I deliberately bought the 1.8. Others may need the bokeh of the 1.2. For me, there is no objective “better”. There are differences of physically, optically and financially. But it’s not about better as such. I think people who buy the 1.8 are likely to want a smaller and lighter lens. Those who want the 1.2 will want to shoot with ultra smooth bokeh and sometimes a very very narrow depth of field. They are alternate lenses for different uses, needs and budgets. It is a good thing that both exist and we can choose.
I love the compactness of the 1.8 and it has great bokeh for its size and price point for sure. Having both available for different styles of photographers is great for us all! Thanks for checking out the video and the great comment.
What will be difficult, is deciding which to get when Nikon makes a 1.4 version. I want to update/upgrade my 1.8G/FTZii on my Zf. These are good problems to have 😅
I have the Z 85/1.8S and it made me sell my 1.4G F mount glass. About the sharpest lens in DxOMark. So for subject sharpness you do not need the 1.2S. In general you don't need it for studio portraits either. I would shoot studio portraits at f/5.6 or f/8, in general. Maybe in very special cases for, say, people with bad skin, you could place 1.2 sharpness in one eye and obliterate details by having the problem outside Depth of Field (DoF). As I also have the Z 105/2.8S macro lens, I frequently use that for (head shot or a bit more) portraits and I love its "rendition" more than the Z 85/1.8S, actually. (Note that the 105's 2.8 compares to f/2.2 on the 85/1.8S - ceteris paribus. And if perspective compression is no problem by shooting farther away and your studio is deep enough, then a 200mm at f/2.8 gives DoF comparable to an 85 at f/1.2 - ceteris paribus. But also note that DoF next to distance, aperture and focal length, depends on the Circle of Confusion (CoC) that impacts DoF significantly. The CoC combines the impact of camera/film resolution, lens resolution, processing, image depiction size and image viewing distance.) The same will apply to the Z 85/1.2S - its rendition is more beautiful than the 1.8S's and that's hard to describe in words. My message to starting - say wedding - photographers is, though, that you're not going to tell a bride who complains she does not look like a supermodel in your photos, that the rendition and the background blur are so beautiful. Start simple and use the money you did not spend to set up shoots and build portfolio. Train your eye and brain that way. The difference between the 1.8 and 1.2 85mm "S" class lenses is US$700 versus US$2,700 - US$2,000 difference. With 3.9 times the price, the 1.2 only has 2.7 times the volume and 2.5 times the weight.
nice video! I own both lenses and I really prefer the 1.2. When you shoot with different lighting and backlit, you will see how the 1.2 does a lot more than the 1.8. It renders amazing! and has character
@@jasonhalaykophotography For a good example, look at Matt Irwins video - Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 S | Create Photographic Mood | Cinematic Perfection & Rain - this really shows where the f/1.2 shines.
As owner of both 85 1.8 S and 1.2S, and I like the 1.2 so so so much more, not because I spent more money so I like the 1.2, I actually owned the 85 1.8 first, but coming from Canon 85 1.2 and Sony 85GM, I really don't like the Bokeh I am getting from the 85 1.8 so I bite the bullet and went ahead to sped the extra money on the F1.2 lens, The 85 1.8 is a great lens for landscaoe, it's small and light so I am just keeping it, but I actually use the Zeiss 85 Loxia for landscape most of the time so it will be just matter of time I will eventually get rid of the 1.8S.
Jason, Thank you for the time and effort compiling the detailed comparison of the two great lens. I'm sure you're assisting a number of photographers that are on fence as to which lens to purchase and those considering an upgrade to 1.2.
My pleasure and thanks a ton for the super nice comment!! They are both amazing lenses. I’m still not sure if I’ll upgrade or not. Going to try my F105/1.4 today to see if it stands up to the 1.2 as well. Do like the 85mm focal length though.
Thanks for you video. I agree the 85s are great lenses, each in their own way, but I think the perfect compromise would be a high-quality Nikon Z 100 mm f/1.4 S. You would get most of the separation of the 1.2 in a smaller package.
Great to see your videos again. I sold my beloved 85mm f/1.4D a couple of years ago and just bought the 85mm f/1.2. I’ve never used the 85mm f/1.8 but find that the 1.2 excels in low light. I’m pretty amazed by it particularly it’s sharpness wide open.
I have the 50mm 1.2 S, and love it. Skipping the 85 because at weddings I’m a 35mm / 85mm shooter, two bodies on a harness. The weight would suck at after 10 hours of shooting.
1.8 is nice, but the tonal differences I see a significant difference. For my work, I don't chase bokeh and sharpness so I look at tonal transitions and micro contrast. I wouldn't be unhappy with neither, but if money was not an issue I would get the 1.2
@johnadams3038 and that's the difference between a working commercial photographer and not. When you are sending the Raw photos to the client for their in house retoucher they ain't thinking about a couple of sliders could mage this better.
Great video. I have the 1.8. Paid $699 for it. I love it and although I can see the upgrade difference in the 1.2, as an amateur I would not spring for the extra $2,100 for it. If I were a professional I probably would go for the 1.2.
That’s great you are so happy with the 1.8. I love mine too, and although I’m professional, still hesitant of upgrading. It is quite an investment for a few extra stops.
Great comparison. I have both lenses. I shot with the 1.8 since it was released and I loved it for everything I needed it for. Only if you are a working professional or serious hobbyist would I suggest getting the 1.2.
Night and day difference in bokeh really, and night and day difference in price too. It comes down to how much you shoot portraiture. If you're a regular portrait shooter, then the f/1.2 will be well worth the trouble.
For sure. I shoot enough portraiture that it’s very tempting to take the jump and pick one up…might have to rent it a couple times on jobs to see just how much I would use it though.
