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🎯 Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D on the Nikon D3

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When Nikon introduced the AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D in 1994, it quickly became a go-to portrait lens for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Fast forward to the Nikon D3 era (2007), and this lens found a natural partner in Nikon’s first full-frame DSLR. While newer optics have since surpassed it in coatings, autofocus speed, and edge-to-edge sharpness, the 85mm f/1.8D remains a compact, affordable, and character-rich lens that shines on the D3.

🏗️ Build and Handling

  • Compact and lightweight at just 380g, making it easy to carry compared to the heavier 85mm f/1.4.
  • Solid construction with a classic Nikon design—metal mount, smooth focus ring, and a no-nonsense aesthetic.
  • On the D3’s robust body, it balances well, offering a comfortable shooting experience for long sessions.

🔍 Optical Performance

  • Sharpness: Wide open at f/1.8, the center sharpness is already strong, though edges soften slightly. By f/2.8–f/4, sharpness across the frame improves significantly.
  • Bokeh: The 9-blade diaphragm produces smooth, pleasing background blur—ideal for portraits. While not as creamy as the 85mm f/1.4, it still delivers a natural separation between subject and background.
  • Distortion & Vignetting: Very minimal barrel distortion. Vignetting is visible at f/1.8 but reduces quickly when stopped down.
  • Chromatic Aberration: Some longitudinal CA (color fringing) can appear in high-contrast areas wide open, but it’s manageable and often correctable in post.

⚡ Autofocus and Usability

  • The lens uses Nikon’s older screw-drive AF system, meaning autofocus relies on the D3’s in-body motor. On the D3, this results in fast and accurate focusing, though not as silent or refined as modern AF-S lenses.
  • Manual focus is smooth, with a well-damped ring—useful for fine adjustments in portraiture.

🎨 Creative Applications

  • Portraits: This is where the lens shines. On the D3’s 12MP full-frame sensor, it produces flattering compression, excellent subject isolation, and a timeless rendering.
  • Low Light: The f/1.8 aperture combined with the D3’s strong high-ISO performance makes it a capable lens for indoor or evening shoots.
  • Versatility: While primarily a portrait lens, it also works well for detail shots, street photography, and even event coverage where discretion and speed matter.

💰 Value Today

  • On the used market, the 85mm f/1.8D is very affordable, often a fraction of the cost of the 85mm f/1.4 or newer AF-S versions.
  • For photographers using a Nikon D3 (or similar FX DSLR), it remains a cost-effective way to achieve professional portrait results without sacrificing too much in optical quality.

✅ Final Verdict

The Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D on the Nikon D3 is a pairing that proves older gear can still deliver professional, emotionally resonant images. While it lacks the modern refinements of newer lenses, its sharpness, bokeh, and reliability make it a classic portrait tool that continues to earn its place in a photographer’s bag.

📷 The AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G for Street Photography

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A lens that trades speed for soul

Street photography thrives on presence, timing, and the ability to see. Gear is secondary, but the lens you choose shapes how you move and what you notice. Nikon’s AF-S 50mm f/1.4G, introduced in 2008, is a modern classic prime that has found a home in many street shooters’ bags. Here’s a detailed look at how it performs when the street is your stage.

🛠️ Build and Design

  • Mount: Nikon F, full-frame (FX) coverage; ~75mm equivalent on DX bodies.
  • Weight: 280g — light enough for all-day carry.
  • Construction: 8 elements in 7 groups, with a 9-blade rounded diaphragm.
  • Build quality: Solid plastic barrel with a metal mount and weather-sealing gasket.
  • Filter size: 58mm, compact and affordable for filters.

It balances well on both pro DSLRs (D700, D810) and smaller bodies, making it a discreet companion for the street.

🔍 Optical Performance

  • Wide open (f/1.4): Soft edges, lower contrast, and a dreamy rendering—perfect for isolating a subject in the chaos of the street.
  • Stopped down (f/2.8–f/5.6): Excellent sharpness and contrast, with clean detail across the frame.
  • Bokeh: Smooth and creamy thanks to the rounded diaphragm, especially effective for portraits or isolating gestures.
  • Aberrations: Some longitudinal chromatic aberration (purple/green fringing) in high-contrast areas, especially wide open.
  • Flare resistance: Improved over older designs, though strong backlight can still reduce contrast.

