AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
This medium telephoto Micro lens is ideal for extreme close-up and portrait work with greater working distances and AF from infinity to life-size (1:1).
$984.95*SRPSRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.
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Supplied Accessories
- 62mm Snap-on front lens cap (LC-62)
- Rear lens cap (LF-1)
- Bayonet hood (HB-38)
- Flexible lens pouch (CL-1020)
*Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area.
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
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The Best bet for Close-up Nature shots
This Nikkor is the truly professional lens unit. Outer barrel is made of metal, very sturdy, giving pleasant feel to anyone holding it.
Thanks to SWM and IF design, nothing in the exterior moves and and I can use manual focusing even during AF operation, the focusing speed is significantly improved from the older sibling. The only drawback from this design is the change of Field of View when you focus, wider FoV when focusing closer, this would be annoying to the serious close-up shooters, but I don't bother.
Put that aside, the image quality is superb in terms of resolution and contrast as all Micro-NIKKORs do. You can even use widest aperture and get razor-sharp image that no one could offer. On top of that, it can also handle farther subjects as well, with the smooth out-of-focus area rendition, it could be used in portraiture too.
The VR in this unit is designated as VRII, seriously, I can shoot at 1/20 sec and can get sharp images around half of the attempts. Now I can walk around and just shoot in almost all lighting situations, without tripods.
If you desire to shoot Nature subjects esp. flowers and some larger critters, this is the lens for you.
September 20, 2010
Excellent
I've been using this lens for a few years on my D70, D200, and D700. It is my favorite portrait lens, but not an everyday walk around lens because of it weight and size.
I echo those who commented on its sharpness and quick focusing ability. In addition to that, the VR feature is an excellent bonus if you shoot free-hand from a distance. The lens also produces true color ranges, espcecially when shooting under natural available light. I've blown up portrait images as large as 20"x26" shot with the lens on my D70. The image quality is impressive and unbelievable. It is more impressive on a D700.
The lens works perfectly on both DX and FX bodies, sharp and quick. However, I believe the focus hunting is a symptom of initial mechanical problem. My lens response was almost instantaneous when I got it, quick and quiet. But after years of useage, it starts to hunt. After Isent it out for repair, it works like a champ again. Sharp, Fast, and Quiet. No more hunting. Highly recommended.
September 13, 2010
Excellent and sharp focus
I upgraded to this lens from the 60mm 2.8D because I wanted to increase my working range. I selected this lens over the impressive 200mm because of it's fast focus. This is the first lens I purchased with VR, and that is a trend I will continue!
Formally, I felt like "old fashioned" technique was the way to go, but these new lenses that Nikon are coming out with are phenomenal!
September 11, 2010
Never Ceases to Amaze me !!!
I've had this lens for a few years now. It does just about anything I want it to and does it perfectly !! A Super Micro to Field work. Tis one of the best lenses I have.
September 9, 2010
Have been using Nikon professional equipment for over thirty years. Have had this new macro lens two months. It is the sharpest, most versatile, creative, Nikon lens I have ever used.
I now shoot with a D-300, have the Nikkor 17-55 F 2.8 IF-ED DX, Nikkor AF-S 70-200 F 2.8 IF-ED VR, and now the Nikkor 105 F 2.8G VR (N) Macro. The new macro stays on my camera.
A real must for any creative photographer.
August 28, 2010
Wonderfully sharp.
I've had this for a little over a month and can't believe the kind of images I'm getting. Contrast and sharpness are great, and bokeh is like butter. Yes, the AF tends to hunt a bit, but the limiter switch helps, as does the manual override. If you've never shot with glass like this (which I had not) the depth of field when the lens is wide open will take some getting used to. I'm shooting with a D90 and had debated going for the less expensive (and slower) 85mm, but am very glad I didn't. Overall an excellent purchase.
August 27, 2010
Fantastic Lens
This lens is on my camera nearly 90% of the time. I absolutely love it!
August 17, 2010
Superb Quality
This lens is fantastic. It is what you dream of when buying a lens. I love using this not only for product shots/macro but also for portraits. I love everything about this lens.