Thanks for the video. A little bit to add: both lenses are amazing. However, there are differences more than what you are describing, which seems to be mainly about your personal 'use case'. Specifically, there are important technical differences like the fact that the 85mm 1.8 S focus breaths noticeably and the 1.2 S has very little focus breathing, so for video there is a technical difference beyond just 'bokeh'. Also the 1.2 S has more contrast than the 1.8 S, but you need to see them side by side to tell, and finally when both lenses are at 1.8 the 1.2 is the sharper lens. Of course, all that being said, you need to see the shots side by side to notice these differences, and as you point out the 1.8 S is less than half the weight and less than a third the price. Personally, I have both lenses and will keep them both as they serve different purposes - for events and travel/destination commercial jobs the 1.8 S is great due to its small size and light weight with very close IQ. On portraiture assignments, the 1.2 S is the clear winner for bokeh - it is noticeably better at 1.2 than the 1.8 at 1.8 and gives a more unique look that is harder to replicate without such a lens. Also for dark venues the 1.2 gives you much cleaner files as it is 1.5 stops faster than the 1.8. In short, 'bokeh' is not the whole story, but there is a clear difference here, and use case plays a very important role in this decision, but both lenses are excellent and you can 'get the shot' with either. -PD
@@MrSimonj1970 Its 2/3 of a stop between 1.4 and 1.8 (it goes 1.6 for a third, 1.8 for another third and finally f/2 for the full stop). And it is half of a stop from 1.4 to 1.2 - the full stop is 1.0 - so we have 2/3 + 1/2 - which is .67 (rounding from .66 repeating) + .5 = 1.17 (rounded up from 1.166 repeating. .166 repeating = 1/6 so it is 1 and 1/6th of a stop by the math :) -PD
Awesome and honest comparison! Great job on the video length, information and you leave the images up for a perfect amount of time (some TH-camrs flash it across the screen too fast) I own the 85 1.8 and love it, unfortunately I will end up getting the 1.2 for that extra special something it offers.
Thanks Bryan!! And thanks for the positive feedback. I guess some people figure you can just pause the video if you want but that gets annoying after a while so didn’t want people to need to do that. Happy to hear I got it right for you! I’m curious about picking it up too.
Some details: if you are using the Z8 or the Z9 you have to take into account that both the stacked sensor and the shuttleless designs contribute to less dynamic range and lower high iso performance and less dynamic range. When you are shooting to ISO 1600 with the 1.8 you will be able to shoot at ISO 700 with the 1.2 Also it focuses better, less prone to focusing in the eyelashes.
Is the 105mm 1.4 (art or Nikon) better or comparable to the 85mm 1.2 in terms of out of focus rendition (bokeh) ? It would be interesting to see a comparison. I am a big fan of « non common focals » such as the 75mm (long enough but not too long for body shots) or 105mm/135mm lenses for better compression or distant shooting (concerts)
Well I do have this video as well that might interest you: Nikon F 105mm f/1.4 Vs Nikon Z 135mm f/1.8 Bokeh Battle I Jason Halayko Photography th-cam.com/video/FGDqNAm6kpI/w-d-xo.html
For me when it’s comes about high quality images prices isn’t issue, shooting one and getting right is better than shooting too many times . Thanks for sharing, nice job !
Jason ,, great video. Have you tried to stop the 1.8 down to get the round boch balls,, ?? Just wondering if it gets stopped down at some point they might become perfectly round as well. Thank you.
I’m more and more confused if I need or not a 50 1.2 or an 85 1.2 or None of them. I watched Mat Irwin’s, yours…each video on the 1.2’s and I really don’t see much of a difference. I own the 50 1.8 and the 85 1.4 G…there is a subtle difference but the price difference is too big for that minimal progress.
Hey, just thought I would comment that the difference between f/1.2 and f/1.8 is just over 1 stop, not 3 to 4. I appreciate the work you put in, but I think that you should have chosen images or comparisons that highlight the faster focus falloff of the 1.2. This can be accomplished by getting closer to your subject. By watching the video, I dont see any compelling reason to choose the 1.2 option- they appear too similar.
That was kinda just my bad wording about the stops, sorry about that. But ya, appearing too similar was kind of the conclusion I ended up with as well. I did see a bit of a difference, but no so much that I wanted to sell the 1.8 to get the 1.2. Love the 1.8 for it’s image quality and compact size!
@@jasonhalaykophotography I shot weddings for years, now doing portrait work. I had Nikon's 24-70 f/2.8 on one body, and Nikon or Tamron's 70-200 2.8 VR on the other. It covered the range beautifully, but also killed my back after years. Now I have a 35mm 1.8 on one body, and the 85mm 1.8 on the other. Both are fantastic, allowing more energy to be focused on what's in front of my lens. Love the weight and images. My customers are more concerned with creative composition, lighting, etc., than mild differences between a 1.8 vs 1.2 bokeh. My body thanks me as well.
@@johnz4412 ya, small changes like that can make a big difference in our creativity, and the healthiness of our bodies! I just got a new roller bag for my body and lenses when I’m traveling for work to keep as much weight off my back as possible, and it seems to help with my tiredness after a day or so of shooting. Good luck with all your shooting in the future!
Nice comparison as always. For people weighing up which primes to put their money into, it would be interesting to add the a 70-200 at 85mm/2.8 into the mix, to show what that prime difference is compared to the fastest zoom at that focal length.
@@jasonhalaykophotography for example, are primes at wider focal lengths MORE of a difference vs 2.8 zoom... 50 or 35 vs 24-70, vs 85/135 against 70-200. I'm assuming the wider primes make more discernible difference, but I could well be wrong! portrait people might be looking at the 85 making most difference to the end product.
