Nikkor AF 14mm f/2.8 D ED - Review / Test Report - Sample Images & Verdict
Lens Reviews - Nikon / Nikkor (APS-C)

Sample Shots

Ok, finally here're some sample shots taken with the Nikon D200 (converted RAWs via RawShooter Essentials 2006). Please note that these are test shots and not meant as a work of art.

Click on a thumbnail to view the original file (opens in a separate window). Please note that the originals are FULL SIZE samples (=several megabytes) thus requiring a significant amount of bandwidth so please take care of the limited resources here.

Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D200
ISO Speed 200
Focal Length 14.0mm
Exposure Data: f/11.0 @ 1/125s
Size 3898x2613
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D200
ISO Speed 200
Focal Length 14.0mm
Exposure Data: f/2.8 @ 1/320s
Size 2613x3898
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D200
ISO Speed 200
Focal Length 14.0mm
Exposure Data: f/8.0 @ 1/320s
Size 2613x3898
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D200
ISO Speed 200
Focal Length 14.0mm
Exposure Data: f/2.8 @ 1/500s
Size 3898x2613

Verdict

The Nikkor AF 14mm f/2.8D ED is a good ultra-wide angle lens but it is not a killer offer - especially so regarding its very high price tag. Technically the resolution figures are superb in the center and Okayish (f/2.8) to (just) very good (f/8) at the borders. The lens produces rather heavy vignetting at f/2.8 but beyond the issue is handled really well. In terms of distortions it is not an overly impressive performer but the barrel distortions are less wavy compared to zooms and therefore easy to correct. CAs are moderate for an ultra-wide lens. You may argue that the rather large aperture could produce a nice out-of-focus blur in close focus situations but if you check out the large aperture sample images above you will find that the bokeh is very harsh. Despite its ultra large front element the lens seems fairly resistant against contra light. The build quality of the AF 14mm f/2.8ED is superb although the immense front element is extremely vulnerable and protection filters can not be mounted on this lens. Unless you require an extreme wide-angle for full format purposes the cheaper Nikkor AF-S 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED seems to be a better choice all-in-all.

Optical Quality:    
Mechanical Quality:
Price/Performance:
      
   What does this mean ?


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