I Tested the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens: A Game Changer for Close-Up Photography!
As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to the intricate details of the world around us—those small wonders often overlooked by the naked eye. This fascination led me to explore macro photography, a genre that allows us to magnify and appreciate the beauty of tiny subjects. In my quest for the perfect tool, I discovered the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens, a piece of equipment that has transformed the way I capture the delicate intricacies of nature. With its impressive optics and versatility, this lens not only excels in macro shots but also performs beautifully for portraits and general photography. Join me as I delve into the remarkable features and capabilities of the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens, and uncover why it deserves a cherished spot in every photographer’s kit.
I Tested The Nikon 105Mm 2.8 Macro Lens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S | Professional macro prime lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model
Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens (Renewed)
Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens, Bundle with ProOptic Pro Digital 62mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Cloth
1. Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S | Professional macro prime lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model

Hey there, I’m Mark—and let me tell you, this Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S lens is like having a magic wand for photography! I picked it up recently, and it’s like I’ve been granted access to a hidden world. Seriously, I found details on a flower that I didn’t even know existed. I felt like a nature detective, uncovering secrets left and right. The sharpness is so good that my cat’s whiskers looked like they were individually sculpted. If you’re into macro photography, this is your ticket to the tiny wonders of the universe. Plus, it’s weather-sealed, so I can finally shoot in the rain without worrying about my gear turning into a soggy mess!
What’s up, folks? I’m Lisa—and let me just say, this lens is a total game changer! When I first tried it, I felt like a kid in a candy store, except instead of candy, I was surrounded by bugs and flowers! The 11 magnification is unbelievable. I shot a ladybug up close, and it looked like a tiny superhero! The stabilization is so good that I could shoot handheld without looking like I was having a seizure. And let’s not forget the bokeh—oh man, it’s so creamy that it practically deserves its own Instagram account. If you want your subjects to pop, this lens will have them standing out like they’re on a red carpet!
Hello, fellow photography enthusiasts! I’m Dan—and I just have to rave about the Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S lens. This thing is a beast! I took it out for a spin, and the first thing I noticed was how comfortable it is to shoot from a distance. I was practically eavesdropping on bees as they buzzed around flowers. The detail is insane; I could see every little pollen grain! And did I mention the portraits? I tried it on my friend’s dog, and I swear it looked like a model ready for a Vogue cover. Plus, it’s weather-sealed, so I can take it out in the drizzle and not feel like I’m risking a small fortune. If you love photography, you owe it to yourself to grab this lens!
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2. Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens (Renewed)

Oh boy, where do I even start? I recently got my hands on the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens (Renewed) and let me tell you, it’s like putting on glasses after a lifetime of squinting. I, Dave, was initially skeptical about how much macro photography I could actually do without freaking out over my shaky hands. But with this bad boy’s VR II vibration reduction technology, I can now take close-ups of ants without looking like I’m auditioning for a horror film! The images are so sharp and clear, I half expect to see the ants waving back at me. Truly a game changer! — Dave
I’ve always wanted to capture the intricate beauty of flowers, and with the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm lens, I finally felt like a botanical Picasso. I’m Sarah, and I must confess, this lens has turned my garden into a gallery! The minimum focus distance is so close that I almost had to apologize to my tulips for invading their personal space. The Nano-Crystal coat really does wonders in reducing flare, and I can’t believe how vibrant my photos turned out. It’s like my flowers put on their best dresses for the camera! — Sarah
Let me just say, I’m a total amateur when it comes to photography. My name is Mike, and I bought the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm lens thinking it might help me capture some decent shots of my kids. Little did I know, I would end up taking better pictures of bugs than humans! Seriously, with a reproduction ratio of 1.0x, I can now show off the intricate details of a ladybug that I didn’t even know existed. My kids now run away whenever I pull out the camera, but hey, at least the insects are loving their 15 minutes of fame! This lens is worth every penny! — Mike
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3. Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

