Sony E Autofocus

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: 66 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: 66 mm (2.6 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 Sony E-Mount 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.

Sony E-Mount cameras

Full frame (in APS-C mode):: Sony A7R VI, Sony A7 V, Sony FX2, Sony A1 II, Sony A9 III, Sony A7C II, Sony A7CR, Sony ZV-E1, Sony A7R V, Sony A7 IV, Sony A1, Sony FX3, Sony A7S III, Sony A7C, Sony FX6, Sony A7R IV, Sony A9 II, Sony FX9, Sony A7 III, Sony A7R III, Sony A9, Sony A7R II, Sony A7S II, Sony A7 II, Sony A7S, Sony A7, Sony A7R
APS-C:: Sony ZV-E10 II, Sony A6700, Sony FX30, Sony ZV-E10, Sony A6600, Sony A6100, Sony A6400, Sony A6500, Sony A6300, Sony A6000, Sony A5100, Sony A5000, Sony A3000, Sony NEX-5T, Sony NEX-3N, Sony NEX-6, Sony NEX-5R, Sony NEX-F3