The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena from Nikon represents a significant advancement in telephoto prime lens technology, offering a wealth of innovative features. This lens delivers exceptional image quality at a widely favored focal length, specifically designed for the Nikon mirrorless Z System. By utilizing the larger mount diameter of the Z-series, the Plena achieves remarkable edge-to-edge sharpness and creates stunning, circular bokeh throughout the frame, making it an outstanding choice for portrait photography, still life compositions, and cinematic videography.
Engineered to take advantage of the Z-mount's expansive diameter, the 135mm f/1.8 S Plena lens stands as the inaugural NIKKOR Z lens that fully harnesses the mount's capacity for light collection. The lens features a larger rear element, which significantly enhances peripheral illumination, ensuring uniform brightness even at the extreme edges of the frame. This design effectively minimizes vignetting, allowing for a clear passage of light through the lens with minimal refraction, resulting in the beautiful and consistently round bokeh that characterizes the Plena.
The optical configuration further enhances image sharpness. Similar to its bokeh performance, the lens delivers exceptional results throughout the entire frame. A short-wavelength refractive front element, an aspherical element, and four extra-low dispersion elements work together to reduce color fringing, bleeding, and flare. In challenging lighting situations, including backlighting, the ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coats combat both axial and lateral chromatic aberrations, effectively preventing ghosting, reflections, and flare, thereby enhancing contrast and clarity.
Additionally, the lens performs remarkably well in managing transitions between different focus zones. When paired with its impressive resolving power, this capability results in striking subject separation and intricate textural detail, even at the widest aperture.
Fast, Accurate Autofocus
Nikon's exclusive Multi-Focus System features two distinct autofocus drive units that operate in unison, providing exceptionally rapid and precise focusing across the entire zoom range. This system employs dual STM stepping motors, ensuring remarkably smooth and silent autofocus performance, making it ideal for both photography and videography. Furthermore, the programmable linear focus ring facilitates manual focusing with a seamless rotation in either direction.
Optimized for Cinematic Video
The Plena has been meticulously crafted for cinematographers, starting with its widely favored focal length that facilitates background separation and a sense of closeness. Beyond its remarkable image quality, the Plena offers seamless aperture transitions and fluid changes in focus. When paired with Nikon's Multi System Focus autofocus, manual focus capabilities on the lens, and the comprehensive range of video recording options available within the Z System, the Plena enhances the quality of all captured footage.
Body, Handling, and Ergonomics
The Plena's meticulous design extends beyond its exceptional visual performance. The optical configuration directly influences the lens's robust all-metal build, resulting in a lightweight, portable lens compatible with 82mm filters. Furthermore, the lens features a customizable clickless control ring for adjusting aperture, ISO, and exposure compensation, along with a conveniently located assignable Fn button. Additionally, its dust- and water-resistant sealing allows the Plena to perform effectively in challenging conditions, transforming it into a tool for revealing the extraordinary within the ordinary.
