> Date: Thu, 11 Mar 1999 14:24:51 -0500
> From: "Curfman, Donald (GEIS)"
> Subject: RE: 85mm/f1.8D vs. 105mm/f2DC [v04.n297/14]
> Message: 14
>
> > . . . . I have an 85/1.8AF . . . . I was thinking of
> > upgrading to the D version . . . . would the 105
> > or 135 DC lenses be a better upgrade for
> > portraiture . . . . I'm not sure how much usage
> > the Defocus Control would get.
>
Only you can decide on what you want to spend your money on. But, since you're asking
for advice, here you go.
I have both 85 mm lenses in f1.8 and f1.4. Since I got the f1.4, I have NEVER used
the f1.8. By the way, both lenses are the "D" version.
I also have the 105 f2.8 macro and the 135 f2.0 DC. Which lenses do I use for
portraits? - either the 85 f1.4 or the 135 f2.0. It depends solely on the distance I
have to set up and/or the part of my subject that I want to concentrate on.
Setting the 85mm at f1.4 creates a wonderful background blurring (also known as
bokeh). The 135 DC also has the capability of blurring background in an attractive
manner.
I also have the 80-200 f2.8 D(n). I never use this lens for portrait work. I do use
it in situations where I am uncertain of the conditions - i.e., sports, walk around,
etc.
By using a prime lens, I am forced to concentrate on creating the best image with the
tool that I have. Do I want head and shoulders? Do I want head shot only? I have
found that using a single focal length at a time makes me think more about what I am
trying to accomplish by the photo.
Having said all that - here are my prejudices.
1. Use the fastest (i.e. f1.8 versus f2.8) that you have.
2. Portraits always look best when the concentration is on the person, not the
background. Whatever you can to do to take the background out of the image will help
the final photo.
3. A 105 lens, with the fastest aperture that you can afford is the most
flexible and useful portrait lens you can use.
4. "D" lens technology is nice, but proper image control - proper focus, proper
control of aperture, proper angle of lighting is MUCH, MUCH more important than using
the "D" flash technology.
5. Learn to use what you have. Any Nikkor 85 f1.8 is very capable of taking
excellent portraits.