I like this a little more than the 60 2.8 macro as your working distance is a little further back. I also like using this for reproduction work because it seems like it's a little easier to get everything squared up.
August 13, 2010
I love this lens.
I have yet to use a perfect lens but this lens has done everything I have asked of it. And if I get less than acceptable results, well, the fault is most likely the operator, not the equipment. I have a d700 and can't say enough about that body...but back to the lens. Practically speaking, the lens is very easy to use, well balanced on my camera and produces very sharp results. I find it quite versatile, shooting close-ups, portraits and family gatherings.
August 11, 2010
Very Pleased
I am very pleased with this lens. I also own the 24-70mm and use both on my D300 but the picture at most crisp when using the 105mm. The color and contrast are very pleasing. I agree with Larry when he says in his review that it "hunts" for focus at times...but it doesn't happen too often. And, even if a little hunting is present, is it not worth it when you have a great contrasty picture in the end? That's what it's about. Thumbs up!
August 7, 2010
Superb macro, excellent portrait lens
Though a little heavy/long, this lens is superb for macro photography, with its rich feature set, including the excellent VR characteristics. Minimal distortion and very bright, vivid colors. Even though a bit long in focal length to be a true portrait lens, it does a most credible job in that department as well. Was used to using a 105mm f/2.8 on my older 35mm F3HP and F2AS...though this equates more to 150mm on my new D300S, it is a great replacement. The ability to get great macro shots with enough distance without disturbing the subject is a big plus.
August 3, 2010
Best lens I've ever owned for a digital camera.
I've been taking bug pics since I worked for mosquito control back in the 70's. Those pics took a fair amount of preparation to cool the subjects so I could pose them under the necessary lights - and then I had to work fairly rapidly.
With this f2.8 lens and the large working distance, even without a ring light or dual flash units, I'm able to use the aperature priority on sunny days and get pictures "in the field" with depths of field to rival anything I did in the bio lab. I even used the lens (having left my 300 mm back in the car) to take some shots of an osprey quite a ways away. The subject was pretty small, but the quality of the picture (the lens is being used on a Nikon 5000) was good enough that I could enlarge and still have a decent picture.
In short - I'm really impressed and pleased with this extremely versatile lens.
August 2, 2010
The best Nano Macro
I always fond of Macro / Micro photography.
It does support both my portrait pictures in an engineering works as well as my favorite nature at close-up.
The lens is quite tough focus, when I first tried.
Now it became my most favorite that always get along with my camera.
It's not only the best macro lens but give me a nano details that I need to emphasize in my pictures.
August 1, 2010
Great Lens
I bought this lens to use housed underwater. It allows me to get up close with little critters without scaring them off. It produces great subject detail with nice crisp lines. The only downside is that the focus speed is good, but not excellent. But, everything else about the lens makes up for it. For me, it was a great buy.
August 1, 2010
Outstanding clarity.
Ideal for close-up, but for portrait work it is outstanding.
August 1, 2010
Fantastic Lens!
I use my 105 VR exclusively for underwater photography. It's razor sharp and, once you get used to the very shallow depthy of field doing macro, it's a great lens.
July 31, 2010
A Creative Tool
I hunt for things to use this lens for. The results are great when you get it focused. I shoot mineral samples the lens brings out details that are hard to see. Focus is a little hard beacuse of the shallow depth of field but when you get it right you like the result.
July 31, 2010
Outstanding glass
I like to do a lot of extreme close-up shots. This lens enables clear, crisp, colorful images, and it is not too heavy in my backpack.
July 31, 2010
Un-believeable sharpness
In my 30+ years of photography, I have never seen a lens produce such sharp and vibrant images at micro level and portraiture. You have to shoot with it to believe the level of sharpness and detail. I would recommend it to any self respecting pro and serious hobbyist.
July 30, 2010
Outstanding !
I always wanted to "penetrate" my favorite subjects : flowers and insects.