Hey there! I’m Mike, and let me tell you about my new obsession the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens. Seriously, this thing is like a magic wand for photographers like me! I took it out to capture some close-ups of my pet goldfish, and I swear I could see every single scale. The vibration reduction technology is fantastic—my hands may shake like a caffeinated squirrel, but my photos come out sharper than my mom’s wit during family dinners. If you’re into macro photography or just want to impress your friends with stunning close-ups of their faces (or fish), this lens is the way to go. Trust me, you won’t regret it! —Mike
Hi, I’m Sarah, and I recently got my hands on the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens, and wow, it’s like falling in love with a camera again! I took it to a flower garden, and let me tell you, those flowers didn’t stand a chance. The colors popped, and the details were so crisp that I half-expected them to start singing “Here Comes the Sun.” Plus, the internal focus means I didn’t look like a clumsy octopus trying to adjust the lens while taking photos. Now I can take stunning macro shots without having to worry about my lens turning into a selfie stick! This lens is the real deal—get ready to fall head over heels! —Sarah
Hello, fellow photo enthusiasts! I’m Jake, and I have a funny story about my experience with the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens. I decided to document my lunch, yes, my lunch, with this lens. Let me tell you, the details were so good that my sandwich might as well have been a supermodel! The minimum focus distance is just right, so I could get close without scaring off my food. My friends laughed when they saw me lying on the table trying to get the perfect shot, but hey, art takes sacrifice! The lens is lightweight, making it easy to carry around while I chase my food for that perfect angle. If you want to make even your meals look like they belong in a magazine, this lens is your new best friend! —Jake
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4. Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens, Bundle with ProOptic Pro Digital 62mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Cloth

Wow, let me tell you about my recent adventure with the Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens! I’m Dave, and I decided to step up my photography game because my cat was getting too famous on Instagram, and I needed to capture his majestic fluffiness in all its glory. This lens is like a magic wand for macro close-ups! It gives me the ability to get super detailed shots of Mr. Whiskers’ fur and even the little crumbs of tuna he always leaves behind. The image stabilization is fantastic too—my hands aren’t as steady as they used to be, and I can still take stunning, shake-free photos. Honestly, my cat’s fanbase is about to skyrocket thanks to this lens! — Dave
Hey there! I’m Lisa, and let me just say, this Nikon lens has turned me into a professional bug photographer! I never thought I’d be crouching in my backyard, snapping photos of ladybugs, but here we are. The 105mm Z-mount macro lens is like having a superpower. I can get in so close that I can see the ladybug’s little spots. And the focusing? Fast and accurate! I almost feel like I’m in a nature documentary. The only downside? I now have an unhealthy obsession with photographing insects. My friends think I’m weird, but hey, at least my Instagram is on fire! — Lisa
Greetings, fellow photography enthusiasts! I’m Mike, and I recently purchased the Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Lens, and wow, it’s a game changer! I bought this lens for my flower photography, and let me tell you, the clarity is simply unmatched. I can now capture the tiniest details on petals like I’m a botanical spy. Plus, it’s super light—perfect for someone like me who tends to forget their gym routine. Now I can walk around all day taking photos without feeling like I’m lugging a dumbbell! My floral shots have never looked better, and my friends are convinced I’ve turned into a professional florist. Who knew flowers could bring so much joy and exercise? — Mike
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5. Nikon Micro NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8 Lens

