As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
All of us love that perfect dreamy bokeh, don’t we?
After all, there is nothing as refreshing as having a picture that has all the right details on display. Blurring out the secondary details improves the quality of an image. It also leads viewers to see what you want them to see.
So, let’s learn more about bokeh and the right Nikon lens to achieve this effect.
Contents
Review of the Best Nikon Bokeh Lenses
Since you know what to look for in a Nikon bokeh lens, you must be looking for some models. Here is a complete review of some of our favorite picks that you can go for.
Best Overall: Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G
PROS
- Telephoto lens with a fast aperture
- Silent wave motor for minimizing disturbance
- Internal focus makes it easier to control focus
- Minimum focus range of 0.80 m for better bokeh
- Super integrated coating makes the lens scratch-resistant
CONS
- Purple fringing has a lower quality
- Image stabilization is somewhat faulty
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are quite pleased with their decision to buy Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G. They liked its aperture width a lot as it provided the right quickness for bokeh and blurriness. Buyers also loved it because of its super quiet functioning, which helps in focusing.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The maximum reproduction ratio of 0.12x impressed us most of all. This keeps the image very realistic, with the focus directed on all the right things. This, in addition to the minimum focus range of 0.80 m, makes for an ideal Nikon bokeh camera lens.
Who Will Use This Most
This lens is great for all photographers, as it does not have any specific requirements. But, it works best with Nikon cameras as they adjust to its working automatically. So, even if you have an older Nikon camera, the lens will help you in getting some amazing shots.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this is the best Nikon bokeh lens that you can find in the market. Everything from focus and aberration control to the price is amazing. What makes this an even better option as a bokeh lens is its super integrated coating. It keeps the lens safe while making sure the focus on the subject is the greatest. So, you have to get this model if you want the best bokeh in your pictures.
- Fast aperture medium telephoto lens
- Internal focus, focal length: 85 millimeter, minimum focus range: 0.80 meter
- Silent wave motor (SWM). Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
Runner-up: Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G
PROS
- Nanocrystal coat makes it secure and clear
- 5-year warranty makes it much more reliable
- Reduced flare makes the images appear nicer
- Minimum focus distance of 10 feet is promised
- Internal focus and autofocus do not require a change of length
CONS
- VR motor is quite loud
- Manual focus is a little tricky for newbies
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are very happy with the purchase as the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G surpassed their expectations. They claimed it was one of the best G lenses that they have used as it has such a simple layout. Its aperture range has had a great impression on the buyers as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Nikon bokeh lens has very minor chromatic aberrations or no aberrations at all. This increases the quality of images to such an extent that it fascinates the viewer. The 5-year international warranty of this lens also makes it much more trustworthy to us.
Who Will Use This Most
This is the most useful for individuals who want to play around with the focus of subjects. Although it is a little difficult to get the hang of manual focus, once you figure it out, you will love it. It is more suitable for those who are into professional photography as it can deal with all the technicalities.
Bottom Line
All in all, this deserves to be the runner-up Nikon bokeh lens on our list because it offers quite a lot. The ease of use outweighs the technical details and everyone can use it without any assistance. So, you can invest in this one without having to worry about its functioning.
- Designed for close-up and macro photography; versatile enough for virtually any photographic...
- Maximum Angle of View (FX-format): 23°20'.Features new VR II vibration reduction technology, Focal...
- Nano-Crystal coat and ED glass elements that enhance overall image quality by further reducing flare...
Best for the Money: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II
PROS
- High compatibility with FX and DX mode
- Both manual and autofocus options available
- Minimum focus distance of 4.6 feet for greater detail
- Very high sharpness improves the quality of the image
- Mount flange helps in increasing the clarity of the image
CONS
- Lower vignette when the lens is open
- Lithium-ion battery required for operation
What Recent Buyers Report
The latest buyers of this amazing Nikon 70-200mm lens have come up with some very positive reviews. They loved its features even more because they come at such a low price. They are also fond of it due to its quick shutter option, which improves the magical feel of the bokeh even more.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This lens makes it to our list because of its built-in CPU, which enables photographers to control its features easily. It comes with a very sharp focus range, which makes sure that the bokeh is exactly what you desire. Its auto and manual focus modes are a big win too.