For street work, this lens gives you flexibility: atmospheric at f/1.4, crisp and documentary-like when stopped down.

⚡ Autofocus and Handling

  • Silent Wave Motor (SWM): Works on all Nikon DSLRs, including entry-level bodies.
  • Speed: Slower than the older AF-D 50mm f/1.4, but accurate and quiet.
  • Manual override: Full-time manual focus available, with a smooth focus ring for fine adjustments.

On the street, AF speed is “good enough” for walking subjects and gestures, but not ideal for fast action compared to modern AF-S or Z-mount primes.

🧳 Street Photography Use Cases

  • Low light: f/1.4 aperture allows handheld shooting at night markets, dim alleys, or neon-lit streets.
  • Portraits in context: At 50mm, you can frame a person with enough background to tell their story.
  • Isolation in chaos: Wide open, it cuts through clutter and draws the eye to your subject.
  • Everyday carry: Compact and discreet, it doesn’t draw attention like a large zoom.

✅ Strengths

  • Wide aperture for low-light and shallow depth of field.
  • Smooth bokeh and flattering rendering.
  • Lightweight and discreet for street use.
  • Works on all Nikon DSLRs and adapts well to Z bodies with FTZ.

⚠️ Weaknesses

  • Autofocus slower than AF-D version.
  • Edge softness and CA wide open.
  • Pricier than the 50mm f/1.8G, which is sharper stopped down.

🧭 Final Verdict

The AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G is not about technical perfection—it’s about character. For street photographers, it offers a balance of mood, versatility, and discretion. If you want a lens that can shift from crisp reportage to atmospheric storytelling with a twist of the aperture ring, this 50mm is a worthy companion.

If speed and sharpness are your only priorities, the 50mm f/1.8G or Z-mount 50mm f/1.8 S may suit you better. But if you want a lens with soul, the 50mm f/1.4G still shines on the street.

Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 — A Full History and Technical Rundown

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The Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 is one of Nikon’s longest‑running and most influential lens designs. Its lineage stretches back to the 1960s and the classic Nikkor‑S normals, through Ai/Ai‑S updates and the AF‑D era, to the later AF‑S f/1.4G. Across generations the optical formula and photographic role remained remarkably consistent: a fast, characterful “normal” lens that balances low‑light utility, subject isolation, and an approachable size and price. Below is a comprehensive history, technical outline, and practical guide to the various versions and what each brings to the bag.

Origins and design pedigree (mid‑1960s → 1970s)

  • Nikon’s early fast 50mm normals (Nikkor‑S Auto family) established the basic optical character: a relatively simple symmetric/near‑symmetric optical formula with emphasis on center sharpness, smooth midtones, and a pronounced but pleasing rendering of out‑of‑focus areas.
  • These lenses were aimed at serious amateurs and professionals who wanted a versatile, fast standard that performed across reportage, portrait, and everyday work.
  • The pre‑Ai and Ai updates in the 1970s modernized aperture coupling and metering compatibility with newer Nikon bodies while retaining the core optical layout.

The D‑series era (AF 50mm f/1.4D) — 1990s design continuity

  • Optical lineage: the AF‑D version carried forward the same basic optical formula as its predecessors, refined for modern coatings and production tolerances.
  • Mechanical character: compact, lightweight, and optically efficient. The D version was built with a focus on speed and simplicity rather than feature density.
  • Autofocus: mechanical‑drive AF that relies on a camera body motor; as a result it performs very well on pro and semi‑pro Nikon bodies with built‑in AF motors but will not autofocus on entry‑level bodies lacking that motor.
  • Rendering: generally snappier and more contrasty than early manual versions, with a slightly busier bokeh compared with later rounded‑blade designs. Strong center performance, usable edges that sharpen when stopped down.

Practical note: the D‑series is beloved for its compactness, price on the used market, and fast, reliable AF on compatible bodies. It’s a classic choice for photographers who want a straightforward, light, and speedy 50.

