Nikon has produced an excellent update to the long-lived 85mm ƒ/1.8D: while autofocus performance isn't quite as fast in the 85mm ƒ/1.8G, the majority of photographers using this lens probably won't be using it in applications that demand superfast focusing, anyway.

Handling and features Performance Verdict Specification Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G This medium telephoto lens from Nikon can be picked up for around ￡470 and sports a silent focusing motor and an internal focusing mechanism. The older AF-D version is still widely available for around ￡305.

Excellent sharpness; Lightweight; Decent build quality; Internal focusing; Low CA and distortion

Falloff quite pronounced at wide apertures; Focusing speeds adequate; but not amazing; Lens specification

The Nikkor AF-S 85mm f/1.8G is a short telephoto lens announced January 2012. It's the long-awaited successor of the Nikkor AF 85mm f1.8D from 1994 and the considerably more affordable sibling of the AF-S 85mm f1.4G from August 2010 - see my

Traditionally, in 35mm-format (i.e. Nikon FX) photography, along with 105mm, the 85mm focal length is considered to be ideal for portrait photography. Perhaps 105mm is better for "head and shoulder" type images while the 85mm can cover a bit more.

I've always been a huge fan of the older AF-D model, but it was only really usable from f/2.8. What a nice surprise this new AF-S version is! More then adequate sharpness and contrast n the center of the frame at f/1.8 and at smaller apertures it only gets better.

Sharpness; contrast; bokeh; price; silent

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Purchased this to use with my D800, primarily for portraits. The lens excells for portraits, providing terrific IQ. However I am a little disapointed in the build quality of the lens; it (and the other 'G' lenses seem to be pretty cheaply built, out of pl

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G This medium telephoto lens from Nikon can be picked up for around ￡470 and sports a silent focusing motor and an internal focusing mechanism.

When nikon introduced its full-frame D4 for pros in January, it also had something for its amateur fans: the 85mm f/1.8G AF-S Nikkor ($500, street)-the fifth 85mm for FX bodies in its current catalog.

Im really enjoying the finished product that comes from using this lens. When out on the town in downtown Annapolis, I am getting great shots. The lens is easy to handle for the most part, and the wide angle shots are great!.

Use this lense for everything it is so sharp and focuses real fast. I love it worth the money.

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Great Portrait Lense; Nice Bokeh; Rugged; Strong Construction; Super sharp

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