dw_js's reviews

  • Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S Nikkor

    7 out of 10 points and not recommended
    built well
    soft corneres, CA

    I originally purchased the lens to use on a D2x. It was great then because I didn't get to see the edges of the image circle......fast forward to a D700 and the edges are soft. I can't stop down enough to get rid of the softness. I have tested the lens at all apertures and focal lengths and have found that between 17 and 24 the edges are unusable IMHO. For those with cropped sensors, it's fine. Very well built and solid. I have seen and used the new 16-35 and would highly recommend that lens over this one.

    reviewed July 24th, 2013 (purchased for $1,750)

  • Nikon 28-70mm f/2.8 ED-IF AF-S Nikkor

    9 out of 10 points and recommended
    sharp, solid build
    weight, lens hood attaches poorly.

    Just an amazing lens. Yes it's heavy but it's built like a tank. Very sharp. I've been shooting it on a D700 and love this lens. I traded up from a 28-105 Nikon lens and wish I had done this years ago. I shoot weddings and the extra speed in low light is appreciated. The only complaint I have is the lens hood mount is not as good as newer Nikon lenses. I would recommend this lens over the new 24-70 2.8 G lens that Nikon has now. This lens is built better, smoother zoom, and Less expensive for a good used copy.

    reviewed July 24th, 2013 (purchased for $990)

  • Nikon 50mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor

    4 out of 10 points and not recommended
    has an aperture ring
    soft, soft soft

    I purchased this lens new. It was very soft from wide open to F8. Usable from 11 to 16. Maybe I had a bad copy but this was the worst Nikon lens I ever owned. Returned it within days. This copy was made in China. I don't know if that makes a difference in the build/optical quality. It was almost like a slight fog to the image. My 50 1.8 works better.

    reviewed July 24th, 2013 (purchased for $300)