Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 S £TBA/$TBA www.nikon.co.uk

Anew Z 85mm S-line has been on Nikon’s Z-system lens roadmap for quite some time, and while we’ve long-suspected that it will be an f/1.2 optic, this detail hasn’t been confirmed until now. The first pre-production sample of the lens was unveiled at January’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, USA, and will be joining Nikon’s existing Z 50mm f/1.2 S as a fully professional portrait lens for use in the studio. It is one stop faster than the company’s previously released Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens. Certain to be in demand from portrait professionals, this fast mid-telephoto prime lens promises superior rendering performance, as well as great subject separation and beautiful bokeh. Firm tech specs are a little thin on the ground, with the only confirmed detail (aside from the fast f/1.2 aperture) is that the lens will have a large 82mm filter thread, making it a fairly substantial lens. Images of the lens also show that it sports a focus ring plus a secondary control ring that can be assigned to functions such as aperture control. There’s also a programmable lens-function (L-FN) button and Auto/manual focus switch. Nikon suggests that this new lens will expand the possibilities of portrait photography, and it feels especially well suited for wedding and fashion photographers, in particular. “The Z 85mm f/1.2 S is a fast-mid-telephoto prime lens that will become a must-have for those capturing portraits, especially for weddings, events, and fashion,” the company says. “Everything you capture with this lens will look elegant and glamorous.” The lens is part of Nikon’s superior S-line for its mirrorless Z-mount cameras, which Nikon says “demonstrates outstanding optical performance, adhering to a high standard of design principles and quality control.” We don’t have any further information as to when the lens will be available and likely price, but given that a sample was available at the CES show it may be relatively soon. FIRST IMPRESSIONS While pricing details have yet to be announced, we wouldn’t expect much change from £3000/$3000. For most of us, Nikon’s existing Z 85mm f/1.8 S will be plenty fast enough.