@@japandrew ok, cool. Could be a good deep dive video for sure. My own opinion is that in general primes "should" be better quality than zooms, and the ones I'm interested in always have the bigger appreatures. If I'm shooting in a controlled environment I will reach dory primes first 9 out of 10 times. If I'm shooting events it will be the zoom first, then play with primes. But that's just me. Thanks for then great comments though! I'll put you idea on my vide list.
@@jasonhalaykophotography Yeah! I guess the crux of what I'm asking is, we all know primes are better performing for that given focal length than zoom, but is the difference greater vs wider zooms, or vs telephoto zooms... which is MORE BETTER..ER! :) (The answer will depend on use case, I'm sure, but for you (for all your work combined! No cheating by case!) ..if you can only take one prime alongside holy trinity of zooms, which do you pick?
@@japandrew the first lens that popped into my head when reading your question was my Z Mount 85mm/1.8 lens. For the size/weight and largef/stop it’s a great lens for sure that I seem to reach for more than any other lens I have at the moment.
Unless you are shooting in low light and in need of extreme bokeh, get the 1.2. Any other situations the 1.8 is the better purchase cost wise. Where is that kanji wall?
I would agree. For 90% of usage the 1.8 is great! Still want that 1.2 though, haha The location for this shooting was around the Olympic Dome in Tokyo made for the Olympics.
I own the 1.8s, and the Sigma 1.4 (FTZ/Nikon d850) had a chance recently to test the 1.2. Keeping this short: I'll just wait for the Nikon 135mm hopefully before I die
It's nice to have 1.2s 85mm as an collection, but there is no need to spend for the 3K over for the lens. There are to many great lenses, that nobody really will notice. But i love small and compact, 1.2 85mm it's to big, but the quality is amazing, specially in cinematic mode for example! But the 1.4 are my favourite. And the 1.8s looks great, sometimes you don't even see the difference, that's what i meant having an lens and shoot with it.
Ya, if you really look at it you can see the difference between the 1.8 and 1.2, but it’s not soooo much different. Still prefer the look of the 1.2 but at the moment it’s a “want” lens, not a “need” lens. That might change in yen future though. Thanks for checking out the video!!
@@jasonhalaykophotography Yeah you can see, the 1.2s is more smoothly blurry, but even with 1.8s its not bad at all. If the 85mm 1.2s was more smaller like the Sony or Canon 85m 1.2 I would buy it. It’s not something that i need, but something that i want. But the 105 1.4E is still mine #1 lens.
@@dakotaxu4792 if I had to chose between the two I would probably pic the 85mm f/1.2 just as I am really used to shooting that focal length and like I say in my Plena video, I find 135mm puts me just a little too far back from my subject, especially in such a tight and crowded city as Tokyo. Hope that helps! Plena is an amazing lens though ❤️
@@jasonhalaykophotography ok….. but I also watched your other video which featured the comparison between the Plena and the 105mm f1.4. So my next question is which would you personally prefer between those two?
@@dakotaxu4792 if you saw my other video you would know I would pic the 105 1.4 in the end as I have that lens already and it’s an amazing lens for sure! Not Z Mount so I need the adapter but I don’t think I’m giving up on the 105 any time soon.
@@jasonhalaykophotography but what if you didn’t already have the 105 1.4, what if you had no lenses or camera and the hottest model showed up for a shoot and brought along the Nikon Z9, the FTZ adapter, the Nikon 105mm f1.4, the 135mm f1.8 Plena AND the 85mm f1.2 and you could only use and keep one for yourself after the shoot, which would it be? I REALLY need to know because I have to make a purchase tomorrow and your input actually helps. Thanks
@@dakotaxu4792 hahaha. Such a great question. I personally would take the 85mm. Out of those three I think it’s the most versatile focal length, and I really did enjoy using it during my testing.
Enjoyed your video. I luved my 85mm f1.4 G sad to see it go. But ordered the F1.2 S lens. Main thing for me will be fast motors inside and f1.2 shallow focus field for 8K and 4K video. Can't wait. All the best Nigel Rand UK Nikon Z9 Pro
Thanks for checking out the video and super happy to hear you enjoyed it. The video from the Z9 with this lens is really nice. Hopefully your lens comes soon!!
Grateful for the video, but it cost must be the biggest factor with the 1.8 at only a third of the cost. If you have to analyse the differences so closely to bring them out, that provides your answer, at least it has for me.
Yup! Didn’t think it would be so close when I started, and in the end it made me appreciate the work 1.8 that much more. Thanks for checking out the video and the comment!
@@jasonhalaykophotography The 1.8 is so good, the 1.2 just doesn’t offer enough of an upgrade to justify all that cash. I pretty much feel the same about the 50mm f1.2 versus the f1.8.
@@jeffrey3498 I do notice a difference in the image quality of the two lenses, but I do agree that is not sinmuchnof a difference to justify the larger price point. If I could afford it I would by it, but it is more of a "want" than a "need" so it's staying on my wish list for a while yet, haha
Yes, the 1.2 is a marvellous lens.. Period.. However, the 1.8 is truly amazing at its price point. It's sharp centre to edges at all apertures and renders portraits beautifully... The 1.2 is a stage above but I would say not justified for most..
Nikon 85mm f1.4 F MOUNT beats both . After the unfair tests with f mount 85 1.8 budget lens against z mount 85mm 1.2, seemed a bit old cheap vs new expensive , welcome 85mm f 1.4 (interesting) thats why they show a 1.8 on a d850 , kidology ,
LOL. I just asked you in the video I watched for the first time if you've compared these and if you traded your Z9 for the Z8). ;-) Sorry, I've been out of touch!
@@jasonhalaykophotography I as well (hobby) and I own the 105mm f/1.4 which I picked up used, without hood (since replaced) for just less that $1,000. Love that lens. Do not own a 135mm or 85mm, but do own a used 200mm f/2 (working distance a bitch, but...). So, for me, the 85mm made more sense if picking one up. Appreciate your videos and help for comparing both (wide open), even if I no longer shoot as often that way.
