On one hand you have what might be the ultimate 100-105mm focal length prime lens. The MTF curves sure suggest it. It seems to be one of the ultimate "bokeh" optics of our time. Super sharp wide open and with a creamy out of focus character that borders on sinfully sensual. Of course you want one. But remember, this may the only 105mm prime in photo history that comes with its own tripod mount. It's got 105mm front filter ring and it's dense and heavy with important sounding glass elements.
At $1500+ it's pricy. At 1.4 it's fast. At "ART" lens it's bound to be sharp and well corrected. If you can avoid the inherent hernia potential almost promised by this product then this might be the ultimate portrait lens. My finger hovers over the "one click pre-order button" as I type this..... Maybe yes, maybe no....
10 comments:
Go for it. Keep us entertained.
Yes it a Mack truck, but at the same time its a Mack truck. It does what you need.
For you whom would actually use it to full benefit rather than a fast lens collector, it actually makes sense.
Dunno if I have room for this with the Nikon 85mm 1.4G and the 105 DC F2.
It's a bit of a different situation but I have a 180mm 2.8D that gets a bunch more use than my 300mm 2.8D because I can hand hold it no problem. The 300mm gets a monopod and cranks it out but that extra resistance to use it is what I think I'd encounter with this lens.
This lens could save you money. If you used it regularly you wouldn't have to pay the monthly masters swimming fee since this would give you a more strenuous workout. And now that Ben is out of school you could maybe afford one filter for it.
Don't over-think it, Kirk. Just one teeny tiny button push and this wonder is yours.
Serious question, what is the point of f1.4 at 105 mm? The plane of focus will be so shallow there'll surely be next to nothing in focus at headshot distances? What sort of f stops do you normally use a 105mm lens at? I get it as an engineering marvel but as a tool what purpose does it fulfill? I'd be interested in your thoughts!
Kirk,
You know that this has nothing to do with picture taking. You have said that in so many articles. This is just GAS in action. It will probably end up sitting on the shelf 'cause it is too heavy.
Not to worry Richard. I wrote this more or less tongue in cheek. Too heavy to carry around? To heavy to buy.
It is heavy, but it's a great lens. The other lens that is my favorite is the 24-105 f4 Art lens. One camera One lens. Works for both film and digital.
Roger
I started using my MF 105mm f1.8 Nikkor for my wife's music performances. With a Sony A7II it's more than sharp enough at wide apertures in dim light. With well done stage lighting the lens can really sing at f2.8 and f4. It renders tones beautifully on film or digital and it's an important tool for indoor live music.
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