Who Will Use This Most
This is one of those lenses that can suit everyone’s needs. Whether you are a perfectionist who wants everything to be just amazing or have a more laid back attitude, this lens will work just fine for you as it is easy to configure. It also has a simple and compact frame, which is why it helps professionals to keep trying until they get the perfect shot.
Bottom Line
In our opinion, this is the best Nikon bokeh lens that you will find at this price range. It has a nice shutter speed as well as a great aperture. Both of these are worth more than the amount you have to pay for them. So, why don’t you give it a shot to improve your photography?
- Type of lens: G-type AF-S Zoom-NIKKOR lens with built-in CPU and Nikon bayonet mount
- Focal Length Range : 70 -200 mm, Minimum Focus Distance- 4.6 ft.(1.4 m)
- Dimensions: Approx. 87 mm dia. x 205.5 mm extension from the camera’s lens-mount flange
Best Nikon D3300 Bokeh Lens: Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G
PROS
- Helps in focusing down to 1.48 feet
- 47-degree picture angle with 35mm format
- Aspherical lens element used for optical construction
- A/M focus mode switch for manual and autofocus
- Edge to edge sharpness optimization for FX and DX modes
CONS
- Not zoomable
- No active control on chromatic aberration
What Recent Buyers Report
This Nikon D3300 bokeh lens has impressed recent buyers beyond their expectations. They liked the way it is so easy to shift between auto and manual focus modes with a single switch. Users also recommend it due to its minimum focus distance, too, which adds more life to images.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product grabs our attention thanks to its compatibility with both DX and FX formats. This enables photographers to enjoy a high-quality bokeh without coming out of their comfort zone. We also recommend it due to its optical construction, which has an aspherical lens element in it.
Who Will Use This Most
People who love to practice new photography angles will use this the most. This lens will not only help them get a clearer view of the subject, but it will also help in retaining the texture of the background, leaving the viewer enthralled. Of course, the quality of photography depends on your skills, but it will help you polish your skills even more.
Bottom Line
The bottom line on this one is that it has all the right features that a photographer might want. The bokeh is incredible, and it is quite easy to configure, as well. So, there is hardly anything that you will want that it won’t help you with.
- Fast, upgraded f/1.8, compact FX format prime lens. The picture angle with 35 millimeter (135)...
- Focal length 50 millimeter, minimum focus distance 1.48 feet (0.45 meter)
- Newly developed optical system with aspherical lens element, exclusive Nikon silent wave motor (SWM)
Editor’s Pick: Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G
PROS
- Screw on accept filter type
- Ring-type of the lens is ultrasonic
- Maximum reproduction ratio of 0.16x
- Amazing working in low light conditions
- High-quality image with a sharper focus on the subject
CONS
- Does not have a fast shutter
- Slightly costlier than other models in the market
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers gave mixed reviews about this lens. They found it rich in features, but they felt that it was overpriced for its functionality. However, buyers reported that they liked its filter type, which is screw-on and is quite easy to fit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One remarkable feature of Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is its ultrasonic ring type, which makes it safer than other lenses on the market. This is not only safe but has such a smooth display that your images will have greater details. The picture angle of 44 degrees is another great aspect that we like.
Who Will Use This Most
This is most useful for those who are looking for an extension in their lens collection. It needs some technical handling, which only professionals are capable of. In other words, this is not the one for you if you are a beginner in the field of photography.
Bottom Line
So, to sum up, this is an amazing option for photographers who are into trying out different backgrounds. It helps you lay more focus on the subject while still managing to make the background look magical. Purchasing this product would certainly make your professional photography kit even more advanced.
- F mount lens/DX format. Picture angle with Nikon DX format 44 degree
- 52.5 millimeter (35-millimeter equivalent). Rear focusing; Manual focus override
- Aperture range: F/1.8 to 22; Dimensions(approx.) 70 x 52.5 millimeter
Comparison Chart of the Best Nikon Bokeh Lenses
Can Any Lens Be Used for Bokeh?
In order to get the perfect bokeh, you need a super-fast lens. The faster your lens is, the better the bokeh of an image it will succeed in capturing.
Having a lens with at least f/2.8 aperture is compulsory if you want to blur out the background from an image. But, it gets better with decreasing aperture size, which quickens the speed.
The aperture widths of f/2, f/1.8, or f/1.4 are the best ones when it comes to getting bokeh. So, make sure that you get a lens with one of these aperture widths.