If you know what you are looking for, you can tell. If you are not a photographer and just enjoying the photo like 99% of the people out there, you can’t tell. Kinda why I’m sticking with my 1.8 for now.
in my opinion sharpness isnt everything ... they both look flat and lifeless lets say compared to the 50mm 1.8s or even the 70-200mm 2.8s still no z lens 85mm beats the f 85mm 1.4g visually or the 105 1.4ed th-cam.com/video/fJqTiHjc63E/w-d-xo.html this reviews it against the 50mm 1.8 S the rendering dif is night and day
Your obviously closer with the 1.2 than the 1.8 ! Can see it a mile off , the perspective is a mile out , why not use the 85 1.4 ? Because theres NOT enough difference to warrant the 1.2 , iv tried them both the 1.2 isnt all that. between 1.2 and 1.4. ! So you used the 1.8 theres a country mile between them ,, , typical pushing the new lenses where the 1.4. Is EVERY bit as good 1.4 is missing here the 1.8 is trashy , 1.2 and 1.4 are very similar , i cant do with primes , rarely get to use 1.2 or 1.4 , pro zooms are as good you get to use 2.8 throughout , like my 1.4s were always on 2.8 or slower in bright light
Jason, 1. Why do you speek so fast? Number of words per second is here no subject!!! 2. Why do you show your graphics and pictures only half a second? 3. Who in this world wants and can listen, watch, understand an memorize this valuable information in such a short time? Pleeeeeease!!! Not everybody on TH-cam is American....
Thanks for the feedback! 1. I naturally talk quite fast, even when I’m not filming. I have had other people mention this as well and am working on slowing down, but it’s hard for me sometimes, haha 2. It’s difficult to know how long to put up graphics to please everyone, but the great part of TH-cam is you can pause at anytime. 3. If there is something you don’t understand please re-watch. I often rewatch videos on editing and things I’m learning many times before understanding everything. Good luck!!!
15 minutes into the video, and not a single mention to the price. This is not just "extra money". More into the video after seeing the examples, I think it is not worth the price difference. Yes, a professional should get it, but not me.
@@ReneGrothmann price is different for each country so not something I really mention in videos too often, plus a quick Google search will tell you the current prices in your area quickly. I do agree with you though and even though I am a professional I have not taken the plunge, still enjoying my 85mm 1.8.
It’s all good. Everyone has something to say and I’m enjoying all aspects of the comments I’m getting. The overtly negative comments I’m just letting slide. Seems best this way. Thanks though!!
I deliberately bought the 1.8. Others may need the bokeh of the 1.2. For me, there is no objective “better”. There are differences of physically, optically and financially. But it’s not about better as such.
I think people who buy the 1.8 are likely to want a smaller and lighter lens. Those who want the 1.2 will want to shoot with ultra smooth bokeh and sometimes a very very narrow depth of field. They are alternate lenses for different uses, needs and budgets. It is a good thing that both exist and we can choose.
I love the compactness of the 1.8 and it has great bokeh for its size and price point for sure. Having both available for different styles of photographers is great for us all!
Thanks for checking out the video and the great comment.
What will be difficult, is deciding which to get when Nikon makes a 1.4 version.
I want to update/upgrade my 1.8G/FTZii on my Zf.
These are good problems to have 😅
I have the Z 85/1.8S and it made me sell my 1.4G F mount glass. About the sharpest lens in DxOMark. So for subject sharpness you do not need the 1.2S. In general you don't need it for studio portraits either. I would shoot studio portraits at f/5.6 or f/8, in general. Maybe in very special cases for, say, people with bad skin, you could place 1.2 sharpness in one eye and obliterate details by having the problem outside Depth of Field (DoF). As I also have the Z 105/2.8S macro lens, I frequently use that for (head shot or a bit more) portraits and I love its "rendition" more than the Z 85/1.8S, actually. (Note that the 105's 2.8 compares to f/2.2 on the 85/1.8S - ceteris paribus. And if perspective compression is no problem by shooting farther away and your studio is deep enough, then a 200mm at f/2.8 gives DoF comparable to an 85 at f/1.2 - ceteris paribus. But also note that DoF next to distance, aperture and focal length, depends on the Circle of Confusion (CoC) that impacts DoF significantly. The CoC combines the impact of camera/film resolution, lens resolution, processing, image depiction size and image viewing distance.)
The same will apply to the Z 85/1.2S - its rendition is more beautiful than the 1.8S's and that's hard to describe in words.
My message to starting - say wedding - photographers is, though, that you're not going to tell a bride who complains she does not look like a supermodel in your photos, that the rendition and the background blur are so beautiful. Start simple and use the money you did not spend to set up shoots and build portfolio. Train your eye and brain that way.
The difference between the 1.8 and 1.2 85mm "S" class lenses is US$700 versus US$2,700 - US$2,000 difference. With 3.9 times the price, the 1.2 only has 2.7 times the volume and 2.5 times the weight.
All great information, thanks!!
nice video! I own both lenses and I really prefer the 1.2. When you shoot with different lighting and backlit, you will see how the 1.2 does a lot more than the 1.8. It renders amazing! and has character
Super cool!! I love shooting backlit but didn’t have the weather to do it this time.
Thanks for checking out the video!
@@jasonhalaykophotography For a good example, look at Matt Irwins video - Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 S | Create Photographic Mood | Cinematic Perfection & Rain - this really shows where the f/1.2 shines.
@@madst7521 Will do! Thanks!