Even though my Nikkor 18-200 mm was very good, I still needed to "be closer" ...
I purchased the 105 mm f2.8 and ... WOW !
That lens is amazing !
Clarity, details, precision, ALL in one !
I LOVE it and I enjoy every single moment using it !
July 30, 2010
Worth the wait
I have wanted a good Micro/Macro lens since I purchased my D90 and after looking at several lenses, I decided on the Nikon 105. It was worth waiting for! This has quickly elevated to my favorite lens. Images and crisp and make me look like an old pro. Would definitely purchase again! In my opinion, if you own one macro lens, this should be the one.
July 30, 2010
Incredible Results
I have purchased this lens and find that the detail in closeups is incredible. It not only improves one's photographic results in close ups but produces magnificent portraits. Its low light capabilities and vibration mode offer qualities that make you reach for this lens first on so many occasions.
July 30, 2010
Wonderful Macro and All-Around Lens
This lens is the main one I use when I'm out and about shooting outdoors. I love it for its macro ability (my favorite subjects with it are dragonflies, butterflies, and wildflowers), but it's surprisingly good at sports photography! I wouldn't use it for shooting football or other demanding outdoor sports, but I have used it to shoot disc golf, and I've taken lots of great action photos with it. It is heavy but well worth having on your camera.
July 30, 2010
Best investment besides camera body!
I can't carry a bag of gear, tripod, umbrellas, assorted lenses etc. to travel. Don't have time to keep switching lenses when in motion. Can't afford an assistant to carry above stuff. I need one "do everything you're supposed to do and then some" lens. The Micro-NIKKOR is it! I use one lens, can zoom from gnat's mustache to mountain range. Yes, it's heavier than some lenses, but SOLID: the best single lens (yet multi-purpose) I've ever purchased.
July 30, 2010
so sharp, so fast focusing
Love this lens till death, I can not get enough of this
It is so sharp, so fast focusing,1;1 macro on a DX camera WOW!!!
July 30, 2010
Razor sharp
. I do a lot of macro shooting, and for years have used a 180MM macro lens from another manufacturer (as the 200MM Micro Nikkor was way out of my price range). When the 105MM came out, I figured the VR function would not be particularly useful but the focal length was something I could use - given it's shorter working distance compared to the longer lens.
. Well, it turns out that this lens surpassed my expectations, including the VR function. On the D200 it's great, but on the D700 this lens just 'pops' with sharpness. And between the low noise-high-ISO capability of the D700 or the use of a ring flash (someday I'll get that Nikon R1 system!) I find myself getting terrific shots without the use of a tripod - something i would have never though possible a year ago.
. Of course, the focal length is one that many like to use for portraiture, though to me this lens is almost too unforgivingly sharp - unless I do some post processing to smooth out natural skin blemishes this baby will show all. But that's not the main point of this lens, is it?
. For anyone who enjoys macro shooting, this is a must-have lens.
July 30, 2010
Excellent Lens
Outstanding clarity and color. Quick auto focus. I have used the lens on my D300 with excellent results. I also have used it with a TC14E II converter for greater working distance, with no deteriation in quality. It also makes a nice general purpose lens with or without the converter.
I am a little disappointed that the lens does not auto focus cleanly using the converter. (I realize that it is not supposed to auto focus with the converters.)
Overall this lens is a great additon to my collection and well worth the price.
July 30, 2010
Excellent Macro Lens
This lens is perfect for small animal (butterfly, insects) where you need a little distance for light and do not want to scare the creature away. It works well handheld with a little practice, but recommend tripod usage when possible.
July 30, 2010
The favored lens in my kit
I bought this lens because I wanted a macro lens, and to add an intermediate tele lens to my kit. The 105 f/2.8G became a favored lens very quickly. In addition to the crisp macro images I obtain through this lens, I have found it to be a really nice portrait lens. The VR is very good and I obtain very sharp images hand held down to 1/15 sec. exposures. The weight and feel of the lens is just right and balances real well with my D700.
