Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 2/100 ZF Manual Focus for Nikon F Mount Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have had this lens on my D700 for about a month now. Having previously owned Canon 100mm, 135L, 85L and other L lenses on my 5D, I can give a comparison with those.
With the exception of losing the ability to autofocus, this lens is the best lens IQwise that I have owned.
I purchased it for portraits and general use - not so much for macro, but the ability to use it for macro is a definite plus. Serious macro photographers may have an issue with this lens not being 1:1 but rather 1:2, but for me this is not a big deal. You could always use an extender to get it to 1:1 if necessary.
Pros: This lens is the sharpest lens I have owned, and it has the best bokeh of any lens I have owned. All other qualities are excellent, such as color, contrast, CA etc. At times, for portraits, it is a bit too sharp - but this can always be adjusted in photoshop.
Cons: The lens may be a bit heavy if you are not used to this weight. No autofocus, but you know this already :)
Initially I was a bit skeptical of manual focus because I have bad eyesight, but with the combination of the full frame D700 and its diopter adjustment i can focus very well with the ZF 2/100.
In addition, there is also the option of using the live-view feature which allows for ultra-accurate manual focusing. I have realized that manual focusing can be more accurate than autofocus.
If you are considering this lens, I would recommend it 100%. In my opinion its a bit plain/ugly looking (!) but thats just my opinion, many other think the lens looks awesome. Its also very well built and the manual focus dampening is great.
Alternative Option - IF you have a Nikon camera and cannot afford this lens, and don't need macro, I highly recommend the Nikon AIS 105mm F2.5 (or F1.8) lens - You can get it dirt cheap on craigslist, and the IQ is excellent on that lens. If you can afford it, the ZF 2/100 is amazing.


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The Makro-Planar T 2100 ZF is the first photo lens with ARRIZEISS Master Prime optics from Hollywoods movie industry enabling exceptionally selective focusing Far superior in optical performance even wide open from infinity to the close-focus limit a...

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