Terrific Nikon Micro-Nikkor Lenses (Past & Present)
Posted by Tim Cady - Berger-Bros Sales Associate on 26th Jul 2016
Nikon's Micro-Nikkor macro lenses have always had a special appeal to many photographers. These specialized lenses, of superior optics, combined with close focusing capabilities to actual size ratios, or even larger ratios with extension devices such as a bellows or extension tubes, can go far and beyond the call of duty. The early Micro-Nikkor 55mm f2.8 was a historically important lens that proved itself in the 1970’s and 1980’s many times over with its versatility due to its high performance characteristics.
Speaking of history, the 55mm f2.8 AIS Micro-Nikkors, the 105mm f2.8 AIS Micro-Nikkors are still very sought after lenses with very high resolving power that can still be used on some current Nikon DSLR’s
I mention real world performance because all of these Micro-Nikkor lenses are not only suited for close-up work but can “multi-task” as wonderful portrait lenses with extreme detail and with reasonably fast maximum apertures. I have seen some amazing portraits with the Nikon AF 60mm f2.8D.
Nikon’s recent AF Micro-Nikkors still has proven to be some of their most remarkable products. The Nikon 60mm f2.8G AFS ED and the105mm f2.8G AFS ED (now with Nikon’s VR technology) are vastly improved lenses which manage to impress any scrutinizing eye for mind blowing close-ups to stunning portraits with a very natural background blur.
The range of more recent Micro-Nikkors includes the 40mm f2.8G DX, the 85mm f/3.5G DX VR and the amazing Nikon PC-E Micro Nikkor 85mm f/2.8D Manual Focus Lens.
It seems like Nikon has put an enormous amount of research and engineering into all of their Micro-Nikkor lenses. In conclusion, if you want a very versatile lens that will go far and beyond the call of duty, any of the new Micro-Nikkors can do more than the "multi-task" at hand.