Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 58mm f/1.4G Lens
Another optically excellent prime lens from Nikon Able to capture tack sharp images from dawn til dusk is the Nikon AF-S 58mm f1.4G lens. With a focal length slightly more magnified than what is considered “normal”, this lens is handy for use in a wide range of circumstances and thanks to marvelous optics, it handles all of these conditions with consistently brilliant results. For that much sought after professional look Feel equipped to produce images of the same caliber that has inspired you from other photographers, with this Nikon prime lens. The bright f1.4 max aperture is able to throw backgrounds right out of focus, which naturally leads to more stunning foregrounds, where your subjects are situated. The bokeh produced by the Nikon 58mm is soft, creamy and free from halos which gives your photographs a more professional appearance overall. Take a shot in the dark, blur free Leave the tripod at home when shooting with the Nikon 58mm f1.4G lens. A large f1.4 aperture like the one featured in this lens lets more light in and subsequently allows you to shoot with faster shutter speeds. Camera shake is much less of an issue with the Nikon 58mm as is light fall-off and corner softness - things that usually plague such fast lenses. Edge-to-edge sharpness The incredible image quality and sharpness that has been previously mentioned is due to an optimum optical construction, featuring two Aspherical lens elements and Nano crystal coating. This makeup is also responsible for the reduction of such detriments as ghosting and flare. Use this premium Nikon prime lens with freedom and confidence, as you set off to create tremendous photographs.
Another optically excellent prime lens from Nikon Able to capture tack sharp images from dawn til dusk is the Nikon AF-S 58mm f1.4G lens. With a focal length slightly more magnified than what is considered “normal”, this lens is handy for use in a wide range of circumstances and thanks to marvelous optics, it handles all of these conditions with consistently brilliant results. For that much sought after professional look Feel equipped to produce images of the same caliber that has inspired you from other photographers, with this Nikon prime lens. The bright f1.4 max aperture is able to throw backgrounds right out of focus, which naturally leads to more stunning foregrounds, where your subjects are situated. The bokeh produced by the Nikon 58mm is soft, creamy and free from halos which gives your photographs a more professional appearance overall. Take a shot in the dark, blur free Leave the tripod at home when shooting with the Nikon 58mm f1.4G lens. A large f1.4 aperture like the one featured in this lens lets more light in and subsequently allows you to shoot with faster shutter speeds. Camera shake is much less of an issue with the Nikon 58mm as is light fall-off and corner softness - things that usually plague such fast lenses. Edge-to-edge sharpness The incredible image quality and sharpness that has been previously mentioned is due to an optimum optical construction, featuring two Aspherical lens elements and Nano crystal coating. This makeup is also responsible for the reduction of such detriments as ghosting and flare. Use this premium Nikon prime lens with freedom and confidence, as you set off to create tremendous photographs.
Another optically excellent prime lens from Nikon Able to capture tack sharp images from dawn til dusk is the Nikon AF-S 58mm f1.4G lens. With a focal length slightly more magnified than what is considered “normal”, this lens is handy for use in a wide range of circumstances and thanks to marvelous optics, it handles all of these conditions with consistently brilliant results. For that much sought after professional look Feel equipped to produce images of the same caliber that has inspired you from other photographers, with this Nikon prime lens. The bright f1.4 max aperture is able to throw backgrounds right out of focus, which naturally leads to more stunning foregrounds, where your subjects are situated. The bokeh produced by the Nikon 58mm is soft, creamy and free from halos which gives your photographs a more professional appearance overall. Take a shot in the dark, blur free Leave the tripod at home when shooting with the Nikon 58mm f1.4G lens. A large f1.4 aperture like the one featured in this lens lets more light in and subsequently allows you to shoot with faster shutter speeds. Camera shake is much less of an issue with the Nikon 58mm as is light fall-off and corner softness - things that usually plague such fast lenses. Edge-to-edge sharpness The incredible image quality and sharpness that has been previously mentioned is due to an optimum optical construction, featuring two Aspherical lens elements and Nano crystal coating. This makeup is also responsible for the reduction of such detriments as ghosting and flare. Use this premium Nikon prime lens with freedom and confidence, as you set off to create tremendous photographs.
Another optically excellent prime lens from Nikon Able to capture tack sharp images from dawn til dusk is the Nikon AF-S 58mm f1.4G lens. With a focal length slightly more magnified than what is considered “normal”, this lens is handy for use in a wide range of circumstances and thanks to marvelous optics, it handles all of these conditions with consistently brilliant results. For that much sought after professional look Feel equipped to produce images of the same caliber that has inspired you from other photographers, with this Nikon prime lens. The bright f1.4 max aperture is able to throw backgrounds right out of focus, which naturally leads to more stunning foregrounds, where your subjects are situated. The bokeh produced by the Nikon 58mm is soft, creamy and free from halos which gives your photographs a more professional appearance overall. Take a shot in the dark, blur free Leave the tripod at home when shooting with the Nikon 58mm f1.4G lens. A large f1.4 aperture like the one featured in this lens lets more light in and subsequently allows you to shoot with faster shutter speeds. Camera shake is much less of an issue with the Nikon 58mm as is light fall-off and corner softness - things that usually plague such fast lenses. Edge-to-edge sharpness The incredible image quality and sharpness that has been previously mentioned is due to an optimum optical construction, featuring two Aspherical lens elements and Nano crystal coating. This makeup is also responsible for the reduction of such detriments as ghosting and flare. Use this premium Nikon prime lens with freedom and confidence, as you set off to create tremendous photographs.
in 31 offers
The lowest price for Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 58mm f/1.4G Lens right now is $770.46 at Camera West, compared across 18 retailers.
