Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 II

Sony E

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 II is a fascinating lens that pays homage to the vintage aesthetics of the original Trioplan lenses, renowned for their unique bokeh and artistic rendering. Designed specifically for the Sony E mount, this lens is ideal for photographers who appreciate character and charm in their shots, especially in portrait and nature photography.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 II is exceptional, featuring a solid metal construction that feels robust in hand. The old-school aesthetic, complete with smooth focusing and a classic aperture ring, makes it a joy to use. Its compact size and lightweight nature make it an excellent choice for street photography or any scenario where mobility is key. The lens has a beautiful, minimalistic design that harkens back to photography's roots, which can be appealing for enthusiasts.

Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 II exhibits soft characteristics that's perfect for creating dreamy images, especially at wide apertures. The lens produces pleasing colors, beautiful contrast, and retains a decent level of sharpness in the center of the frame, although it does tend to soften towards the edges at f/2.8. However, one of the standout aspects is the legendary "soap bubble" bokeh that Trioplan lenses are famous for, giving out-of-focus highlights a distinct circular shape that can add a silky touch to portraits and artistic compositions.

Focus and Handling

One key aspect of the handling of this lens is the manual focus, which some photographers may find limiting in fast-paced shooting situations. The focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for careful control; however, the absence of autofocus can be challenging, especially for those accustomed to automatic systems. It encourages a more deliberate pace of shooting, which can be rewarding but may not suit everyone’s style.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Gorgeous bokeh with a unique "soap bubble" effect.
• Vintage aesthetic with excellent build quality.
• Compact and lightweight, making it great for travel.
• Solid color reproduction and contrast.

Cons

• Manual focus only, which may not suit fast-paced environments.
• Softness at the edges when shot wide open.
• Focus on character over clinical sharpness, which might not appeal to everyone.

Verdict

Overall, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 35mm f/2.8 II is a lens that can certainly charm those who delight in the creative and artistic aspects of photography. While it may not be the ideal choice for every photographer—especially those who rely heavily on autofocus or need pin-sharp images across the frame—it offers a unique perspective and aesthetic that modern lenses often lack. For lovers of vintage-style images and those ready to embrace a slower, more intentional shooting process, this lens is a valuable addition to any Sony E mount camera kit.