoors/Low Light
    • Sports/Action
    • Video
    • Weddings/Events

    Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

    Sports,portraits,photojournalism.Can also be used as a walkaround lens at events.Sharp,really does shoot wide open(1.8),decent autofocus speed and not heavy or bulky.This is really a value for the money spent.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    Fast Glass!

    By AJMiracle

    from Long Island, NY

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Consistent Output
    • Durable
    • Easily Interchangeable
    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
    • Lightweight
    • Nice Bokeh

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Weddings/Events

      Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

      I purchased this lens to shoot informal portraits.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Great lens for own price!

      By vfedorov

      from Novokuznetsk, Russia

      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

      Pros

      • Easily Interchangeable
      • Fast / accurate auto-focus
      • Lightweight
      • Nice Bokeh
      • Strong Construction

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Sports/Action
        • Weddings/Events

        Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

        These is a nice portrait lens. Sharpness on wide open apperture is lower as on 2.8, as a sample, but enough on my D7000. As a wedding photographer, i'll have this lens on sessions in a bag and sometimes on camera :)
        Portraits are great, background bluring is better as on 50 mm 1.4 primes, IMHO. But in low light is not so great, need shutter speed about 1/100 for be sure that you'll take a sharp picture. In low light better to hawe a 35 mm 1.8G prime in a bug and time to change lens. or second camera!
        Great thing, anytime, for great pictures!

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        5.0

        Sharp, Solid Build

        By MrMr

        from USA

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Consistent Output
        • Durable
        • Easily Interchangeable
        • Fast / accurate auto-focus
        • Nice Bokeh
        • Strong Construction

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Night Photography
          • Sports/Action
          • Weddings/Events

          Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

          Sharp images, focuses quickly, comes with a nice metal hood.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Fantastic.

          By Junior Franzin

          from São Paulo - Brasil

          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
          • Nice Bokeh

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Weddings/Events

            Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

            The best lens to make portrait.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

            (0 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            it is so awesome lens

            By yohan

            from Emporia ks

            About Me Photography Student

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Strong Construction

            Cons

            • Blurry Focus

            Best Uses

            • Weddings/Events

            Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

            when i shoot portrait and sport, i use this lens.

            it is so awesome.

            lens made the picture so awesome..

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

            (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Love this lens.

            By Kayakertc

            from Pigeon, MI

            About Me Photo Enthusiast

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easily Interchangeable
            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
            • Nice Bokeh

            Cons

              Best Uses

                Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                Got this lens last week and love it. On my D90 it's responsive and the 1.8 produces a nice shallow DOF. Also so nice to have the speed in low light. On the D90 with it's crop factor of 1.6 this lens is effectively 136mm making it a wonderful portrait lens. Worth the money!

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

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                5.0

                It is a great performer

                By An

                from Alabama

                About Me Casual Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Consistent Output
                • Nice Bokeh

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Indoors/Low Light

                  Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                  I have used it for baby pics and it gives great results in low light.It also has a very pleasing bokeh.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  4.0

                  Good lens for the price

                  By Jake

                  from Prescott, Az

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Consistent Output
                  • Easily Interchangeable
                  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                  • Lightweight
                  • Nice Bokeh
                  • No hood shadow

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Indoors/Low Light
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Weddings/Events
                    • Wildlife Photos

                    Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                    Great indoor and outdoor portrait photos. With and without flash.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    love this lens my favorite

                    By earl

                    from hillsborough north carolina

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Pros

                    • Consistent Output
                    • Durable
                    • Easily Interchangeable
                    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                    • Lightweight
                    • Nice Bokeh
                    • Rugged
                    • Strong Construction

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Indoors/Low Light
                      • Landscape/Scenery
                      • Night Photography
                      • Weddings/Events

                      Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                      fast ,very sharp, best portrait lens i have bought .

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                      (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      4.0

                      Love this lens!

                      By Marmar

                      from Utah

                      About Me Photo Enthusiast

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Consistent Output
                      • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                      • Lightweight

                      Cons

                      • Tough To Attach

                      Best Uses

                      • Indoors/Low Light

                      Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                      Fast Lens that takes beautiful pics. Bokeh could be improved but for the money you cant beat it. I am already noticing great improvement in the quality of my photos!

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                       
                      5.0

                      Amazing piece of glass

                      By Shesy

                      from Israel

                      About Me Photo Enthusiast

                      Pros

                      • Consistent Output
                      • Durable
                      • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                      • Nice Bokeh
                      • Strong Construction

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Indoors/Low Light
                        • Night Photography
                        • Sports/Action
                        • Video
                        • Weddings/Events

                        Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                        Sharp, fast (not as the newer AFS models) and accurate focus, great colours. Works perfect on D7000, Highly Recommended.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                        (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        5.0

                        Made beautiful photos. Great colors!

