Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 Lenses: A Versatile Tool for Photography
**What is Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 Lenses?**
The Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses are a series of prime lenses designed for Nikon cameras. These lenses are renowned for their impressive optical performance, making them a popular choice among professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. With its fixed focal length of 105mm and maximum aperture of f/3.5, this lens offers a range of creative possibilities for various photography genres such as portraiture, macro, and telephoto shooting.
**Technical Specifications and Features**
The Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses were first released by Nikon in 1972. They were part of the Nikkor-Q series, known for its exceptional build quality and optical performance. These lenses were designed for Nikon’s manual focus SLR film cameras and are compatible with both full-frame and crop-sensor bodies.
Key specifications and features of the Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses include:
- Focal Length: 105mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/3.5
- Minimum Aperture: f/32
- Aperture Blades: 6
- Filter Thread Size: 52mm
- Minimum Focus Distance: 1m
This lens is equipped with a multi-coating that helps reduce lens flare and ghosting, resulting in sharper and more contrasty images. Its 6-bladed aperture diaphragm creates pleasing bokeh, making it an ideal lens for portrait photography. With a minimum focus distance of 1m, these lenses also offer excellent macro capabilities, allowing photographers to capture intricate details.
**Image Quality and Performance**
The Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses deliver impressive image quality with excellent sharpness and contrast throughout the entire focal range. The lens’s fast maximum aperture of f/3.5 allows for shooting in low-light conditions, achieving beautiful background separation and subject isolation.
When used for portrait photography, the lens produces stunning results with its flattering perspective and natural rendering of skin tones. The 105mm focal length provides a comfortable working distance, allowing photographers to capture intimate and engaging portraits.
In macro photography, the Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses excel at capturing intricate details with excellent edge-to-edge sharpness. The lens’s flat field design ensures minimal distortion, resulting in accurate reproductions of subjects.
**Price and Availability**
The Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses were discontinued in the late 1980s but can still be found in the used market. The prices for these lenses vary depending on the condition and availability. On average, you can expect to pay around $200 to $400 for a well-maintained Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lens.
**Conclusion**
The Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses are a valuable asset for photographers seeking versatility and exceptional image quality. Whether you are a portrait photographer or interested in macro photography, these lenses will elevate your creativity and help you capture stunning shots. With its solid build and optical performance, the Nikkor-Q 105mm F3.5 lenses continue to be a trusted choice for photographers passionate about their craft.
