Nikon 85mm 1.8g vs 85mm 1.8d – Nikon 85mm f/1.8G vs 85mm f/1.8D: A Lens Showdown. The world of photography is a playground of innovation, where each lens represents a unique perspective. This comparison delves into the fascinating rivalry between the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D, two lenses that have captured the hearts of photographers for their ability to render stunning portraits and capture moments with a captivating depth of field.
Both lenses share a common focal length and maximum aperture, yet their design and features tell a distinct story. This exploration will dissect their specifications, image quality, autofocus performance, ergonomics, and ultimately, which lens reigns supreme in the realm of portrait photography.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G, a modern marvel, boasts a sophisticated design with advanced optical elements and a silent autofocus motor. On the other hand, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8D, a classic lens, has earned its place in the history of photography for its exceptional sharpness and affordability.
But which lens offers the best value for your photography? Let’s dive in and find out.
Lens Specifications and Features
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D lenses are both popular choices for portrait photographers, offering a classic focal length and a fast aperture. However, there are some key differences in their specifications and features that make them suitable for different needs.
Lens Specifications
These specifications highlight the core differences between the two lenses:
| Specification | Nikon 85mm f/1.8G | Nikon 85mm f/1.8D |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length | 85mm | 85mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 | f/22 |
| Lens Elements/Groups | 8 elements in 6 groups | 7 elements in 6 groups |
| Weight | 350g | 375g |
| Dimensions | 76mm x 92mm | 76mm x 95mm |
| Filter Size | 67mm | 67mm |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 0.8m | 0.85m |
| Autofocus Motor | Silent Wave Motor (SWM) | Screw-drive |
| Image Stabilization | None | None |
Lens Construction
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D lenses differ in their lens construction, which affects their optical performance. The 85mm f/1.8G features 8 elements in 6 groups, while the 85mm f/1.8D has 7 elements in 6 groups. This difference in construction contributes to the improved sharpness and clarity of the 85mm f/1.8G, particularly at wider apertures.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D are both popular choices for portrait photographers, each offering a unique blend of features and performance. While the G version boasts modern autofocus and a more compact design, the D variant stands out with its classic rendering and lower price point.
However, before making a decision, consider the cost of maintaining your camera body. For instance, the Canon R3 cleaning cost, hunts, rental, and Providence information might be relevant if you’re considering switching systems. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget, and a thorough comparison of both lenses will help you make an informed decision.
Autofocus
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for autofocus, which is known for its fast and quiet operation. The 85mm f/1.8D, on the other hand, uses a screw-drive autofocus mechanism, which is generally slower and noisier. The SWM in the 85mm f/1.8G provides a more refined and professional autofocus experience.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D are both excellent portrait lenses, each with its own strengths. The G version boasts a modern design with autofocus and a silent wave motor, while the D version offers a classic manual focus experience.
However, for those seeking a wider perspective, the Vivitar 24mm f/2, often paired with the legendary Helios 44-2 lens , provides a distinct vintage aesthetic. While the Vivitar 24mm f/2 complements the Helios 44-2, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D remain exceptional choices for portrait photography, catering to different shooting styles and preferences.
Image Stabilization
Neither the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G nor the 85mm f/1.8D features image stabilization. This means that photographers need to rely on their camera’s stabilization system or use faster shutter speeds to minimize camera shake. The absence of image stabilization is a common feature in prime lenses, particularly in the budget-friendly category.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D are both excellent portrait lenses, but the G version boasts a more modern design with autofocus and a silent wave motor. The choice between the two often comes down to budget and desired features.
However, if you’re looking for a wider-angle lens, the Vivitar 24mm f/2 is a great option, boasting a fast aperture and a 52mm filter size , making it compatible with a wide range of filters. Returning to the Nikon 85mm lenses, the D version is known for its sharpness and value, while the G version offers autofocus and a more modern feel.
Image Quality Comparison
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D lenses are both popular choices for portrait photographers, but they offer distinct image quality characteristics. The G lens benefits from modern technology, while the D lens has a classic look. This section delves into the nuances of their image quality, exploring their strengths and weaknesses.
Sharpness and Contrast
Sharpness and contrast are essential aspects of image quality, influencing the clarity and definition of details. The 85mm f/1.8G exhibits exceptional sharpness, particularly at wider apertures, thanks to its advanced optical design and superior glass elements. It delivers crisp details and high contrast even when shooting wide open.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D are both popular choices for portrait photographers, each offering a unique blend of performance and features. While the G version boasts modern autofocus and a more compact design, the D version is known for its classic rendering and affordability.
When working with either lens, a diffusion globe for speedlight can be a valuable tool for softening the light and creating a more flattering, ethereal glow on your subjects. This technique can be especially effective for portraits shot with the 85mm f/1.8D, known for its slightly sharper rendering, as it helps to smooth out skin tones and create a more natural look.
The 85mm f/1.8D, while capable of producing sharp images, falls slightly behind in sharpness and contrast compared to its newer counterpart. It shows noticeable softening at wider apertures, with a slightly lower contrast rendition. This difference in sharpness and contrast is most apparent in fine details, such as hair strands or fabric textures.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D are both excellent choices for portraiture, but when it comes to photographing cars, the choice depends on your specific needs. The 85mm f/1.8G offers modern features like autofocus and a more compact design, while the 85mm f/1.8D is known for its classic rendering and affordability.
Ultimately, the “best” camera for photographing cars is dependent on your personal preferences and the type of shots you want to achieve. For a detailed guide on choosing the right camera, check out this resource on best camera for photographing cars.