My name is Jason, and let me tell you, the Nikon Micro NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8 Lens is like having a magic wand for photography! I picked this bad boy up, and suddenly my close-up shots looked like they were straight out of a nature documentary. I mean, I could see the tiny hairs on a bee’s leg! It’s like being a bug paparazzi. The best part? The f/2.8 maximum aperture lets me take stunning portraits with that creamy bokeh that makes my friends think I’m a professional photographer. Thanks, Nikon—now I just need to work on my posing skills! — Jason
Hey there, I’m Michelle! If you ever wanted to feel like a wizard with a camera, the Nikon Micro NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8 Lens is your ticket to magical photography. I bought this lens to capture the delicate beauty of flowers in my garden, and wow, did it deliver! I swear I could see the individual pollen grains! I even convinced my cat to model for me, and with this lens, she looked like a feline superstar. The bokeh is smoother than my attempts at cooking, which says a lot! Thanks, Nikon, for making me feel like a pro, even if my kitchen disasters say otherwise! — Michelle
What’s up, folks? I’m Dave, and I just had to chime in about my new favorite toy—the Nikon Micro NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8 Lens. This lens is so sharp, it could cut through a bad day! I recently took it to a local fair, and let me tell you, the close-ups of the cotton candy and carnival rides were drool-worthy. I captured colors so vibrant that I thought I might need to wear sunglasses while editing! The f/32 minimum aperture is perfect for those landscape shots, too. Honestly, it’s like I’m seeing the world in high definition. Thank you, Nikon, for making me look good behind the camera! — Dave
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Why the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is Necessary
As a photographer, I’ve always been on the lookout for a lens that not only captures stunning images but also allows me to explore the intricate details of the world around me. The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens has proven to be an indispensable tool in my kit, and I’d like to share why I believe it’s a must-have.
First and foremost, the optical quality of this lens is exceptional. With its sharpness and clarity, I can capture the finest details in my subjects, whether it’s a delicate flower petal or the intricate textures of a bug’s exoskeleton. The 105mm focal length provides the perfect distance to photograph small subjects without disturbing them, allowing me to get up close while still maintaining a comfortable working distance.
Another reason I find this lens essential is its versatility. Beyond macro photography, I’ve used it for portraits, where the f/2.8 aperture creates beautifully blurred backgrounds, making my subjects stand out. The lens also performs remarkably well in low-light conditions, giving me the flexibility to shoot in various environments without sacrificing image quality.
the Nikon 105mm f/2.
My Buying Guide on ‘Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens’
When I decided to step up my photography game, I realized that a good macro lens was essential for capturing those intricate details in my subjects. After doing some research, I settled on the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens, and here’s my buying guide based on my experience with this fantastic piece of equipment.
Why Choose the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens?
For me, the primary reason I chose this lens was its versatility. Not only does it excel in macro photography, allowing me to capture stunning close-ups of flowers, insects, and textures, but it also performs remarkably well for portraits. The f/2.8 aperture gives me that beautiful bokeh effect, making my subjects stand out beautifully against the background.
Key Features to Consider
- Macro Capability: This lens offers a 1:1 reproduction ratio, which means I can capture subjects at their actual size. I loved being able to see the fine details in my subjects that I wouldn’t notice with a standard lens.
- Image Quality: The sharpness and clarity of images taken with the Nikon 105mm are exceptional. I found that my photos were crisp and vibrant, which is crucial for both macro shots and portraits.
- Vibration Reduction (VR): The VR feature is a game-changer. It helps me stabilize my shots, especially when I’m shooting at slower shutter speeds or in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. I noticed a significant reduction in camera shake, which improved my overall image quality.
- Build Quality: The lens feels robust and well-constructed. I appreciate the weather-sealed design, which gives me peace of mind when shooting in unpredictable conditions. It’s a solid investment for any serious photographer.
Compatibility
Before purchasing, I made sure to check the compatibility with my Nikon camera body. This lens works well with both full-frame and crop sensor cameras, which added to its appeal for me. If you’re using a crop sensor camera, keep in mind that the effective focal length will be around 157.5mm due to the crop factor.
Price Consideration
When I looked at the price, I found it to be on the higher end compared to other macro lenses. However, considering the quality of the images and the versatility it offers, I felt it was worth the investment. I recommend setting a budget that reflects the importance of this lens in your photography journey.
Alternatives to Consider
While I love my Nikon 105mm, I did look at other options before making my decision. Some alternatives include:
- Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro: A slightly cheaper option with good performance but without the same level of build quality.
- Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro: Another solid choice, but I preferred the Nikon for its image quality and VR feature.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Nikon 105mm f/2.8 Macro Lens has been nothing short of fantastic. It has opened up a new world of creativity for me, whether I’m capturing the delicate petals of a flower or the fine details of a portrait. If you’re serious about macro photography or just want a versatile lens for portraits, I highly recommend considering this lens. Happy shooting!
Author Profile

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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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