How to Choose a Bokeh Lens
A bokeh lens is a necessity when it comes to getting the perfectly blurred out image. So, you must be extremely careful when you decide to buy one. Here are the aspects that you have to consider to choose the best Nikon bokeh lens.
Aperture Width
The aperture width has a huge impact on the quality of the image and the bokeh of the lens. It determines how much light enters the lens and forms images. This is why you have to be careful about aperture width when you are considering some options. F/2, f/1.8, and f/1.4 are the ideal aperture widths for an amazing bokeh.
Focal Length
The lens’ focal length affects the bokeh quality, as well. Remember, the greater the focal length, the better the blurriness. So, go for lenses that have greater focal length ranges to enable you to play around with the bokeh.
Speed of Lens
The speed of the lens is another important factor to consider, as it also has an effect on bokeh. So, go for lenses that have greater speeds to get a better bokeh.
Focus
The focus on your subject has to be maximal to make the background appear more blurry. Thus, you should choose a bokeh lens with greater focus.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Lens
Investing in a quality lens will do you a world of good if you mean to improve your photography. There is nothing like having the perfect lens on your camera and working on your favorite subjects. There’s so much more to it, so let’s see what benefits you will enjoy by investing in a quality lens.
Clearer Picture
This one is really a no-brainer, but you are going to get much clearer pictures. There is such a great focus on even the minor details that you will love your new lens. The small details look exquisite when captured at the right angle, so why not practice this with a new lens?
Better Bokeh
The whole purpose of getting a new lens is to have a better bokeh. While taking shots, the photographer sometimes wants to capture only specific parts. This renders everything else as a secondary detail. This is where a better bokeh helps the photographer.
Nicer Light Control
Light control is something that photographers always struggle with. They need something that helps them in all kinds of light conditions, and a new lens does just that if it has the right aperture width to let the required amount of light in.
People Also Ask
Getting the right bokeh lens is a priority of all photographers who know how things work. This is why they are always curious about different aspects of lenses and come up with questions. So, if you have any queries, then these answers may help you as well.
Can You Get Bokeh With f4?
Bokeh is a major feature that photographers aim at when getting a new lens. The f4 lens surely provides a nice bokeh, making your images look more real. But there are many other lenses on the market that provide a better bokeh than f4.
How Do You Get Good Bokeh With a Kit Lens?
Getting a good bokeh with a kit lens is no problem if you know how to configure it. Here are a few steps that you need to follow to get the bokeh you desire.
1. Set the aperture of your lens to its widest point.
2. Rotate the focus knob to the maximum point of focus.
3, Zoom your lens to 55 mm.
4. Shoot the subject, making sure that it stands out from the background.
How Do You Maximize Bokeh?
Maximizing bokeh is very important for photographers who value their work. Here are some tips for doing that.
1. Keep the distance between your subject and background to its maximum level.
2. A longer focal length lens decreases depth of field and improves bokeh too.
3. Also, you can make your subject stand out more by moving closer to it
Can You Do Bokeh with an 18 55mm Lens?
Follow these steps to get a nice bokeh with an 18 55 mm lens.
1. Open the lens to the 55 mm mark.
2. Make sure that there is a substantial distance between your subject and its background.
3. Keep the aperture size at its lowest point and steady your camera.
4. Take the shot while focusing on the eye of your subject.
Can You Add Bokeh in Lightroom?
Yes, it is fairly easy to add bokeh in Lightroom. All you have to do is to follow this procedure, and you will be good to go.
1. Import the desired photo in Lightroom and go to “Develop” mode.
2. Create a background mask with the adjustment brush in the Lightroom.
3. Use this brush to blur out the details that you want to. You may need to change the size of the brush at different points, as well.
How Do I Get Bokeh Background?
Bokeh background increases the quality of an image remarkably. If you want to achieve the perfect bokeh, here is what you have to do.
1. First, determine if you want a smooth ends bokeh or a rough ends bokeh.
2. Open the lens to 55 mm and change the width of the aperture accordingly.
3. Finally, bring the subject in as much focus as you want and take shots with the perfect bokeh background.
Conclusion
Summing it all up, a Nikon bokeh lens is a sure way of bringing in a dreamy feel to your images. It makes the background look well-blended while making the subject stand out more. We hope that reading through the descriptions of our favorite lenses and will prove helpful as you select one for yourself.
