If money, size, and weight were no object, then the 1.2 wins hands down. However, for me, those criteria matter so I will stick with the 1.8 S. Nice video, Matt. Thanks for your hard work putting this together.
I share the same sentiment regarding limitations. I'm now moving from DSLR to mirrorless and was seriously considering the viltrox... However, I see the issues highlighted and will invest the extra money to get the 85 f/1.8. Thanks Matt for the videos... As a photographer on the other side of the world, you have been very helpful through your videos...
I used my Z 85mm f/1.8S just yesterday for a talking head video and it reminded me just how good that lens is (at $999CAD right now -- $50 off). The thing that was really standout for the 1.2 in your test was the CA and flare control. The 1.2 definitely has an edge in sharpness, as well -- which may be related to the control of those aberrations. Thanks for confirming that this bokeh beast is worth the investment, Matt. And thanks for the incredible amount of work you undertook to put this together!
Thanks Matt and I am first on the list for the 85mm 1.2 at my camera store. I've held out for this lens even though tempted by 50mm 1.2. Hopefully we'll all have in-hand soon.
Your last 85 1.2 video was enough to convince me to preorder immediately after I watched it and this video just confirmed that my decision was correct for my parhicular needs! 😎👍🏾🙏🏾
So awesome Eugene, honestly for my use case and it also sounds like yours, this lens I believe will firmly meet and perhaps even exceed your expectations once in hand. I really look forward to hearing from you what you think. :) Cheers and take care. Matt
Great job, Matt! I have viewed your first 85 1.2 review more than once and it was fantastic. I shot the 85 1.4 for years and loved it. I bought the 85 1.8 S as soon as it came out and the differences were so dramatic that I sold the 1.4 the next week. This video verifies that move. I still have the Nikkor 105 1.4 and love it but the focal length is a bit long for me. 85mm is more in my wheelhouse. I imagine that it will get sold soon after the 85 1.2's arrival. Like other commentors, I will likely keep the 85 1.8 S for its size and weight. Excited to put the 85 1.2 through the paces when it arrives in a few weeks. Thanks for all you do.
Thanks so much Raun, for sure we cannot go wrong with the 'Z S' lenses. And I too will hold onto the 85 1.8. I look forward to hearing what you think of the 85 1.2 when yours arrives, it is such and exciting lens (from my perspective) :) Cheers Matt😀
Matt, Thank you for the comparison and all the effort put forth, as it greatly helps with making a more informed lens selection decision. Interesting addition of the 'cartoon' effect and how the attention it draws.
I have the Viltrox 85mm that I only use for stills and never shoot wide open. Given the price, I was impressed with how well it competed against its more expensive brethren. Thanks for the test Matt.
Yeah for sure Keith, all four lenses have their place in this list, with perhaps the F mount lens being the least compelling from my perspective at this point in time :) And it makes sense as it is so much older :) Cheers Matt
thanks for the comparison Matt, it was great to see the 4 lenses go head to head. As an amateur who loves taking photos but not making money from it, the 1.8S delivers the best bang for buck for me. cheers mate and keep 'em coming!
Thank you Matt. The shot which stood out to me is the white brick wall with the over exposed sign way down the alley. That hot spot held together so well with the 1.2, and to me that means that even wide open I will have more latitude when it comes to backlight and other challenging lighting situations. You can always add a filter in front of the lens. You can always add glow in post or pull back the contrast away from the subject for effect. But if the lens creates those “effects” on its own, then there’s more hoops to jump through to accommodate the lens. I can’t wait to get shooting with one. I have a bunch of shots in mind to test and push the lens. Hopefully in 2 or 3 weeks I can get started. Cheers!
For sure BT. With flare and aberrations among other attributes it really holds together. All of the lenses in this grouping are great, but the 1.2 still really performs at 1.2. Very exciting. Cheers Matt.
Building my collection of Z lenses with S line. I bought the 85 F 1.8 S recently having realised that it was what I really needed. The performance and value of the 1.8 is very pleasing. I am trying to keep to lighter lenses anyway. I bought the 85 with studio portrait work in mind. It is a pleasure to work with. There are other S line lenses I have plans for. The good thing is that opting for the 1.8 isn’t really a compromise at all, it’s just a different option.
Another excellent vid here Matt, thanks for all the work you put into these - it shows! 👏🏻 I plan to stick with the 85 1.8 S for the time being, since it's SO good and has me well-covered. This year I need to add a second body, either the Z9 / Z8 / or Z6III, depending on what the latter two turn out to be. Exciting year!
still watching my email for the ship notice from NPS. If any silver lining, I spent the last week under the weather and was not as anxious for the lens. But with better breathing I feel the desire creeping back. Really want this in hand for a couple upcoming trips. Thanks for the video, Matt!
I had a chance to try this last week and am very happy with my pre order. It's a big lens and I will definitely also keep my 1.8s for when weight and bulk are worth the tiny trade off in image quality and light gathering.
I just preordered the Z8 along with the Z 70-200 2.8 (my go to f lens) along with the Z 35 1.8. The Z 50 and 85 (both 1.8) are on my list. The 1.8 S lenses are fast enough and meet my needs in all other areas as well. Waiting patiently for Z8 to arrive.
Hello Matt, great evening images as always. Good to see a relevant companion of 85mm lenses. Thank you. Keep well, keep safe please continue to inspire. Yes I have one one order that the 85mm f1.2 see if it comes or dose my next supplier go belly up?
What a lens that Z 85 1.2, the 85 1.8 is no slouch either though. Enjoy your copy of the 85 1.2 Matt. I might loan it someday but I don’t think I can afford to buy it
Amateur photographer. I shoot all sorts of Nikons for fun on the regular. Film, old DSLRs, Modern DSLRs, and Z mirrorless. I have Nikkor F glass all the way back to the 1960s. The Z S line glass is optical brilliance. For me, the 85mm f1.8 S is absolutely all I need. That said, sometimes I want to shoot and capture differently, adapted on the Z, my Nikkor 85mm f2 ai remains one of my absolute favourite lenses to this day!
Cheers Ernie, this was shot a couple of weeks ago, and the lens went back. But it was great to spend so much time with the lens, and also I cannot wait for mine to arrive. Please let me know what you think. Cheers Matt
Hi Matt, very informative video as usual, I currently have the Z6ii and 85mm Z 1.8s and the 24-70mm f4s, I have to say the 85mm 1.8s lives on the camera and Hardly ever use the 24-70mm, I mainly shoot portraits and absolutely love the 1.8s, its such a great lens for the money. I would love the 1.2 but budget won't allow, maybe in the future.
Excellent comparison, Matt! Other than the AF issue, in terms of IQ I think the Viltrox punches well above its price tag. The Nikkor 1.8 S is a great option for the money, and definitely the 1.2 takes the crown. The 85 G was a bit of a let down when it came to both CA and IQ, it's better suited for more traditional portraits or maybe weddings, but definitely not the kind of shooting done here.
Well your review sold me. I was considering the 1.8 and the 1.2, and as good as the 1.8 is, I think the 1.2's closeness to perfection would leave me with no regrets. Now as to WHEN I can get that 1.2 is another question as life kinda hit recently :( I haven't owned a 85 in a long time because the last one I owned was the 85mm f/1.8D which was absolutely terrible with fringing wide open. I mostly shot that lens at around 3.5 to avoid it... then I got the 70-200 f/4 and it became unused so I got rid of it. I also want to see what they're doing with the 135 that's supposed to come out later this year. I still have my 135mm f/2 DC but it gets no use now because I moved completely to Z and have nothing that will autofocus it. I have it perma-mounted to a film body right now. I may prioritize 135mm because it was a focal length I used more frequently on DSLR than 85mm. Either way, it's amazing to see the quality of these lenses that Nikon is bringing out. I'll probably never need another 50 since I have the 1.2, and if I want to move lighter I can use the 40mm f/2 and still have a lens that performs around the level of a f mount 1.8. I hope Nikon continues to bring out lenses close in focal length to the big boys that are a lot lighter and less expensive so I can have a light option and a big boy option depending on the situation.
