SG-image MF 35mm F0.95

The SG-image MF 35mm F0.95 is a manual focus APS-C prime built around an extremely wide aperture. SG-image offers it for Sony E, Fujifilm X, Nikon Z, Micro Four Thirds, Canon EF-M, Canon RF and Leica L. On APS-C the 35mm focal length corresponds to roughly 50mm on full frame. The manufacturer targets low-light work, portraits and artistic shots where a paper-thin depth of field and a distinctive look matter more than neutral rendering.

Optical design

According to SG-image the construction is 12 elements in 9 groups with a 44 degree angle of view. The diaphragm has 12 blades and runs from F0.95 to F16 on a clicked aperture ring. The minimum focus distance is 0.35 m with a maximum magnification of 1:7.7. The manufacturer says the lens has its own optical character, for example a gentle glow or softness wide open and distinctive flare. That is the maker's description and not a measured result, and the spec sheet names no special glass types.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual only. SG-image calls the manual design a core part of the lens's charm and says it takes practice but gives precise control. Because the depth of field at F0.95 is extremely thin, focus peaking or magnified live view will be needed in practice. The aperture ring has click stops.

Build and size

The barrel is metal. The lens measures 58 mm in diameter and 62 mm in length, weighs about 393 g and takes 52 mm filters. That is far heavier than SG-image's F1.2 and F1.8 manual primes, which weigh 200 g and 186 g, and the spec sheet gives these numbers for all seven mounts.

Where it fits

This is the fastest lens in SG-image's APS-C manual line. Other very fast options in the database include the Venus Laowa Argus 33mm F0.95 CF APO (Fujifilm X, Nikon Z, Sony E) and the TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95, while the SG-image MF 35mm F1.2 trades a third of a stop for a much lighter body.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Maximum aperture of F0.95
• 12-blade diaphragm
• Metal barrel with a clicked aperture ring
• Minimum focus distance of 0.35 m
• Offered for seven mounts

Cons

• Manual focus only
• About 393 g and 62 mm long, much larger than the other manual SG-image primes
• Focusing at F0.95 is demanding
• The maker itself describes glow and flare wide open, so it is not a neutral lens
• No weather sealing mentioned

Verdict

The SG-image MF 35mm F0.95 gives APS-C shooters an ultra-fast normal lens with a pronounced character. It is for people who want that look and accept manual focus and some weight. If you mostly want a bright, light lens, the F1.2 sibling is the more practical choice.