The Nikon 85mm 1.2: A 10,000-Image Journey Through Real-World Photography

The Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 lens distinctly excels with its remarkable sharpness and its capability to preserve contrast even when capturing images against direct sunlight. However, at particular angles you may observe some artifacts such as this rainbow, which I genuinely appreciate the appearance of:

Overall, the lens operates exceptionally well without the necessity for a lens hood, capturing unique artifacts such as that rainbow streak, which in my opinion can enhance creative photographs. Naturally, the real-time feedback furnished by mirrorless camera EVFs enables you to modify and perfect shots/compositions on-the-go, rendering this lens a multifunctional instrument in diverse lighting situations.

A predominant characteristic of this lens is its minimal requirement for profile corrections, reflecting Nikon’s dedication to superior lens craftsmanship. Contrary to some other brands, where profile corrections play a vital role, the Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 necessitates little to no modification, upholding the fidelity of the RAW file.

Ultimately, this is a lens that is undoubtedly worth retaining.

For photographers who regularly utilize an 85mm lens, this variant is a valuable acquisition. It shines in sharpness and contrast preservation while also offering a reasonable size and weight. Just a heads up… it doesn’t generate an exceptionally shallow depth of field beyond the conventional expectations of an 85mm f/1.2.