@@MattIrwinPhotography HI Matt - that is a great question and yes, I would be 'hazarding' the guess as it is really hard to say not just because we have to literally predict what a major corporation will do, but even more to the point, I am not sure what is, or is not, realistically feasible to make in a 1.2 aperture from a size and weight perspective. Obviously, the 85mm 1.2 S (which you have had the pleasure to use) is very large and has some weight, but by all accounts (yours included) it seems to sit/balance very well on the camera and that is in many ways the most important thing, so it may not be such a big deal that it is big an weighty. The 50mm 1.2 S, which I have and have used since it came out, is also big and weighty - although I do think it balances fairly well, I still feel the weight and size of this lens when using it for long periods and sometimes this fact will persuade me to take a different lens. Case in point, I traveled back to LA (recently moved to Austin, TX) to photography my good friends release concert for his new album. I would have loved to use the 50mm 1.2 S for it extreme and amazing low light capability, but it is a big lens that is much harder to travel with. As such, I ended up taking my old 58mm 1.4 G lens because it is much smaller and lighter and it got the job done well. This said, I do not regret the 50mm 1.2 S is a 1.2 and is built like it is - for my environmental portraiture, I do not care about size and weight of lenses - only outcomes. So, as you have so aptly said on many occasions, use case matters. This is a concept that I wholeheartedly agree with and it seems I have two related, but sometimes different, use cases - one is my portraiture/environmental portraiture and the other is event type work - whether this is wedding, concerts or BTS shoots. Back to your question: if we consider the lenses for which Nikon made 1.4 apertures in the G or E versions we have the 24mm 1.4, 28 1.4, 35 1.4, 50 1.4, 58 1.4, and the 85 1.4, and the 105 1.4 - I think this is all of them. It would be great to see all of these in a 1.2 S model for the Z mount - but how big would a 105 have to be to be a 1.2? How big would a 24 have to be to be a 1.2? This 1.2 / 1.8 strategy (which I generally like) may have cornered Nikon into having to make some tough choices. For example, some have speculated that Nikon may ultimately release a 105 1.8 S for the Z mount. I think this would be a mistake and short of this lens 'levitating', I doubt that I would get it as I would stick to the 105 1.4 E lens, which works flawlessly via FTZ adapter - why would I rebuy this 105 at a slower aperture? So this means that this new lens - should it ever exist - would have to be a 1.4 or a 1.2 for me to get it. If it is 1.4, they will be breaking their pattern, and if it is 1.2 will it be so big and heavy that it is impractical? I was thinking that Nikon could have the 1.2 line and make select 1.4's for the models where 1.2 do not make as much sense - perhaps they do make a 28mm 1.2 (although this might have to be 1.4 as well) but then make the 24mm a 1.4 and same on the high end making the 105 at 1.4 not at 1.2 - we already 'know' that the 135 is likely to be a 1.8 - but for the 105 1.8 does not cut it in my opinion. All of this aside, if you told me that they would be making all of these lenses in 1.2, I would be happy as there is a use case for me where they would all make sense, and after I had the first three 1.2's (the 35, 50, and 85), the next one that I think I would want would be a 28mm 1.2 or a 105mm 1.2 - but I would lean toward the 28mm as the 105 1.4 E lens is so good that I feel I have this focal length satisfactorily covered for however long it takes for Nikon to make a new one. I don't know if I would ever buy the 24mm 1.2 (should there be one) as I am less for the 24mm focal length and am pretty happy with the 24mm 1.8 S lens - in the case of 28mm, the 2.8 lens that has come out is simply not fast enough for what I like when in dark situations so I do hope that a faster 28 is released. Thanks Matt! -PD
@@photographydiscourse1185 Fantastic assessment PD, and I would too hope to see all the current F 1.4's come to 1.2. Let's hope it happens. :) Cheers Matt
I already own the 85mm 1.4G, so I guess my question is whether it would be worth it to switch to the Nikon 85mm 1.8Z lens, or just stay where I'm at (with the FTZ adapter, of course).
You are feeding my conformation bias on my purchase of the 85 1.8 :) Great way to spend 20 odd minutes on a sunday morning :) Also....... Where did you get that nikon cap?? I want one.
It is good to see the extreme end of these lenses. Honestly, it’s impressive how the Viltrox lens performed for photography (not video) for the price. The 1.4G lens, while legendary, it is clearly time to retire this lens (while some may like its softness, I get it). Speaking as a portrait photographer, the native 85 1/8 S lens, is best for the price with what it delivers. Thanks for your time making this comparison as I know what it is like to do these types of reviews. Cheers!
Z lenses are superb but i still shoot with the 85mm1.4 g and i will never part from it because i know how take pics which will not disappoint me with it
As an owner of an Z 85/1.8 lens in using it for portraits and general purposes I still cannot believe your first video about the new 85/1.2. I looked several times this video, your professionalism to show us results with such beautiful people in action is stunning. It is a great pleasure to follow your videos, thanks so much. The comparison of the four 85 rocks as well, perfect choice for all of us and thanks to Nikon for their Z lenses in general! Although I took out my old vintage non Ai 50/1.4 Nippon Kogaku lens and created bokek like shown in your samples and created sun flare with rainbow effect, great fun!😊
@@MattIrwinPhotography Well Matt, because I am not a professional photographer, but like to take out highest quality since I used my Nikons (start in 1970), I collected the Z primes 20,35,50,85 with 1.8, the 105 MC and for travel or other stuff my Z zooms 14-30,24-120,100-400. So to answer your question correctly, the new 85 1.2 is stunning, but to big in size, weight and money, although I am very much impressed especially by your samples! My collection is finished for all kind and I will now catch the coming Z8 (hopefully with 45MP sensor). The moment it will be in your hands and see your first impression’s, can’t wait for that, my order will go out! 😘👍
I'm not sure if I'll get the 851.2, I think the 105mm f1.4 is so good and I like that focal length. I would have liked to see an updated version or similar. 135mm f1.8 might be more for me.
I have the 1.8S and at the price point it's amazing. For me much better overall than any of the F mount lenses I had in the past. The 1.2 is, of course, in a class of its own but at 2.5 times the price of the 1.8.
That's one gorgeous lens. I hope your bought one is as good too. I've definitely got round bokeh ball envy. It's Intetesting that your 1.8S is a tinsy bit sharper in the corners - most of the reviews found the 1.8S to be very good in the corners like you have. But who cares how sharp the corners are in an 85 at large aperture. I think this new lens is a stunner optically, but unfortunately a finamcial stunner as well.
Yeah Geoff, like Z lenses before it, I don't expect there to be a drop in quality in the one shipped to me. :) I will get that lens out of the box and onto the camera for some more vids ASAP, only a week or two to go. CAN NOT WAIT !!! Might be time for us to head out for another shoot sometime soon .... ?
I think that pretty much seals it for me. While I am not happy about the lack of weather sealing, at my budget I would have been looking at the 1.8G (not even the 1.4) vs the Viltrox. The Nikkor 1.8G would have given me weather sealing I think and would work with my DSLR as well, but seeing the differences, especially the color fringing on the G lenses in your video and another I looked at, I am definitely going to go with the Viltrox. Is the Nikkor 1.8S better? yes. Is it $300 better? not for me. If 85mm was my main go to lens that I use all day I would get the Nikon one, maybe even pony up for the 1.2, but Having used the 50mm1.8 and 1.4 on my crop sensor DSLR in the past, I love what they do, but I don't get enough use from them to justify the extra expense. I'm more inclined to put that $ toward upgrading my long telephoto or finally investing in a good wide angle.
