Our Favorite Portrait Lens from Nikon That You Must Get

Nikon has introduced some fantastic lenses over the years. Models such as the AF-S 14-24mm f2.8G ED, the AF-S 200-500mm f5.6E ED VR, or the recently introduced Z 800mm f6.3 VR S, are some fantastic options for DSLR and mirrorless photographers to choose from. Today, we take a look at their best portrait lens for Z-mount cameras and why one should get one.

The lens in question is the Z 85mm f1.2 S, a lens that is designed for those who want perfection. The lens comes with two autofocus motors, and they work fabulously in tandem. In our tests, we barely had instances when the camera missed the focus because of the various glass elements in the lens. Since the lens pushes the camera’s autofocus ability to the very end, it is best to be paired with the Z9 instead of models like the Z7 II.

In fact, despite being a f1.2, the locks on people pretty quickly even in limited light or when the scene is underexposed. Sometimes, turning exposure off and keeping the AF point at the edge with contrast results in a better low-light autofocus performance.

Speaking about the image quality, the Nikon lens results in exceptional sharpness and some buttery smooth background. It does a good job of removing distractions as well. It offers some soft flares, and the unedited RAWs offer some fantastic colors, too. As we added:

“Typically, when I import files, the JPEGs are bright and colorful, and the RAWs are a neutral starting point with desaturated colors. Oddly, the opposite was true here — the JPEGs were undersaturated in the standard color profile.”

Those who know how to edit their files will certainly gain a lot with the RAWs. In fact, you can get the same rich tones of the 70-200mm as with the 85mm if you do the job right. The bokeh is smooth for a lens of this nature, and since this is a technical lens, you will not find major flaring or chromatic aberration.

The lens is certainly large, given the aperture, but it is easy for many to use. Nikon has added the usual focus ring, L-Fn button, and an AF-MF switch as controls around the barrel. In fact, the 85mm is quite sturdy, and it can withstand rain and dust with ease. If you are a portrait photographer who experiments a lot with different materials, you will certainly gain a lot from the 85mm.

Priced around $2,900, the Nikon 85mm seems a lot given its challenge with JPEGs. However, if you want a professional lens that can deliver without many flaws, then this is worth investing in.