TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8

Focal length: 56 mm
Aperture: f/1.8
Weight: –
Filter diameter: 52 mm
Min. focus distance: 50 cm
Length: 70 mm

Overview

The TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 is an autofocus portrait lens for APS-C mirrorless cameras, offered for Sony E, Fujifilm X and Nikon Z. TTArtisan states that 56 mm on APS-C is equivalent to 84 mm on full frame, a classic portrait field of view.

Optical design

The lens has 10 elements in 9 groups, including one ultra-low dispersion element and two high-index elements. According to TTArtisan, these reduce dispersion and chromatic aberration. The diaphragm has 9 blades and stops down from f/1.8 to f/16, and the angle of view is 28 degrees. The minimum focus distance is given as 0.5 m in the characteristics text, while the spec table on the same page lists 0.8 m, so the figure should be treated with care.

Autofocus and handling

Autofocus uses an STM plus lead screw stepper motor with eye detection. TTArtisan describes it as quiet and fast. A Type-C interface in the rear lens cap allows firmware updates, and a lens hood is included. The filter thread measures 52 mm.

Build and size

Barrel and mount are made of aviation aluminium. The weight is stated as 233 to 245 g depending on the mount. Dimensions differ per mount: Sony E 65 x 66 mm, Fujifilm X 65 x 62 mm and Nikon Z 65 x 70 mm (diameter x length).

Where it fits

For APS-C portraits the database lists the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary, the Viltrox AF 56mm F1.7 and the Fujifilm XF 56mm F1.2 R WR as alternatives. Those lenses differ in aperture, size and price class. The TTArtisan is positioned as a lightweight option with an f/1.8 aperture.

Pros and cons

Pros

Portrait focal length with f/1.8 maximum aperture
ED glass and high-index elements
Metal construction at roughly 233 to 245 g
Eye detection autofocus and firmware update port

Cons

Minimum focus distance is inconsistently stated by the manufacturer
No optical stabilisation in the lens
Weight varies by mount

Verdict

The TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 is a compact portrait prime for APS-C users who want autofocus and f/1.8 in a light metal body. The specification looks well rounded for the class, with ED glass and eye detection. Check the minimum focus distance if close portraits matter, and compare with the Sigma and Viltrox options if a brighter aperture is a priority.

Technical Specifications

min focal length: 56 mm
max focal length: 56 mm
max f (min zoom): f/1.8
max f (max zoom): f/1.8
min. aperture: f/16
Elements: 10
Groups: 9
Weight: –
Filter diameter: 52 mm
min focus distance: 50 cm (19.69 in)
Length: 70 mm (2.76 in)
Diameter: 65 mm (2.56 in)

Simulate depth of field and angle of view

Which cameras does the TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 fit?

The TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 is designed for APS-C sensors. On APS-C Nikon Z cameras its field of view equals 84 mm in full-frame terms. Full-frame bodies use it in APS-C (crop) mode, recording only part of the sensor and fewer megapixels.

Nikon Z cameras

Full frame (in APS-C mode):: Nikon ZR, Nikon Z5II, Nikon Z6III, Nikon Z8, Nikon Zf, Nikon Z9, Nikon Z5, Nikon Z6II, Nikon Z7II, Nikon Z6, Nikon Z7
APS-C:: Nikon Z50II, Nikon Z30, Nikon Z fc, Nikon Z50