Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 vs. Nocturnus: A Detailed Comparison for Astrophotographers
Introduction
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 are two of the most popular lenses for astrophotography. Both lenses offer exceptional image quality, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we will compare the two lenses in detail to help you decide which one is right for you.
Key Features
Here is a table summarizing the key features of the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95:
| Feature |
Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 |
Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 |
| Focal length |
50mm |
58mm |
| Maximum aperture |
f/1.2 |
f/0.95 |
| Minimum aperture |
f/16 |
f/16 |
| Angle of view |
46° |
40° |
| Construction |
10 elements in 9 groups |
12 elements in 10 groups |
| Autofocus |
Yes |
Yes |
| Image stabilization |
No |
No |
| Filter size |
72mm |
86mm |
| Weight |
500g |
1090g |
| Price |
$599 |
$2,499 |
Optical Performance
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 both offer excellent optical performance. However, there are some subtle differences between the two lenses.
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 is known for its sharpness and clarity, even at wide apertures. The lens also has minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.
The Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 is also a very sharp lens, but it is not quite as sharp as the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 at wide apertures. However, the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 has slightly less distortion and chromatic aberration than the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2.
Bokeh
Both the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 produce beautiful bokeh, or out-of-focus blur. However, the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 has a slight edge in this area. The lens's wider maximum aperture allows it to create more shallow depth of field, which results in smoother, creamier bokeh.
Autofocus
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 both have autofocus, but the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 has a slight advantage in this area. The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 uses a stepping motor for autofocus, which is faster and more accurate than the DC motor used in the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95.
Image Stabilization
Neither the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 nor the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 has image stabilization. This means that you will need to use a tripod or other support when shooting at slow shutter speeds.
Price
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 is priced at $599, while the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 is priced at $2,499. This is a significant difference in price, so you will need to decide which lens is worth the extra cost.
Which Lens is Right for You?
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 are both excellent lenses for astrophotography. However, the two lenses have different strengths and weaknesses, so you will need to decide which one is right for you.
If you are looking for a lens that is sharp, has minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, and autofocuses quickly, then the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 is a great option. However, if you are looking for a lens that has a wider maximum aperture and produces beautiful bokeh, then the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 is a better choice.
Real-World Examples
Here are some real-world examples of photos taken with the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95:
[Image of the Milky Way taken with the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2]
[Image of the Andromeda Galaxy taken with the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95]
As you can see, both lenses are capable of producing stunning astrophotography images. However, the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 is better suited for wide-field shots, while the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 is better suited for close-up shots.
Conclusion
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 and the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 are both excellent lenses for astrophotography. However, the two lenses have different strengths and weaknesses, so you will need to decide which one is right for you. If you are looking for a lens that is sharp, has minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, and autofocuses quickly, then the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 is a great option. However, if you are looking for a lens that has a wider maximum aperture and produces beautiful bokeh, then the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95 is a better choice.
Call to Action
If you are interested in purchasing either the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 or the Nocturnus 58mm f/0.95, I encourage you to do some additional research to see which lens is right for you. You can also read reviews from other users to get their opinions on the two lenses. Once you have decided which lens you want, I recommend purchasing it from a reputable dealer.
Additional Resources
