Nikon DC-Nikkor 135 mm F/2.0 AF Lens

It's easy to see why this lens has such a good reputation. It's sharp all over and even before you start using the defocus control the bokeh is very nice. I find f/2 to be a very useable aperture, but there's a noticeable difference in sharpness at f/2.8. At f/4 with R-2 dialed in on the defocus control, the sharpness is incredible. The defocus control takes a bit of practice, but it's very interesting to play with.

At f/4, R-2 actually improves the sharpness a bit in the in-focus areas and subtle changes to bokeh start to appear. At f/4, R-4 bokeh is nothing short of brilliant. At f/4, R-5.6 and beyond, the in-focus areas start to go soft and gives you that soft focus look that was popular back in the 80's.

The lens mounts perfectly on the Kenko 1.4x Pro 300 DGX and all functions (including AF) and EXIF data work perfectly. I haven't used the two together to make a call regarding IQ, but so far I'm very pleased with the pair.

The lens balances perfectly on my D7000. Going to manual focus is not nearly as seamless as an AF-S lens as you have to set it both on the lens and on the camera which is typical of AF-D lenses. I don't really like the lens hood. It doesn't slide in or out very easily and you can't put the lens hood on with it out. All of these are minor quibbles compared to how brilliantly this lens performs.

Well, there is the 105mm f/2 DC which is just a little bit shorter.
(Note: I have the non-D, which doesn't make any difference except with flash use)
This is my second favorite lens (the 17-35mm f/2.8D AF-S being the first).
This lens is a pleasure to hold. Very few lenses are made like this lens (28mm f/1.4, 85mm f/1.4 and the 105mm f/2).

+ one of the best built lenses I've ever heald
+ f/2
+ nice built in lens hood
+ beutfull portraits
+ defocus control
+ amazing Bokeh
+ good general purpose light tele
+ perfect FOV on film

- heavy (as all well made lenses)
- AF/MF switch is combersome
- at f/2 you better have great eyes or great AF sensors
- a bit long on digital (105mm would be better, or even 85mm)

This is a very specialized lens. If you can get one cheap as I did (half of retail) in mint condition then do it. Otherwise save your money for the 70-200mm f/2.8 (whichever version you choose). I give this lens a 5/5 because for what it does it's great. It's not a general purpose lens. Maybe a 4/5 on digital just because it's a bit long then.

This lens is a fairly heavy lens, but is very well balanced on my D700. The autofocus is fast and quiet, although I have heard quieter. The optics are stellar. Highly recommended for disciplined outdoor photography or portrait.

I'd read around about this lens quite a bit and a lot of people claim it as the best portrait lens ever. Well, it is! I use the DF control on most shoots which I find to be an excellent, unique feature and the final shots are so beautiful. VERY sharp with creamy backgrounds that the subjects just pop off of. You can also use it without altering the DF control and it acts as a super sharp 135mm. I was a little hesitant on buying this lens because of the price - but it's worth it, I don't think I could ever part with it! And how did I live without it? Haha! I use it on a D700 and have just been 100% impressed.

First Rate, (I prefer the Nikon 105mm AF/DC for head shots) But this gives me a fast 200mm equivalent on my D7000