I think if you want a lighter lens without sacrificing much quality you can go for the Z 1.8, if you need or want the best of the best you go with the Z 1.2. It would be nice to see how much of a difference you would have on a large print from both lenses. Obviously without mentioning names several Nikon NPS members were gushing over the Z 1.8 capabilities for weddings and portraits not so long ago, but many factors go into the buying decision, Cost, weight, use case, and if a pro, which lens will satisfy your client or you personally. Different strokes for different folks as they say and like you mentioned, it is great to have choices. It is interesting that your Z 1.2 copy may have been sharper than the one Ricci used in his review because it was sharper wide open than the Z 1.8 while Ricci had the opposite situation. Thanks for both videos you did on this lens, fantastic work and a lot of effort, very much appreciated. - Jeff 👍
Cheers SI, indeed we have choice and that is great. In regard to lease quality, if I recall correctly Ricci even mentioned his copy might have been that way due to it being a PRE-PRODUCTION model. We were both using pre-production models, and they very well could have been from different 'batches'. I found the lens to be great for sharpness even at 1.2. And you get to see what I see in this video. I will look at it again when my copy arrives along with final firmware. Take Care Matt
Awesome video! What do you use to add the effects in your video clips here (and can you use it for stills)? I miss some of the effects that Nikon removed in the Z bodies (why I still have my D5600)
The “animated” effect like the one that starts around 2 minutes. The D5600 has something for stills called “photo illustration” which you can apply in-post “in body”, but even the limited Z50 effects do not provide the same option for post processing, and I prefer to shoot in raw. For reference, I do some out of focus stuff that works well (IMO) with that effect, and others in my D5600 that I started using in my D750.
I would absolutely love to visit Philips Island for a MotoGP shoot and see Australia! This I'm still transitioning to mirrorless from the D850 to possible Z8. That's the hold up and this is will be the first Z lens by far.
“Look at those balls right in the middle”… and I rolled and laughed and laughed and tried not to comment and then thought…. That balls are really important. So here, let me just say, 2800 dollars for those balls are worth it. They are the greatest balls on the market. 🎉😅
Hi Matt! Great video! I own the Viltrox out of these 4 and from what I've seen here I'm pretty damn pleased! It's doing very well compared to the 85 1.8Z and it also surpasses the 85 1.4 in many ways. Happy days! But wow, that 1.2 is soo flawless, amazing.... Also, loved the 'cartoon' effect! Love your work, cheers Phil
I own the 85 1.8s lens, so I will stay with it. Purchasing the Z8 is a higher priority over a new lens, so I need to save my pennies for the Z8. I need to work within my budget.
Interesting Matt to me the Viltrox 85mm looks better bokeh than the Nikon 1.8 at 3:51 to 5:00. For example look at the smaller step lights these are rounder not cat eyes like with the Nikon 1.8. Am I missing something here , maybe a little bit of a green tinge but certainly to me more pleasant out of focus area.
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have the viltrox 85mm and its a bargain my go to street photography lens. Anyway more importantly you and Chris Thomas have just cost me £5k for the upcoming cricket season here in the UK, Z9 incoming :-)
Matt, you always know what lenses to test. It kills me that F lenses aren't tested alongside. I don't use quite a few prime focal lengths to justify selling a G lens for a Z lens.
Well, I am going to swim against the tide here. 85mm lenses are primarily used for portraits, and ultra-sharp lenses are not always the best choice for portraits, as they reveal every single detail thst often has to be smoothed over in post production. The 85mm 1.4 has this ability to capture a dream-like feeling that these newer lenses simply cannot match. To each his own, but I am sticking with mine.
From my perspective, it is better to start from a place of sharpness, and then de-sharpen from there, as going the other way is not as easy. Also with short depth of field areas fall out of focus very quickly, thus the sharpness is mute. Of course each to their own. I did though rather find the out of focus qualities of the 1.4 and 1.2 to be rather similar ...
I own the 1.4/85G and can not reproduce the CAs shown in the video. What do I do wrong or is my cope damaged? Tried several setups with the Z9, no chance, the bokeh bubbles are clean. Any idea?
My personal thoughts I own the 85mm ed 1.4G, 85mm 1.8s and the Sigma 85mm 1.4 I think the 85mm 1.8s is so good I'll just wait on Nikon to come out with the 135mm 1.8S The I can get the most perfect bokeh with the Sigma 85mm 1.4... but it's even HEAVIER!!! but it works on both my D850/Z systems
For me the 50 f1.2 is a lot more versatile. I’m also not a fan of the longer minimum focus distance on 85mm lenses. The 85 f1.2 S is stunning, just not for me. But that 35 f1.2? 😍 I’d love to see a fast 105 next from Nikon.
I tend to think subject size in the frame will end up quite similar at each minimum focus distance, though that hunch needs testing. I have the 50mm 1.2. Used it today in fact, and to good effect. But there are times I find myself shooting the 50 but wanting a degree of background magnification/obfuscation (“compression” some will say) which that lens can’t produce. For me, they will both coexist in my kit just fine, though soon I may have to start thinking about a hand cart to move all this glass around. The focus motors may be up for the job, but I’m not so sure about my back! 😂
Hi Matt. I think this review clearly shows us why the Z 85 1.2 is the king and why it costs what it does. For those saying the 85 1.8 Z is close or some say even better? hehe please. The 1.2 blows it away in every way shape or form. Not to say the 85 1.8 Z lens sucks, NO, its a great lens for the money. Way better IQ than the Viltrox and the G lens. This review also exposes 3rd party and really shows its limitations. Hence the price you pay. You know what the old saying, "When the price is too good to be true, " All in all there is a reason why one pays the $3K vs $800., or $400. Now it's worth noting, the examples you showed at night are very extreme examples. most portrait shooters are not shooting with these type condition but it was great seeing these lenses pushed that far. Thanks Buddy , Rock n Roll!!! V
Hi Vahagan, what I like about this lens is it is clear what the value proposition is. If we want the extra attributes it provides, then they are clear. There is the technical value / specification value, and then the creative value, and this lens allows me to create things never before possible. So it becomes priceless. The extra cost will be absorbed with one shoot, or one cracker art piece. I can't wait to see what else comes to the 1.2 range. Cheers Matt
@@damluar flaring, aberrations, corner sharpness, ghosting all suppressed better than the G, and yes the lack of adapter, it would also be better for video focusing, if that is a concern for you :) , I suspect it is quieter too, but I did not check that. :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography Sorry for bombarding you with questions and I appreciate your answers! Would you also choose Z lens over Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art?
Got 85 1.2 a couple of days ago. Shot with it for the last 2 days with Z9 and on both occasions autofocus was really bad wide open. Even on rather static subjects 1/3 of the shots were missed even though eye autofocus indicated green when shot. The quality of good shots is very impressive but for this amount of $ I expected a more refined product and better autofocus.
I have a lot of questions, as your experience does not match mine. What firmware, what light conditions, how dark, which version of FW. Please share with us everything you can, even some images if you like :). Cheers matt
The 1.2S is fantastic, but if you are not gonna make money with it, it's way to expensive. Thankfully, there is the 1.8S, which is also excellent, and even the old 1.8 F adapted isn't bad. The good thing is that there is plenty of choice at any price point.
While I think the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is better than the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G, especially when it comes to sharpness and quality to price, I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of my Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.2 S😊
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hi Matt, if Nikon should decide to do one, a Z 105mm 1.4 would be a good idea. Size, weight and price might be more reasonable than a 1.2 lens.
