Used Zeiss Ikon Standard 50mm f/1.4 Planar T* ZF Series Manual Focus Lens for the Nikon F (AI-S) Bayonet SLR System.

2013-02-11T19:00:00

This lens became my primary selection for portraiture, street photography and whatever is there that does not require me super fast focusing, since it's a MF lens. Best thing about this lens is the bokeh it produces. It has some unique characteristic you'd probably not find in conventional fifties, esp. Sigma 50 1.4, which is the opposite with its plain gaussian blur type. So I suppose it's something you either love or hate. I loved. Build quality is outstanding, and focus ring is a pleasure to use. Main issue with this lens is that it's not so sharp wide open compared to its modern autofocus alternatives like Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G which is super sharp from corner to corner straight from @1.8, or Sigma similarly. Also, at the slight misfocusing you'll notice haziness on your subject, but it's gone if you nail focus right. Well, I bought the lens for its artistic bokeh, and think that it's not much of a use otherwise, so think properly if it's what you're looking for

Daniyar M.

2010-01-31T19:00:00

The zeiss planar is a excellent performer which will render great images and nice bokeh. The lens is solidly made and will deliver outstanding images when stopped down just a little.

rondd5

2009-06-23T21:00:00

This lens has substituted my Nikor f1.8 50 mm Afd. normal lens.This lens has tremendous application in poor lighting,interiors and organised situations where speed is not required. With D-3 it works fine .I recommend this lens to friends and pros aswell.[...]

Nutu

2008-10-10T21:00:00

I am a professional photographer involved mostly in portrait photograhy,and weddings. I have found this lense to be the ideal instrument for all of my needs. I would certainly recommend this lense to any professional,as well as any serious amateur interested in the persuit of perfection. elw lle

Vman