Landscape Photography: Micro Nikkor 105/4.0 or Nikkor Ai 105/2.5

[DanAa]

Normally I have used my AFS 24-120/4.0 for general landscapes, or the Nikkor family of 1.8's in the range 20mm -50mm, plus a MF 90mm/3.5 Voightlander (and even an old Micronikkor 55/3,5).  Now I just wonder which of the 105's I own (Micro Nikkor 105/4.0 or Nikkor Ai 105/2.5) would be that best one for landscapes? I like landscape horizons that are sharp all over! Maybe the 24-120 is OK enough? (Next week I do a long mountain walk, and the 24-120 is rather heavy aroudn the neck)

[Bjørn Rørslett]

Either of these 105 Nikkors could do the trick, but the Micro has the added advantage of facilitating close-ups.

[Wannabebetter]

Either of these 105 Nikkors could do the trick, but the Micro has the added advantage of facilitating close-ups.

No compromises or trade-offs?! Fascinating! And great news, if ever it comes down to my making a purchase decision. (Micro Nikkor, it is then.)

[Bjørn Rørslett]

I used the Micro 105/4 in this manner when I worked in NZ some years ago. Came in extremely handy.

By the way, I currently tend to use the 125 APO-Lanthar for the same dual purposes.

[Roland Vink]

I think either would work for landscapes once stopped down a bit (which you normally do for landscapes for DOF). I guess the choice then comes down to whether you will also tend to do more portraiture (choose 105/2.5) or closeups (105/4). I've shot nice portraits with the 105/4 too.

The AIS 105/2.8 micro is another good option. It is fast enough to be a general purpose lens - the background blur is quite nice so it can be used for portraiture - and it can be used for macro. Best to use a hood with this one as it flares more than the others, but otherwise it's a great lens.

What about your 90mm Voigtlander? The focal length is not too different from 105mm, and it's much more compact...

[richardHaw]

i just overhauled the 105/4 micro last year. 

the construction is so simple that nothing can go wrong!

the robustness will come in handy

[Tristin]

If you own both, test them both for the purpose and find out.