Opinions needed Nikon 85 1.4 and 1.8

[Jim Poor]

I'm in need of your thoughts on the Nikon 85mm 1.4 and 1.8 lenses.

I'll be shooting low-light, indoor action shots (Canine free style mostly) where I can use no flash.

I was at one of the facilities the other day with my 24-70 and wide open was needing ISO 1600 & 2200 to almost get there.

I'm thinking that the extra 15mm won't hurt and the wider aperture will help. Aside from f0.4 and about $600 bucks, is there anything else separating these two lenses?

I'd love the 200 f2, but can't stretch the budget that far.

[Robert O'Toole]

Hey Jim,

I have used the 1-8 and it is great.

Here is some info that might help :

Photozone 85 1.4 test
Photozone 85 1.8 test

Robert

[Jim Poor]

Thanks Robert,

I've been looking over reviews. The smart side of me says go with the less expensive 1.8, but the darker, more evil side, says go for the 1.4.

Both may be moot points if my D300 doesn't sell in time though.

[Robert O'Toole]

I know what you mean.
Maybe bring your D3 and a CF card to a local shop and try them both out.

Robert

[Alfred Forns]

Jim I have used the 1.8 and its very sharp In your consideration do keep in mind the size and wight factor !!!

[Scott Grant]

i just purchased a copy of the 85 1.8. it has really really nasty CA at f1.8. by f2 is gets better. at f2.2 it's almost gone. i was thinking of you shooting a black lab against a contrasty background and just had to pipe up. :D

at f2.2 you'd be close to using ISO 1000.

[Jim Poor]

Thanks Scott. I'm going to drop by my favorite dealer and see if they will work something out for me including my D300 as part of the mix in exchange for the 85 1.4. Short of that, I may rent one.

[Scott Grant]

best of luck Jim. :)

[Jim Poor]

I'm not the proud owner of an 85 f1.4. So far, I'm impressed. I'll be doing some testing (playing) this weekend.

I had to sacrifice the D300 to pull it off, but I think that was a good choice.