Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF lens for Nikon

by Alan Trammel

Nikon D700 + Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF @ ISO 400, 1/2500, f/1.8

Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF lens for Nikon

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

This lens is insanely large and heavy, however, I found that it balanced well on my Nikon camera bodies.  This lens is 2.1/lbs., compared to a lightweight Nikon 50mm f/1.8 G which weighs in at 6.5 ounces.  The weight seems to be in proportion to its quality.  This lens is built like a tank and feels like it will last a lifetime.

This was my first foray into f/1.4 lenses and I am impressed.  The rounded nine-blade diaphragm generates creamy, puffy, cotton candy like bokeh that is extremely pleasing.  I really love the way this lens renders.

Nikon D700 + Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF@ ISO 200, 1/1000, f/2

The autofocus is fast and quiet, quickly locking onto subjects.  I haven’t experienced any “hunting” while focusing even in low light conditions.  Full-time manual focus override is available at any time by simply rotating the focus ring.    While not a macro lens, the minimum focusing distance of 15.8 inches allows you to get really close to your subject.

One thing that immediately amazed me when I started to use this lens is the exceptional optical quality and sharpness when shooting wide open at f/1.4.  This lens is razor sharp, producing crisp and crystal clear details.  It produces phenomenal images that have a “cinematic” feel to them.  This lens produces photos that have lots of character.

Nikon D700 + Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF @ ISO 200, 1/4000, f/1.4

Are there any negatives?  The price at $949 is certainly high but in life I have found “you get what you pay for.”  After using the lens and thoroughly loving it, I feel the price is justified.  The petal shaped lens hood is a little clumsy to put on but that is a minor issue.

Bottom line… this is top shelf glass that renders unbelievable images!

Nikon D700 +Tokina Opera 50mm f/1.4 FF @ ISO 400, 1/1600, f/2

www.alantrammelphotography.com

Alan Trammel-Prints

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