Nikkors
Shootout at 70mm
by
J. Ramón Palacios
username jrp
Nikonian in Mexico
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Introduction
Very
pleasing portrait perspectives can be accomplished starting
at
70mm. On APS-C DX format, this focal length is equivalent to
105mm, so the perspective further improves.
Two
zoom lenses providing this focal length, qualify as "pro" Nikkors
as they are both "fast" -constant f/2.8 aperture- quite free
of aberrations and very well built. They are the 28-70mm
f/2.8D ED
IF AF-S (predecessor of the newer 24-70mm f/2.8G ED AF-S) and
the more modest 35-70mm f/2.8D AF. Considering using just
one
of them
eventually,
I proceeded
to compare
them
in a
quick shoot-out at 70.
I
chose as target the front door of my home, at 16 feet (4.9
m),
deep in the shade so as to not introduce artificial contrast.
It has a paint finish that seemed suitable for the purpose
and
it is not a flat surface. For film, the very good grain and low
contrast Fujicolor Superia Reala 100. The camera: Nikon F100,
on a Manfrotto/Bogen
carbon fiber tripod and a large Manfrotto ballhead.
What
follows are the raw scans of a small center section from the negatives,
made with a Coolscan IV ED at 8 bit depth. No unsharp mask was
applied nor any other imaging enhancement made. The lens ID on
the images below comes from a laserjet printed sign at the upper
edge of the negative and was digitally pasted at the chin of the
sun face. The sun face was at the center of the negatives. The
focal length and aperture sign in white lettering was added digitally.
To see them full size, click on the mages below.
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