dhale001's reviews

  • Nikon 55mm f/2.8 AIS Micro-Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Small, unmatched sharpness, versatile.
    None

    In 1986 I got an inspection contract on a four lane 6,030' long bridge. In addition to primary services I provided, the year long contract required that I photograph many parts of the bridge structural components. I became a professional photographer over night.

    I did not own a 35mm camera.

    I bought a Nikkor 55mm Micro 1:2.8 as my first lens purchase with a Nikon F3. I included an extension ring and 2x multiplier. For several years it was the only lens I owned.

    Over the years, the camera and lens have been to many countries, tops of 14,000 ' peaks, and jungles as my only lens. It has never required a repair.

    The 55mm 1:2.8 is still my favorite lens today, even though I have the AF-S Micro 60mm 1:2.8, and the AF-S Micro 105mm 1:2.8.

    The Nikon D7000 I have now meters with the 55mm Micro. Hurrah!!!

    reviewed December 23rd, 2011
  • Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Sharp, fast, durable.
    None

    I have had this lens for two and one-half years. It has been on a Nikon D90, D7000, and now D800E and D3200. The latest cameras are the first digital's I've had that deliver the image quality I expect, and this lens is not a limiting factor. This is the primary lens I use for wildlife and landscape.

    reviewed March 18th, 2012 (purchased for $2,195)
  • Nikon 60mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Micro Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Sharp, Sharp, Sharp.
    None.

    I have been shooting a Micro Nikkor 55mm 1:2.8 since 1986 on a Nikon F3. When I bought a Nikon D90 three years ago, I bought this lens. I also have the Micro Nikkor 105mm 1:2.8. For flowers, general photography inside and outside, this is an excellent choice. It is sharper than the 55mm, or the 105mm Micro lenses.

    If I could have only one lens, it would be this one.

    I know all the pros advise to get the 105mm 1:2.8 to increase the working distance to critters, but this lens on an FX camera is very useful for so much more than closeup stuff. I'll am using it on a Nikon D800E as a general purpose lens.

    reviewed April 4th, 2012
  • Nikon 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED AF-S VR Micro Nikkor

    9 out of 10 points and recommended
    VR, Sharp
    None

    I have the Nikkor Micro 55mm 1:2.8, and the Nikkor Micro 60mm 1:2.8. I added this lens to give more distance between the front of the camera and subject. I have been shooting it on a Nikon D800E to test the camera because I know the lens is capable of very sharp results.

    reviewed August 26th, 2012 (purchased for $950)
  • Nikon 24mm f/1.4G ED AF-S Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Sharp, very fast.
    None

    I use this lens for low light and low light action on a Nikon D800E or D3200.

    Perfect for "no flash" indoor parties and night time street photography.

    The best 24mm ever made by anyone.

    reviewed August 3rd, 2012 (purchased for $2,100)
  • Nikon 16-35mm f/4G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Sharp, good contrast , not to heavy, VR
    On camera flash shadow at 16mm

    I use this lens on a Nikon D800E as a daytime walk-around lens for photography in an urban environment, landscape, or flash photography of indoor parties.

    I use an SB-600 to avoid the on-camera flash shadow.

    reviewed August 3rd, 2012 (purchased for $1,195)