KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III

Canon EF-M

Review

The KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is a unique lens designed for Canon EF-M mount, making it an intriguing choice for photographers looking for a fast prime option. This lens stands out due to its extraordinarily wide maximum aperture of f/0.85, enabling stunning low-light performance and beautiful depth of field effects.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is impressive. It features a solid construction that feels durable in hand, combined with a classic design aesthetic that many photographers will appreciate. The manual focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments, which is crucial when working with such a shallow depth of field.

Optical Performance

Optically, this lens delivers strong performance, particularly at wider apertures. Images are sharp with pleasing contrast, and the bokeh produced at f/0.85 is creamy and pleasing to the eye. However, as is often the case with fast lenses, there can be some noticeable vignetting and softness at the extreme edges when shooting wide open. Stopping down to f/2.8 greatly improves corner sharpness, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

Usability

This lens is fully manual, meaning there is no autofocus capability. While this may not be an issue for many photographers who prefer manual focus, it’s worth noting that it may pose challenges in fast-paced shooting situations. Additionally, the lens is relatively compact given its fast aperture, making it an excellent companion for travel photography, as long as you are comfortable with manual focusing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extremely fast maximum aperture of f/0.85 for low-light scenarios.
• Solid build quality with a classic design.
• Beautiful bokeh, ideal for portraiture and subject isolation.
• Compact size for a fast lens, great for travel.

Cons

• Fully manual focus may not appeal to everyone, especially in fast-paced settings.
• Some vignetting and edge softness when shooting wide open.
• Limited versatility compared to autofocus lenses for action photography.

Verdict

The KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is a fantastic lens for Canon EF-M users who appreciate the art of manual photography and are looking for a fast prime lens to enhance their low-light capabilities. While it requires a bit of patience due to its manual focus operation, the optical performance and creative possibilities it offers make it a worthy addition to any photographer’s kit, especially for those focusing on portraiture or artistic expression. If you're able to embrace its quirks, you may find this lens to be an inspiring tool in your photographic journey.