Honestly, the difference is not that big between the 85 1.2 and the old 1.4. Maybe you saw more difference than we could realize on the video. I am not that sure for myself if I am going to upgrade(I own the 1.4 G).
Generally it was not as good as the others in every shot and the fringing was pretty bad. But if you don’t zoom in and you like the look, stay with it.
It all depends on how you use the lens, how you reproduce and share the images, and on your own sense of aesthetics. If someone shoots in a studio with controlled light and narrower apertures, then the G is still a great lens. On the other hand, for the sorts of street work Matt does (particularly at night), there’s all kinds of uncontrolled light sources in each shot which can screw with a perfectly stunning composition. And it’s quite clear from his videos that chromatic aberrations really bother him in his finished imagery, so he’s become particularly attuned to see it. I have a similar mindset because of the kinds of street and natural light photography I do, so these fringing issues jump out to me as well. Just the same, if I happened to own the 85mm 1.4, I might not be in such a hurry to spend what will be a substantial amount of money a few weeks from now. Have a fabulous day.
Photography has never been this crazy ridiculous and interesting in the mean time…back in the days people had 3-5 lenses and did everything with it for many years… today we feel the need to test meticulously and pixel peep every lens and sensor up to the point that it becomes senseless…cameras shoot 20 to 60 FPS raw files… what’s next ?
I know this lens is for low light photography, but why are all your 1.2 lens reviews are shot at night time? Why dont you do have photos taken during the day. I hate shooting in dark :)
For the life of me .The 85mm focal lens is primary a Portrait lens. 1- It is not a universal shots lens and specifically general scenery lens. Of course you can use the lens for whatever you like.... 2- But you know that. And yet you insist in shooting general scenes. 3- A lens with 11 blades will obviously show a better Bokeh than a lower blades count lens. 4- I appreciate the fringing but would like your commenting on the two types of Coma. 5- We need a test for focus speed and sharpness. Sharpe cannot be tested with auto eye focus as you are testing the camera focus system. It should be manual focus and/or AF point selection. 6- You present a perfect argument to purchase the 85/1.8 S lens. The extra $2000 would be for collectors of lenses. You know better. Act so.
A lens is for what great you and it create. Any less limits your potential. You or I should not be limited by photographic cliche, but wield a tool for outcomes, whatever they may be. What do you photograph? What are your current tools? 1. Did you watch the first video? 2. Did you watch the first video? 3. Yes I know, people love to see, as do I. So it is ok. Relax. 4. My copy will arrive soon and I will keep testing. 5. My copy will arrive soon and I will keep testing. 6. commenting from your armchair risks you missing nuance, I think you need to use the lens. Beyond that words are words, usage is usage. I think you are overstepping. 😀 Each practitioner will walk their path through assessing a lens like this. Your path differs from mine, my suggestion for you is to understand others different approaches to the craft of creation. There is the book and then beyond the book. Take care. 😀
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thank you for your input. 1- I already stated in my first point that "you can use the lens for whatever you like" 2- I am a Beauty and Fashion photographer. 3- I shoot Nikon (NPS) and Leica. 4- Yes, I did see your video and look forward for more videos in light of my comments.
Why does anyone care about fringing or chromatic aberration when a) clients don't (assuming professionals) and b) you can solve those issues with one or two clicks in post?
I am happy for Nikon, and even happier for Nikon shooters who have waited for this lens.
It is a beauty for sure Freeman. 🙂 Take care, cheers Matt
Great in depth comparison! Love all your videos!
If money, size, and weight were no object, then the 1.2 wins hands down. However, for me, those criteria matter so I will stick with the 1.8 S. Nice video, Matt. Thanks for your hard work putting this together.
I share the same sentiment regarding limitations. I'm now moving from DSLR to mirrorless and was seriously considering the viltrox... However, I see the issues highlighted and will invest the extra money to get the 85 f/1.8.
Thanks Matt for the videos... As a photographer on the other side of the world, you have been very helpful through your videos...
Thanks Jerry, great choice :) Cheers Matt
I used my Z 85mm f/1.8S just yesterday for a talking head video and it reminded me just how good that lens is (at $999CAD right now -- $50 off). The thing that was really standout for the 1.2 in your test was the CA and flare control. The 1.2 definitely has an edge in sharpness, as well -- which may be related to the control of those aberrations. Thanks for confirming that this bokeh beast is worth the investment, Matt. And thanks for the incredible amount of work you undertook to put this together!
Thanks Ray, for sure it is a lens that from my perspective clearly shows what you are paying for. Cheers Matt
Excellent thorough review, Matt!
Thank you kindly Ira, Cheers Matt
Thanks Matt and I am first on the list for the 85mm 1.2 at my camera store. I've held out for this lens even though tempted by 50mm 1.2. Hopefully we'll all have in-hand soon.
Yeah Chuck, we are halfway through the month almost, not long to go now, I look forward to hearing what you think of it. :) Cheers Matt
Exzellent comparison. Thank you Matt.
Thanks Kai. 😀👍
Thanks, Matt. Very clear comparisons.
Cheers Mike.
Thank you sir for your time and energy!! 🙏
My pleasure Bahaa. 😀
Just got the Nikkor S 85mm 1.8 today. Fits my needs and budget. Another great video! Thanks, Matt!
Thanks for great review ! I have the 85/1.2 on order and looking forward to use it!
Thank you Marleen, I would love to know what you think when it arrive. Cheers Matt. 😀
Nice and comprehensive. Well done Mathew.
Cheers.
Thank you so much for such a useful and clear comparison between four 85mm lens.👌
My complete pleasure RK
Your last 85 1.2 video was enough to convince me to preorder immediately after I watched it and this video just confirmed that my decision was correct for my parhicular needs! 😎👍🏾🙏🏾
So awesome Eugene, honestly for my use case and it also sounds like yours, this lens I believe will firmly meet and perhaps even exceed your expectations once in hand. I really look forward to hearing from you what you think. :) Cheers and take care. Matt
Thanks for this and all your superb comparison videos, Matt. You make it all look so easy, but we know it’s not! 🙂
85 1.8 is a amazing lens I love it.
Great job, Matt! I have viewed your first 85 1.2 review more than once and it was fantastic. I shot the 85 1.4 for years and loved it. I bought the 85 1.8 S as soon as it came out and the differences were so dramatic that I sold the 1.4 the next week. This video verifies that move. I still have the Nikkor 105 1.4 and love it but the focal length is a bit long for me. 85mm is more in my wheelhouse. I imagine that it will get sold soon after the 85 1.2's arrival. Like other commentors, I will likely keep the 85 1.8 S for its size and weight. Excited to put the 85 1.2 through the paces when it arrives in a few weeks. Thanks for all you do.
Thanks so much Raun, for sure we cannot go wrong with the 'Z S' lenses. And I too will hold onto the 85 1.8. I look forward to hearing what you think of the 85 1.2 when yours arrives, it is such and exciting lens (from my perspective) :) Cheers Matt😀
Thanks for this great comparison and demonstrating how special the 1.2 is. The control of flare and aberrations is superb.
My pleasure! Yes it is amazing and especially as it is doing it at 1.2. 🚀😀👍
Fantastic real-world comparison, cheers! :)
Thank you.
Love my nikor 85 1.8s for more than just portraits too.
I love my 85 1.8s Z but since I got the 24-120 f4z, I use it all the time including portraits.
Great choice Jay
great video. I got the z 1.8 on sale and I am very happy with how it performs.
Matt, Thank you for the comparison and all the effort put forth, as it greatly helps with making a more informed lens selection decision. Interesting addition of the 'cartoon' effect and how the attention it draws.
