7Artisans Expands 135mm f 1.8 Autofocus Lens Support to Sony and Leica Systems with High Resolving Power and Competitive Pricing Structure
Lens builder 7Artisans has released more body mounts for its 135 mm f 1.8 autofocus lens. In addition to its initial launch early this year on Nikon Z systems, the full frame lens can now also be used on Leica L mount and Sony E mount systems. Shoppers eyeing the Sony mount should check the product page on the 7Artisans website for a detailed compatibility chart because it cannot operate autofocus on some older camera bodies.
At 689 dollars, this lens is priced very competitively for a short telephoto portrait lens. First party options in the Batis lineup from manufacturer Sony sell at 2249 dollars for the FE 135 mm f 1.8 G Master. While third party manufacturers Samyang and Viltrox have comparable lens options at similar prices, the 7Artisans model remains one of the cheapest available. The manufacturer states that the optical design is capable of resolving clean images throughout the whole frame for modern day cameras with high resolution 60mp sensors.
To reach an impressive resolving power, 7Artisans used a special formula made up of 16 elements. This optical formula contains 6 extra low dispersion elements, making the most of the correction for chromatic aberration and color fringing. Autofocus is based on a stepping STM motor offering fast and silent performance when shooting still images or movie records. The minimum focus distance is set at 68cm, capturing up close photographs at a 1/4 magnification ratio.
The size of the lens form factor is large at 9.1cm in diameter by 13cm in length. Weighing just over 1 kilogram, which is not ideal for long term travel solutions, it is fitted with a built in USB type C port accessed through the chassis for future firmware upgrades. As of writing, its distribution is exclusive to the official 7Artisans online store with free shipping from China. However, shoppers should bear in mind that import sales taxes and customs duty are not included in the baseline price of 689 dollars.