As owner of both 85 1.8 S and 1.2S, and I like the 1.2 so so so much more, not because I spent more money so I like the 1.2, I actually owned the 85 1.8 first, but coming from Canon 85 1.2 and Sony 85GM, I really don't like the Bokeh I am getting from the 85 1.8 so I bite the bullet and went ahead to sped the extra money on the F1.2 lens,
The 85 1.8 is a great lens for landscaoe, it's small and light so I am just keeping it, but I actually use the Zeiss 85 Loxia for landscape most of the time so it will be just matter of time I will eventually get rid of the 1.8S.
Jason, Thank you for the time and effort compiling the detailed comparison of the two great lens. I'm sure you're assisting a number of photographers that are on fence as to which lens to purchase and those considering an upgrade to 1.2.
My pleasure and thanks a ton for the super nice comment!! They are both amazing lenses. I’m still not sure if I’ll upgrade or not. Going to try my F105/1.4 today to see if it stands up to the 1.2 as well. Do like the 85mm focal length though.
Thanks for you video. I agree the 85s are great lenses, each in their own way, but I think the perfect compromise would be a high-quality Nikon Z 100 mm f/1.4 S. You would get most of the separation of the 1.2 in a smaller package.
Thanks! That would be an interesting lens to use for sure.
Great to see your videos again. I sold my beloved 85mm f/1.4D a couple of years ago and just bought the 85mm f/1.2. I’ve never used the 85mm f/1.8 but find that the 1.2 excels in low light. I’m pretty amazed by it particularly it’s sharpness wide open.
Ya, the sharpness wide open was really surprising for sure! Looked amazing in my test shots. Thanks for checking out the video!!
I have the 50mm 1.2 S, and love it. Skipping the 85 because at weddings I’m a 35mm / 85mm shooter, two bodies on a harness. The weight would suck at after 10 hours of shooting.
Oh ya, having both the 1.2 50 and 85 would be a workout in its own for a wedding photographer! That would be a long day!
1.8 is nice, but the tonal differences I see a significant difference. For my work, I don't chase bokeh and sharpness so I look at tonal transitions and micro contrast. I wouldn't be unhappy with neither, but if money was not an issue I would get the 1.2
Right in the same boat there. If money wasn’t an issue I would have bought it yesterday, haha
couple slider moves and you get whatever tones you want
@johnadams3038 and that's the difference between a working commercial photographer and not. When you are sending the Raw photos to the client for their in house retoucher they ain't thinking about a couple of sliders could mage this better.
@@blubravery Tf you talking about, you send the clients edited jpegs lol what kind of commercial photographer are you?
Great video. I have the 1.8. Paid $699 for it. I love it and although I can see the upgrade difference in the 1.2, as an amateur I would not spring for the extra $2,100 for it. If I were a professional I probably would go for the 1.2.
That’s great you are so happy with the 1.8. I love mine too, and although I’m professional, still hesitant of upgrading. It is quite an investment for a few extra stops.
Great comparison. I have both lenses. I shot with the 1.8 since it was released and I loved it for everything I needed it for. Only if you are a working professional or serious hobbyist would I suggest getting the 1.2.
My feeling exactly
Night and day difference in bokeh really, and night and day difference in price too. It comes down to how much you shoot portraiture. If you're a regular portrait shooter, then the f/1.2 will be well worth the trouble.
For sure. I shoot enough portraiture that it’s very tempting to take the jump and pick one up…might have to rent it a couple times on jobs to see just how much I would use it though.
Nah night and day to you but to people who don't do photography it is all the same for sure
Thanks for the video.
A little bit to add: both lenses are amazing. However, there are differences more than what you are describing, which seems to be mainly about your personal 'use case'.
Specifically, there are important technical differences like the fact that the 85mm 1.8 S focus breaths noticeably and the 1.2 S has very little focus breathing, so for video there is a technical difference beyond just 'bokeh'. Also the 1.2 S has more contrast than the 1.8 S, but you need to see them side by side to tell, and finally when both lenses are at 1.8 the 1.2 is the sharper lens.
Of course, all that being said, you need to see the shots side by side to notice these differences, and as you point out the 1.8 S is less than half the weight and less than a third the price.
Personally, I have both lenses and will keep them both as they serve different purposes - for events and travel/destination commercial jobs the 1.8 S is great due to its small size and light weight with very close IQ. On portraiture assignments, the 1.2 S is the clear winner for bokeh - it is noticeably better at 1.2 than the 1.8 at 1.8 and gives a more unique look that is harder to replicate without such a lens. Also for dark venues the 1.2 gives you much cleaner files as it is 1.5 stops faster than the 1.8.
In short, 'bokeh' is not the whole story, but there is a clear difference here, and use case plays a very important role in this decision, but both lenses are excellent and you can 'get the shot' with either.
-PD
Sweet, thanks for the detailed comment! All good information to have for sure.
It's not 1.5 stops faster
@@MrSimonj1970 Sorry you are correct - it is approx. 1 and 1/6th of a stop faster - thanks for the correction! :)
-PD
@@photographydiscourse1185 I make it 2/3 of a stop - 1.2, 1.4, 1.8
@@MrSimonj1970 Its 2/3 of a stop between 1.4 and 1.8 (it goes 1.6 for a third, 1.8 for another third and finally f/2 for the full stop). And it is half of a stop from 1.4 to 1.2 - the full stop is 1.0 - so we have 2/3 + 1/2 - which is .67 (rounding from .66 repeating) + .5 = 1.17 (rounded up from 1.166 repeating. .166 repeating = 1/6 so it is 1 and 1/6th of a stop by the math :)
-PD
Awesome and honest comparison! Great job on the video length, information and you leave the images up for a perfect amount of time (some TH-camrs flash it across the screen too fast) I own the 85 1.8 and love it, unfortunately I will end up getting the 1.2 for that extra special something it offers.
Thanks Bryan!! And thanks for the positive feedback. I guess some people figure you can just pause the video if you want but that gets annoying after a while so didn’t want people to need to do that. Happy to hear I got it right for you! I’m curious about picking it up too.
