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cshimokita
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Nikon Micro 105mm Test Shots

Specifically some test photos using the NIKON Ai Micro-Nikkor 105mm F2.8 S.

Test shot with the lens alone, with the lens plus the PN-11 auto extension ring, and finally some walking around images using the lens alone... all images using Fujifilm Neopan 100 b&w negative film and in-camera TTL metering.  Except for the set-up shot, all images are the entire frame (no cropping).

01) Test setup shot using a 50mm (cropped)




02) Test subject at 1:2 ratio (lens only / tripod)




03) Test subject at 1:0.88 (lens with PN-11 / tripod)

Below: Used as a walking around lens (no extension ring), handheld...

04) focused at infinity




05) Approx. 100 meters to subject




06) Approx. 5 meters to subject

For macro work a tripod is required, particularly when using the extension ring.  Consider a macro focusing rail set for fine adjustments.

For Nikon F2 and F3 series cameras the lens user manual rates the type "K" split focusing screen as excellent.  For the lens alone that's true, however when the lens is use together with the PN-11 half of the "K" split screen was blacked out and I ended up using a "B" focusing screen.

I had film loaded in the F3P, but the shutter release button does not accept a release cable, so I would recommend using the F3HP, which allows for a cable release.  OTOH, the MD-4 Motor Drive (which works with the F3P) accepts the MR-3 release button accessory which in turn accepts a cable release.

The lens has a very long throw (about 300º) which facilitates manual focusing.

According to one reviewer, the manual focus AiS Micro-Nikkor 105mm F2.8 works on all Nikon FX digital cameras (check before you buy).

Recommendation:

It's a great lens (available new from Nikon: 1983 - Present).  With digital, the photographer is most likely using live-view, a tripod, and manual focus for macro work... so it's worth a look see particularly at used prices (I paid approx. USD 200 for the lens and PN-11).

Thanks for reading,
Casey