Macro Lens Review: Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G ED IF AF-S VR 

Are you interested in macro photography and camera lenses designed to capture tiny details? The Nikkor 105mm 2.8 for Nikon is a specialty telephoto/macro prime lens that is capable of producing images up to a 1:1 magnification ratio for life size close-ups. This lens offers excellent optical performance on both digital and 35mm film format SLR cameras. It is a valuable lens for macro work, portraiture and general shooting.

Summary & Performance

Cost around $900 | Technical Highlights
 

• Telephoto Prime Lens
   
• 1:1 Magnification Ratio; Macro Close-Ups
   
• F Mount Lens/FX Format
   
• Aperture Range: f/2.8 to 32
   
• One Extra-Low Dispersion Glass Element
   
• Nano Crystal & Super Integrated Coating
   
• Silent Wave Motor AF System
   
• Nikon VR Image Stabilization
   
• Internal Focus; Manual Focus Override
   
• Minimum Focus Distance: 12"
   
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm (creates nice, smooth bokeh)
   
• Weight: 1.58lb

Other Features - on the lens there are three toggles;
 

• M/A - M: Controls whether the lens is in autofocus mode with manual override (M/A) or manual focus only mode (M).
   

• Full - Infinity to 0.5m: Controls whether the lens will focus throughout its range (Full) or only in the "far" range (Inf-0.5m).
   

• VR On - VR Off: Turns the vibration reduction system on (On) and off (Off).
   

Photo Examples 

click to view larger in the gallery

The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 lens is a great piece of glass especially for macro work. A tripod along with good lighting are key when focusing on small subjects. The ED (extra-low dispersion) glass element minimizes the chromatic aberrations (color fringing) and the Nano Crystal lens coating along with the elongated lens hood dramatically reduce ghosting and flare. The vibration reduction and the exceptional image quality are stand out features of this lens. I love the clean, sharp, fine details it produces. I have not tested the lens in low light as most my macro work is done in natural daylight.

Pink Peonyvertical pink peony flower image with green background Lily of the Valley Portraitvertical flower portrait lily of the valley on green Fine Art Pink Ranunculus Flower Stemsfine art image vertical image hot pink ranunculus flower opening up
 

Always try before you buy! 

I would suggest trying to rent this lens before purchasing it. Google camera gear rental shops in your area or check out Borrow Lenses.
As a small business owner, I always recommend shopping locally whenever you can! For buying online, I like B&H Photo. They offer both new and used cameras and lens at competitive prices, and the customer service department is exceptional.
 

hot pink rosemacro photography image of the center of a rose flower