The AF‑S f/1.4G era (2008 onward) — modernization and different character

  • Introduction of Silent Wave Motor (SWM): internal AF motor provides autofocus on all Nikon DSLRs and produces quieter operation suitable for video and mirrorless adaptation.
  • Optical and aperture design: the G version uses a rounded‑blade diaphragm and coatings tuned for smoother out‑of‑focus highlights and more pleasing bokeh. The optical formula remains related to the historical design but glass and coatings produce a softer, more filmic rendering wide open.
  • Handling and feel: heavier and larger than the D, with a more modern external finish, internal elements arranged for SWM operation, and improved resistance to flare in practical shooting.
  • Rendering tradeoff: the G version is often described as moodier wide open—softer at f/1.4 but more flattering for portraits—while the D version appears a little crisper at the same aperture on bodies that can make full use of its AF motor.

Practical note: the AF‑S f/1.4G appeals to users who need compatibility across Nikon’s entire DSLR line, quieter AF, and a more romantic rendering for portraits and low‑light mood work.

Optical constants that stayed the same

  • Focal length and maximum aperture: 50mm at f/1.4 across all major iterations. This kept the lens squarely in the “normal” class with the same compositional role throughout decades.
  • Core optical layout: all versions use a relatively traditional formula optimized for even illumination, pleasing midtones, and a priority on usable center sharpness at large apertures. Differences between versions are largely the result of updated coatings, diaphragm geometry, motor arrangements, and manufacturing tolerances rather than wholesale optical redesign.

What changed between versions — a practical checklist

  • Autofocus drive: mechanical drive (D) → internal SWM (G). This affects compatibility and AF feel.
  • Diaphragm shape: fewer, more rounded blades in newer models → smoother highlight bokeh.
  • Coatings and glass quality: improved coatings in later models reduce flare and control contrast; subtle changes in microcontrast alter perceived sharpness and subject rendering.
  • Build and weight: later AF‑S bodies are generally heavier and larger to house the SWM and updated mount mechanics.
  • Image character: older designs tend toward slightly more clinical center sharpness wide open; newer G variants favor tonal rendering and smoother defocus at the expense of absolute f/1.4 edge resolution.

Strengths that persisted across the family

  • Versatility: ideal for portraits, street, low‑light, and general use.
  • Speed: f/1.4 aperture gives real low‑light advantage and creative shallow depth of field.
  • Accessibility: historically priced to appeal to a wide range of photographers, and widely available used.
  • Character: each version has a recognizable “50” look—neutral enough for documentary work, characterful enough for portraiture.

Weaknesses and practical trade‑offs

  • Wide‑open edge softening: most versions show less-than‑stellar corner performance at f/1.4; stopping down improves uniformity.
  • Chromatic aberration: fast 50mm designs from earlier eras exhibit longitudinal CA in high‑contrast scenes; modern raw converters reduce the pain but it remains a behavior to watch for.
  • Competing modern optics: newer 50mm designs, especially mirrorless Z‑mount optics, surpass older 50mm f/1.4s in edge resolution, flare control, and aberration correction—tradeoffs that matter for high‑pixel sensors and critical technical work.

Use cases by version (practical guidance)

  • AF‑D 50mm f/1.4: choose if you value compactness, snappy AF on motorized bodies, and a lighter carry‑weight. Great for street, reportage, and photographers on pro DSLRs who appreciate classic handling.
  • AF‑S 50mm f/1.4G: choose if you need full compatibility across Nikon bodies, quieter AF for hybrid use, and a smoother portrait rendering. Better for video work and photographers who prefer more forgiving wide‑open character.

Modern relevance and adaptation

  • On newer mirrorless bodies (with adapter) both lenses remain useful, but the older D version will rely on camera AF‑motor emulation or slower contrast‑based AF performance with some adapters; the AF‑S G version typically adapts more gracefully and often supports faster AF on current bodies.
  • Photographers who prize character and a specific “look” still reach for vintage Nikkor 50 f/1.4s. Those who demand pixel‑level edge performance or want the smallest, lightest option for razor‑sharp editorial work may prefer newer designs or Z‑mount alternatives.

Closing thought

The Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 family is a study in continuity: the same photographic idea—an accessible, fast, characterful “normal” lens—repeated and refined across eras. Each iteration answers slightly different needs while keeping the same creative soul. For photographers who value restraint, presence, and an honest optical character, any 50mm f/1.4 from Nikon’s lineage can be a reliable companion—choose the version whose compromises best serve your practice.

📷 AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G vs Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D

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A Quick Rundown on Nikon’s Classic 50mm

Nikkor 50mm f1.4D

The 50mm f/1.4 lens has long been a staple in Nikon’s lineup—ideal for portraits, low-light shooting, and general-purpose photography. But when choosing between the AF-S 50mm f/1.4G and the older AF 50mm f/1.4D, photographers often ask: which one suits my style better?

