Go Full Size with Nikon's New Pair of Z-Mount Macro Lenses

Nikon has just announced the first macro lenses to join the Z-mount lineup: the NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S and NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8. Both lenses allow Nikon mirrorless shooters to achieve a 1:1 magnification ratio with native Z-mount lenses—no need to rely on the FTZ adapter with F-mount lenses or extension tubes. Whether you are photographing flowers, insects, jewelry, portraits, or other creative macro subjects, these lenses promise exacting image rendering with minimal distortion.

The 105mm f/2.8 VR S, the newest member of the premium S-series lens family, features a dual motor multi-focus STM system for quick, quiet, and reliable focusing as close as 11.4" (0.29m). A manual focusing ring is also included for fine-tuning focus. At its closest range, the maximum aperture of the lens bumps up to f/4.5. To keep images sharp, the 105mm offers 5stops of vibration reduction and 5-axis stabilization when used with a Z-series camera.

Optically, this lens uses Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO Coating to cut back on distortion for sharp, consistent image rendering. A digital display is incorporated on the lens barrel to keep track of aperture and subject distance easily. For a tailored shooting experience, an L-Fn button can be customized to your needs and a customizable control ring can be set to adjust aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO settings. A focus limiter switch is also included on the lens barrel to speed up focusing.

Outdoor photographers will appreciate that this lens is weather sealed and features a fluorine coating on its front element to repel water, dirt, and oil. In addition to eliminating the need for a lens adapter, the lens weighs 625g compared to 720g for its F-mount equivalent, making handheld capture easier.

The 50mm f/2.8 serves as an excellent first macro lens capable of capturing a wider field of view than its larger sibling. Weighing just 250g, it serves as one of the lightest Z-series lenses, making it perfect for carrying out into the field. A minimum focusing distance of 6.3" (0.16m) allows you to get extremely close to subjects for creative effect. A manual focusing ring, AF/MF switch, and focus limiter switch are all included on the lens to streamline capture. Film shooters will appreciate that this lens is compatible with Nikon’s ES-2 Film Digitizing Adapter for scanning negatives.

New Lenses in Development

Tagged onto the end of the macro lens announcement is a smaller notice that Nikon has even more Z Series lenses in development. The roadmap has been updated to include the NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 and NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2. These compact and lightweight full-frame lenses will provide Z Series shooters with small, yet sharp and high-quality optics. The 28mm is an ideal pick for everyday use and street while the 40mm is a more natural perspective and bokeh. Both are expected to release in 2021.

Which of Nikon’s new 1:1 macro lenses work best for your style of photography? Are the new lenses in development going on your wish list? Share your thoughts in the Comments section, below!