How Good Is the New Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena Lens?

The latest lens getting all the attention is the Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena, which promises superlative image quality and creamy bokeh. Nonetheless, the portrait lens landscape is perhaps the most competitive of all, and it takes a major achievement to stand at the top. Can the 135mm f/1.8 deliver? This excellent video takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you will be able to expect from the lens in practice. 

Coming to you from Matt Irwin Photography, this great video takes a first look at the new Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens. 85mm has long been the focal length of choice for portraiture, but 135mm lenses have also been a popular alternative choice, offering more telephoto compression that can be a more flattering for some features and that can create more drama by bring elements of the frame closer together. In recent years, we have seen a real resurgence of interest in these lenses, with some highly impressive entries. It seems Nikon's version stands up to that stiff competition and offers Z mount users an exciting and versatile option if they're willing to pay the entry price. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Irwin.

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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1 Comment

Excellent review, as always. Looks like a great lens. If I win the lotto tonight, I’ll order one!