Honestly so fed up with my zoom, its just not sharp enough for headshots and the bokeh looks like trash. My logic was the 85mm 1.4G but then I saw the 105mm and now Im stuck. Got a big wedding in Philly in three weeks and need something killer for under $800. Which F-mount glass actually delivers that professional look...
Just get the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G. It fits your budget and is plenty sharp for weddings. Its a solid option that works for pro headshots.
@Reply #1 - good point! The 1.8 is a solid workhorse, but I would suggest looking into the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for Nikon F if you're chasing that high-end look. It is significantly sharper than the Nikon 85mm 1.4G and handles color fringing better, which is a lifesaver for wedding shots. Be careful about the weight tho. It is a absolute brick compared to the Nikon glass and your wrist will feel it by the end of a long day in Philly. Make sure to test the autofocus thoroughly before the event. If you were eyeing the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED, just know it is technically a macro lens. It is sharp but the bokeh isnt as creamy as a dedicated 85mm prime. Definitely something to think about before you buy.
Solid advice 👍
Honestly its ridiculous how much we have to drop just to get a decent looking image these days. Ive tried so many lenses over the years and the way prices have ballooned while the build quality feels like its hitting a plateau is just infuriating. It drives me crazy that even on the second-hand market, people are asking for near-retail prices for F-mount glass thats clearly been through the wringer. You want that high-end professional look for a wedding? Better be ready to sell a kidney or something. Tbh, it feels like companies just dont care about the working pro who isnt a millionaire anymore. Its either cheap plastic gear that falls apart or four-figure luxury glass that weighs as much as a bowling ball. Ngl, trying to find that sweet spot without going broke is becoming a total scam. Drives me nuts how much marketing fluff we have to wade through just to find something that doesnt produce mushy corners or gross bokeh. The struggle is real and it honestly shouldnt be this hard to just get a sharp portrait.
Bump - same question here
ngl i have been dealing with the exact same problem for months now and it is driving me crazy. finding that specific high-end look for my own portraits has been a nightmare because im hitting the same walls you are.
- been hunting for that perfect glass for ages
- tired of my current setup not being sharp enough
- budget is also making things really difficult i would suggest we both be careful with these older lenses tho... make sure to check for focus issues before buying anything because i am terrified of getting stuck with gear that dont work for a big job. really hope we can both find a real answer soon.
