Follow-up to Nikon 58mm f/1.4G Test Shot (crop).

Inspiration, Nikon, Nikon 58mm f/1.4G, Q&A, Teaching point

For those interested, here’s a closer look at yesterday’s image taken with the Nikon 58/1.4G.

At f/1.4, you can see how the 58/1.4G has a slight glow; this is in contrast to the vivid sharpness of something like a Sigma 50mm f/1.4 ART. If sharpness is your only measure of a lens’ worth, then the Sigma is your lens of choice for the 50mm-ish focal range.

In all other respects (colour, bokeh, 3D effect, etc.), I would choose the Nikon.

—Peter.

6 thoughts on “Follow-up to Nikon 58mm f/1.4G Test Shot (crop).”

alexcosy

March 2, 2018 at 11:17 am Reply

I like the soft glow. Hello chromatic aberration though !
1. Peter | Prosophos
  
  March 2, 2018 at 12:16 pm Author Reply
  
  Yes. Re: chromatic aberration, not unusual as you drift away from the area of focus, esp. with high contrast transition zones. In this situation, my Leica 50/1.4 ASPH (and esp. 35mm Summilux FLE) was worse with extensive purple fringing.
Dave Uhlig

March 2, 2018 at 5:01 pm Reply

I’m glad you posted this. It really does help clarify the intended focus point, especially with a downsized for internet sample. Man, going back through your Sigma gallery, that thing wasn’t too far off. Beautiful work in there.
Dave Uhlig

March 2, 2018 at 5:15 pm Reply

To add another comment! (sorry to keep rambling) I just did the camera size comparison tool with lenses. That pretty much just decided it for me. I was leaning towards the Sigma, but compared to the Nikon 58, it is just enormous. I like the size and feel of my 50mm 1.8, and the 58 wasn’t too far off from that. Now, to gather up the funds!
1. Peter | Prosophos
  
  March 2, 2018 at 5:46 pm Author Reply
  
  No worries for “rambling” Dave!
  
  I really, really liked the Sigma when I owned it, but the weight (and size) difference between the Sigma and the Nikon is substantial:
  
  Nikon 58/1.4G: 0.85 lb (385 g)
  Sigma 50 ART: 1.79 lb (815 g)
  
  The 58/1.4 is truly a “walk-about” lens. The Sigma, you have to think twice before heading out the door.
  
  ―Peter.
hwmueller

April 17, 2018 at 10:04 pm Reply

I have the M3 with the same lens. Beautiful for sure. I have to check out the 58, 1.4, worth a look. Looks like a great lens. Thank you for posting and yes the weather in the Northeast has been horrible. My M9 bit the dust, turned it into Leica on a rebate sale for the SL. I was sorry but I still have my M8.2, ccd sensor. This camera is great for B&W. Giving the new SL a trial and see what I can do with it. The lenses are hugh. I purchased an adapter for M lenses.
Will see what happens. Enjoying your postings. Harry