                        By Gina the sports mom!

                        from Tuscaloosa, AL

                        About Me Casual Photographer

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Consistent Output
                        • Durable
                        • Easily Interchangeable
                        • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                        • Lightweight
                        • Strong Construction

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Indoors/Low Light
                          • Landscape/Scenery
                          • Sports/Action
                          • Weddings/Events

                          Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                          I loved the lens, but I had to get used to only having 85mm! All of my other lens are 70-300 or 35-125, etc. I shot the same subjects with the 70-300 and the colors looked better with the 85mm.

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Share this review

                          (3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          Love this lens, yes I would buy it again

                          By Jim

                          from Elmhurst, Illinois

                          About Me Pro Photographer

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Consistent Output
                          • Durable
                          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                          • Lightweight

                          Cons

                          • NONE

                          Best Uses

                          • Indoors/Low Light
                          • Sports/Action

                          Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                          I was toying with buying the 1.4 but did not want to pay the extra bucks and I have no regrets, 1.8 is plenty fast enough for me. I use it on my D3 and shoot indoor sports and children for park district web pages. Fast AF, sharp & nice colors, bokeh is OK for what I use it for. And yes B&H Photo has been my source for many years, love em.

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                          • No

                          Share this review

                          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          great lens

                          By mooringhooker

                          from virginia

                          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easily Interchangeable
                          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                          • Lightweight
                          • Nice Bokeh

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Weddings/Events

                            Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                            love this lens. very small and light and is excellent for outdoor portraits.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                             
                            3.0

                            Good, but Focus ring not great.

                            By Ahmed

                            from Iraq

                            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Lightweight
                            • Nice Bokeh

                            Cons

                            • Poor in Low Light
                            • Weak Casing

                            Best Uses

                            • Video

                            Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                            I bought this for the Sony NEX FS-100, it's a good lens but a little plasticy, and the focus ring is way too sensitive and moves really too fast.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                             
                            4.0

                            Great Lens

                            By Tom

                            from Koko

                            About Me Pro Photographer

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Consistent Output
                            • Durable

                            Cons

                            • Slow Focus

                            Best Uses

                            • Sports/Action

                            Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                            Indoor sports. Fast lens. Can be slow to focus at times.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                            (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                             
                            3.0

                            Great within its limitations

                            By MCF

                            from Bethesda, MD

                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Consistent Output
                            • Durable
                            • Easily Interchangeable
                            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                            • Strong Construction

                            Cons

                            • Heavy

                            Best Uses

                            • Indoors/Low Light
                            • Sports/Action

                            Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                            I have found this lens to be wonderful in certain situations such as shooting kids (e.g., you can get nice portrait close-ups without getting too close) and indoor sports and performances. I don't use it as often as I thought I would because the 85mm length is not appropriate for many situations, especially with the 1.5 factor (versus 35mm) I have with my digital camera. And it's heavy. But when I do use it, I love the results. With what this does at the widest apertures, I can't see how I'd ever need the much more expensive 1.4. If you are SURE you want an 85mm prime lens then go for it, but I'd think hard about whether you could get much of what you want with just a 50.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                             
                            5.0

                            Just the right lens

                            By gmwS26

                            from Visalia,CA

                            About Me Casual Photographer

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Fast / accurate auto-focus

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Indoors/Low Light
                              • Sports/Action

                              Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                              I purchased this lens to photograph my daughter's indoor vollyball games. It has performed perfectly and I would recommend it for indoor sports.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                              (3 of 6 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              2.0

                              Sharp, but heavy and ugly Bokeh!

                              By Rob

                              from Manhattan

                              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                              Verified Reviewer

                              Pros

                                Cons

                                • Heavy
                                • Slow Focus

                                Best Uses

                                • Landscape/Scenery
                                • Sports/Action
                                • Weddings/Events

                                Comments about Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D Lens:

                                This is a lens of extremes. It's very sharp, good colors and bright images. But, its heavy, slow to focus, great for some subjects but terrible for others.

                                The biggest negative is that it has about the ugliest Bokeh I ever seen. (Ken Rockwell was kind when he only said it has "poor Bokeh!") It's nervous, and for lack of a better word, ugly. I know, I know some reviewers said the Bokek is good. With all due respect, I don't think they know what great Bokeh looks like.

                                Anyhow, if one uses this for stuff like wedding pixs, etc. where the background is unimportant, then this lens is tops. But, shoot outdoor portraits where the background should be smooth and pleasingly OOF, this lens is really, really bad. For general photos, landscapes, etc. it's fine. Anyhow, after about 100 shots, I shot it back to the dealer. (uploading a sample shot - it's cropped for privacy of the subject, but the background "Bokeh" speaks for itself.

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                                • No

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