Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Review

Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 is a good macro lens for Nikon 35mm cameras. It has reproduction ratio 1:2. This lens is an upgrade of the previous model Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:3.5.

It was produced since 1979 through 1987 and was replaced by the autofocus version Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8. The optical design is not changed.

Optical design is 6 elements in 5 groups, almost symmetrical anastigmat with floating rear element.

Such a system with floating elements called CRC (Close Range Correction) and allows you to correct spherical and chromatic aberrations both, at close distances and at infinity, the lens sharp at all focusing distances.

Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Specs

Focal length: 55mm
Aperture range: f/ 2.8 — f/ 32
Aperture blades: 7
Length (mm): 62
Weight (gr): 290
Filter Ø (mm.): 52
Min. focus distance (m.): 0,25

Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Handling and Mechanics

Dimensions do not differ much from the kit lens, but structurally it is a professional macro lens.

The front element is deeply planted in the housing, which defenses from lateral illumination and lens hood does not need more.

In the middle of the barrel is rubberized focusing ring it rotated 360 degrees, which provides smooth focus adjustments at close range. by focusing the front and back part of the lens extends, thus running CRC system.

The length of the lens when focusing on MFD is 92 cm.

When you change the focus distance, changes the distance between the optical elements that provides the best correction for this case. What makes the lens sharp focus throughout all distances.

The lens has 2 scales applied orange reproduction ratio. The first scale, denoted by the letters PK denotes ratio, using PK extension ring, especially for this lens which has the automatic preset aperture. When using a lens with this extension ring can achieve macro 1:1.

The second scale shows reproduction ratio without the use of PK extension ring. Without it, macro is 1:2.

Next is the focusing scale in feet and meters. As well as the depth of field scale. Now in the digital age, they not demand.

Near the bayonet is located aperture ring.

Behind the lens is protected from internal flare by as at close range rear element substantially detached from the sensor. The rear lens has a green multicoating.

View on Nikon D3100 when focusing at infinity

View when focusing at MFD

Compare dimensions of the older Micro-Nikkor-P.C Auto f/3.5 f=55mm and Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 when focusing on infinity

Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Example Photos

All examples are taken on Nikon D3100, RAW export, minimal exposure correction.

Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Sharpness

The lens has very good sharpness since wide-open, as in focusing at infinity, and at MFD.

f/ 2.8 Sharpness at infinity

!00% size crop of the previous photo

f/ 2.8 Sharpness at MFD

!00% size crop of the previous photo

f/ 2.8 focusing about 30 meters

!00% size crop of the previous photo

At a distance of more than 20 meters due to the short stroke of the ring in this range, it is easy to miss. so at such distances, we have to focus carefully.

f/ 2.8

!00% size crop of the previous photo

The best sharpness there is at f/5,6, further diffraction occurs. But I have no problem using it in the studio at f/16, sharpness excellent.

Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Character an Bokeh

f/ 2.8

Despite the fact, that the lens is sharp, stiffness, I have not seen, so it is quite normal turns to shoot portraits, the main thing is not to miss in the field.

f/ 4 bokeh example

f/ 2.8 MFD

f/ 2.8 Focusing on the right side of the waterfall. The left part of the gradually coming out of the depth of field zone.

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8 MFD

f/ 2.8 MFD

f/ 2.8

Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 Contrast and Color Rendering

Despite the fact that the lens for more than 30 years, it shows a remarkable contrast and color rendering.

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

Of course, when the bright sun in the frame, the contrast decreases, but in all other cases, it does not lose the modern lenses.

f/ 2.8 flare example

f/ 2.8

f/ 2.8

When I using this lens for product photo, I did not notice the discomfort. The contrast is very good.

f/ 2.8 At wide-open aperture there is vignetting

Summary
Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 is the excellent macro lens. Ideal for shooting large and medium-sized product photo and macro. And also for shooting small flora and fauna.