Some details: if you are using the Z8 or the Z9 you have to take into account that both the stacked sensor and the shuttleless designs contribute to less dynamic range and lower high iso performance and less dynamic range. When you are shooting to ISO 1600 with the 1.8 you will be able to shoot at ISO 700 with the 1.2 Also it focuses better, less prone to focusing in the eyelashes.
Thanks, good info for sure!
Is the 105mm 1.4 (art or Nikon) better or comparable to the 85mm 1.2 in terms of out of focus rendition (bokeh) ? It would be interesting to see a comparison. I am a big fan of « non common focals » such as the 75mm (long enough but not too long for body shots) or 105mm/135mm lenses for better compression or distant shooting (concerts)
Well I do have this video as well that might interest you: Nikon F 105mm f/1.4 Vs Nikon Z 135mm f/1.8 Bokeh Battle I Jason Halayko Photography
th-cam.com/video/FGDqNAm6kpI/w-d-xo.html
The general brightness of the 1.2 create a character that feel more spacious to me. Great vid, like your content!👍🏾
Thank you very much!! I haven't thought of the 1.2 like that before, interesting. Thank you for your insite!
I just got mine , the 85 mm 1.8 ! tested it lastnight and OMG I love it ! stunning lens 💎super sharp💎
Sweet!! Super jealous! It is a very very nice lens. I hope you get some amazing shots with it!!
I have the 1.8 already so just sticking to it for now. But the 1.2 is the better lens for sure. Just the price tag…
Super video! Saw this from the Amazon page. Have been mulling over the 1.2 and 1.8. Getting back in to full frame and looking at Nikon again.
Thanks!! Hard decision eh, good luck!
No its not GET THE USED 1.4 ITS AS GOOD AS THE 1.2 THATS WHY HE DIDNT USE ONE !
For me when it’s comes about high quality images prices isn’t issue, shooting one and getting right is better than shooting too many times . Thanks for sharing, nice job !
I wish I could say price wasn't an issue, I would have at least 2-3 more lenses than I do now, hahaha
Jason ,, great video. Have you tried to stop the 1.8 down to get the round boch balls,, ?? Just wondering if it gets stopped down at some point they might become perfectly round as well. Thank you.
I’m more and more confused if I need or not a 50 1.2 or an 85 1.2 or None of them. I watched Mat Irwin’s, yours…each video on the 1.2’s and I really don’t see much of a difference. I own the 50 1.8 and the 85 1.4 G…there is a subtle difference but the price difference is too big for that minimal progress.
Would have to say your’s is more a “want” than a “need” maybe.
Hey, just thought I would comment that the difference between f/1.2 and f/1.8 is just over 1 stop, not 3 to 4. I appreciate the work you put in, but I think that you should have chosen images or comparisons that highlight the faster focus falloff of the 1.2. This can be accomplished by getting closer to your subject. By watching the video, I dont see any compelling reason to choose the 1.2 option- they appear too similar.
That was kinda just my bad wording about the stops, sorry about that.
But ya, appearing too similar was kind of the conclusion I ended up with as well. I did see a bit of a difference, but no so much that I wanted to sell the 1.8 to get the 1.2. Love the 1.8 for it’s image quality and compact size!
@@jasonhalaykophotography I shot weddings for years, now doing portrait work. I had Nikon's 24-70 f/2.8 on one body, and Nikon or Tamron's 70-200 2.8 VR on the other. It covered the range beautifully, but also killed my back after years. Now I have a 35mm 1.8 on one body, and the 85mm 1.8 on the other. Both are fantastic, allowing more energy to be focused on what's in front of my lens. Love the weight and images. My customers are more concerned with creative composition, lighting, etc., than mild differences between a 1.8 vs 1.2 bokeh. My body thanks me as well.
@@johnz4412 ya, small changes like that can make a big difference in our creativity, and the healthiness of our bodies! I just got a new roller bag for my body and lenses when I’m traveling for work to keep as much weight off my back as possible, and it seems to help with my tiredness after a day or so of shooting.
Good luck with all your shooting in the future!
Nice comparison as always. For people weighing up which primes to put their money into, it would be interesting to add the a 70-200 at 85mm/2.8 into the mix, to show what that prime difference is compared to the fastest zoom at that focal length.
Good idea for a future video, thanks!!
@@jasonhalaykophotography for example, are primes at wider focal lengths MORE of a difference vs 2.8 zoom... 50 or 35 vs 24-70, vs 85/135 against 70-200. I'm assuming the wider primes make more discernible difference, but I could well be wrong! portrait people might be looking at the 85 making most difference to the end product.
@@japandrew ok, cool. Could be a good deep dive video for sure.
My own opinion is that in general primes "should" be better quality than zooms, and the ones I'm interested in always have the bigger appreatures. If I'm shooting in a controlled environment I will reach dory primes first 9 out of 10 times. If I'm shooting events it will be the zoom first, then play with primes. But that's just me.
Thanks for then great comments though! I'll put you idea on my vide list.
@@jasonhalaykophotography Yeah! I guess the crux of what I'm asking is, we all know primes are better performing for that given focal length than zoom, but is the difference greater vs wider zooms, or vs telephoto zooms... which is MORE BETTER..ER! :)
(The answer will depend on use case, I'm sure, but for you (for all your work combined! No cheating by case!) ..if you can only take one prime alongside holy trinity of zooms, which do you pick?
@@japandrew the first lens that popped into my head when reading your question was my Z Mount 85mm/1.8 lens. For the size/weight and largef/stop it’s a great lens for sure that I seem to reach for more than any other lens I have at the moment.
Unless you are shooting in low light and in need of extreme bokeh, get the 1.2. Any other situations the 1.8 is the better purchase cost wise. Where is that kanji wall?
