BENOISON vs Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-

Overview of the Products

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon is priced at $96.22, while the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR comes in at $366.95. This significant difference of about 279% sets the stage for a comparison between a manual focus portrait lens and a versatile wide-angle zoom lens. Each product targets different photography needs, making them suitable for distinct users based on their shooting styles.

Intended Use and Audience

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed primarily for portrait photographers who appreciate the artistic control offered by manual focus. Its f1.8 aperture is ideal for creating a shallow depth of field, delivering beautiful background bokeh, making it perfect for half-body and full-body portraits. In contrast, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR caters to a broader audience, including vlogging and content creation, thanks to its wide-angle capabilities that range from 12mm to 28mm. This lens suits those who need versatility in framing and composition, making it ideal for landscapes and street photography.

Focusing Mechanism

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens operates as a manual focus lens, requiring photographers to use the focus ring to achieve sharpness. This necessitates a shift in camera settings to manual mode, which might be cumbersome for some users. Conversely, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR features a power zoom function, allowing for smooth and precise zooming through 11 different speeds. This automated capability enhances usability, especially for those who may not be as comfortable with manual focusing, making it a more user-friendly option for beginners or fast-paced shooting situations.

Aperture and Low Light Performance

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens boasts a large f1.8 aperture, which excels in low-light conditions and provides striking bokeh effects. This characteristic makes it a preferred choice for portrait photographers who often shoot in variable lighting environments. In contrast, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR has a variable aperture ranging from f3.5 to f5.6, which is less effective in low light. While it enables wide-angle shots, it does not have the same low-light performance as the 85mm lens, making it less ideal for portraiture under challenging lighting conditions.

Image Stabilization

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR comes equipped with built-in optical VR (Vibration Reduction) that compensates for camera shake, providing up to 4.5 stops of stabilization. This feature is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting, ensuring clearer images during video recording or in low-light scenarios. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens does not offer image stabilization, which may require more careful handling or the use of a tripod to avoid blurry images during manual focus shooting.

Versatility and Zoom Range

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR stands out for its versatile zoom range, transitioning from an ultra-wide 12mm to a more natural 28mm view. This flexibility allows photographers to adjust their framing quickly, making it suitable for a variety of scenes, from landscapes to group shots. On the other hand, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is fixed at a focal length, limiting its versatility. While it excels in portraiture, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a multi-purpose lens.

Build and Design

Both lenses are designed with different users in mind. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compact and lightweight, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional lens design that emphasizes manual control. The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR, while also lightweight, is designed to be gimbal-friendly and features a modern aesthetic that aligns with contemporary mirrorless camera systems. This ergonomic design makes it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions, especially for vloggers and content creators.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR ultimately depends on your photographic needs. If you prioritize portrait photography and enjoy the creative control of manual focus, the 85mm lens is a cost-effective choice at $96.22. However, if you seek versatility and ease of use for a range of photography styles, including landscapes and vlogging, the Nikon lens, despite its higher price of $366.95, offers significant advantages with its zoom capabilities and image stabilization features. Consider your shooting style and budget to make the best decision for your photography pursuits.