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DontShoot wrote:
I've used all but the 85 1.8D. These are my experiences with them:
Focusing speed: The Sigma 85 1.4 was the fastest focusing lens of the bunch. The 85 1.4D comes in at 2nd (with screwdriver focus and all), the 1.8G 3rd, and the 1.4G last.
Center sharpness: I would rate the Sigma 85 and Nikon 85 1.8G at the same level (sharpest) the 1.4G comes in at 2nd, and the 1.4D last. Note that while the 1.4D was not as sharp as those other modern lenses, it is part of the allure of why the 1.4D is so good for portraits, which I'll mention below.
Rendering: In my own opinion, the 1.4D renders the BEST, period. The rest are all too sharp, too contrasty, and/are too clinical in their renderings. The 1.4D's rendition is so lovely and very kind on skin tones.
This is the reason that I keep coming back to the 1.4D. There is something about its rendering that is so fascinating. Although lately the mighty 200 f/2 had taken its place as my primary portrait lens. ...Show more →
Yeah, the newer lenses are much more neutral -- ie, sharper, higher contrast, and less idiosyncratic -- than the 1.4D. The D has a handful of characteristics that can either be considered flaws (relatively weak at infinity, low contrast at wide stops, etc.) or assets, depending on your use. It's got a slightly cool, desaturated look at wide stops that is perfect for many portraits. I can approximate that look easily enough in post with the Sigma or 1.4G, but there's a certain charm in a lens that is perfect for a specific use.
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