Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 AI-S Review

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Introduction

The 50mm was the standard lens that came with camera bodies, un till the 1980`s when zoom lenses took over the market.The 50mm lens is said to be the lens that comes closest to the human eye`s perception of distance and depth, Thus labeled as a "normal" lens.This does not apply to a aps-c type camera tough, like Nikons DX sized digital SLR`s. On a DX sized DSLR the lens becomes a 75mm f/1.4, which is more of a portrait lens then a all round lens like the 50mm. To get a equivalent 50mm on DX sized Dslr's, you got 2 choices, a 35mm or a 28mm, which translates into 52.5mm and 42mm. The 50mm f/1.4 is one of two 50mm manual focus lenses left in Nikons lens lineup, the other one is the 50mm f/1.2.

Specifications

Lens Construction: 7 elements in 6 groups

Picture Angle: 46° (35mm)

Filter Size: 52mm

Lens Hood: HS-9, HR-1

Included accessories: Front cap, Rear cap.

Size and weight: L1.6" D 2.5" 9.2 oz (260g)

Diaphragm: 7 Bladed

Price from: $ 299.95 USD

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• Build Quality.
• DOF/IR markings.
• Size.

Drawbacks

• Soft wide open. The lens is way to soft wide open. Could be used as a portrait lens tough
• CA wide open

Verdict

If you want a 50mm f/1.4, and have a DSLR get the AF version, If you on the other hand are using a MF camera like F3 or earlier this is a great lens for you. The softness at f/1.4 is disappointing, however if you are a portrait photographer you will probably like the softness of the lens wide open. For other types of photography the softness wide open is just disappointing. Sweet spot of the lens is f/2.8 - f/8. The best value for money if you want a 50mm AF lens for a Dslr is the 50mm f/1.8

Alternatives

Nikkor 50mm f/1.2 AIS From $499.95 USD

Nikon AF 50mm f/1.4D From $259.95 USD

Nikon AF 50mm f/1.8D From $104.95 USD

Sample Pictures

D200, Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 @ f/1.4 1/4000 sec

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