Nikon's legendary manual focus portrait lens — the AI-S 85mm f/1.4 with extraordinary rendering.
The Nikon Nikkor 85mm f/1.4 AI-S is one of the most celebrated portrait lenses in photography history. Released in 1981, it provides extraordinary shallow depth of field at the classic portrait focal length. The rendering at f/1.4 has a distinctive quality — a combination of sharpness and smooth bokeh that many photographers consider unmatched even by modern alternatives.
Optical performance has legendary character. The f/1.4 rendering produces images with a distinctive three-dimensional quality — subjects appear to pop from the background. Sharpness is good from f/1.4 and excellent by f/2.8. Bokeh is exceptionally smooth and creamy. The lens has a warm, slightly golden colour rendering that flatters skin tones beautifully.
Nikon F mount, AI-S specification. Filter thread is 72mm. Weight is approximately 600 grams — substantial. Build quality is outstanding with all-metal construction and a beautifully smooth focus ring. The AI-S linear aperture provides improved auto-exposure accuracy. Compatible with every Nikon F-mount body. The premium metal build is a tactile pleasure.
Available on the used market at moderate to premium prices — the legendary status maintains demand. Check smooth focus ring, clean optics, and aperture. One of the finest portrait lenses ever made. The rendering character cannot be replicated by modern AF alternatives. The AF-S 85mm f/1.4G provides AF convenience; this AI-S provides the legendary rendering.