Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens Review (by Photographyblog)
The Photography Blog has published the Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Macro Lens review (tested on the 24.5MP Nikon Z6 II): “The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S is a full-featured, weather-sealed macro lens”.
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens:
- Z-Mount Lens/FX Format
- Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/32
- 11.4″ Minimum Focus
- 1:1 Magnification
- Nano Crystal and ARNEO Coatings
- Dual-Motor Multi-Focus STM AF System
- VR Image Stabilization
- OLED Lens Information Panel
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
- Weather-Sealed Construction
Conclusion from PhotographyBlog:
The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S is a full-featured, weather-sealed macro lens that delivers outstanding edge-to-edge image quality for Nikon’s Z-series full-frame mirrorless cameras.
It delivers outstanding sharpness in both the centre and edges of the frame throughout its aperture range, even performing brilliantly when shooting wide-open at f/2.8.
Vignetting is an issue as with all fast lenses, requiring you to stop down by at least 2 f-stops to prevent it completely, but there’s little evidence of chromatic aberrations and distortion is virtually non-existent when shooting in both the JPEG and RAW formats.
The minimum focusing distance of 29cm with a maximum magnification of 1x / 1:1 provides true life-size reproduction, with the focus limiter switch speeding up auto-focusing at closer distances.
Manual focusing is a joy thanks to the generously sized focusing ring with its large throw and the ability to over-ride the autofocus system at any time. The option to adjust the focus throw and also its direction are great touches.
Considering that the Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S lens is a dedicated macro lens, it offers quite fast and reliable auto-focusing in good light on the Nikon Z6 II camera that we tested it with, although it’s prone to hunting a little more often in low-light conditions.
The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S offers an excellent level of build quality given the budget price and despite being a relatively lightweight 105mm lens.
It also benefits from several unique features, most notably the DISP OLED panel, customisable L-Fn button and the customisable control ring.
Nikon have also included a high quality round-shaped lens hood that locks into place and a good quality padded case in the box.
Finally, the price tag of £$999 makes this lens a veritable bargain, especially considering it doubles up as a very good portrait and general purpose lens too.
If you’re even remotely interested in macro photography, then we’d definitely recommend purchasing the simply superb Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S.
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens: $996.95 at Amazon, B&H and Adorama.
Nikon Z6 II body: $1,996.95 at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
Read more:
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- Best Memory Cards for Nikon Z7 II