The all-time low was $759.20 on 8 May 2026 — today's price is 1% above the lowest ever. This is at or near its all-time low — a good time to buy.
Prices last updated 4 June 2026.
Last updated at 04/06/2026 18:09:30
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 58mm f/1.4G Lens
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Camera Parts, Compatible for Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 58mm F/1.4G Lens for SLR Cameras,Renewal Accessories
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Camera Lens, Compatible for Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 58mm F/1.4G Lens for SLR Cameras,in Parts
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Nikon 58mm f1.4 G 225076
Nikon 58mm f1.4 G, Boxed 205963
Nikon 58mm f1.4 G, Boxed 236658
Nikon 58mm f1.4 G, Boxed 212406
Nikon 58mm f1.4G
Free delivery
Used Fair Nikon AF-S Nikkor 58mm f/1.4G for Standard Lens - Black
Delivery $35.02
Used Good Nikon AF-S Nikkor 58mm f/1.4G for Standard Lens - Good
Delivery $35.02
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
I purchased this only after spending about 3 weeks reading and reviewing posts, forums, YouTube reviews, MTF and other charts; the better known websites with comprehensive lens testing reports, evaluations from users who had purchased the lens and put it to task, etc. Safe to say I had been apprised of every good thing and every bad thing anyone had to say about it, ever (at least the past 4 years).I think a little over 60 hours of reading can be boiled down very easy. Good: it has “character” and is a great “art” lens, even great for portraits and for those who enjoy somewhat 3D people pictures. Good for night city or street photography. It has amazing bokeh, razor sharp DOF wide-open and controls all that scientific lens/light source stuff very well ... MoreI purchased this only after spending about 3 weeks reading and reviewing posts, forums, YouTube reviews, MTF and other charts; the better known websites with comprehensive lens testing reports, evaluations from users who had purchased the lens and put it to task, etc. Safe to say I had been apprised of every good thing and every bad thing anyone had to say about it, ever (at least the past 4 years).I think a little over 60 hours of reading can be boiled down very easy. Good: it has “character” and is a great “art” lens, even great for portraits and for those who enjoy somewhat 3D people pictures. Good for night city or street photography. It has amazing bokeh, razor sharp DOF wide-open and controls all that scientific lens/light source stuff very well (distortion-barrel, pin, aberrations-chromatic, spherical, point light, astigmatism, color fringing, field curvature, acutance, coma, flare and ghosting) and on and on. Bad: it costs way too much, isn’t even as good as the nifty-fifties that cost 4-times less, is way too soft wide-open, made out of “cheap plastic,” and many people will actually ramble on about how bad the very aspects are that were purposely built in for the optical goals that deliver the ‘rendering’ qualities of the lens. Moreover, the internet is replete with horrible reviews on this lens from folks who have never had it in their hands… and for the ones that did - never bothered to do any AF-fine tuning to correct any slight OOF issues they may have been experiencing on their particular Nikon DSLR. One of the best tips you can receive about whether you should get this lens is simply “go to Flickr (58mm group) or Fred Miranda and look at the tons of images posted that were taken with the Nikkor 58mm f/1.4 lens - most are illustrated @ 1.4.”Okay, as for me, yes, I went ahead and made the purchase. As soon as I received the lens I went straight to night shots, low light and other difficult picture taking situations to see just how bad it really was. Furthermore, I didn’t check, test or adjust AF-fine-tune. I wanted it to be out-of-the-box for initial tests. I guess I was lucky with the fine-tune, as my center focus seems to be dead on… I will probably still check it, just in case (first tests were on D800e). As for softness, well, I can see what some people might be talking about if you get very close to your subject (MFD) AND have your aperture at f/1.4. In all other situations the only “softness” I experience is in front of or behind the razor thin area of focus, which itself is definitely sharp, and then beautifully transitions to extreme bokeh. And, I’ll also say here what most sensible people say that own this lens, I’m qualifying sharp as in not as sharp as the 85 or 105 1.4’s or an Otus - but otherwise relatively sharp. However, referring to the moaning about how poor IQ is from many reviewers on the net, I personally can’t see what they’re talking about, IF you’re looking in your zone of focus (within the limited DOF) and your AF-fine-tune is squared away, as it should be with any lens. If you actually stop-down with this lens, 2.0, 2.8… and especially to 5.6 the lens becomes very sharp - yes, very... there just isn’t much to debate there unless perhaps it would behoove you to seek the expert assistance of an optometrist.Lastly, since it’s compared ad nauseum to the Sigma Art 50mm, I’ll say (yes, I had one for a short bit) that indeed, the Sigma is sharper, and that’s about it. The Sigma is in all honestly very over rated. If you want to buy the entire line of Sigma Art lenses because “they are just so sharp” then I think there is nothing bad anyone can say about that, as they are indeed ‘sharp.’ Just understand, all the reviewers that are long-time Nikon users and retort that the “really sharp” Sigma Art lenses have no soul and certainly have no character - are absolutely right. To many photographers I fear those thoughts and words may sound crazy. Who cares about soul or character in a lens, right? Well, as these many others have said, if you have these traits in a lens and you are photographically inclined to recognize that quality, then you will certainly see it. Otherwise, the uninitiated using their Sigmas will most likely see little more than a very sharp rectangular box when they look through their viewfinders-which, in and of itself, is okay - I suspect.Thus far, the Nikon 58mm f/1.4 has exceeded my expectations. I’m not just a headshot photographer, I use it for “walking around” and cityscapes, landscapes and just about anything else that looks good at 58mm - which is quite a lot. Admittedly, my initial expectations may have been low in part because so much negative talk inundates the internet regarding this lens. So, I took the lens out the first time with low-hopes. Then, after seeing it shine, I took it out again and again getting more pleased as I went. Indeed, the lens is 4 years old now (since Nikon introduced it, not to me), and I think the 50mm f/1.4G is pushing something like 10 years. Certainly Nikon is going to be presenting a new Nikon 50mm E series 1.4 lens soon (maybe 2018?). For those who want a more clinical response from your lenses, I might suggest waiting for that lens. If inclined, you could just play it safe with the Sigma, which, like a new car is great… at first. After it wears a little, the AF components start to atrophy, you carry that weight around all day, and all the aspects of a lens that costs half what Nikon/Canon/Sony lenses cost start to show their ugly heads - you can always take the money you saved on the Sigma, and go buy a new one! :)In conclusion, the 58mm is actually phenomenal if you understand it’s not a utility-fifty you shove in your back pocket for the catch-all lens of the day when you’re tired of carrying around beast #1 & beast #2 (Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 & 70-200 f/2.8). The 58mm is a gem you want to use when you actually “think” about your photography and “compose” your shots. I love it. I also love 58mm, more than 50mm, but that’s just me. The 58mm is actually a “fifty” you can leave on your body all day and shoot everything in site. Expensive? Heck yes. But, the thing that I don’t understand about all the remarks regarding its price is that all the 1.4 high-quality lenses from the major lens companies are in this price range. And, yes… no matter how much hating anyone does on the lens, it IS high-quality, like it or not. If you read much on this lens, you will see these incessant comments, based primarily on ignorance, regarding the “cheap plastic” of the lens. Seriously, hand-to-head-slap on that one. I think we have to wake up to reality and understand it’s 2017 (at the time of this writing) and “plastics” for one, cover a seriously diverse array of manufacturing materials. That is to say, materials that are safe, solid and have even better protection qualities compared to metal. Number two, there is the weight factor; regardless of whether or not you’re proud to carry around 3 to 5 lb. lenses, there are other considerations being contemplated and calculated when engineers develop the casings for lenses (I’m just assuming because I’m pretty sure lens designers and engineers know more than me, and most of you about this topic). Cutting cost and saving money? Sure, I think that’s probably a consideration, and I’m good with that as long as some of the savings is going into optics research, which I’m doubtful it isn’t.I’d say get this lens if you’re “thinking about it” and you’re a serious photographer. If you’re not a serious photographer, then seriously, don’t get it.
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
I am a full-time professional photographer who has been shooting pro for over 30 years. As you can imagine I have been through many cameras and lenses. Although I fully embrace digital equipment, its ceaseless effort towards perfection can actually lead to loss of character in my opinion. That's when a lens like this comes in. If you look at the hardcore by-the-numbers tests this lens fails. However, if you shoot with it you just might *love* it like I do. Nikon has clearly created this lens with total disregard to the technical testers, with one goal in mind: make beautiful photographs. Yes, it vignettes, yes, it distorts; but I shoot it at f/1.4 all the time and end up with stunning, artistic images that evoke a time before digital existed. In fact, when ... MoreI am a full-time professional photographer who has been shooting pro for over 30 years. As you can imagine I have been through many cameras and lenses. Although I fully embrace digital equipment, its ceaseless effort towards perfection can actually lead to loss of character in my opinion. That's when a lens like this comes in. If you look at the hardcore by-the-numbers tests this lens fails. However, if you shoot with it you just might *love* it like I do. Nikon has clearly created this lens with total disregard to the technical testers, with one goal in mind: make beautiful photographs. Yes, it vignettes, yes, it distorts; but I shoot it at f/1.4 all the time and end up with stunning, artistic images that evoke a time before digital existed. In fact, when processing in Lightroom I usually leave the Lens Corrections setting turned off! If you like to shoot wide open and strive for an artistic look you will love this lens. Happy shooting!
