Used Nikon 105mm f/2.8 AF Micro Lens - Good

Compatible With

• Nikon F-mount film SLR cameras and Nikon DSLR bodies with in-body screw-drive autofocus support, including popular models such as the Nikon D700, D750, D800/D810, D850, D90, D200, D300, and D7000-series cameras.
• It can also be mounted on many other Nikon F-mount bodies; autofocus availability depends on the camera body's focus motor support.

Classic Nikon Macro Performance

The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 AF Micro is a respected short-telephoto macro lens known for its sharp rendering, flattering perspective, and versatile focal length. Its 105mm design gives you more working distance than shorter macro lenses, making it especially useful when photographing flowers, small objects, details, and other close-up subjects where a bit of space between lens and subject is helpful.

True 1:1 Life-Size Reproduction

One of the biggest advantages of this lens is its true macro capability. With up to 1:1 maximum magnification, subjects can be recorded at life size on the film or sensor plane, making this lens ideal for detailed close-up photography. Whether you are capturing jewelry, textures, insects, collectibles, or studio product work, the 105mm Micro delivers the magnification serious macro shooters look for.

Excellent for Portraits Too

Beyond macro work, the 105mm focal length and f/2.8 aperture make this lens a strong portrait option. It offers a natural, flattering compression that helps subjects stand out from the background, while Nikon's Micro lens design is known for crisp detail and strong contrast. Photographers who want one lens for close-ups and portraits often appreciate this model for its dual-purpose usefulness.

Autofocus and Manual Precision

The AF designation gives this lens autofocus capability on compatible Nikon bodies with a built-in focus motor, while manual focus remains important for precise macro composition. In close-up photography, many users prefer manual focus for exact placement of the focal plane, especially when working at very shallow depth of field. This lens gives you the flexibility to work either way depending on the subject and shooting style.

Optical Character and Handling

The Nikon 105mm f/2.8 AF Micro has long been appreciated for its balanced mix of sharpness, contrast, and practical handling. It is compact enough to remain manageable in the field yet substantial enough to feel stable when focusing carefully. As a classic Nikon macro lens, it is well suited to photographers who value proven optical performance over unnecessary complexity.

Why Choose a 105mm Macro Lens?

Compared with 50mm or 60mm macro lenses, a 105mm macro gives you greater working distance at high magnification. That extra space can make lighting easier and helps avoid disturbing delicate subjects. Compared with longer macro lenses, this focal length remains more portable and versatile for general photography. It is often considered one of the most practical macro focal lengths available.

Ideal Uses

This lens is especially well suited for macro photography, tabletop setups, product imaging, flower photography, texture studies, archival reproduction, and portrait photography. It can also work nicely for selective-detail shots at events or in nature, where the short telephoto view helps isolate a subject cleanly from distracting backgrounds.

Used Condition

This used item is rated in Good condition, meaning it shows a small amount of cosmetic wear and blemishes from regular use and is estimated to be in 80-90% of its original condition. Lenses in Good condition may show slight scratches on the housing, while the glass elements remain unmarked and very clean. Zoom and focus rings may show minor signs of fatigue and/or oxidation where applicable. The item remains in full working order. Used items are warrantied by us under the terms of the manufacturer's original warranty for 180 days from the date of purchase. Unique Photo makes every effort to grade used items fairly and provide accurate descriptions.

Recommended Accessories

To get the most from a macro lens like this, consider adding a 52mm protective or UV filter, a lens hood if not included, a sturdy tripod for critical close-up work, a focusing rail for high-magnification composition, and an external flash or macro lighting setup for improved control over shadows and detail. A remote release can also help reduce vibration during tripod-based shooting.

Helpful Macro Shooting Tips

For the sharpest results in macro photography, stop down the aperture when additional depth of field is needed, stabilize the camera whenever possible, and pay close attention to focus placement. Even slight movement can shift the focal plane at close distances. Using live view on compatible bodies, supplemental lighting, and careful subject alignment can make a significant difference in final image quality.

A Trusted Nikon Micro Legacy

Nikon's Micro-Nikkor and AF Micro lenses have a long-standing reputation among photographers for delivering high detail and dependable real-world performance. The 105mm focal length in particular has been a favorite for users who want a dedicated macro lens that can also serve as a refined portrait optic. This model remains appealing to photographers who appreciate classic Nikon F-mount glass with specialized close-up capability.