Classic Nikon telephoto lens with 105mm focal length and f/2.5 aperture — proven for portraits with natural perspective.
Technical Details
The lens is based on the classic Sonnar design with 5-6 lens elements in 4-5 groups, depending on the version. The minimum focusing distance is 1 meter, and the filter thread diameter is 52mm. The original non-AI model weighs 420 grams and has a length of 63.5mm. The aperture blade construction with 6-9 blades (model dependent) produces the characteristic bokeh. Later AI and AI-S versions received improved coatings and modified mounts for automatic exposure metering.
History & Development
Nikon first introduced the 105mm f/2.5 in 1959, based on the Zeiss Sonnar design from the 1930s. The original non-AI version (1959-1977) established the lens as a standard for portrait photography. In 1977, the AI version followed with improved exposure coupling, and in 1981, the AI-S variant with optimized coatings. Production ended in 2005 after 46 years, with over one million units manufactured.
Practical Use in Film
Stanley Kubrick used the 105mm f/2.5 extensively for portrait sequences in "Barry Lyndon" (1975) due to its natural facial rendering without wide-angle distortion. The focal length is suitable for medium shots and close-ups without disturbing proximity to the actor. On full-frame, the focal length is approximately 1.5 times the natural field of view, which is particularly advantageous for dialogue scenes. The soft bokeh effectively isolates faces from the background, while the moderate aperture allows for usable shutter speeds even in available light.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike modern 85mm f/1.4 lenses, the 105mm f/2.5 offers a greater working distance and less extreme subject isolation. The Canon 100mm f/2.8 or Zeiss Planar 100mm f/2 are technical alternatives with similar focal lengths. Modern successors such as the Nikkor 105mm f/1.4E or Sigma 105mm f/1.4 Art offer higher apertures but do not achieve the characteristic "vintage" image quality of the original. For film productions with a retro aesthetic, the classic 105mm f/2.5 remains irreplaceable due to its unique rendering.