Whether you opt for a Nikon 85mm f/1.8G or f/1.8D, both lenses are capable of producing stunning results with the right camera and settings.
Bokeh Quality
Bokeh, the pleasing out-of-focus areas in an image, is a significant factor in portrait photography. The 85mm f/1.8G produces smoother and more pleasing bokeh than the 85mm f/1.8D. The G lens’s advanced optical design and rounded aperture blades contribute to its superior bokeh rendering.
The 85mm f/1.8D, on the other hand, exhibits a more pronounced “onion ring” effect, which can be distracting in out-of-focus areas. This difference in bokeh quality is especially noticeable in portraits with a shallow depth of field, where the background blur is prominent.
Color Rendition
Color rendition, the accuracy and fidelity of colors in an image, is crucial for photographers who desire a natural and accurate portrayal of the subject. The 85mm f/1.8G boasts a more vibrant and accurate color rendition compared to the 85mm f/1.8D.
Its advanced optical design and coatings result in a wider color gamut and more accurate color reproduction. The 85mm f/1.8D, while capable of capturing pleasing colors, tends to produce slightly warmer and more saturated tones, especially in skin tones.
Performance at Various Apertures
Both lenses exhibit their best performance at apertures between f/2.8 and f/8. The 85mm f/1.8G maintains excellent sharpness and contrast throughout this range, while the 85mm f/1.8D shows a slight improvement in sharpness and contrast as the aperture is stopped down.
However, at wider apertures, the 85mm f/1.8G outperforms the 85mm f/1.8D in sharpness and contrast. At f/1.8, the 85mm f/1.8G delivers exceptional sharpness and detail, while the 85mm f/1.8D exhibits noticeable softening and lower contrast.
Autofocus Performance: Nikon 85mm 1.8g Vs 85mm 1.8d
The autofocus performance of a lens is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially when photographing fast-moving subjects. The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D both offer autofocus capabilities, but their performance varies in terms of speed, accuracy, and suitability for different lighting conditions.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
The autofocus speed of a lens refers to the time it takes to focus on a subject, while accuracy refers to how precisely the lens focuses on the intended target. The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G, equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), delivers significantly faster and more accurate autofocus compared to the 85mm f/1.8D, which relies on a screw-drive autofocus system.
The SWM in the 85mm f/1.8G provides quicker and smoother focusing, especially in low-light conditions.
Autofocus Performance in Different Lighting Conditions
The autofocus performance of a lens can be affected by the amount of light available. In bright light, both the 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D perform well, but in low-light conditions, the 85mm f/1.8G exhibits superior performance. The SWM in the 85mm f/1.8G is more efficient in low light, allowing for faster and more accurate focusing even when the light levels are low.
Suitability for Capturing Fast-Moving Subjects, Nikon 85mm 1.8g vs 85mm 1.8d
The ability of a lens to track fast-moving subjects is crucial for sports and wildlife photography. The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G, with its faster autofocus speed and accuracy, is better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects compared to the 85mm f/1.8D. The 85mm f/1.8G’s SWM allows for quicker and more precise focusing, increasing the chances of capturing sharp images of moving subjects.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D lenses, despite their similar focal lengths and maximum apertures, exhibit distinct differences in their ergonomics and handling characteristics. These differences stem from their respective designs and construction, influencing their feel, balance, and ease of use.
Build Quality and Feel
The build quality and feel of the two lenses are significantly different, reflecting their respective generations and target user bases. The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G, a modern lens, features a more robust and refined construction. Its metal barrel, coupled with a rubberized focus ring, provides a premium feel and a sense of durability.
The lens feels substantial and well-balanced, inspiring confidence in its handling. Conversely, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8D, a legacy lens, boasts a more utilitarian design. Its all-plastic construction, while functional, lacks the tactile appeal and perceived durability of its newer counterpart.
The lens feels lighter and less substantial, which might not be ideal for photographers seeking a robust and reliable tool.
Ease of Use and Handling
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G’s design prioritizes ease of use and handling. Its focus ring is smooth and well-dampened, providing a precise and predictable focusing experience. The lens’s relatively compact size and balanced weight contribute to its comfortable handling, especially during extended shooting sessions.In contrast, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8D’s handling is more straightforward but less refined.
Its focus ring, while functional, exhibits a more pronounced mechanical feel. The lens’s lighter weight might be considered an advantage for some, but it can also make it feel less stable, especially during hand-held shooting.
Focusing Ring Feel and Operation
The focusing ring experience is a key differentiator between the two lenses. The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G’s focus ring is a joy to use. Its smooth, rubberized surface provides a comfortable grip, while its dampened action ensures precise and controlled focusing adjustments.
The ring’s rotation is linear and predictable, enabling photographers to achieve pinpoint focus with ease.The Nikon 85mm f/1.8D’s focus ring, however, offers a more tactile and mechanical experience. Its textured plastic surface provides a firm grip, but its rotation can feel less smooth and precise than its newer counterpart.
The lens’s focus throw is also longer, requiring more rotation to achieve focus, which might not be ideal for photographers who prefer quick and responsive focusing.
Final Thoughts
The choice between the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8D ultimately boils down to your individual needs and priorities. The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G excels in modern photography, offering a balance of image quality, autofocus speed, and convenience. However, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8D, with its classic charm and exceptional sharpness, remains a compelling option for photographers seeking a more traditional approach.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, understanding the nuances of each lens will empower you to make an informed decision and unlock the full potential of your photographic vision.