Graham Fry
Nikon has unveiled the AF-S Nikkor 105mm F1.4E ED, the fastest full-frame lens of its kind with autofocus. Resistant to dust and moisture, the lens uses 14 elements in 9 groups, including 3 ED elements, along with Nano Crystal and fluorine coatings. The lens has 9 rounded aperture blades, and the aperture is electronically controlled, which keeps exposure consistent while shooting high-speed bursts. As you might expect, this is a heavy lens, weighing in at 985g/2.1lbs.
As the only 105 mm autofocus lens on the market with an f/1.4 maximum aperture, this is an exciting addition to the NIKKOR range. Professionals who want to reach new levels of artistry in portraiture and fashion will be able to enjoy exceptional aesthetic control.
The AF-S NIKKOR 105mm f/1.4E ED is a worthy successor to Nikon’s famed NIKKOR 105mm f/2.5 lens. Whether photographers are working with available light or in the studio, the all-new optical construction delivers unrivalled edge-to-edge sharpness and exquisite bokeh. The 105 mm focal length and 1 m shortest focusing distance allow for frame-filling head-shots without the need to crop. Wide-open performance is unbeatable, and subjects are rendered with perfect clarity even when shooting at the widest aperture.
In order to ensure optimum performance in portrait mode, Nikon’s engineers have paid special attention to resolution at the outer areas of the frame. As a result, Sagittal coma flare is effectively minimised for superior reproduction of point light sources as fine rounded points, even at the edges of an image. Peripheral light falloff is controlled to retain brightness across the frame, even when shooting at maximum aperture with focus set to infinity. Thanks to the unique optical design, the intensity of image blur transitions smoothly for bokeh with no rough edges. Images are rendered with a depth and dimension that’s truly memorable.
The 105mm F1.4 is expected to ship in late August with a £2049.99
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 105mm F1.4E ED specifications
| Principal specifications | |
|---|---|
| Lens type | Prime lens |
| Max Format size | 35mm FF |
| Focal length | 105 mm |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Lens mount | Nikon F (FX) |
| Aperture | |
| Maximum aperture | F1.4 |
| Minimum aperture | F16 |
| Aperture ring | No |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 9 |
| Aperture notes | Rounded blades |
| Optics | |
| Elements | 14 |
| Groups | 9 |
| Special elements / coatings | Three ED elements + Nano Crystal and fluorine coatings |
| Focus | |
| Minimum focus | 1.00 m (39.37″) |
| Maximum magnification | 0.13× |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Motor type | Ring-type ultrasonic |
| Full time manual | Yes |
| Focus method | Internal |
| Distance scale | Yes |
| DoF scale | No |
| Focus distance limiter | No |
| Physical | |
| Weight | 985 g (2.17 lb) |
| Diameter | 95 mm (3.72″) |
| Length | 106 mm (4.17″) |
| Sealing | Yes |
| Filter thread | 82.0 mm |
| Tripod collar | No |