105mm lens help

[jcon]

OK, forgive me for being a complete fool when it comes to this lens, but I know nothing about it. I have noticed atleast three different versions, F2, F2.5 and F2.8. I read the 2.5 is manual focus only.

I am looking for suggestions on which one to purchase. I will be using it soley for in studio portrait work. I am also considering the 85mm 1.8D but would like to get these lenses figured out. I saw some samples over at PBase of the 105mm F2 and the images were stunning! Is that the better of the bunch? If not, which is? Again, I know nothing about these lenses accept that one of them is great for portraits. Any info on this is greatly appreciated!

Just so I can justify posting in the Nikon DSLR thread, it will be used on my D200 :D

[Rooz]

stupid question, but isn;t 105mm a little limiting for studio ?

[Prospero]

stupid question, but isn;t 105mm a little limiting for studio ?

I agree, 105 is a bit on the long side for indoors work. Perhaps the 85 would work better. But then, I don't know the size of your studio.

About the 105 lenses, I have not used any myself. I did read a bit about them. I would go for the f/2 myself. I think that one is the best for portraits. Not only does it have the largest apperture, it also has Defocus Control with which you can manipulate the bokeh.

The f/2.5 is indeed manual focus. It will meter on your D200, but should you ever wish to use it on your D50 I believe the camera will not meter. Personally I would not go for a manual focus lens. Though it does not matter for studio work, I think it will be aq bit limiting for 'real life' shooting.

With f/2.8 I assume you mean the 105mm macro with VR (there's also a manual focus f/2.8). This is also a great lens, but in my opinion more aimed towards Macro than portrait work.

[coldrain]

As said above, the 105mm f2 DC (the only one to consider) is maybe nice for portrait work on full frame... but 1.5x 105 = 157.5mm is really a bit long for portrait work, especially in a studio!

Portrait ranges normally are between 85-135mm... and 160mm will really give quite a bit of depth shortening of the subject... too much most probably.

So the very nice Nikon 85mm f1.8 seems to be a better choice (1.5 x 85 = 127.5mm).

[shoeytennis]

Don't listen to these guys I use the 105 f2.5 and indeed it is manual focus. I aboslutely love this lens and i got it dirt cheap. If you dont midn the manualness then you will love this lens. I can show you some shots using it yesterday.
BTW did i mention i love this lens??? IT IS AMAZING!!!!

[jcon]

Thanks for all the input guys.

[wh0128]

I agree with the 105 being a bit too long for studio work, but I've read a little on this lens, and I plan on getting it once I get the money.

Good luck choosing.

[shoeytennis]

here is a few straight out of the camera for you to gander at.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/1860/dsc0179rj5.jpg

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/1149/dsc0019fm0.jpg

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/7357/dsc0062gd1.jpg

yeah i know some arent the greatest but yeah shows the great quality right outa the lens and tis dirt cheap.

[Rooz]

yeah i know some arent the greatest but yeah shows the great quality right outa the lens and tis dirt cheap.

with all due respect...but do those shots really show the great quality ? :confused: if i were buying, i'd need more selling.

[jcon]

Again, thanks for all the opinions and input everyone. I think my main choice right now is the 85mm 1.8D for in studio work. Later I may get the 105mm F2 for wedding and outdoor work.

I think you are correct that it will be a bit too long for studio work.

[shoeytennis]

okay okay it is to long lol. but its cheap and i enjoy it.