Let’s break it down.

🔍 AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G — Modern Mood Maker

Released in 2008, the AF-S 50mm f/1.4G is Nikon’s update to the classic 50mm formula. It features:

  • Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for autofocus—works on all Nikon DSLRs, including entry-level bodies without built-in motors.
  • Rounded 9-blade aperture for smoother bokeh.
  • Weather-sealed mount and solid build quality.
  • More refined rendering—soft wide open, but with a gentle, filmic character.

👍 Pros

  • Creamy bokeh and subtle tonal transitions.
  • Compatible with all Nikon DSLRs and Z bodies via FTZ adapter.
  • Quiet autofocus, ideal for video and discreet shooting.

👎 Cons

  • Slower autofocus than the D version.
  • Softer wide-open performance—requires stopping down for critical sharpness.
  • Larger and heavier (290g vs 230g).

🔍 Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D — Compact Classic

The 50mm f/1.4D is a legacy lens that still holds its own. It features:

  • Mechanical autofocus—requires a Nikon body with a built-in AF motor (won’t autofocus on D40, D60, D3xxx, or D5xxx series).
  • 7-blade aperture—bokeh is slightly busier than the G version.
  • Compact and lightweight design—great for travel and street work.
  • Snappier AF performance—especially on pro bodies like the D700 or D810.

👍 Pros

  • Fast, responsive autofocus on compatible bodies.
  • Smaller and lighter—easy to carry all day.
  • More affordable on the used market.

👎 Cons

  • No internal motor—limited compatibility.
  • Bokeh is harsher, especially in busy backgrounds.
  • Older optical design—less refined rendering wide open.

🧠 Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose the AF-S 50mm f/1.4G if you want modern compatibility, smoother bokeh, and quiet AF—especially useful for video or newer DSLR bodies.
  • Choose the 50mm f/1.4D if you shoot on older pro bodies, value compactness, and prefer snappier AF for street or action work.

Both lenses offer the classic 50mm look, but the G version leans toward emotional rendering, while the D version favors speed and simplicity.

Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR — Detailed Assessment

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Overview

The Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR is Fuji’s short-tele flagship for the X system, offering roughly an 85mm full-frame equivalent perspective on APS-C bodies. It’s engineered for portraiture, intimate documentary work, and any situation that benefits from strong subject isolation, shallow depth of field, and reliable weather resistance.

Key specifications

  • Focal length: 56mm (≈85mm equivalent)
  • Maximum aperture: f/1.2
  • Mount: Fujifilm X
  • Weather resistance: WR (dust and moisture sealed)
  • Optical construction: Multi-element design optimised for sharpness and bokeh control
  • Size/weight: Substantial; built for hand-held stability rather than absolute compactness

Optical character and performance

  • Center sharpness: Exceptional wide open; microcontrast and detail render skin and fabrics with natural dimensionality.
  • Edge performance: Edges and corners improve noticeably when stopped to f/2–f/2.8; wide-open edges are softer but not problematic for the lens’s primary use.
  • Bokeh: One of the lens’s defining strengths; extremely smooth, creamy out-of-focus transition with pleasing highlight shaping and minimal nervousness.
  • Rendering: Filmic and painterly rather than clinical; midtones and highlights roll off in a way that flatters faces and small textures.
  • Aberrations and flare: Well controlled in typical lighting; some care required with strong backlight but coatings and design limit intrusive flare and colour fringing.

Build, ergonomics, and handling

  • Construction: Solid metal build with weather sealing; a premium, reassuring feel.
  • Aperture and focus feel: Smooth aperture ring with well-defined stops; manual focus throw is precise and useful for deliberate focus work.
  • Balance: Heavier than compact primes; balances well on X-T and X-Pro bodies but feels deliberate in the hand.
  • Practicality: Not a grab-and-go lens for every outing; it’s a tool chosen for intent rather than convenience.

Autofocus, low-light, and hybrid use

  • AF performance: Fast and reliable on modern Fuji bodies, particularly with face and eye-detection enabled; suitable for portrait sessions, events, and run-and-gun documentary work when paired with capable bodies.
  • Low-light capability: f/1.2 provides real advantage for handheld shooting in dim environments, allowing lower ISOs or faster shutters while maintaining subject isolation.
  • Video: Minimal focus breathing and smooth transitions make it usable for interviews and cinematic shallow-depth-of-field work, though it’s optimised for stills.

