TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4

Canon EF-M

Review

The TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 is an intriguing lens for photographers using the Canon EF-M mount. Known for its compact design and strong performance, this lens packs a punch in both build quality and image output. With its classic focal length, it stands as an excellent choice for street photography, portrait work, and even low-light situations.

Build Quality and Design

Constructed with a sturdy metal body, the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 feels robust. The all-manual focus design gives this lens a traditional feel, appealing to photographers who appreciate the tactile nature of manual operation. It features a smooth focusing ring that allows for precise adjustments, essential for achieving those perfect focus points. However, the lens lacks weather sealing, so taking it out in inclement conditions might be a concern for some users.

Image Quality

The optical performance of the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 showcases excellent sharpness across the frame, especially when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4. At f/1.4, images are impressively sharp in the center, though there is some noticeable softness in the corners. The lens also handles contrast well, producing vibrant colors and deep blacks, which is crucial for creating impactful imagery.

Bokeh and Low Light Performance

One of the standout features of this lens is its wide aperture of f/1.4, allowing for fantastic low-light performance and beautiful bokeh. The out-of-focus areas are creamy and smooth, making it ideal for portraiture where you desire a soft background. However, there can be some optical distortions such as slight chromatic aberration and vignetting at wider apertures, which will require post-processing correction for the best results.

Autofocus Limitations

It's important to note that being a fully manual lens, the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 does not have autofocus capabilities. While this may appeal to seasoned professionals who are comfortable with manual focusing, beginners or those who rely on autofocus in dynamic shooting environments might find this limitation cumbersome. Manual focusing requires practice and can slow down the shooting process, especially in fast-paced settings.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a robust, metal design.
• Wide aperture of f/1.4 for great low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
• Combines impressive sharpness with vibrant color reproduction.
• Smooth bokeh, making it suitable for portrait photography.

Cons

• Fully manual focus may deter beginners and those preferring faster shooting.
• Some optical distortions like vignetting and chromatic aberration at wider apertures.
• Lacks weather sealing, making it less suitable for challenging weather conditions.

Verdict

In conclusion, the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 for Canon EF-M is a strong contender in the realm of prime lenses. It offers excellent image quality, a fast aperture, and a solid build, making it appealing to passionate photographers. However, the manual focus design and some optical quirks may not suit everyone's style. If you're looking for an affordable, high-performance prime lens and are willing to embrace manual focus, this lens can undoubtedly elevate your photography.