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Nikkor AF 135mm f/2 D DC - Review / Test Report - Sample Images & Verdict |
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Lens Reviews -
Nikon / Nikkor (APS-C)
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Page 3 of 3
The Defocus Control (DC) Effect
In order to vary the Defocus effect the lens features a dedicated control ring
similar to an aperture ring (which is also present). The DC ring has a neutral
setting where the lens behaves just like conventional tele lenses. From here on
you can rotate the ring either to emphasize the foreground (F=FOREGROUND) or
background (R = REAR) blur. The ring locks at apertures between f/2 and f/5.6 which
correspond to real aperture settings. Turning the ring beyond the aperture in
use lets you create a corresponding soft-focus effect. This sounds difficult
an in fact you will need some experience to get the best out of this feature.
Here´s a quick and dirty overview of what defocus control can give you at various settings.
You may notice that the image "jumps" when switching between the samples. This
originates in the requirement to re-focus every time you alter the defocus control setting.
PS: No, these are not my toys - they belong to a female of the species. Just to mention ... 8-)
Move the mouse cursor over text link below to observe the respective DC effect
Verdict
The DC-Nikkor AF 135mm f/2 D is a very high quality, versatile tele lens.
The resolution figures are excellent when using the Nikkor as a conventional
lens. The Defocus Control (DC) feature gives you superior control over background
and foreground blur - some portrait and still-life photographers will certainly
desire such a detailed controlled over the bokeh (the out-of-focus blur) although
it requires quite a bit of experience to master it.
Vignetting, distortions and lateral CAs are very low and nothing to worry
about in the field. The build quality of the lens is excellent whereas
the AF (relying on the slotted drive screw) is a bit dated by now. Similar to its
shorter cousin the DC-Nikkor 135mm f/2D has one major drawback - its price tag at
around 1200 €/US$.
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