Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED Review

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED Handling and Features

Starting at the front of the lens, the usual bayonet fit petal lens hood is secure and effective. This surrounds a 77mm filter thread. Quite hefty for a 28mm, the lens weighs in at 645g. It does look big, even on the fairly substantial Nikon D810 body, but the balance is good.

Moving towards the body, we find a wide manual focusing ring that can be used at any time, in AF to manually override and in MF to set the focusing point. The action is utterly smooth and the rubberised grip on the ring makes handling very straightforward. A Silent Wave Motor drives the rear group focusing mechanism. It is not the fastest AF, but it does lock on reliably every time. Focusing is down to 28cm (0.92 feet), a maximum magnification of 0.17x.

Next up, we have the distance scale, under a small plastic window. The very small scale means that the depth of field scale markings are also very close together. These are marked up for f/11 and f/16 only and are of very limited usefulness. The depth of field from a 28mm lens is quite generous in any event, so the scale is fairly redundant. There is a tiny marker on the scale that indicates the adjustment needed for Infra Red photography.

The only other adornment on the lens is the AF/MF switch. Sealing against dust and moisture means we can continue to shoot in bad weather and fluorine coatings help to repel water and grease on the front element. Nano crystal coatings on the elements reduce flare.

Optical construction comprises 14 elements in 11 groups. This includes 3 Aspherical and 2 ED (Extra Low Dispersion) elements. The lens diaphragm has 9 rounded blades, to help produce more pleasing bokeh, the smoothness of the out of focus areas in the image. The E in the lens description refers to the electromagnetic diaphragm, giving smooth and accurate delivery of the aperture value required. As a consequence of this, the lens is fully compatible with later camera bodies only as the aperture values are transmitted electronically. The benefit is accurate delivery of aperture values, even with varying light and high speed shooting.

In terms of handling, it all works superbly well. It quickly becomes obvious that the lens is manufactured to very high standards and the operation is flawless throughout. The distinctive scalloped shape of the lens actually improves the grip and makes carrying the kit less fatiguing than the weight might lead us to expect.

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