I would agree. For 90% of usage the 1.8 is great! Still want that 1.2 though, haha
The location for this shooting was around the Olympic Dome in Tokyo made for the Olympics.
@@jasonhalaykophotography thank you. i am in tokyo myself. for a moment i thought it was shunjuku south side exit.
@@castieldiallo2945 lots of great spots around Shinjuku as well! I hope you can enjoy your time here!!
@@jasonhalaykophotography will do, guv'nor.
I own the 1.8s, and the Sigma 1.4 (FTZ/Nikon d850) had a chance recently to test the 1.2.
Keeping this short: I'll just wait for the Nikon 135mm hopefully before I die
hahaha, you never know. Hopefully it comes out before then!!
why do people find the 135 so special? Don't you have to stand way too far for a full body shot?
@@felm.974 it doesn't matter how far you have to stand to get there shot. You do what it takes.
I personally like the 180mm better than the 135mm.
True, but a lot of times you might not have space @@LMoProVisualComm
Good video and very beautiful model 🤩
Thanks!! And yes, he is a very beautiful model, and super cool person as well. @sakurako_fukuuchi
It's nice to have 1.2s 85mm as an collection, but there is no need to spend for the 3K over for the lens. There are to many great lenses, that nobody really will notice. But i love small and compact, 1.2 85mm it's to big, but the quality is amazing,
specially in cinematic mode for example!
But the 1.4 are my favourite.
And the 1.8s looks great, sometimes you don't even see the difference, that's what i meant having an lens and shoot with it.
Ya, if you really look at it you can see the difference between the 1.8 and 1.2, but it’s not soooo much different. Still prefer the look of the 1.2 but at the moment it’s a “want” lens, not a “need” lens. That might change in yen future though.
Thanks for checking out the video!!
@@jasonhalaykophotography
Yeah you can see, the 1.2s is more smoothly blurry, but even with 1.8s its not bad at all.
If the 85mm 1.2s was more smaller like the Sony or Canon 85m 1.2
I would buy it.
It’s not something that i need,
but something that i want.
But the 105 1.4E is still mine #1 lens.
@@devilangel4655 agree 100%
Very nice photos and video. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thanks for checking out the vid and the super nice comment!! Much appreciated
I need your advice! If you were to choose between this abs the Plena which would it be? I know they see completely different focal lengths
@@dakotaxu4792 if I had to chose between the two I would probably pic the 85mm f/1.2 just as I am really used to shooting that focal length and like I say in my Plena video, I find 135mm puts me just a little too far back from my subject, especially in such a tight and crowded city as Tokyo. Hope that helps! Plena is an amazing lens though ❤️
@@jasonhalaykophotography ok….. but I also watched your other video which featured the comparison between the Plena and the 105mm f1.4. So my next question is which would you personally prefer between those two?
@@dakotaxu4792 if you saw my other video you would know I would pic the 105 1.4 in the end as I have that lens already and it’s an amazing lens for sure! Not Z Mount so I need the adapter but I don’t think I’m giving up on the 105 any time soon.
@@jasonhalaykophotography but what if you didn’t already have the 105 1.4, what if you had no lenses or camera and the hottest model showed up for a shoot and brought along the Nikon Z9, the FTZ adapter, the Nikon 105mm f1.4, the 135mm f1.8 Plena AND the 85mm f1.2 and you could only use and keep one for yourself after the shoot, which would it be? I REALLY need to know because I have to make a purchase tomorrow and your input actually helps. Thanks
@@dakotaxu4792 hahaha. Such a great question. I personally would take the 85mm. Out of those three I think it’s the most versatile focal length, and I really did enjoy using it during my testing.
Did I miss what camera you shot these on? Stunning photos
Sorry if it’s not said in the video, the Z9.
Enjoyed your video.
I luved my 85mm f1.4 G sad to see it go.
But ordered the F1.2 S lens.
Main thing for me will be fast motors inside and f1.2 shallow focus field for 8K and 4K video.
Can't wait.
All the best
Nigel Rand UK
Nikon Z9 Pro
Thanks for checking out the video and super happy to hear you enjoyed it.
The video from the Z9 with this lens is really nice. Hopefully your lens comes soon!!
Grateful for the video, but it cost must be the biggest factor with the 1.8 at only a third of the cost. If you have to analyse the differences so closely to bring them out, that provides your answer, at least it has for me.
Yup! Didn’t think it would be so close when I started, and in the end it made me appreciate the work 1.8 that much more.
Thanks for checking out the video and the comment!
You really have to be a cutting edge pro photographer to justify the 1.2. Or maybe be a rich enthusiast where money is no object.
I would agree. And although my profession is a person who takes pictures, I still can't justify the upgrade. Amazing lens though!!
@@jasonhalaykophotography The 1.8 is so good, the 1.2 just doesn’t offer enough of an upgrade to justify all that cash. I pretty much feel the same about the 50mm f1.2 versus the f1.8.
@@jeffrey3498 I do notice a difference in the image quality of the two lenses, but I do agree that is not sinmuchnof a difference to justify the larger price point. If I could afford it I would by it, but it is more of a "want" than a "need" so it's staying on my wish list for a while yet, haha
@@jasonhalaykophotography You’ll be getting one 📷😂👍
Yes, the 1.2 is a marvellous lens.. Period.. However, the 1.8 is truly amazing at its price point. It's sharp centre to edges at all apertures and renders portraits beautifully... The 1.2 is a stage above but I would say not justified for most..
I doubt anyone is thinking which is better. The 1.2 is better. However, they would consider which is better for them.
I agree. Hence the name of the video is “which is Better For You?” Thanks for checking it out thought!!
It's always a good day when I find a new (to me) TH-camr who uses Nikon!!! :) Great review!