My pleasure RC. 😀👍
I have the Viltrox 85mm that I only use for stills and never shoot wide open. Given the price, I was impressed with how well it competed against its more expensive brethren. Thanks for the test Matt.
Yeah for sure Keith, all four lenses have their place in this list, with perhaps the F mount lens being the least compelling from my perspective at this point in time :) And it makes sense as it is so much older :) Cheers Matt
thanks for the comparison Matt, it was great to see the 4 lenses go head to head. As an amateur who loves taking photos but not making money from it, the 1.8S delivers the best bang for buck for me. cheers mate and keep 'em coming!
Yep you can go wrong with the 1.8 S. take care and thanks David. Cheers Matt.
Very informative comparison for Nikon z users thank u matt
My pleasure!
Thank you Matt. The shot which stood out to me is the white brick wall with the over exposed sign way down the alley. That hot spot held together so well with the 1.2, and to me that means that even wide open I will have more latitude when it comes to backlight and other challenging lighting situations. You can always add a filter in front of the lens. You can always add glow in post or pull back the contrast away from the subject for effect. But if the lens creates those “effects” on its own, then there’s more hoops to jump through to accommodate the lens. I can’t wait to get shooting with one. I have a bunch of shots in mind to test and push the lens. Hopefully in 2 or 3 weeks I can get started. Cheers!
For sure BT. With flare and aberrations among other attributes it really holds together. All of the lenses in this grouping are great, but the 1.2 still really performs at 1.2. Very exciting. Cheers Matt.
The 85 f1.8 is the clear winner here 👍
Thanks, Matt!
I dearly love my 85 1.8G lens adapted to the Z6, but, my of my it would be SO much fun to play with that 1.2 for a few days!
My pleasure John :)
Building my collection of Z lenses with S line. I bought the 85 F 1.8 S recently having realised that it was what I really needed. The performance and value of the 1.8 is very pleasing. I am trying to keep to lighter lenses anyway. I bought the 85 with studio portrait work in mind. It is a pleasure to work with. There are other S line lenses I have plans for. The good thing is that opting for the 1.8 isn’t really a compromise at all, it’s just a different option.
For sure, the 1.8 S lenses are outstanding. You can't go wrong :)
Nice summary Matt. My 85 1.2 is on pre-order since release. Really excited to get out and shoot with it.
Cheers
Cheers Chris. Let me know what you think when it arrives. 😀 Matt.
@@MattIrwinPhotography I'm #1 in line at the local shop and an NPS member so I'm hopeful late March is a real thing for me. Fingers crossed.
@@chrishilton6378 I have my fingers crossed for you also, and for me late March !!!!! 🤞
fantastic job comparing these lenses. It's a lot of work to swap out the lenses for your 4 lens compare. really appreciate the hard work.
Another excellent vid here Matt, thanks for all the work you put into these - it shows! 👏🏻 I plan to stick with the 85 1.8 S for the time being, since it's SO good and has me well-covered. This year I need to add a second body, either the Z9 / Z8 / or Z6III, depending on what the latter two turn out to be. Exciting year!
Thanks Craig, I think at this stage we all can't wait to see what camera is next. :) Cheers Matt
still watching my email for the ship notice from NPS. If any silver lining, I spent the last week under the weather and was not as anxious for the lens. But with better breathing I feel the desire creeping back. Really want this in hand for a couple upcoming trips. Thanks for the video, Matt!
I’ve been waiting for this lens for 3 years, hope it does not disappoint
I'll be super surprised if it doesWhich cam will you be mounting it on Gerald? Cheers Matt
I had a chance to try this last week and am very happy with my pre order. It's a big lens and I will definitely also keep my 1.8s for when weight and bulk are worth the tiny trade off in image quality and light gathering.
Sounds like a plan 👍
Great video. Makes choices informed and easy. Real data!
Thanks Matt. 👍🏻
PS. For me 85mm 1.2…. One day. 🙂
Cheers Joe, thanks for joining me on this lovely balmy Melbourne summer night :) Twas a good one.
Which would be ideal for capturing fast moving sports action stills with a z6? Thanks for this video, by the way.
I just preordered the Z8 along with the Z 70-200 2.8 (my go to f lens) along with the Z 35 1.8. The Z 50 and 85 (both 1.8) are on my list. The 1.8 S lenses are fast enough and meet my needs in all other areas as well. Waiting patiently for Z8 to arrive.
Hello Matt, great evening images as always. Good to see a relevant companion of 85mm lenses. Thank you. Keep well, keep safe please continue to inspire. Yes I have one one order that the 85mm f1.2 see if it comes or dose my next supplier go belly up?
Thanks, you too John. I hope your lens gets to you ASAP :) Cheers Matt
What a lens that Z 85 1.2, the 85 1.8 is no slouch either though. Enjoy your copy of the 85 1.2 Matt. I might loan it someday but I don’t think I can afford to buy it
Amateur photographer. I shoot all sorts of Nikons for fun on the regular. Film, old DSLRs, Modern DSLRs, and Z mirrorless. I have Nikkor F glass all the way back to the 1960s. The Z S line glass is optical brilliance. For me, the 85mm f1.8 S is absolutely all I need. That said, sometimes I want to shoot and capture differently, adapted on the Z, my Nikkor 85mm f2 ai remains one of my absolute favourite lenses to this day!
Hi Matt,
you must be ever so happy to have the preproduction 85/1.2 for so long a time! ;)
Can't await to get mine :)
Cheers, Martin
Cheers Ernie, this was shot a couple of weeks ago, and the lens went back. But it was great to spend so much time with the lens, and also I cannot wait for mine to arrive. Please let me know what you think. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hi Matt, sharpness and flare reduction seems gorgeous, minimal CA's, a dream! And your photos just amazing ;) Cheers, Martin
@@ernie28ernie Sure Martin, sorry I keep getting that wrong :) Yes the lens is amazing, and thank you !!! :) Cheers Matt
19:33 I didn't know the moon was a bokeh ball. Kind of reinforces the moon landing conspiracy theories. ;)
SHHHH! Peter, don't tell anybody, the whole shot was a set .... ....... .. . . ... . .. . ... .. . . . . . 🌔
Hi Matt, very informative video as usual, I currently have the Z6ii and 85mm Z 1.8s and the 24-70mm f4s, I have to say the 85mm 1.8s lives on the camera and Hardly ever use the 24-70mm, I mainly shoot portraits and absolutely love the 1.8s, its such a great lens for the money. I would love the 1.2 but budget won't allow, maybe in the future.
Cheers Justin, you have an awesome portrait combo in the 85mm 1.8 S and the Z6 II. THanks Matt :)
Excellent comparison, Matt! Other than the AF issue, in terms of IQ I think the Viltrox punches well above its price tag. The Nikkor 1.8 S is a great option for the money, and definitely the 1.2 takes the crown. The 85 G was a bit of a let down when it came to both CA and IQ, it's better suited for more traditional portraits or maybe weddings, but definitely not the kind of shooting done here.
Really well said Yamen. 😀
85 Z f/1.8 is the lens for me...
Well your review sold me. I was considering the 1.8 and the 1.2, and as good as the 1.8 is, I think the 1.2's closeness to perfection would leave me with no regrets. Now as to WHEN I can get that 1.2 is another question as life kinda hit recently :(
I haven't owned a 85 in a long time because the last one I owned was the 85mm f/1.8D which was absolutely terrible with fringing wide open. I mostly shot that lens at around 3.5 to avoid it... then I got the 70-200 f/4 and it became unused so I got rid of it.
I also want to see what they're doing with the 135 that's supposed to come out later this year. I still have my 135mm f/2 DC but it gets no use now because I moved completely to Z and have nothing that will autofocus it. I have it perma-mounted to a film body right now. I may prioritize 135mm because it was a focal length I used more frequently on DSLR than 85mm.
