Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro: Complete Review, Uses & Buying Guide!

chThe Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro lens is one of Nikon’s most acclaimed prime lenses for close-up and macro photography. Designed for sharp detail, excellent bokeh, and reliable autofocus, it’s a go-to choice for professionals and hobbyists alike. Whether you shoot insects, jewelry, or portraits, this lens delivers stunning results in both full-frame and crop-sensor Nikon cameras.

Overview of the Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro Lens

• Model Name: AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
• Mount: Nikon F-mount (FX and DX)
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.314 m (1.03 ft)
• Magnification: 1:1 (true macro)
• Vibration Reduction (VR): Yes
• Filter Size: 62mm
• Weight: 720g

This lens is optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness and beautiful background separation, making it ideal for more than just macro shots.

Build Quality and Handling

The lens features a robust polycarbonate body with a metal mount, ensuring durability without adding too much weight. Its rubber gasket protects against dust and moisture, making it a reliable option for outdoor macro shoots. The large focus ring provides smooth manual control, ideal for precise focusing in macro work.

Optical Performance

1. Sharpness

The Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro excels in sharpness even wide open at f/2.8. It gets tack-sharp by f/5.6 and maintains edge-to-edge clarity, which is essential in macro work where fine detail matters.

2. Color Rendition

The lens delivers accurate and vivid colors with great contrast, minimizing chromatic aberration due to its ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass.

3. Bokeh Quality

Thanks to the f/2.8 aperture and 9-blade diaphragm, this lens produces creamy, natural-looking bokeh that isolates subjects beautifully, especially useful for portraits and flower photography.

Autofocus and Manual Focus Experience

The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 macro lens uses a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that offers quiet and reasonably fast autofocus. In well-lit conditions, it performs smoothly, but it may struggle or “hunt” in low-light macro scenarios, especially with very close subjects.

Thankfully, the lens features full-time manual focus override. This means you can instantly fine-tune your focus without switching from AF mode. This is especially useful for macro photography where precision is key, allowing more control over focus points during detailed close-up work.

Vibration Reduction (VR) in Macro Use

The lens includes Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) system, which helps reduce blur from hand movement by up to three stops. This is very helpful in handheld macro shots, especially when you’re working at slower shutter speeds in natural light.

However, as you get closer to a 1:1 reproduction ratio, the effectiveness of VR drops noticeably. For serious macro shooters aiming for sharpness and stability, a tripod or a focus rail becomes essential for consistently sharp results.

Macro Photography Capabilities

True 1:1 Magnification

The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 macro offers true 1:1 magnification, meaning subjects appear life-size on the sensor. This is ideal for capturing fine textures in insects, flowers, jewelry, and even for scientific imaging or product photography with high detail accuracy.

Working Distance

With approximately 5 inches of working distance at 1:1 magnification, this lens provides ample space between the front element and subject. This is beneficial when adding lighting setups like flash diffusers or ring lights, ensuring you don’t disturb or cast shadows on delicate macro subjects.

Depth of Field Challenges

Macro photography naturally comes with extremely shallow depth of field, even at narrower apertures like f/8. The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 macro is no exception. To maintain sharpness across your subject, especially in complex textures, techniques like focus stacking are recommended for professional-level results.

Portrait Performance

Many photographers use the Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro as a hybrid lens, equally capable of macro and portrait photography. Its flattering focal length and background blur make it an excellent choice for headshots and creative portraits.

Video Use and Filmmaking Potential

With quiet autofocus and excellent color rendering, this lens can be used for close-up product videography, B-roll, or cinematic shots where detail is critical. However, manual focus pulling may be needed for best results.

Comparison with Other Nikon Macro Lenses

Nikon 60mm f/2.8G Micro

• Better for general close-up work
• Lighter, more compact
• Less working distance

Nikon 200mm f/4D Micro

• Best for extreme macro with longer working distance
• Heavier and more expensive
• Manual focus only

Sigma 105mm f/2.8 Macro (Nikon F)

• Comparable sharpness
• Cheaper alternative
• Lacks Nikon-native VR and autofocus performance

Verdict: The Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro balances sharpness, working distance, and handling better than most rivals.

Ideal Use Cases for the Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro

• Insect & Nature Photography: Fast enough to freeze motion; detailed enough for eyes, wings, and textures.
• Product Photography: Captures fine textures of jewelry, cosmetics, or gadgets.
• Portraits: Bokeh and flattering compression make it a secret weapon for portraits.
• Documenting Fine Art or Textiles: Edge-to-edge clarity ensures accurate reproduction.
• Food Photography: Excellent for isolating textures and ingredients.

Recommended Accessories

• Macro Flash Ring or Twin Lights: Improve lighting without casting shadows.
• Tripod with Macro Rails: Crucial for precise compositions.
• Extension Tubes: Push magnification beyond 1:1 for extreme close-ups.
• Circular Polarizer (62mm): Reduces reflections and glare.
• Lens Hood (HB-38): Included and useful for stray light control.

Image Samples and User Reviews

Many users praise its detail and versatility. It’s often ranked among the best Nikon lenses for macro by forums like DPReview and NikonRumors.

“The sharpest lens I own. I use it for food, flowers, and portraits, it never disappoints.”
Real user on Nikon USA reviews

Nikon DSLR & Mirrorless Compatibility

Works perfectly on:

• Nikon D850, D780, D7500, D750, D610, D500
• Also works on mirrorless cameras like Z6/Z8/Z9 via the FTZ adapter

Autofocus and VR performance remain intact when used with adapters.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Incredibly sharp, even wide open
• True 1:1 magnification
• Built-in VR for handheld work
• Excellent build quality
• Versatile for both macro and portrait use

Cons:

• Autofocus can hunt at close distances
• VR not effective at 1:1 magnification
• Slightly heavy for long handheld sessions

Final Verdict: Is the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Worth It?

Absolutely. The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro remains one of Nikon’s finest macro lenses, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its razor-sharp optics, true 1:1 magnification, and dependable build make it an excellent tool for detailed close-up work. The combination of effective Vibration Reduction, smooth autofocus with manual override, and long working distance adds to its versatility. While it’s not the cheapest option, its performance and image quality easily justify the investment, making it a lens that can grow with you across photography styles.

FAQs about the Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro

1. Is the Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro good for portraits?

Yes, it delivers soft background blur and flattering compression for stunning headshots.

2. Does the Nikon 105mm f 2.8 Macro work on Nikon Z cameras?

Yes, it works seamlessly via the Nikon FTZ adapter with full autofocus support.

3. What is the minimum focusing distance?

It can focus as close as 0.314 meters (1.03 feet), offering true 1:1 magnification.

4. Is this lens weather-sealed?

Yes, it has a rubber gasket and internal focusing design that improves dust and moisture resistance.

5. Does VR help in macro shots?

VR helps at mid-range distances but is less effective at 1:1 magnification, tripod use is recommended for critical work.

6. What cameras is this lens compatible with?

It’s compatible with all Nikon F-mount DSLRs and Nikon Z mirrorless models via the FTZ adapter.