cottontop's reviews

  • Nikon 35-70mm f/2.8D AF Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Optically second to none; exactly the classic portrait range
    Polarizer rotates; not AFS

    Digital has moved the pro portrait business down from Medium Format. And the Nikon 1.5 DX factor makes this 35-70mm zoom THE perfect fit for the 3 classic portrait focal lenths:

    50mm for full length (seated or standing; individual or group)
    85mm for head and shoulders
    105mm for head

    This lens is actually "too sharp" for many portraits. One should kick the tripod while tripping the shutter when photographing ladies - if one expects to get paid.

    It is sharp enough for detailed landscapes printed large. The optical qualities give nothing away to any other Nikkor pro-level zoom. Focal length/range fits perfectly between the other two high-end Nikkors: 17-35mm and the 70/80-200mm f/2.8's

    However, if one is working on location photographing fast-movers (children), then consider the AFS 28-70mm 2.8 (which is the update to the 35-70mm).

    reviewed December 23rd, 2006
  • Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended

    I consider this the sharpest Nikkor at more than 8'. Excellent contrast.

    One of the only 2 Nikkors with "no measurable
    distortion", so I use it for panoramas when suitable.

    If one prints large landscapes, what matters is
    resolution of 40lp/mm. This lens resolves 0,62 at f/8, ranking 1st among all Nikkors in current production.

    I use it whenever possible for landscapes.

    My primary criteria when selecting lenses is proven
    image quality; proven in a 12x18" landscape print.

    reviewed December 27th, 2006 (purchased for $100)
  • Nikon 60mm f/2.8D AF Micro Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended

    Sharpest Nikkor at less than 7' Excellent contrast.

    One of the only 2 Nikkors with "no measurable distortion", so it now widely used for macro-panoramas.

    If one prints large detailed landscapes, what matters is resolution of 40lp/mm. This lens resolve 0,61 at f/8, ranking 2d of all Nikkors in current production.

    I sell a lot of 12x18" wildflower prints made with this lens. It's a bargain.

    reviewed December 27th, 2006 (purchased for $450)
  • Nikon 20mm f/2.8D AF Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended

    Sharp Nikkor with excellent contrast. Exactly the
    same optics as my previous AIS version.

    Great lightweight landscape lens stopped down on a
    tripod.

    All wide angle lenses have some problems. But both
    distortion and chromatic aberration are easily ttvf
    remedied with software these days.

    reviewed December 27th, 2006 (purchased for $450)