What To Know
- This means that you need to rely on a tripod or a steady hand to avoid camera shake when shooting in low light or at slower shutter speeds.
- If you are looking for a well-built, weather-sealed lens with excellent optical performance and fast autofocus, the Nikon 85mm is a great option.
- However, if you are on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, the Yongnuo 85mm is a viable alternative that still delivers good image quality.
When it comes to portrait photography, choosing the right lens is crucial for capturing stunning and impactful images. Two popular choices for portrait photographers are the Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm lenses. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the key differences between these two lenses and help you decide which one is the best choice for your photography needs.
Build Quality and Design
The Nikon 85mm exhibits superior build quality compared to the Yongnuo 85mm. It features a rugged metal construction that ensures durability and longevity. The Nikon lens also has a weather-sealed design, making it resistant to dust and moisture, which is essential for outdoor photography. In contrast, the Yongnuo 85mm has a plastic body that feels less sturdy. However, it is significantly lighter than the Nikon lens, which may be an advantage for photographers who prefer portability.
Optical Performance
Both the Yongnuo 85mm and Nikon 85mm lenses deliver excellent optical performance for portrait photography. They feature a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, which allows for beautiful background blur (bokeh) and low-light shooting capabilities. In terms of sharpness, the Nikon lens has a slight edge, particularly at wider apertures. However, the Yongnuo 85mm still produces sharp images with good contrast and color rendition.
Autofocus Performance
The autofocus performance of the Nikon 85mm is generally more reliable and faster than the Yongnuo 85mm. The Nikon lens uses a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for autofocus, which is known for its speed and accuracy. The Yongnuo 85mm, on the other hand, uses a slower and noisier ultrasonic motor for autofocus. In low-light conditions, the Nikon lens may have a slight advantage in terms of autofocus speed.
Image Stabilization
Neither the Yongnuo 85mm nor the Nikon 85mm lenses feature image stabilization. This means that you need to rely on a tripod or a steady hand to avoid camera shake when shooting in low light or at slower shutter speeds. However, if you plan on using the lens for videography, you may want to consider a lens with image stabilization capabilities.
Price and Availability
The Yongnuo 85mm is significantly more affordable than the Nikon 85mm. The Yongnuo lens can be purchased for around $200, while the Nikon lens typically costs around $500. This price difference may be a major factor for photographers on a budget. However, it is important to consider the trade-offs in terms of build quality and optical performance.
Which Lens is Right for You?
The choice between the Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm depends on your individual photography needs and budget. If you are looking for a well-built, weather-sealed lens with excellent optical performance and fast autofocus, the Nikon 85mm is a great option. However, if you are on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, the Yongnuo 85mm is a viable alternative that still delivers good image quality.
Summary: Yongnuo 85mm vs Nikon 85mm
Both the Yongnuo 85mm and Nikon 85mm lenses offer unique advantages and disadvantages for portrait photography. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and financial constraints. If you value build quality, optical excellence, and fast autofocus, the Nikon 85mm is the superior option. However, if affordability is your top priority, the Yongnuo 85mm is a budget-friendly alternative that still produces impressive results.
Popular Questions
Q: Which lens is sharper, the Yongnuo 85mm or the Nikon 85mm?
A: The Nikon 85mm has a slight edge in terms of sharpness, particularly at wider apertures.
Q: Does either lens have image stabilization?
A: No, neither the Yongnuo 85mm nor the Nikon 85mm lenses feature image stabilization.
Q: Is the Nikon 85mm worth the extra cost compared to the Yongnuo 85mm?
A: The Nikon 85mm offers superior build quality, optical performance, and autofocus speed, which may justify the higher price for some photographers. However, the Yongnuo 85mm is a great budget-friendly option that still produces good image quality.