originally posted on adorama.com
I use a Nikon D850. I have the following Nikon lens: 50mm f1.4G, 24mm f1.4 G, 24-70 F2.8, 70-200 F2.8 G VR II, 85mm F1.4D, 17-55 f2.8DX. I want the reader to know what this new lens is being compared to. Yes, I am a gear and lens junkie. The above are all excellent and mostly expensive lens. But this f1.8G just rocks!! Nothing is sharper, not even the 24mm f1.4G or my favorite, the 85mm f1.4D. Wide open it is very sharp. Focus is very fast, even in dim light. I have not tried very hard yet, but it is very good at preventing flare. Best yet, it is very light. It is weather sealed and a great walk around lens.Why did I get this when I have the f1.4G? Cause this lens is not very good (at least on the D850) until f2, and not great until f2.8, even using AF Fine Tune. My ... MoreI use a Nikon D850. I have the following Nikon lens: 50mm f1.4G, 24mm f1.4 G, 24-70 F2.8, 70-200 F2.8 G VR II, 85mm F1.4D, 17-55 f2.8DX. I want the reader to know what this new lens is being compared to. Yes, I am a gear and lens junkie. The above are all excellent and mostly expensive lens. But this f1.8G just rocks!! Nothing is sharper, not even the 24mm f1.4G or my favorite, the 85mm f1.4D. Wide open it is very sharp. Focus is very fast, even in dim light. I have not tried very hard yet, but it is very good at preventing flare. Best yet, it is very light. It is weather sealed and a great walk around lens.Why did I get this when I have the f1.4G? Cause this lens is not very good (at least on the D850) until f2, and not great until f2.8, even using AF Fine Tune. My favorite shooting is candids in low light, no flash. The 24mm f1.4G is good for this but it is a little heavy and a little too wide for close up facial shots. This new lens is just perfect!BTW, I had a 50mm1.4D and it is a good lens but the flare is awful and that's why I got the 50mm f1.4G. This lens is better at controlling flare. It's not a bad lens on the Nikon D800 and 810 but anything that is not great on the 850 will quickly be evident.I am awaiting the new Nikon Z6 with adapter. I will be very curious as to how this does on it. If it functions as well as on my 850, I may not buy any of the new Z lens.It is not often that Nikon offers such a great bargain but this is the best that I have found after shooting Nikon only equipment for years.
| Focal Length | 58mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 |
| Maximum Angle of View (DX-format) | 27o20’ |
| Maximum Angle of View (FX-format) | 40o50’ |
Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 58mm f/1.4G Lens
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Camera Parts, Compatible for Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 58mm F/1.4G Lens for SLR Cameras,Renewal Accessories
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Camera Lens, Compatible for Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 58mm F/1.4G Lens for SLR Cameras,in Parts
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Nikon 58mm f1.4 G 225076
Nikon 58mm f1.4 G, Boxed 205963
I purchased this only after spending about 3 weeks reading and reviewing posts, forums, YouTube reviews, MTF and other charts; the better known websites with comprehensive lens testing reports, evaluations from users who had purchased the lens and put it to task, etc. Safe to say I had been apprised of every good thing and every bad thing anyone had to say about it, ever (at least the past 4 years).I think a little over 60 hours of reading can be boiled down very easy. Good: it has “character” and is a great “art” lens, even great for portraits and for those who enjoy somewhat 3D people pictures. Good for night city or street photography. It has amazing bokeh, razor sharp DOF wide-open and controls all that scientific lens/light source stuff very well ... MoreI purchased this only after spending about 3 weeks reading and reviewing posts, forums, YouTube reviews, MTF and other charts; the better known websites with comprehensive lens testing reports, evaluations from users who had purchased the lens and put it to task, etc. Safe to say I had been apprised of every good thing and every bad thing anyone had to say about it, ever (at least the past 4 years).I think a little over 60 hours of reading can be boiled down very easy. Good: it has “character” and is a great “art” lens, even great for portraits and for those who enjoy somewhat 3D people pictures. Good for night city or street photography. It has amazing bokeh, razor sharp DOF wide-open and controls all that scientific lens/light source stuff very well (distortion-barrel, pin, aberrations-chromatic, spherical, point light, astigmatism, color fringing, field curvature, acutance, coma, flare and ghosting) and on and on. Bad: it costs way too much, isn’t even as good as the nifty-fifties that cost 4-times less, is way too soft wide-open, made out of “cheap plastic,” and many people will actually ramble on about how bad the very aspects are that were purposely built in for the optical goals that deliver the ‘rendering’ qualities of the lens. Moreover, the internet is replete with horrible reviews on this lens from folks who have never had it in their hands… and for the ones that did - never bothered to do any AF-fine tuning to correct any slight OOF issues they may have been experiencing on their particular Nikon DSLR. One of the best tips you can receive about whether you should get this lens is simply “go to Flickr (58mm group) or Fred Miranda and look at the tons of images posted that were taken with the Nikkor 58mm f/1.4 lens - most are illustrated @ 1.4.”Okay, as for me, yes, I went ahead and made the purchase. As soon as I received the lens I went straight to