Nikon Nikkor AF 85mm f/1.8 D
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D is a 85mm f/1.8 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Used copies start from $156.42 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon Nikkor AF 85mm f/1.8 D
Used Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D Listings on GearFocus
Lens Overview — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
Key Features — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
85mm f/1.8 Prime: A fast, fixed focal length in the short-telephoto range, well-suited to portrait, event, and general photography.
f/1.8 Maximum Aperture: Allows for shallow depth of field and strong subject separation, with meaningful light-gathering advantage over f/2.8 alternatives.
Nikon F Mount: Compatible with a wide range of Nikon F-mount DSLR bodies, from entry-level to professional full-frame cameras.
Full-Frame Coverage: Designed for full-frame sensors, delivering consistent edge-to-edge image quality with no crop factor considerations on FX bodies.
Autofocus with Manual Override: Supports AF-D autofocus driven by the camera body's screw-drive motor, with direct manual focus override.
D-Type CPU Chip: Communicates distance information to the camera body, enabling 3D Matrix Metering and improved TTL flash exposure.
Lens Specifications — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Portrait, Studio, Wedding, Headshot |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 62mm |
Description — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
The Nikon Nikkor AF 85mm f/1.8 D is a full-frame prime lens for the Nikon F mount, built specifically for DSLR camera systems. Its 85mm focal length and f/1.8 maximum aperture make it a strong option for photographers who prioritize light-gathering capability and background separation in their work. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, giving shooters the ability to switch between modes depending on their subject and conditions.
A 62mm filter thread makes accessory compatibility straightforward, and the lens's 380g weight keeps things manageable for extended shooting sessions. With image stabilization listed as None, this lens is best paired with steady technique or a camera body that offers in-body stabilization. As a prime lens, the fixed 85mm focal length encourages a deliberate approach to composition and framing.
Pros — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
- ✓Wide f/1.8 maximum aperture enables strong subject-background separation and low-light shooting flexibility
- ✓85mm focal length on a full-frame lens offers a flattering standard-telephoto perspective
- ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus, giving shooters versatile control options
Cons — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
- ✗No image stabilization, which can be a drawback in handheld low-light situations
- ✗Fixed 85mm focal length offers no zoom flexibility
- ✗Older D-type designation means limited electronic communication features compared to more modern lens designs
Videos — Nikon 85mm f/1.8 D
5 Nikon 85mm Portrait Lenses: $300 to $2,200 (Review) — Tony & Chelsea Northrup