Thanks!! SUPER appreciated!!!!
Great review, thanks!
Happy it helped! And thank you for leaving a comment ❤️
Good review. Thank you.
Nice comment! Thank you.
Very nice vid and reporting, thank you!
My pleasure!! Thanks a ton for checking it out!
Very well and interesting movie. Indoor low light could of been interesting compression . Thank you
Thanks! Doing a shoot at night would be great with this lens as well for sure, both the 1.2 and 1.8 are great for this.
Great video. Good information.
@@K-STUDIO3 thank you very much!!
Superb video, thanks.
Thank you!!
please give a link to the files so that you can download them and compare them yourself, thank you!
Ok, I'll see what I can do about that. Would need to double check with the model as well so might take some time. Thanks for checking out the video!!
Nikon 85mm f1.4 F MOUNT beats both . After the unfair tests with f mount 85 1.8 budget lens against z mount 85mm 1.2, seemed a bit old cheap vs new expensive , welcome 85mm f 1.4 (interesting) thats why they show a 1.8 on a d850 , kidology ,
Thank you!❤
Thank you! I hope the video was helpful and entertaining for you.
AI and background blur eat into the advantage even more so I would so
LOL. I just asked you in the video I watched for the first time if you've compared these and if you traded your Z9 for the Z8). ;-) Sorry, I've been out of touch!
Alllllll super good!! I hope the videos are informative for you! This is just a hobby for me, but always happy when people seem to like the content.
@@jasonhalaykophotography I as well (hobby) and I own the 105mm f/1.4 which I picked up used, without hood (since replaced) for just less that $1,000. Love that lens. Do not own a 135mm or 85mm, but do own a used 200mm f/2 (working distance a bitch, but...). So, for me, the 85mm made more sense if picking one up. Appreciate your videos and help for comparing both (wide open), even if I no longer shoot as often that way.
I doubt if "non photographer-public" will see any difference....
If you know what you are looking for, you can tell. If you are not a photographer and just enjoying the photo like 99% of the people out there, you can’t tell. Kinda why I’m sticking with my 1.8 for now.
The difference between f/1.2 and f/1.8 is not “three or four extra stops.”
in my opinion sharpness isnt everything ... they both look flat and lifeless lets say compared to the 50mm 1.8s or even the 70-200mm 2.8s still no z lens 85mm beats the f 85mm 1.4g visually or the 105 1.4ed th-cam.com/video/fJqTiHjc63E/w-d-xo.html this reviews it against the 50mm 1.8 S the rendering dif is night and day
The model………….!!!!😮😮😮😮😮
@@dakotaxu4792 she is very special isn’t she 🥰
You are comparing two lenses but not giving the correct samples of the strength made by 1.2 compared to 1.8
the 1.2 is more expensive than the camera :D
Although it is quite an expensive lens at $2,340.00 USD the Z9 (the camera I am shooting with in the video) is $5,496.95 at the moment so...
excellent!
THANK YOU!
We swapped from the 1.8, we photograph weddings and it is not better - it is FAR better - also FAR heavier - be warned
Happy to hear you are enjoying using it! But ya, the weight difference is quite significant.
The difference in the picture is $ 100, but the difference in price?) Here are the things ....
Agreed, that’s why I still have not picked one up. Can’t justify the huge price for minimal improvements.
Your obviously closer with the 1.2 than the 1.8 ! Can see it a mile off , the perspective is a mile out , why not use the 85 1.4 ? Because theres NOT enough difference to warrant the 1.2 , iv tried them both the 1.2 isnt all that. between 1.2 and 1.4. ! So you used the 1.8 theres a country mile between them ,, , typical pushing the new lenses where the 1.4. Is EVERY bit as good 1.4 is missing here the 1.8 is trashy , 1.2 and 1.4 are very similar , i cant do with primes , rarely get to use 1.2 or 1.4 , pro zooms are as good you get to use 2.8 throughout , like my 1.4s were always on 2.8 or slower in bright light
I wonder if the fez adapter preserves the advantage of the 1.4 on the z8/z9
hard to concentrate on the Bokeh 😅
Ya, it’s a rough job but someone has to do it!
Jason,
1. Why do you speek so fast? Number of words per second is here no subject!!!
2. Why do you show your graphics and pictures only half a second?
3. Who in this world wants and can listen, watch, understand an memorize this valuable information in such a short time?
Pleeeeeease!!! Not everybody on TH-cam is American....
Thanks for the feedback!
1. I naturally talk quite fast, even when I’m not filming. I have had other people mention this as well and am working on slowing down, but it’s hard for me sometimes, haha
2. It’s difficult to know how long to put up graphics to please everyone, but the great part of TH-cam is you can pause at anytime.
3. If there is something you don’t understand please re-watch. I often rewatch videos on editing and things I’m learning many times before understanding everything.
Good luck!!!
15 minutes into the video, and not a single mention to the price. This is not just "extra money". More into the video after seeing the examples, I think it is not worth the price difference. Yes, a professional should get it, but not me.
@@ReneGrothmann price is different for each country so not something I really mention in videos too often, plus a quick Google search will tell you the current prices in your area quickly.
I do agree with you though and even though I am a professional I have not taken the plunge, still enjoying my 85mm 1.8.
I appreciate the video, but the truth is both of these lenses render just awful.
Hey it’s Fulcrum’s daily POOpinion!
You are here as well. LOL Hey man, he's a new growing channel. don't taint his mind. Encourage and motivate instead if discourage. :)
@@Vahagraphy fulcrum… ehem I mean witsandtime is a troll and only bashes every single thing about Nikon.
It’s all good. Everyone has something to say and I’m enjoying all aspects of the comments I’m getting. The overtly negative comments I’m just letting slide. Seems best this way.
Thanks though!!