night shots, low light and other difficult picture taking situations to see just how bad it really was. Furthermore, I didn’t check, test or adjust AF-fine-tune. I wanted it to be out-of-the-box for initial tests. I guess I was lucky with the fine-tune, as my center focus seems to be dead on… I will probably still check it, just in case (first tests were on D800e). As for softness, well, I can see what some people might be talking about if you get very close to your subject (MFD) AND have your aperture at f/1.4. In all other situations the only “softness” I experience is in front of or behind the razor thin area of focus, which itself is definitely sharp, and then beautifully transitions to extreme bokeh. And, I’ll also say here what most sensible people say that own this lens, I’m qualifying sharp as in not as sharp as the 85 or 105 1.4’s or an Otus - but otherwise relatively sharp. However, referring to the moaning about how poor IQ is from many reviewers on the net, I personally can’t see what they’re talking about, IF you’re looking in your zone of focus (within the limited DOF) and your AF-fine-tune is squared away, as it should be with any lens. If you actually stop-down with this lens, 2.0, 2.8… and especially to 5.6 the lens becomes very sharp - yes, very... there just isn’t much to debate there unless perhaps it would behoove you to seek the expert assistance of an optometrist.Lastly, since it’s compared ad nauseum to the Sigma Art 50mm, I’ll say (yes, I had one for a short bit) that indeed, the Sigma is sharper, and that’s about it. The Sigma is in all honestly very over rated. If you want to buy the entire line of Sigma Art lenses because “they are just so sharp” then I think there is nothing bad anyone can say about that, as they are indeed ‘sharp.’ Just understand, all the reviewers that are long-time Nikon users and retort that the “really sharp” Sigma Art lenses have no soul and certainly have no character - are absolutely right. To many photographers I fear those thoughts and words may sound crazy. Who cares about soul or character in a lens, right? Well, as these many others have said, if you have these traits in a lens and you are photographically inclined to recognize that quality, then you will certainly see it. Otherwise, the uninitiated using their Sigmas will most likely see little more than a very sharp rectangular box when they look through their viewfinders-which, in and of itself, is okay - I suspect.Thus far, the Nikon 58mm f/1.4 has exceeded my expectations. I’m not just a headshot photographer, I use it for “walking around” and cityscapes, landscapes and just about anything else that looks good at 58mm - which is quite a lot. Admittedly, my initial expectations may have been low in part because so much negative talk inundates the internet regarding this lens. So, I took the lens out the first time with low-hopes. Then, after seeing it shine, I took it out again and again getting more pleased as I went. Indeed, the lens is 4 years old now (since Nikon introduced it, not to me), and I think the 50mm f/1.4G is pushing something like 10 years. Certainly Nikon is going to be presenting a new Nikon 50mm E series 1.4 lens soon (maybe 2018?). For those who want a more clinical response from your lenses, I might suggest waiting for that lens. If inclined, you could just play it safe with the Sigma, which, like a new car is great… at first. After it wears a little, the AF components start to atrophy, you carry that weight around all day, and all the aspects of a lens that costs half what Nikon/Canon/Sony lenses cost start to show their ugly heads - you can always take the money you saved on the Sigma, and go buy a new one! :)In conclusion, the 58mm is actually phenomenal if you understand it’s not a utility-fifty you shove in your back pocket for the catch-all lens of the day when you’re tired of carrying around beast #1 & beast #2 (Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 & 70-200 f/2.8). The 58mm is a gem you want to use when you actually “think” about your photography and “compose” your shots. I love it. I also love 58mm, more than 50mm, but that’s just me. The 58mm is actually a “fifty” you can leave on your body all day and shoot everything in site. Expensive? Heck yes. But, the thing that I don’t understand about all the remarks regarding its price is that all the 1.4 high-quality lenses from the major lens companies are in this price range. And, yes… no matter how much hating anyone does on the lens, it IS high-quality, like it or not. If you read much on this lens, you will see these incessant comments, based primarily on ignorance, regarding the “cheap plastic” of the lens. Seriously, hand-to-head-slap on that one. I think we have to wake up to reality and understand it’s 2017 (at the time of this writing) and “plastics” for one, cover a seriously diverse array of manufacturing materials. That is to say, materials that are safe, solid and have even better protection qualities compared to metal. Number two, there is the weight factor; regardless of whether or not you’re proud to carry around 3 to 5 lb. lenses, there are other considerations being contemplated and calculated when engineers develop the casings for lenses (I’m just assuming because I’m pretty sure lens designers and engineers know more than me, and most of you about this topic). Cutting cost and saving money? Sure, I think that’s probably a consideration, and I’m good with that as long as some of the savings is going into optics research, which I’m doubtful it isn’t.I’d say get this lens if you’re “thinking about it” and you’re a serious photographer. If you’re not a serious photographer, then seriously, don’t get it.
