Micro Nikkor 105mm f/4 AI

<p>I have just bought this lens because I don't have any macro lens in that range, only a 55mm.</p>

<p>It hasn't arrived yet and I was wondering if there are any "features" or good use of this lens that are worth exploring? For instance I have a PK13 and as wondering how much use that would be on the 105/4 lens?</p>

<p>Also I read somewhere about this lens is that it has a rather good working distance. Better than the newer models, is that the case?</p>

<p> </p>

<p>The PK-13 will give you an additional 27.5mm of extension, for a total of 80mm with the lens at minimum focus. That should increase your maximum reproduction ratio from 1:2 to approximately 1:1.3.</p>

<p>If you can find a PN-11 tube, that will take you to 1:1, and give you the added bonus of a built-in tripod mount collar on the extension tube for a better balanced outfit.</p>

<p>And yes, the Micro 105/4 has the best working distance of any of the 105mm Micro's.</p>

<p>It's a good lens. Mine is a little bit beat up on the outside, but the glass is good. I believe that it doesn't shorten it's focal length when focused close.</p>

<p>Nice sharp lens. Good working distance - I wouldn't know if it's better than the other 105's since I've never used and other mico 105. Very good bokeh.</p><div></div>

<p>I have owned this lens for several years, and have greatly enjoyed shooting with it, mainly wild flowers. I also have the PN-11 extension tube, and use this setup on my F4 with very good results. The focus is very smooth and accurate, and I appreciate the working distance compared to the 55mm micro. I would like to add a focusing rail, particularly when using the PN-11, (and shooting straight down) as I did when shooting this burned log. I have used it with my D80, and look forward to my next DX body so I can meter with an AI lens.</p>

<p>Burned Log</p><div></div>

<p>Thanks guys. I'll see if I can find a PN-11 somewhere.</p>

<p>How about recommendations for a focusing rail?<br>

Is this one any good?<br>

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/193311-REG/Velbon_SMAGSLIDER_Super_Mag_Slider.html</p>

 

<p>This is a very good rail, but expensive: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/379019-REG/Novoflex_CASTEL_Q_Castel_Q_Focusing_Rack.html</p>

 

<p>In thinking about a focusing rail, do you use a quick release system? I use quick release systems from Really Right Stuff, so I want to make sure a focusing rail integrates with an RRS system. It also makes sense to me to have rail movement laterally, as well as fore-aft. RRS has a good discussion of macro photography on their web site. Check ebay for a PN-11.<br>

http://reallyrightstuff.com/macro/index.html</p>

<p>I have the RC2 quick connect on my bodies but I got that for its speed - for instance when shooting weddings or documentary work and switching between tripod, monopod and handheld. I think the RC2 may have too much slop for precision work on a tripod.</p>

<p> </p>

<p>Hopefully you can do some more investigating on quick release compatibilities. I always have an L-bracket on my camera bodies, so any clamp needs to be Arca-Swiss compatible. Adorama offers their own brand of focusing rail.</p>

<p>Hello, lots of good advice on this good lens, I also have one. I might add that I always keep at hand a couple of high quality closeup filters (nikon 3T and 4T). They give surprisingly good results with this lens, and at the same reproduction ratio you manage to have a brighter image to focus in your viewfinder compared to using the PN11. Focal length is reduced though so you loose some working distance. Have fun, Marco</p>

<p>Basically it all depends on what you want to shoot and how close you want to go. Bear in mind that the 105/4 is not the best lens for greater than 1:1 magnification. If you want to shoot butterflies in flight, you don't need tripod accessories. But if you want to shoot on a tripod, you probably want to consider eventually moving to an Arca-based quick release system, since then you can get good L-brackets and a wide variety of accessories and plates. Bear in mind though that a good tripod head costs around $400, an L-bracket will put you back over $100, you probably will need some small plate too for the PN-11 and the high quality focusing rail doesn't come cheap, so plan your step carefully.</p>

<p>Regarding L-brackets: I own 2 Really Right Stuff Universal L-plates. I have used them on my Nikon N8008s (with a shim) FM, F4, D80, and Canon G2, G6. Some day I'll buy a dedicated L-bracket (plate) when I settle into a long-term DSLR body.</p>

<p>Marco, thanks for the suggestion on the Nikon 3T and 4T on the 105 micro. When reducing weight and bulk, they would be easy to pack along.</p>

<p>I have two of them and they are among my crispest macros. When I shoot the same scene with both 35mm and digital, I use the 105/4 + Tamron SP AF 1.4x on my D200 and the 200/4 AF Micro on my FM3A. Roughly the same frame filling capability and working distance for rither rig helps me not have to move my tripod, just adjust the focusing rail a little bit. Sharpness for either lens/combo is absolutely comparable.<br>

Try to be around f8-f11 for best results</p>

<p>Arnab, another great piece of information. I just happen to have a Tamron SP AF 1.4x. I look forward to trying on my 105/4 to tighten the composition.</p>

<p>Thanks guys for good info. I have the lens now and the increase in working distance compared to the 55/3.5 was really substantial.</p>