7artisans 50mm F1.2

The 7Artisans 50mm f/1.2 is a manual focus standard prime for APS-C cameras, offered for Sony E, Fujifilm X, Nikon Z and Micro Four Thirds. On APS-C it gives a field of view similar to about 75 mm on full frame, which suits portraits, still life and low-light work. Its f/1.2 aperture puts it among the brighter manual lenses for APS-C.

Optical design

7Artisans specifies 7 elements in 5 groups, and the optical diagram marks one ED element and several high-refractive elements. The aperture range is f/1.2 to f/16 with 11 diaphragm blades, and the angle of view is 32 degrees. The minimum focus distance is 0.7 m. The brand highlights dreamy background blur and low-light performance, which are marketing claims.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual, using a ringed barrel with a distance scale. The aperture ring has clear steps. The distance and aperture markings are coated with glow-in-the-dark paint for use in low light, and an integrated slide-out lens hood is built into the barrel. The lens has no electronic contacts mentioned by the manufacturer.

Build and size

The lens is made entirely of metal. For the Sony E version the specification lists about 410 g, a diameter of 62 mm and a length of 68 mm. The filter thread is 55 mm according to the table, even though the technical drawing carries a 62 mm marking for the barrel. We have no manufacturer weights for the Fujifilm X, Nikon Z and Micro Four Thirds versions.

Where it fits

There is no predecessor in our database. For other fast manual 50 mm lenses on APS-C, the TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 weighs 336 g and the TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95 411 g, while the Kamlan 50mm F1.1 weighs 248 g and the Samyang 50mm F1.2 ED AS UMC CS 375 g. The 7Artisans lens is therefore heavier than both the TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 and the Samyang 50mm F1.2.

Pros and cons

Pros

• f/1.2 aperture
• 11 diaphragm blades
• Integrated lens hood
• Glow-in-the-dark scales
• Metal construction
• Four mounts including Micro Four Thirds

Cons

• Manual focus only
• At 410 g heavier than the TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2
• Minimum focus distance of 0.7 m
• No manufacturer weights for three mounts

Verdict

The 7Artisans 50mm f/1.2 is a bright manual portrait lens for APS-C with practical touches such as the built-in hood and the luminous scales. It is not the lightest option in its class, and manual focus demands practice, but for photographers who enjoy that style it adds a fast aperture across four mounts.