I am a full-time professional photographer who has been shooting pro for over 30 years. As you can imagine I have been through many cameras and lenses. Although I fully embrace digital equipment, its ceaseless effort towards perfection can actually lead to loss of character in my opinion. That's when a lens like this comes in. If you look at the hardcore by-the-numbers tests this lens fails. However, if you shoot with it you just might *love* it like I do. Nikon has clearly created this lens with total disregard to the technical testers, with one goal in mind: make beautiful photographs. Yes, it vignettes, yes, it distorts; but I shoot it at f/1.4 all the time and end up with stunning, artistic images that evoke a time before digital existed. In fact, when ... MoreI am a full-time professional photographer who has been shooting pro for over 30 years. As you can imagine I have been through many cameras and lenses. Although I fully embrace digital equipment, its ceaseless effort towards perfection can actually lead to loss of character in my opinion. That's when a lens like this comes in. If you look at the hardcore by-the-numbers tests this lens fails. However, if you shoot with it you just might *love* it like I do. Nikon has clearly created this lens with total disregard to the technical testers, with one goal in mind: make beautiful photographs. Yes, it vignettes, yes, it distorts; but I shoot it at f/1.4 all the time and end up with stunning, artistic images that evoke a time before digital existed. In fact, when processing in Lightroom I usually leave the Lens Corrections setting turned off! If you like to shoot wide open and strive for an artistic look you will love this lens. Happy shooting!
I use a Nikon D850. I have the following Nikon lens: 50mm f1.4G, 24mm f1.4 G, 24-70 F2.8, 70-200 F2.8 G VR II, 85mm F1.4D, 17-55 f2.8DX. I want the reader to know what this new lens is being compared to. Yes, I am a gear and lens junkie. The above are all excellent and mostly expensive lens. But this f1.8G just rocks!! Nothing is sharper, not even the 24mm f1.4G or my favorite, the 85mm f1.4D. Wide open it is very sharp. Focus is very fast, even in dim light. I have not tried very hard yet, but it is very good at preventing flare. Best yet, it is very light. It is weather sealed and a great walk around lens.Why did I get this when I have the f1.4G? Cause this lens is not very good (at least on the D850) until f2, and not great until f2.8, even using AF Fine Tune. My ... MoreI use a Nikon D850. I have the following Nikon lens: 50mm f1.4G, 24mm f1.4 G, 24-70 F2.8, 70-200 F2.8 G VR II, 85mm F1.4D, 17-55 f2.8DX. I want the reader to know what this new lens is being compared to. Yes, I am a gear and lens junkie. The above are all excellent and mostly expensive lens. But this f1.8G just rocks!! Nothing is sharper, not even the 24mm f1.4G or my favorite, the 85mm f1.4D. Wide open it is very sharp. Focus is very fast, even in dim light. I have not tried very hard yet, but it is very good at preventing flare. Best yet, it is very light. It is weather sealed and a great walk around lens.Why did I get this when I have the f1.4G? Cause this lens is not very good (at least on the D850) until f2, and not great until f2.8, even using AF Fine Tune. My favorite shooting is candids in low light, no flash. The 24mm f1.4G is good for this but it is a little heavy and a little too wide for close up facial shots. This new lens is just perfect!BTW, I had a 50mm1.4D and it is a good lens but the flare is awful and that's why I got the 50mm f1.4G. This lens is better at controlling flare. It's not a bad lens on the Nikon D800 and 810 but anything that is not great on the 850 will quickly be evident.I am awaiting the new Nikon Z6 with adapter. I will be very curious as to how this does on it. If it functions as well as on my 850, I may not buy any of the new Z lens.It is not often that Nikon offers such a great bargain but this is the best that I have found after shooting Nikon only equipment for years.
I read reams of reviews before buying this lens, so I was prepared for its known shortcomings. And I certainly didn't panic when my first dozen shots weren't any good. I could at least see the potential of the bokeh.I spent a great deal of time carefully calibrating the AF in my D850. A hundred shots averaged out to +19, so that wasn't a great sign, but I ventured back out and started shooting.It's entirely possible that I got a bad copy, but in 100 shots, I didn't have a single keeper. The bokeh -- it's true -- is amazing. But "soft" doesn't even cover it. The photos looked like mush, with just hints of sharpness in the center. It renders out-of-focus beautifully -- the problem is that it all looks out of focus. I was convinced that my calibration was mistaken, ... MoreI read reams of reviews before buying this lens, so I was prepared for its known shortcomings. And I certainly didn't panic when my first dozen shots weren't any good. I could at least see the potential of the bokeh.I spent a great deal of time carefully calibrating the AF in my D850. A hundred shots averaged out to +19, so that wasn't a great sign, but I ventured back out and started shooting.It's entirely possible that I got a bad copy, but in 100 shots, I didn't have a single keeper. The bokeh -- it's true -- is amazing. But "soft" doesn't even cover it. The photos looked like mush, with just hints of sharpness in the center. It renders out-of-focus beautifully -- the problem is that it all looks out of focus. I was convinced that my calibration was mistaken, so I ran the whole process again, and still came up with +19, and confirmed that lower values looked even worse.Again, maybe I got a bad copy. But all the bad reviews of this lens rang true to my experience. My 50mm Nikkor 1.4 is clearly sharper, required no calibration, and was 1/4 the price!It's such a shame, because the bokeh on this lens is outstanding. But its ridiculous lack of sharpness is a total dealbreaker, at least for me, and I'll be returning it.
