Nikon AF DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2 Autofocus Lens {72}

Nikon 135mm f/2 DC-NIKKOR: autofocus portrait lens with mechanical bokeh control

The DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2 has been a fixture in portrait photographers' bags since 1995, and its defining feature is still the Defocus Image Control ring, a mechanical control that lets you shape the character of out-of-focus areas independently of your aperture setting. You can dial in foreground or background blur to your preference, which is a different kind of creative control than simply shooting wide open and hoping the rendering suits your subject. At f/2, there is already substantial subject separation on full-frame bodies, and the DC ring gives you a second axis of adjustment on top of that.

The 135mm focal length sits in a productive zone for portraiture: enough working distance to stay out of a subject's personal space, enough compression to flatten unflattering perspective. The lens is native to the Nikon F mount and full-frame compatible, with a 72mm filter thread. Autofocus is built in, so you are not giving up tracking capability to get the DC functionality. For a lens that has been in continuous use by working photographers for three decades, the optical and mechanical quality has clearly held up to professional scrutiny.

Who It's For

Portrait photographers shooting on Nikon F-mount bodies get the most direct value here, the DC ring's ability to tune out-of-focus rendering is a tool built specifically for controlled portrait work where background separation matters. Studio photographers can use the f/2 maximum aperture and DC control in tandem to dial in a consistent look across a session. Wedding photographers covering reception or formal portraits benefit from the autofocus capability at a focal length that keeps comfortable distance between shooter and subject. Film photographers still running F-mount bodies will find this a fully compatible, proven optic.

Key Features

• Defocus Image Control ring shapes out-of-focus rendering independently of aperture
• f/2 maximum aperture delivers substantial subject separation on full-frame
• Autofocus tracking capability built in
• Nikon F mount, native to digital and film bodies
• 72mm filter thread
• Three decades of continuous professional use confirm optical and mechanical durability

FAQ

What is Defocus Image Control and how does it work?

The DC ring lets you adjust the character of out-of-focus areas independently of your aperture setting. You can shape foreground or background blur to your preference - a second axis of creative control beyond just stopping down or opening up.

Is autofocus available on this lens?

Yes. Autofocus is built in, so you get AF tracking capability alongside the DC functionality.

What mount does this lens use?

Nikon F mount, native to Nikon digital and film bodies. Full-frame compatible.

What focal length and maximum aperture does the DC-NIKKOR 135mm f/2 have?

135mm focal length with a maximum aperture of f/2. At f/2 on full-frame bodies, you already get substantial subject separation before adjusting the DC ring.

What filter size does this lens accept?

72mm filters.

When was this lens first released?

1995. It has remained in continuous use by working photographers for three decades, indicating sustained optical and mechanical quality.

Why is 135mm a popular portrait focal length?

It provides enough working distance to stay out of a subject's personal space while offering enough compression to flatten unflattering perspective - a productive balance for portrait work.