July 30, 2010
Great True Micro Lens
This lens a super lens for the money. No...it isn't cheap, but when you look at others in this category meaning true 1:1 then look at prices. From flowers to insects this is a great lens. Fast and GREAT control over depth of field is at your finger tips. The day I bought it my son came in saying there was a small praying mantis outside. We grabbed the camera and went out. The head remained in perfect focus, however the body was completely out. 1/4" difference and it was great. A perfect first time shot. I love it.
July 30, 2010
25 Questions | 42 Answers
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25 Questions | 42 Answers
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All
All1 year, 1 month ago
by
Anonymous
Age: 18-24
Favorite Subject: Portrait
4 Answers
Answers
Answer:
The AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm 2.8 lens would work great on the D3100.I use this lens on my FX D700 and my DX D70s sensor cameras.
Although this lens was designed to work optimally with a FX sensor it still works fabulous with Nikon's DX sensor cameras such as your D3100.
-- If you are getting into the rewarding aspect of Micro photography this is a great lens to start with. Happy Shooting
To fully optimize your shooting experience, consider a R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System.
Jun 18, 2011 by
by
dmbNIK
North Virgina
Location :
North Virgina
Age: 45-54
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 21+ years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
Answer:
ignore joe, keith has the right stuff. all AF-S lenses work with all modern D-bodies.Answer:
It will auto focus on the D3100 as it is the AF-S version.Answer:
Yes but you would have to focus manually, it does not have a built in lens motor.Has staff answer
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
can you suggest a hood to use 77mm filters on this lens
1 year ago
by
Anonymous
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
use a step-up filter converter. they are available at any good camera shops. if you want a hood as well: buy a step-up converter, screw in your filter, then use a 77mm screw-in hood.Answer:
The filter size for this lens is 62mm.
can Af- Nikkor 105 mm f/2.8 used as a telephoto lens?
1 year ago
by
SunilS
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
Absolutely! It is great for telephoto use in situations not requiring a large depth of field. It produces very sharp portraits. It is excellent for street photography to enable the isolation of the subject from the surrounding environment without having to be too close. This provides the opportunity to get great candid shots even in low lighting situations without the use of a flash. I love it!Jul 10, 2011 by
by
AlabamaTim
Montgomery, AL
Location :
Montgomery, AL
Age: 55-65
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 6-10 years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Semi-professional photographer
Answer:
This is a medium telephoto Micro lens, ideal for extreme close-up and portrait work with greater working distances and AF from infinity.10 months ago
by
led
malaysia
Location :
malaysia
Age: 25-34
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 2-5 years
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
Lenses marked AFS have a built in motor and will work on nearly all Nikon DSLR'sAnswer:
Yes.
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
Will all functions on this lense work on my d300 (not d300s)
10 months ago
by
Anonymous
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
Yes.Oct 17, 2011 by
by
Buster
Oregon coast
Location :
Oregon coast
Age: Over 65
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 21+ years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
Answer:
Yes, perfect. :)Has staff answer
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
Can I know when the lens was made using the serial number on it?
A copy with a serial number starting with 255.... When was it made?
10 months ago
by
mgg1975
Florida
Location :
Florida
Age: 35-44
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 2-5 years
Experience: Less than a month
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
I’m not sure if this tells you or not...http://www.nikonusa.com/Learn-And-Explore/Photography-Techniques/gg1e57vo/1/How-to-No-Kidding-Read-Your-Lens-Barrel.html
If not I would contact "Service and Support" above in main menu bar...
Jul 2, 2012 by
by
NikonD
Sedona, AZ, USA
Location :
Sedona, AZ, USA
Age: 45-54
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 11-20 years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Semi-professional photographer
Answer:
In order to better assist you, please click on the link below:Answer Title: How to ask or update a Technical Support question
Answer Link: http://support.nikonusa.com/app/ans...
Has staff answer
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
Why does my new 105 VR Micro only go to f 4.5 at 1:1 focual distance?