Disclaimer: My photography is in weddings and general day to day shooting. I do not shoot night skies, or point sources of light at night, which this lens is believed to be made for as the new Noct f/1.2.To summarize, this new 58mm f/1.4 feels very much like a mini 85mm f/1.4G which is lighter, not as sharp and slightly more expensive. It's hazy soft at f/1.4 (it's soft in all the lighting conditions i tested it in), acceptable at f/2.0 and sharp at f/4.0. Its sharpness characteristic is very similar to the 50mm f/1.4G, but it has very nice soft rendering of colors and out of focus areas at f/1.4 unlike the 50mm. If you need a shorter focal length than 85mm, yet you want to keep the nice colors and bokeh, and doesnt mind about the price, this lens might be for ... MoreDisclaimer: My photography is in weddings and general day to day shooting. I do not shoot night skies, or point sources of light at night, which this lens is believed to be made for as the new Noct f/1.2.To summarize, this new 58mm f/1.4 feels very much like a mini 85mm f/1.4G which is lighter, not as sharp and slightly more expensive. It's hazy soft at f/1.4 (it's soft in all the lighting conditions i tested it in), acceptable at f/2.0 and sharp at f/4.0. Its sharpness characteristic is very similar to the 50mm f/1.4G, but it has very nice soft rendering of colors and out of focus areas at f/1.4 unlike the 50mm. If you need a shorter focal length than 85mm, yet you want to keep the nice colors and bokeh, and doesnt mind about the price, this lens might be for you.Again, I understand everyone's definition of sharpness might be different depending on the lens and body ownership. I do have a small share of lenses and I am drawing my comparison from the experience with other lenses.It feels noticeably lighter (feels very much like the plasticky 85mm f/1.8G), has a weird 72mm filter thread and a relatively expensive price tag. AF is slow, just like the 50mm and the 85mm, presumably to try to get perfect focus at such shallow depth of field. I actually like the focal length, it's not as close in as the 85mm and not as wide as 35mm or 50mm, this can be a nice focal length for certain portraits. I tested it on a D800E, after AF fine tuning and constantly use images taken with live view as a benchmark for sharpness to avoid any AF errors from the camera body. If the lens is this unsharp at f/1.4, I personally do not see the need for Nikon to make this a f/1.2, as it will just get worse. However, I can imagine many might find the softness perfect for portraits.There's no doubt buyers have many choices at this price point: the 50mm 1.8 1.4 85mm 1.4 1.8 or even the sigma 50mm. So unless you absolutely need a best 58mm that nikon has to offer, you will probably be ok with any other lens. In weddings we use Sigma 35 Nikkor 85G and the trinity, and occasionally 24G 105G 50G....now that this lens is in the bag I will see how often this lens gets used in the next few months.If you want to have a single lens for your new Df, this might be it other than the 50mm f/1.8G. It's light, has AF and produce images with very soft and smooth bokeh. You will pay a higher premium of 9 times more than the 50mmOverall, certainly a nice lens, but only if you need this focal length. If you dont mind walking further back or cropping, the Sigma 35 and Nikon 85 have very similar qualities and better sharpness for a lot less. For a D800E at least, you need to be at f/2.8-f/4.0 to have images with acceptable sharpness, for something that's priced at $$.
The 58mm 1.4 AF-S has become one of the first lenses that I reach for when taking pictures of people. After digital took over I spent some years trying to replace the portrait & full length body shot functionality of the film era Nikon 60mm / 55mm macro lenses. Nikon?s much newer 60mm AF-S micro is more a true macro lens and does not cut my particular mustard for portraits. Nikon?s lenses over the last 20 years in the 50mm category have been less than stellar for my kind of use.Some people like to shoot the 58mm wide open or nearly wide open for the so called Bokeh. That?s not why I value the lens. I like to use it between f/4 and f/8 as a portrait and body length lens - both in studio with flash and occasionally outside with natural light or a little fill. Focal ... MoreThe 58mm 1.4 AF-S has become one of the first lenses that I reach for when taking pictures of people. After digital took over I spent some years trying to replace the portrait & full length body shot functionality of the film era Nikon 60mm / 55mm macro lenses. Nikon?s much newer 60mm AF-S micro is more a true macro lens and does not cut my particular mustard for portraits. Nikon?s lenses over the last 20 years in the 50mm category have been less than stellar for my kind of use.Some people like to shoot the 58mm wide open or nearly wide open for the so called Bokeh. That?s not why I value the lens. I like to use it between f/4 and f/8 as a portrait and body length lens - both in studio with flash and occasionally outside with natural light or a little fill. Focal length is the key attribute for me. I find the 58mm perspective ideal for a certain kind of image.It gets very sharp and its notable field curvature appears to flatten at the smaller stops - or at least yield to greater depth of field. The lens maintains most of its characteristics like terrific color rendition, excellent skin tones and smooth transition between adjacent tones ( both in color and B&W ) at the smaller openings. Even though it is a 4-5 year old design it mates well to recent high res sensors like the D850 and Z7.
