Ive been shooting on my D850 for ages but my old 85mm 1.8G is suddenly looking super soft on this high-res sensor. I have a big outdoor wedding next month and need a sharper prime under $1000.
Should I go for the 85mm 1.4G or is the 105mm really that much better?
Honestly, i had the same exact problem when i moved up to a high-res body. My old gear just couldnt keep up with the megapixels and i felt like i was wasting the camera. For a wedding, i always worry about missing focus, so i spent a long time testing different options. I tried the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G and it is definitely a classic for portraits, but i found it still felt a little bit soft wide open on that 45mp sensor. It has that nice look, but it doesnt always bite like you want it to. When i did my cousins outdoor ceremony last year, i really debated between the 85 and the 105. The 105mm focal length is amazing for background blur but it can feel a bit tight if you dont have space to back up. If you want something truly sharp under a grand, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for Nikon F is probably your best bet. I was really nervous about third-party glass because i value reliability above everything, but this one is built like a tank. It is very heavy tho, so be ready for a workout. If you decide to go that route, id suggest getting the Sigma USB Dock for Nikon too. I used it to calibrate mine before the wedding just to be safe, and it really helped my peace of mind. It makes the whole setup feel way more dependable when you know the focus is nailed.