Nikon Nikkor AF 50mm f/1.4 Lens Review

Overview

This lens is one of the fastest lens Nikon makes and is a must have lens for low light/indoor shooter without flash. As you can see from the video above, it focuses fast. Accuracy of the autofocus is excellent as well and because of shallow depth of field at f/1.4, accurate focus is very important.  Also, for the same reason of depth of field at f/1.4 you have to keep in mind not to move after the focus is aquired because you may end up with softer picture.
The version I have relies on built-in camera motor for autofocus so it will NOT autofocus on Nikon D40, D40x, D60, D3000, and D5000. New version of this great lens has been released with improvements such as internal focusing, better coating, and built-in SWM (Silent Wave Motor) so I am sure you can find the older version at a bargain price if your camera can autofocus.


Performance

It is a bit soft at f/1.4 but if you don't want useless blurry pictures at limited light, it is a must have lens. Professionals love this lens because of its fast f stop compared to other zoom lenses they have in their bags. Fast pro zoom lenses have f/2.8 at the widest aperture and they are EXPENSIVE. If you observe test shots, sharpness starts improving as you stop down and everything looks fantastic starting at f/2.8. Of course if you stop down to f/16, it looks softer due to diffraction.


Bottom Line

If you are on tight budget, consider its small brother Nikon Nikkor AF-D 50mm f/1.8 or new Nikon Nikkor AF-S 35mm f/1.8 DX.  Otherwise, it is worth the investment for low light shooting and portrait sessions.  None FX format DSLR (D3, D3X, D3S) users should keep in mind that its equivalent focal length is 75mm due to crop factor but it will make a wonder portrait lens.