The AF-S 58/1.4G can create really beautiful images. It isn't a well corrected modern lens, doesn't have floating elements (soft near minimum focus distance) and AF is rather leisurely by modern standards However, the character adds to it and many of my favorite images over the years have been shot with it which is why I bought it again having sold mine a few years ago! Well packed and item is better condition than described! This is my 4th purchase and they always exceed expectations!
This lens is awesome! I purchased the cheaper version of this lens that would not allow me to manually focus and regretted not spending the little bit of extra money to get this one. I found myself in too many situations where I really needed to be able to manually focus and lost the pictures due to poor focusing from the lighting conditions. I purchased this lens after too many times of being extremely frustrated with the cheaper model. I love this lens as it is tack sharp and has a fast focus both manually and in auto-focus mode. I will not be missing those shots again with this lens, so I am extremely happy with my purchase of this lens. I really like the bokeh on this lens as well. I highly recommend this lens to those of you who are looking for an awesome ... MoreThis lens is awesome! I purchased the cheaper version of this lens that would not allow me to manually focus and regretted not spending the little bit of extra money to get this one. I found myself in too many situations where I really needed to be able to manually focus and lost the pictures due to poor focusing from the lighting conditions. I purchased this lens after too many times of being extremely frustrated with the cheaper model. I love this lens as it is tack sharp and has a fast focus both manually and in auto-focus mode. I will not be missing those shots again with this lens, so I am extremely happy with my purchase of this lens. I really like the bokeh on this lens as well. I highly recommend this lens to those of you who are looking for an awesome addition to your lens arsenal. Oh, by the way did I tell you how happy I am with this purchase! Quit thinking about this lens and buy it, you will not be disappointed, and no I am not affiliated in any way with Adorama or Nikon. I am just a very satisfied purchaser of this Nikon lens and many of the other Nikon lenses that I have purchased. And in my many years of photography experience not all Nikon lenses are created equal, but this lens fits the bill and will be on one of my camera bodies from now on.
This is truly a spectacular lens! I did a ton of research before buying it and I am glad I decided to go for it! It has great color saturation, contrast and sharpness! I now have the entire 1.4g series 24mm-85mm giving me a wide range of top top notch glass to capture the shots right the first time. The other thing that I REALLY like about this lens is the weight... or lack there of! I bought the 50mm art first and returned it... it did seem a bit sharper especially at 1.4, but the images looked flat and lifeless to me compared to my other 1.4g lenses... I also thought the Sigma is way too heavy for a 50mm prime IMO. I am really happy with the results I am getting with the 58 1.4g. I am primarily a portrait photographer and really like the focal length. I don’t ... MoreThis is truly a spectacular lens! I did a ton of research before buying it and I am glad I decided to go for it! It has great color saturation, contrast and sharpness! I now have the entire 1.4g series 24mm-85mm giving me a wide range of top top notch glass to capture the shots right the first time. The other thing that I REALLY like about this lens is the weight... or lack there of! I bought the 50mm art first and returned it... it did seem a bit sharper especially at 1.4, but the images looked flat and lifeless to me compared to my other 1.4g lenses... I also thought the Sigma is way too heavy for a 50mm prime IMO. I am really happy with the results I am getting with the 58 1.4g. I am primarily a portrait photographer and really like the focal length. I don’t typicality use lenses at their max aperture anyways so the need for intense sharpness is not needed at 1.4. In all I would say if you want a great optic and you have the budget buy the 58 1.4g... if you can deal with manual focus another option at this focal length is the Voigtlander 58mm 1.4 Nocton... which I bought first, but turns out I really need auto focus for some clients depending if they have fast moving kids... the Voigtlander is now my back up or used for solo shoots where I have more time to focus.
I'd been looking at this lens for more than 10 years, since it came out. I always thought I'd only ever want the very sharpest lenses. Although I am yet to join the Mirrorless movement, all my research tells me that those lenses are in another league sharpness-wise. Between that realm and ever-improving smartphones, everything is going for pure resolution above all else, it seems. But I finally learned to start valuing the overall rendering of a photo as what compels me to take photos at all. With this lens, along with a few others (the 28 and 105 f1.4Es), the photos just seem more compelling and make me want to stare at them just that little bit extra, which I tend not to do with many photos. After using this and those other two, I think too that the Nano-coat ... MoreI'd been looking at this lens for more than 10 years, since it came out. I always thought I'd only ever want the very sharpest lenses. Although I am yet to join the Mirrorless movement, all my research tells me that those lenses are in another league sharpness-wise. Between that realm and ever-improving smartphones, everything is going for pure resolution above all else, it seems. But I finally learned to start valuing the overall rendering of a photo as what compels me to take photos at all. With this lens, along with a few others (the 28 and 105 f1.4Es), the photos just seem more compelling and make me want to stare at them just that little bit extra, which I tend not to do with many photos. After using this and those other two, I think too that the Nano-coat really does give better colors, almost like a wider gamut. I also finally realized that Nikon might discontinue F-mount lenses any time now, so that pushed me to finally get this while still available. I'm glad I did!
| Focal Length | 58mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 |
| Maximum Angle of View (DX-format) | 27o20’ |
| Maximum Angle of View (FX-format) | 40o50’ |