Either way, it's amazing to see the quality of these lenses that Nikon is bringing out. I'll probably never need another 50 since I have the 1.2, and if I want to move lighter I can use the 40mm f/2 and still have a lens that performs around the level of a f mount 1.8. I hope Nikon continues to bring out lenses close in focal length to the big boys that are a lot lighter and less expensive so I can have a light option and a big boy option depending on the situation.
Nice comparison of all four lens and it’s a hard choice between the Nikon z1.2s and z1.8s lens!!!
Thanks Matt - very informative - looking forward to my copy and to the upcoming 35mm 1.2 S :)
-PD
For sure PD. If you were to hazard a guess, what other 1.2’s do you think might be created?
@@MattIrwinPhotography HI Matt - that is a great question and yes, I would be 'hazarding' the guess as it is really hard to say not just because we have to literally predict what a major corporation will do, but even more to the point, I am not sure what is, or is not, realistically feasible to make in a 1.2 aperture from a size and weight perspective.
Obviously, the 85mm 1.2 S (which you have had the pleasure to use) is very large and has some weight, but by all accounts (yours included) it seems to sit/balance very well on the camera and that is in many ways the most important thing, so it may not be such a big deal that it is big an weighty.
The 50mm 1.2 S, which I have and have used since it came out, is also big and weighty - although I do think it balances fairly well, I still feel the weight and size of this lens when using it for long periods and sometimes this fact will persuade me to take a different lens. Case in point, I traveled back to LA (recently moved to Austin, TX) to photography my good friends release concert for his new album. I would have loved to use the 50mm 1.2 S for it extreme and amazing low light capability, but it is a big lens that is much harder to travel with. As such, I ended up taking my old 58mm 1.4 G lens because it is much smaller and lighter and it got the job done well.
This said, I do not regret the 50mm 1.2 S is a 1.2 and is built like it is - for my environmental portraiture, I do not care about size and weight of lenses - only outcomes. So, as you have so aptly said on many occasions, use case matters. This is a concept that I wholeheartedly agree with and it seems I have two related, but sometimes different, use cases - one is my portraiture/environmental portraiture and the other is event type work - whether this is wedding, concerts or BTS shoots.
Back to your question: if we consider the lenses for which Nikon made 1.4 apertures in the G or E versions we have the 24mm 1.4, 28 1.4, 35 1.4, 50 1.4, 58 1.4, and the 85 1.4, and the 105 1.4 - I think this is all of them. It would be great to see all of these in a 1.2 S model for the Z mount - but how big would a 105 have to be to be a 1.2? How big would a 24 have to be to be a 1.2? This 1.2 / 1.8 strategy (which I generally like) may have cornered Nikon into having to make some tough choices.
For example, some have speculated that Nikon may ultimately release a 105 1.8 S for the Z mount. I think this would be a mistake and short of this lens 'levitating', I doubt that I would get it as I would stick to the 105 1.4 E lens, which works flawlessly via FTZ adapter - why would I rebuy this 105 at a slower aperture? So this means that this new lens - should it ever exist - would have to be a 1.4 or a 1.2 for me to get it. If it is 1.4, they will be breaking their pattern, and if it is 1.2 will it be so big and heavy that it is impractical?
I was thinking that Nikon could have the 1.2 line and make select 1.4's for the models where 1.2 do not make as much sense - perhaps they do make a 28mm 1.2 (although this might have to be 1.4 as well) but then make the 24mm a 1.4 and same on the high end making the 105 at 1.4 not at 1.2 - we already 'know' that the 135 is likely to be a 1.8 - but for the 105 1.8 does not cut it in my opinion.
All of this aside, if you told me that they would be making all of these lenses in 1.2, I would be happy as there is a use case for me where they would all make sense, and after I had the first three 1.2's (the 35, 50, and 85), the next one that I think I would want would be a 28mm 1.2 or a 105mm 1.2 - but I would lean toward the 28mm as the 105 1.4 E lens is so good that I feel I have this focal length satisfactorily covered for however long it takes for Nikon to make a new one.
I don't know if I would ever buy the 24mm 1.2 (should there be one) as I am less for the 24mm focal length and am pretty happy with the 24mm 1.8 S lens - in the case of 28mm, the 2.8 lens that has come out is simply not fast enough for what I like when in dark situations so I do hope that a faster 28 is released.
Thanks Matt!
-PD
@@photographydiscourse1185 Fantastic assessment PD, and I would too hope to see all the current F 1.4's come to 1.2. Let's hope it happens. :) Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Agreed - here's hoping🤞:)
Wonder how it compares to the Sigma 85 1.4 Art
Wish you could have included the old Sigma 85 1.4 Art lens, but this is a great comparison. I have the 85 1.8S and have a 1.2 on preorder.
I already own the 85mm 1.4G, so I guess my question is whether it would be worth it to switch to the Nikon 85mm 1.8Z lens, or just stay where I'm at (with the FTZ adapter, of course).
I would like to see how the 1.2 compares with the Sigma 85/1.4 lens, being that the Sigma had such high ratings.
You are feeding my conformation bias on my purchase of the 85 1.8 :)
Great way to spend 20 odd minutes on a sunday morning :)
Also.......
Where did you get that nikon cap?? I want one.
Cheers Chris :) 👍🏼
It is good to see the extreme end of these lenses. Honestly, it’s impressive how the Viltrox lens performed for photography (not video) for the price. The 1.4G lens, while legendary, it is clearly time to retire this lens (while some may like its softness, I get it). Speaking as a portrait photographer, the native 85 1/8 S lens, is best for the price with what it delivers. Thanks for your time making this comparison as I know what it is like to do these types of reviews. Cheers!
Cheers TLS. From these 4 there are a lot of good choices and price points. We can’t go wrong really. 😀
Like a kid on Christmas, today the package is on the way soon the 85 1.2 will be on my camera, happy times :)
Z lenses are superb but i still shoot with the 85mm1.4 g and i will never part from it because i know how take pics which will not disappoint me with it
I literally can't imagine 8K it must be like living in a movie in the future having 8K
As an owner of an Z 85/1.8 lens in using it for portraits and general purposes I still cannot believe your first video about the new 85/1.2. I looked several times this video, your professionalism to show us results with such beautiful people in action is stunning. It is a great pleasure to follow your videos, thanks so much. The comparison of the four 85 rocks as well, perfect choice for all of us and thanks to Nikon for their Z lenses in general! Although I took out my old vintage non Ai 50/1.4 Nippon Kogaku lens and created bokek like shown in your samples and created sun flare with rainbow effect, great fun!😊
Thanks so much. 😀 will you get the 85 1.2?
@@MattIrwinPhotography Well Matt, because I am not a professional photographer, but like to take out highest quality since I used my Nikons (start in 1970), I collected the Z primes 20,35,50,85 with 1.8, the 105 MC and for travel or other stuff my Z zooms 14-30,24-120,100-400. So to answer your question correctly, the new 85 1.2 is stunning, but to big in size, weight and money, although I am very much impressed especially by your samples! My collection is finished for all kind and I will now catch the coming Z8 (hopefully with 45MP sensor). The moment it will be in your hands and see your first impression’s, can’t wait for that, my order will go out! 😘👍
I'm not sure if I'll get the 851.2, I think the 105mm f1.4 is so good and I like that focal length. I would have liked to see an updated version or similar. 135mm f1.8 might be more for me.
Yeah Lonian, I also cannot wait for the 135 1.8 S. Hopefully sometime this year 🤞
Nothing beats the S-line, except a bigger S-line
I have the 1.8S and at the price point it's amazing. For me much better overall than any of the F mount lenses I had in the past. The 1.2 is, of course, in a class of its own but at 2.5 times the price of the 1.8.
