7Artisans AF 35mm F1.4

The 7Artisans AF 35mm F1.4 is an autofocus prime for Fujifilm X cameras with an APS-C sensor. On the X system 35 mm corresponds to about 52.5 mm in full frame terms, a focal length that 7Artisans describes as close to human vision and suited to street photography, portraits, food and travel. Fujifilm X is the only mount offered so far.

Optical design

The lens has 8 elements in 5 groups and includes an extra low dispersion element. The maximum aperture is F1.4, and the aperture range runs down to F16 with 7 diaphragm blades. The angle of view is 43.5 degrees. The closest focusing distance is 0.35 m.

Autofocus and handling

The lens focuses automatically. According to 7Artisans, it works together with the eye recognition of Fujifilm cameras, which the manufacturer presents as helpful for photos of children and pets. Manual focus is available as well. The product pages emphasise an ergonomic grip and a design that is easy to carry in a backpack on trips.

Build and size

The body is made of metal. The lens is 68 mm in diameter and 49 mm long, weighs 184 g and takes 62 mm filters. For an F1.4 autofocus lens, that is a short and light construction.

Where it fits

For Fujifilm X users the obvious reference is the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R, a long-established lens at the same focal length and speed. The database also lists the Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7, the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 (manual focus) and the 7Artisans AF 35mm F1.8 LITE, which is a stop slower and built in the same compact style. For those who prefer a slightly wider field of view, the Viltrox AF 33mm F1.4 and the Fujifilm XF 33mm F1.4 R LM WR are close in speed.

Pros and cons

Pros

• F1.4 aperture on an autofocus APS-C lens
• Light at 184 g and compact at 68 mm by 49 mm
• ED element in the optical design
• Eye recognition support on Fujifilm bodies
• Metal body

Cons

• Only offered for Fujifilm X
• Closest focusing distance of 0.35 m

Verdict

The AF 35mm F1.4 is a straightforward fast standard lens for Fujifilm X. Its data show a modern, compact autofocus design with a light weight for the aperture. Photographers who prefer a smaller and cheaper lens at the same focal length can look at the F1.8 LITE version, and those who want the established option will compare it with the Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R.