Strengths

  • Outstanding subject isolation and bokeh that flatters faces and creates emotional separation.
  • Robust weather-resistant construction for outdoor sessions in variable conditions.
  • Strong centre sharpness wide open that supports large prints and editorial work.
  • Emotional, film-like rendering that excels in portraiture and intimate documentary imagery.

Trade-offs and caveats

  • Size, weight, and cost: Premium price and substantial heft make it a considered purchase.
  • Narrower framing on APS-C: ≈85mm eq. is ideal for head-and-shoulders but less versatile for environmental storytelling.
  • Very thin depth of field at f/1.2: Technique and reliable AF are essential; missed focus is more obvious.
  • Edge sharpness wide open: If you need edge-to-edge perfection at f/1.2, stopping down is necessary.

Recommended use cases and technique

  • Ideal for: Portraits, engagement and wedding work, editorial headshots, intimate documentary sequences, and low-light portraiture.
  • Shooting tips: Use f/1.2–f/1.8 for dramatic subject separation; stop to f/2.8–f/4 for small groups or increased sharpness. Rely on eye-detection AF for higher keeper rates. Maintain careful focus technique when shooting wide open and favour single-subject compositions where background compression enhances narrative.

Final verdict

The Fujinon XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR is a signature portrait lens that delivers on its promise: creamy bokeh, strong center sharpness, and reliable weather-resistant performance. It’s a lens for photographers who prioritise mood, presence, and tactile control over ultimate compactness or focal flexibility. For anyone focused on portraiture and intimate storytelling on the Fuji X system, it’s a high-impact, expressive tool that earns its place in the bag.

🌌 Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 Review: Wide, Fast, and Surprisingly Refined

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A Critical Look at Viltrox’s Ultra-Wide Prime for APS-C

In the world of ultra-wide primes, the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 stands out—not just for its specs, but for what it represents: a third-party lens that competes confidently with first-party glass. Designed for APS-C mirrorless systems (Fujifilm X, Sony E, Nikon Z), it offers a 20mm full-frame equivalent field of view with a bright f/1.4 aperture. That’s a rare combination, especially at this price point.

But does it live up to the hype?

🔍 Optical Performance

Sharpness is excellent in the centre, even wide open, with only minor softness at the edges that improves by f/2.8. This makes it a strong performer for:

  • Astrophotography: minimal coma and good corner control
  • Architecture and interiors: straight lines stay straight, thanks to well-controlled distortion
  • Street and environmental portraiture: surprisingly usable for creative compositions

Chromatic aberration is minimal, and flare resistance is decent, though not flawless when shooting into strong light sources.

⚙️ Build and Handling

The lens feels premium:

  • All-metal construction with weather sealing
  • Smooth manual focus ring and a clicked aperture ring—a welcome tactile feature for photographers who prefer physical feedback
  • Compact and lightweight for an f/1.4 ultra-wide—ideal for travel and vlogging setups

Autofocus is fast and quiet, with support for eye detection AF and EXIF data transmission. Firmware updates are possible via a USB-C port on the lens mount, a thoughtful touch for long-term usability.

🎯 Real-World Use

This lens shines in:

  • Low-light urban scenes: f/1.4 lets you shoot handheld at night
  • Vlogging and video: wide field of view with minimal focus breathing
  • Creative portraiture: unconventional but effective for environmental storytelling

However, it’s not without trade-offs:

  • No image stabilisation—rely on in-body IS or careful technique
  • Some edge softness wide open, especially on high-resolution sensors
  • No weather sealing on the front element, so use a filter in harsh conditions

🧭 Final Verdict

The Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 is a bold, well-executed lens that punches above its weight. It’s not perfect—but it doesn’t need to be. For photographers and filmmakers who value wide perspectives, fast glass, and creative flexibility, it’s a compelling choice.