That's one gorgeous lens. I hope your bought one is as good too. I've definitely got round bokeh ball envy. It's Intetesting that your 1.8S is a tinsy bit sharper in the corners - most of the reviews found the 1.8S to be very good in the corners like you have. But who cares how sharp the corners are in an 85 at large aperture. I think this new lens is a stunner optically, but unfortunately a finamcial stunner as well.
Yeah Geoff, like Z lenses before it, I don't expect there to be a drop in quality in the one shipped to me. :) I will get that lens out of the box and onto the camera for some more vids ASAP, only a week or two to go. CAN NOT WAIT !!! Might be time for us to head out for another shoot sometime soon .... ?
@@MattIrwinPhotography ...love to.
I think that pretty much seals it for me. While I am not happy about the lack of weather sealing, at my budget I would have been looking at the 1.8G (not even the 1.4) vs the Viltrox.
The Nikkor 1.8G would have given me weather sealing I think and would work with my DSLR as well, but seeing the differences, especially the color fringing on the G lenses in your video and another I looked at, I am definitely going to go with the Viltrox. Is the Nikkor 1.8S better? yes. Is it $300 better? not for me. If 85mm was my main go to lens that I use all day I would get the Nikon one, maybe even pony up for the 1.2, but Having used the 50mm1.8 and 1.4 on my crop sensor DSLR in the past, I love what they do, but I don't get enough use from them to justify the extra expense. I'm more inclined to put that $ toward upgrading my long telephoto or finally investing in a good wide angle.
I think if you want a lighter lens without sacrificing much quality you can go for the Z 1.8, if you need or want the best of the best you go with the Z 1.2. It would be nice to see how much of a difference you would have on a large print from both lenses. Obviously without mentioning names several Nikon NPS members were gushing over the Z 1.8 capabilities for weddings and portraits not so long ago, but many factors go into the buying decision, Cost, weight, use case, and if a pro, which lens will satisfy your client or you personally. Different strokes for different folks as they say and like you mentioned, it is great to have choices. It is interesting that your Z 1.2 copy may have been sharper than the one Ricci used in his review because it was sharper wide open than the Z 1.8 while Ricci had the opposite situation. Thanks for both videos you did on this lens, fantastic work and a lot of effort, very much appreciated. - Jeff 👍
Cheers SI, indeed we have choice and that is great. In regard to lease quality, if I recall correctly Ricci even mentioned his copy might have been that way due to it being a PRE-PRODUCTION model. We were both using pre-production models, and they very well could have been from different 'batches'. I found the lens to be great for sharpness even at 1.2. And you get to see what I see in this video. I will look at it again when my copy arrives along with final firmware. Take Care Matt
Awesome video! What do you use to add the effects in your video clips here (and can you use it for stills)? I miss some of the effects that Nikon removed in the Z bodies (why I still have my D5600)
Which effects do you mean? The video is shot on the Z 9 and edited with FINAL CUT PRO :)
The “animated” effect like the one that starts around 2 minutes. The D5600 has something for stills called “photo illustration” which you can apply in-post “in body”, but even the limited Z50 effects do not provide the same option for post processing, and I prefer to shoot in raw. For reference, I do some out of focus stuff that works well (IMO) with that effect, and others in my D5600 that I started using in my D750.
@@EvilRubberBiscuit Hi ERB, the cartoon effect is created with filters in FINAL CUT PRO :)
Great comparison video, I'm sold on the 1.2 though I'm sure the time line will be long in acquiring this lens specifically.
Get in early Nick, or come to Australia, there always seems to be stock here ..... .. . . ? 🌏
I would absolutely love to visit Philips Island for a MotoGP shoot and see Australia! This I'm still transitioning to mirrorless from the D850 to possible Z8. That's the hold up and this is will be the first Z lens by far.
@@nickcucchiara Fantastic, well lets hope the wait for the mythical Z 8 is not too much longer :)
“Look at those balls right in the middle”… and I rolled and laughed and laughed and tried not to comment and then thought…. That balls are really important. So here, let me just say, 2800 dollars for those balls are worth it. They are the greatest balls on the market. 🎉😅
Rf85mm f1.2 vs z85mm f1.2 more than sharpness?
I am waiting for my copy of the 1.2 and waiting for the 35 to be announced...
Hi Matt! Great video! I own the Viltrox out of these 4 and from what I've seen here I'm pretty damn pleased! It's doing very well compared to the 85 1.8Z and it also surpasses the 85 1.4 in many ways. Happy days! But wow, that 1.2 is soo flawless, amazing....
Also, loved the 'cartoon' effect!
Love your work, cheers Phil
Thanks Phil, I totally agree the Viltrox does well considering all the different price points 🙂👍🏼 Cheers Matt
This month is honestly taking longer than any other month ever in the history of calendars!! Why did they have to ship out on the 31st!?
I own the 85 1.8s lens, so I will stay with it. Purchasing the Z8 is a higher priority over a new lens, so I need to save my pennies for the Z8. I need to work within my budget.
Interesting Matt to me the Viltrox 85mm looks better bokeh than the Nikon 1.8 at 3:51 to 5:00. For example look at the smaller step lights these are rounder not cat eyes like with the Nikon 1.8. Am I missing something here , maybe a little bit of a green tinge but certainly to me more pleasant out of focus area.
Not at all Adrian. I think bokeh is subjective. And as I said somewhere along the way there is no right or wrong here. 😀
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have the viltrox 85mm and its a bargain my go to street photography lens. Anyway more importantly you and Chris Thomas have just cost me £5k for the upcoming cricket season here in the UK, Z9 incoming :-)
Congratulations!!!! On the Z9.
Matt, you always know what lenses to test. It kills me that F lenses aren't tested alongside. I don't use quite a few prime focal lengths to justify selling a G lens for a Z lens.
Thanks TG, I just work with what I have. :) Perhaps next time I will get the F mount 1.8. Cheers Matt
Well, I am going to swim against the tide here. 85mm lenses are primarily used for portraits, and ultra-sharp lenses are not always the best choice for portraits, as they reveal every single detail thst often has to be smoothed over in post production. The 85mm 1.4 has this ability to capture a dream-like feeling that these newer lenses simply cannot match. To each his own, but I am sticking with mine.
From my perspective, it is better to start from a place of sharpness, and then de-sharpen from there, as going the other way is not as easy. Also with short depth of field areas fall out of focus very quickly, thus the sharpness is mute. Of course each to their own. I did though rather find the out of focus qualities of the 1.4 and 1.2 to be rather similar ...
Too many good lenses by Nikon makes selection really hard.
I own the 1.4/85G and can not reproduce the CAs shown in the video. What do I do wrong or is my cope damaged? Tried several setups with the Z9, no chance, the bokeh bubbles are clean. Any idea?
What are you trying to produce? :)
My personal thoughts
I own the 85mm ed 1.4G, 85mm 1.8s and the Sigma 85mm 1.4
I think the 85mm 1.8s is so good I'll just wait on Nikon to come out with the 135mm 1.8S
The I can get the most perfect bokeh with the Sigma 85mm 1.4... but it's even HEAVIER!!! but it works on both my D850/Z systems
I thought the Viltrox was sharper in your images than you were giving it credit for. the fringing should be easy to correct for, no?
For me the 50 f1.2 is a lot more versatile. I’m also not a fan of the longer minimum focus distance on 85mm lenses.
The 85 f1.2 S is stunning, just not for me. But that 35 f1.2? 😍
I’d love to see a fast 105 next from Nikon.
