Melville, NY—Nikon unveiled the Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens, adding a fast prime with a classic medium telephoto focal length for Z-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Whether shooting headshots, fashion, wedding/event photography or tight video shots, the new Z lens takes advantage of Nikon’s wider, brighter and faster Z mount.
Moreover, the new addition to Nikon’s S lens line integrates the latest Nikkor optical technologies. The Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 S will appeal to photographers and videographers who want to bring clarity to a subject’s eyes or create shallow depth of field and natural bokeh.
“The Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens is so sharp, yet the background blur is so natural; the incredible detail captured with this lens is nothing short of striking,” said Jay Vannatter, executive vice president, Nikon Inc. “For fashion and portrait photographers, to wedding shooters and all types of videographers, now is the time to discover why the new Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 is an indispensable asset for those creatives who are familiar with the outstanding performance of the Nikon Z series.”
Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 S Specs
The Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens gives Nikon Z photo and video shooters a native Z mount option for capturing portraits, fashion photography, event images and also tight interview shots or B-roll footage.
In addition, the lens’s fast f/1.8 maximum aperture allows users to shoot in low light and capture shallow depth of field. As a result, they can add dimension and character to high-resolution images and 4K video footage.
Providing the natural look is a lens diaphragm consisting of nine rounded blades. It produces smooth, natural bokeh that leads the viewer’s eye to the subject of the frame.
Moreover, with the addition of eye-detection autofocus included in the recent release of firmware 2.0, Nikon Z cameras as well as Nikkor Z lenses offer more control and capabilities.
Additionally, the 85mm f/1.8 S uses an all-new optical design of 12 elements in 8 groups. It also features two extra-low dispersion (ED) elements to help ensure minimal aberration. Furthermore, Nikon’s patented Nano Crystal Coating provides control of ghosting and flare. Another feature is a high-speed multi-focus system for resolving power at minimum focus distances. The lens is also protected from the elements by Nikon’s professional-grade dust- and drip-resistant technology.
As with all Nikkor Z S-line lenses, the Z 85mm f/1.8 S caters to the needs of videographers as well as image makers. It employs quiet focus motors and minimizes focus breathing. Moreover, a customizable control ring permits smooth adjustment of aperture or exposure compensation.
The lens is also fully compatible with the in-body 5-axis vibration reduction (VR) image stabilization system found in the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7 full-frame mirrorless cameras.
Price and Availability
The Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 S ships to retail in September 2019. It will have a retail price of $799.95.