Best for: astrophotographers, vloggers, street shooters, and anyone who wants to explore the world at 20mm equivalent. Not ideal for: those needing edge-to-edge perfection or built-in stabilisation

The Nikon D700

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The Nikon D700 is a beloved camera among photography enthusiasts and professionals for several reasons:

  1. Full-Frame Sensor: It features a 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor, which provides excellent image quality and low-light performance.
  2. Build Quality: The D700 is known for its robust and durable build, making it suitable for various shooting conditions.
  3. Autofocus System: It has a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, ensuring precise and fast focusing.
  4. High ISO Performance: The camera performs well at high ISO settings, allowing for great shots in low-light environments.
  5. Continuous Shooting: It offers a speed of up to 5 frames per second. An optional battery grip can increase this to 8 frames per second.
  6. Versatility: The D700 supports a wide range of Nikon F-mount lenses. Including older AI/AI-S lenses, making it a versatile choice for photographers.

Overall, the Nikon D700 is praised for its combination of image quality, build, and performance, making it a reliable choice for many photographers.

What is so good about its sensor ??

The Nikon D700’s sensor is highly regarded for several reasons:

  1. Full-Frame Sensor: The 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor provides excellent image quality with a wide dynamic range and rich colour depth.
  2. Low-Light Performance: The sensor performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, producing clean images with minimal noise even at high ISO settings.
  3. Detail and Sharpness: The sensor captures fine details and sharpness, making it ideal for various types of photography, from landscapes to portraits.
  4. Versatility: The full-frame sensor allows for greater control over depth of field, enabling photographers to achieve beautiful background blur (bokeh) and more creative compositions.

Overall, the sensor in the Nikon D700 is a key factor in its reputation for delivering high-quality images in a variety of shooting conditions.

The Nikon D700’s autofocus (AF) system is highly praised for its performance and reliability. Here are some key features:

  1. 51-Point AF System: The D700 features a 51-point autofocus system, which includes 15 cross-type sensors. This ensures precise and fast focusing across a wide area of the frame.
  2. 3D Tracking: The camera’s 3D tracking feature allows it to follow moving subjects accurately, making it ideal for action and sports photography.
  3. Low-Light Performance: The AF system performs well in low-light conditions, maintaining accuracy and speed even in challenging lighting situations.
  4. Customizable Settings: The D700 offers various AF modes and settings, allowing photographers to customize the autofocus performance to suit their specific needs.

Overall, the AF system in the Nikon D700 is one of its standout features, providing reliable and accurate focusing for a wide range of photography scenarios.

The Nikon D700’s shutter is indeed rated for 150,000 actuations, which is a realistic estimate for its lifespan. However, it’s important to note that this is an average figure. Some shutters may fail earlier, while others can exceed this number significantly. Many users have reported their D700s lasting well beyond the 150,000 mark2. If the shutter does wear out, it can be replaced, allowing the camera to continue functioning.

So, while 150,000 actuations is a good benchmark, individual experiences may vary. If you’re a heavy shooter, it’s always good to keep an eye on the shutter count and be prepared for potential maintenance down the line.

I have been using an interesting older zoom lens on my Nikon D3. The Nikkor 35-135 f3.5/4.5

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The Nikkor 35-135mm f/3.5-4.5 is a versatile zoom lens produced by Nikon for their film SLR cameras. It was first introduced in the late 1980s and was known for its solid build quality and good optical performance.

This lens offers a wide focal length range from 35mm, which is great for capturing landscapes and group shots, to 135mm, suitable for portraits and close-ups. The variable aperture of f/3.5-4.5 provides decent low-light performance and depth of field control.

The lens features multi-coated optics to reduce flare and ghosting, resulting in sharp images with good contrast. It also has a close minimum focusing distance, allowing you to get close-up shots of your subjects.

The Nikkor 35-135mm f/3.5-4.5 is a reliable and versatile lens used for a wide range of photography styles, but it is heavy. Its compatibility with my Nikon D3 camera makes it a great choice for capturing various subjects with a single lens.

The Nikon 35-135mm f/4-5.6 is an older lens, first introduced in the late 1980s. While it may not have all the modern features and technology of newer lenses, it can still be a good option for certain photography needs.

In terms of image quality, it can produce decent results, especially when stopped down a bit from its widest apertures. However, it may not be as sharp or have the same level of optical performance as newer lenses, especially at the extreme ends of its zoom range.

One of the main advantages of this lens is its versatility in offering a wide focal length range, which can be useful for various types of photography such as portraits, landscapes, and even some wildlife or sports photography.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly lens with a decent focal length range and can accept some compromises in image quality compared to more modern lenses, the Nikon 35-135mm f/4-5.6 could still be a viable option.