I tend to think subject size in the frame will end up quite similar at each minimum focus distance, though that hunch needs testing. I have the 50mm 1.2. Used it today in fact, and to good effect. But there are times I find myself shooting the 50 but wanting a degree of background magnification/obfuscation (“compression” some will say) which that lens can’t produce. For me, they will both coexist in my kit just fine, though soon I may have to start thinking about a hand cart to move all this glass around. The focus motors may be up for the job, but I’m not so sure about my back! 😂
Yeah BT and I think the 35 1.2 and 135 1.8 will also make it to my bag … might be time to increase my weight reps. 🏋️
@@MattIrwinPhotography Too true! I’m curious about both of those lenses myself. I definitely prefer shooting with primes.
Hi Matt. I think this review clearly shows us why the Z 85 1.2 is the king and why it costs what it does. For those saying the 85 1.8 Z is close or some say even better? hehe please. The 1.2 blows it away in every way shape or form. Not to say the 85 1.8 Z lens sucks, NO, its a great lens for the money. Way better IQ than the Viltrox and the G lens. This review also exposes 3rd party and really shows its limitations. Hence the price you pay. You know what the old saying, "When the price is too good to be true, " All in all there is a reason why one pays the $3K vs $800., or $400. Now it's worth noting, the examples you showed at night are very extreme examples. most portrait shooters are not shooting with these type condition but it was great seeing these lenses pushed that far. Thanks Buddy , Rock n Roll!!! V
Hi Vahagan, what I like about this lens is it is clear what the value proposition is. If we want the extra attributes it provides, then they are clear. There is the technical value / specification value, and then the creative value, and this lens allows me to create things never before possible. So it becomes priceless. The extra cost will be absorbed with one shoot, or one cracker art piece. I can't wait to see what else comes to the 1.2 range. Cheers Matt
Do you think you will get the lens?
@@MattIrwinPhotography Yes, in my future plans for sure.
I love my 85 f1.4G-until I saw this.
Hi Matt, if f/1.2 is outside the budget, which lens would you get for Z7? I can't decide between AF-S f/1.4 and Z f/1.8.
I would get the Z 1.8 S :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography what would be your main reason? newer design? no need for adapter?
@@damluar flaring, aberrations, corner sharpness, ghosting all suppressed better than the G, and yes the lack of adapter, it would also be better for video focusing, if that is a concern for you :) , I suspect it is quieter too, but I did not check that. :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography Sorry for bombarding you with questions and I appreciate your answers! Would you also choose Z lens over Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art?
@@damluar I’m sorry I have not used that lens. So I can’t say. 😀
Got 85 1.2 a couple of days ago. Shot with it for the last 2 days with Z9 and on both occasions autofocus was really bad wide open. Even on rather static subjects 1/3 of the shots were missed even though eye autofocus indicated green when shot. The quality of good shots is very impressive but for this amount of $ I expected a more refined product and better autofocus.
I have a lot of questions, as your experience does not match mine. What firmware, what light conditions, how dark, which version of FW. Please share with us everything you can, even some images if you like :). Cheers matt
Be interesting to see how the 1.4AFD stacks up, that thing was better than 1.4G IMHO
To me, I think the Viltrox is the winner, as I virtually don't shoot video.
The 1.2S is fantastic, but if you are not gonna make money with it, it's way to expensive. Thankfully, there is the 1.8S, which is also excellent, and even the old 1.8 F adapted isn't bad. The good thing is that there is plenty of choice at any price point.
I will keep my Z 85 1.8 S you just proof it
Good call it is a fantastic lens
While I think the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is better than the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G, especially when it comes to sharpness and quality to price, I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of my Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.2 S😊
The Z 85mm 1.2 is very tempting. Nevertheless I will stick with my Nikkor 105mm f1.4.
Same here
Fair enough, I wonder when a Z 105 will come, and will it be a 1.8 or 1.2 ? Which would you like? 🙂
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hi Matt, if Nikon should decide to do one, a Z 105mm 1.4 would be a good idea. Size, weight and price might be more reasonable than a 1.2 lens.
Where am I? What’s going on?!?
“What’s going on here?!?”
Matt Irwin: I’m here to tell you about the new Nikon 85 1.2 and compare it to 3 other 85mms!
Honestly, the difference is not that big between the 85 1.2 and the old 1.4. Maybe you saw more difference than we could realize on the video. I am not that sure for myself if I am going to upgrade(I own the 1.4 G).
Generally it was not as good as the others in every shot and the fringing was pretty bad. But if you don’t zoom in and you like the look, stay with it.
It all depends on how you use the lens, how you reproduce and share the images, and on your own sense of aesthetics. If someone shoots in a studio with controlled light and narrower apertures, then the G is still a great lens. On the other hand, for the sorts of street work Matt does (particularly at night), there’s all kinds of uncontrolled light sources in each shot which can screw with a perfectly stunning composition. And it’s quite clear from his videos that chromatic aberrations really bother him in his finished imagery, so he’s become particularly attuned to see it. I have a similar mindset because of the kinds of street and natural light photography I do, so these fringing issues jump out to me as well. Just the same, if I happened to own the 85mm 1.4, I might not be in such a hurry to spend what will be a substantial amount of money a few weeks from now. Have a fabulous day.
why viltrox ? afs 85 1.8g is better than that
I don’t own that lens. 😀. I will see if I can get a copy sometime in the future.
Photography has never been this crazy ridiculous and interesting in the mean time…back in the days people had 3-5 lenses and did everything with it for many years…
today we feel the need to test meticulously and pixel peep every lens and sensor up to the point that it becomes senseless…cameras shoot 20 to 60 FPS raw files… what’s next ?
I know this lens is for low light photography, but why are all your 1.2 lens reviews are shot at night time? Why dont you do have photos taken during the day. I hate shooting in dark :)
I will do that too. But night is very difficult for lenses. Have you seen my 85 review. Day time there 😀 ruclips.net/video/WgjKtzEx-7I/видео.html
I dont know, i dont understand english!
For the life of me .The 85mm focal lens is primary a Portrait lens.
1- It is not a universal shots lens and specifically general scenery lens. Of course you can use the lens for whatever you like....
2- But you know that.
And yet you insist in shooting general scenes.
3- A lens with 11 blades will obviously show a better Bokeh than a lower blades count lens.
4- I appreciate the fringing but would like your commenting on the two types of Coma.
5- We need a test for focus speed and sharpness.
Sharpe cannot be tested with auto eye focus as you are testing the camera focus system. It should be manual focus and/or AF point selection.
6- You present a perfect argument to purchase the 85/1.8 S lens.
The extra $2000 would be for collectors of lenses.
You know better. Act so.
A lens is for what great you and it create. Any less limits your potential. You or I should not be limited by photographic cliche, but wield a tool for outcomes, whatever they may be. What do you photograph? What are your current tools?
1. Did you watch the first video?
2. Did you watch the first video?
3. Yes I know, people love to see, as do I. So it is ok. Relax.
4. My copy will arrive soon and I will keep testing.
5. My copy will arrive soon and I will keep testing.
6. commenting from your armchair risks you missing nuance, I think you need to use the lens. Beyond that words are words, usage is usage.
I think you are overstepping. 😀
Each practitioner will walk their path through assessing a lens like this. Your path differs from mine, my suggestion for you is to understand others different approaches to the craft of creation. There is the book and then beyond the book. Take care. 😀
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thank you for your input.
1- I already stated in my first point that "you can use the lens for whatever you like"
2- I am a Beauty and Fashion photographer.
3- I shoot Nikon (NPS) and Leica.
4- Yes, I did see your video and look forward for more videos in light of my comments.
Why does anyone care about fringing or chromatic aberration when a) clients don't (assuming professionals) and b) you can solve those issues with one or two clicks in post?