Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Key Features

• 85mm Focal Length: Ideal for portrait photography, offering a natural perspective and excellent subject isolation.
• Fast f/1.4 Maximum Aperture: Provides exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth of field for beautiful background blur (bokeh).
• Internal Focusing (IF): Ensures fast and quiet autofocus operation without changing the physical length of the lens.
• Rounded Diaphragm: Contributes to a more natural and pleasing appearance of out-of-focus elements.
• NIKKOR Optical Design: Delivers high image quality with sharpness and clarity.

2. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens
• Front Lens Cap
• Rear Lens Cap
• Lens Hood (HB-77 or similar, may vary)
• Soft Lens Case (may vary)

3. Parts of the Lens

Familiarize yourself with the various parts of your lens:

Figure 1: Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens. This image displays the lens from a slight angle, highlighting the front element, the wide aperture, and the textured focus ring.

• Focus Ring: Used for manual focusing.
• Aperture Ring: Used to set the aperture (f-stop). For cameras that support electronic aperture control, set this ring to its minimum aperture (e.g., f/16 or f/22) and lock it.
• Distance Scale: Indicates the current focus distance.
• Mounting Index: Align with the corresponding mark on your camera body when attaching the lens.
• CPU Contacts: Transmit information between the lens and the camera body.

4. Attaching and Detaching the Lens

Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body cap.
2. Align the mounting index on the lens with the corresponding mark on the camera body.
3. Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Ensure it is securely locked.

Detaching the Lens

1. Turn off the camera.
2. While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens clockwise until it detaches.
3. Attach the front and rear lens caps to protect the lens elements.

5. Operating the Lens

Autofocus (AF) Operation

This lens supports autofocus with compatible Nikon SLR cameras. Ensure your camera is set to an autofocus mode. The lens will automatically focus when the camera's shutter release button is pressed halfway.

Manual Focus (MF) Operation

To focus manually, set your camera to manual focus mode. Rotate the focus ring on the lens until the subject appears sharp in the viewfinder or on the camera's LCD screen. Use the camera's focus assist features (e.g., electronic rangefinder) for precise focusing.

Aperture Control

The lens features an aperture ring. For modern Nikon DSLRs, it is generally recommended to set the aperture ring to its smallest aperture (e.g., f/16 or f/22) and lock it, allowing the camera to control the aperture electronically. Refer to your camera's manual for specific instructions on controlling aperture with D-type lenses.

Using the Lens Hood

Attach the lens hood by aligning its mark with the mark on the front of the lens and rotating it until it locks. The lens hood helps to reduce flare and ghosting caused by extraneous light and provides some physical protection to the front element.

6. Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Cleaning the Lens Body: Wipe the lens body with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use organic solvents such as paint thinner or benzene.
• Storage: When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing in areas with high humidity to prevent mold growth.
• Avoid Impact: Protect the lens from drops and strong impacts, which can damage internal components.

7. Troubleshooting

Lens Not Focusing

• Ensure the camera is set to autofocus (AF) mode.
• Check that the lens is securely mounted to the camera body.
• Clean the CPU contacts on both the lens and camera body with a clean, dry cloth.
• Verify that there is sufficient light for the autofocus system to operate.

Images Are Blurry

• Check your camera's focus mode and ensure it is correctly focusing on your subject.
• Ensure your shutter speed is fast enough to prevent camera shake, especially in low light or with moving subjects.
• Clean the front and rear elements of the lens.

Aperture Not Changing

• For D-type lenses, ensure the aperture ring is set to its minimum aperture (e.g., f/16 or f/22) and locked, allowing the camera to control it.
• Check camera settings for aperture control.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Nikon website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Online Resources: For additional support, FAQs, and software updates, please visit the official Nikon support page.

Note: Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and retailer.