10 months ago
by
Jim
USA
Location :
USA
Age: 55-65
Favorite Subject: Landscape
Nikon Family: 6-10 years
Experience: Less than a month
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
I don't know why but all modern Macro lens will change f/stop when you get close.Answer:
In order to better assist you, please click on the link below:Answer Title: How to ask or update a Technical Support question
Answer Link: http://support.nikonusa.com/app/ans...
Has staff answer
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
What distance to achieve 1:1 macro ratio
At what min and max distance is needed for macro shots. Hoping to shoot bees and wasp, but I do not want to be that close for obvious reasons.
9 months ago
by
Dwayne
California
Location :
California
Age: 35-44
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 2-5 years
Experience: Less than a month
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
To shoot 1:1 the sensor plane is about 1 Ft. from the subject. I have shot many Wasps,Hornets & Bees & have never been stung. I have found,If you don't swat them they won't swat you. Remain CALM & if they start to get agressive, back away slowly & let them calm down.They will accept you if you don't hurt or injur them. Have fun!My Images are to large to download. They were shot with D7000 & 105mm Nikkor & are almost all over 5 MB
Sample Photos & Videos
Oct 17, 2011 by
by
Buster
Oregon coast
Location :
Oregon coast
Age: Over 65
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 21+ years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
Answer:
The Minimum Focus Distance is 1.0ft.(0.314m).Has staff answer
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
Where this lens was made, I wondered Nikon ever made this lens in China and sold its in US maket with US warranty (5 years)
Nikon lens with SKU # NI10528GAF and product # 2160 , is this item made in Japan or China , how can I know which one is for US market. Any advise from Customer services or technical support is very helpful for Nikon user. Thank's
9 months ago
by
Peter, N
San Diego
Location :
San Diego
Age: 45-54
Favorite Subject: Family & Friends
Nikon Family: 11-20 years
Experience: Less than a month
Role: Occasional user, memory keeper
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
My lens 105mm f2.8 Micro Nikkor was made in China & sold in the US. I would have never suspected until I looked. The build is superb,the Glass is flawless the pictures are tack sharp with beautiful bokah. I was dissapointed to learn that the f stop changes & is only f2.8 @ infinity.At 1-1 Macro it is f4. Shooting @ 1:1 i always stop down to f8-f22 anyway so it is a moot point but feel Nikon should advertise it as a variable apurture lens. That said, I would buy it again. BusterOct 17, 2011 by
by
Arden E. Olson
Oregon coast
Location :
Oregon coast
Age: Over 65
Favorite Subject: Nature
Nikon Family: 21+ years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Serious passion, hobbyist
Answer:
Nikon operates factories all across the globe and each operate to the same high standard. While individual cameras are marked with their country of manufacture we can't make a blanket statement about which camera is produced where.Has staff answer
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
2 Answers
I can't get my 105 macro to autofocus
( Full Frame body)...it did work, and it just stopped. It acts like it's trying to focus but it can't find anything...any help would be appreciated!
8 months ago
by
JessicaM
2 Answers
Answers
Answer:
HiYou are not too close to subject?
you are focusing on something with contrats?
Your m/ma slider on side is set either way ??? manual or manul auto???
If all these are ok, I would suggest contacting "Service and Support" in main menu above, they will respond in timely manner...
Hope this helps...
Jul 2, 2012 by
by
NikonD
Sedona, AZ, USA
Location :
Sedona, AZ, USA
Age: 45-54
Favorite Subject: Landscape
Nikon Family: 11-20 years
Experience: More than a year
Role: Semi-professional photographer
Answer:
In order to better assist you, please click on the link below:Answer Title: How to ask or update a Technical Support question
Answer Link: http://support.nikonusa.com/app/ans...
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Award Winner
TIPA Award For Best Professional Lens
The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) accolades for this superb Nikkor lens included; This lens is the first-ever Nikkor Micro model with an integrated optical stabilizer. This 105mm f/2.8 reaches a life-size reproduction ratio of 1:1 with an ambitious optical construction featuring 14 elements in 12 groups. It sports and ED lens and features new Nano Crystal Coating technology, which is designed to further minimize flare.
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