William G. Biggart (July 20, 1947 – September 11, 2001). In remeberance.

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William G. Biggart (July 20, 1947 – September 11, 2001) was an American freelance photojournalist and a victim of the September 11 attacks.

William G. Biggart, known to his friends and family as Bill, was a man whose passion for photojournalism took him to the heart of one of the most tragic events in recent history. Born in Berlin, Germany, on July 20, 1947, Bill was the child of an American officer stationed there. His life was a tapestry woven with vibrant threads of adventure, history, and the pursuit of truth through the lens of his camera.

Bill’s journey into photography began with commercial work, but his heart was always in capturing the raw, unfiltered moments that spot news photography afforded. His career pivot to photojournalism in 1985 was a testament to his dedication to documenting the human condition in its most genuine form. From the streets of New York City to the conflict-ridden landscapes of the West Bank, Northern Ireland, and the Gulf War, Bill’s camera was his compass, guiding him to the stories that needed to be told.

On the fateful morning of September 11, 2001, Bill’s instincts as a photojournalist propelled him towards the chaos unfolding at the World Trade Center. With his cameras in tow, he captured the harrowing scenes of the attacks, images that would later resonate with the world and serve as a poignant reminder of the day’s events. Tragically, Bill’s commitment to his craft led him to the North Tower, where he would ultimately lose his life as the tower collapsed.

Bill Biggart’s legacy is immortalized through his photographs, a haunting and powerful chronicle of September 11. His work serves as a tribute to the indomitable spirit of storytelling and the courage to stand at the intersection of history as it unfolds. The images he captured that day are a testament to the power of photojournalism and its role in shaping our collective memory.

As we reflect on the life and work of William G. Biggart, we are reminded of the profound impact that one individual can have through the art of photography. His story is one of bravery, of the relentless pursuit of truth, and of the ultimate sacrifice made in the line of duty. Bill Biggart’s name and his work will forever be etched in the annals of history, a poignant reminder of the day the world stood still, and of the photographer who captured it all. RIP William. 💖

https://www.billbiggart.com/

The Art of Photography: Crafting the Perfect Camera Bag

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Photography is not just about capturing moments; it’s an art form that requires passion, patience, and preparation. One of the most crucial aspects of a photographer’s journey is the selection and organization of their gear. It’s a process that reflects the photographer’s style, preference, and readiness for any photographic challenge.

Imagine the scene: three bags, each a repository of a different maker’s vision. One might house the classic robustness of Canon, another the cutting-edge innovation of Fujifilm, and the third might cradle the timeless elegance of Nikon. Each bag is a testament to the diversity and specialisation in the world of photography.

The first bag, let’s call it ‘The Workhorse,’ could be loaded with a Canon 1D Mark IV, known for its reliability and versatility. Paired with a set of L-series lenses, it’s ready for anything from portrait sessions to landscape expeditions. The second bag, ‘The Innovator,’ might be equipped with a Fuji, a marvel of modern technology, complemented by XF lenses that promise unparalleled sharpness and bokeh.

Then there’s ‘The Classic,’ a bag dedicated to Nikon’s storied history in photography. It might feature a Nikon D3s,D4 or 5, a favourite among professionals for its high resolution and dynamic range. Accompanying this could be a selection of Nikkor lenses, each with optical excellence etched into their design.

Nikon D3S

Choosing which bag to take is like selecting the right brush for a stroke on canvas. It depends on the subject, the light, and the story the photographer wants to tell. It’s a decision that can shape the narrative of the images captured.

For photographers, the camera and lenses are more than tools; they are extensions of their creative vision. Each combination opens up new possibilities and challenges one to see the world through different perspectives. Whether it’s the rugged landscapes that call for the ‘The Workhorse,’ the fast-paced streets that beckon ‘The Innovator,’ or the intimate portraits that demand ‘The Classic,’ the choice reflects the mission of the day.

In the end, the bags are not just containers of gear; they are curated collections of artistic potential. They hold the promise of stories yet to be told, memories yet to be cherished, and legacies yet to be created. So, to all the photographers out there, we say: choose wisely, shoot passionately, and create endlessly.

Your camera bag is not just carrying lenses and bodies; it’s carrying dreams, ready to be realised through the lens of your unique perspective. Happy shooting!