TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95

Canon EF-M

Review

The TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95 is a unique addition to the landscape of prime lenses available for the Canon EF-M mount. This fast lens boasts an impressive maximum aperture of f/0.95, making it an attractive option for those looking to achieve a shallow depth of field and significant low-light capabilities. With its classic design and all-metal construction, this lens not only feels robust in hand but also brings a touch of vintage aesthetics to the modern camera system.

One of the most notable features of the TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95 is its insistence on artistic expression. The lens produces beautiful bokeh with its 12-blade diaphragm, creating a smooth transition in out-of-focus areas that can make portraits and creative shots truly stunning. Additionally, the wide aperture facilitates excellent subject isolation, making the subject pop against the background. Photographers who enjoy shooting in dimly lit environments will appreciate this lens’s ability to gather light, delivering sharp images even when light conditions are not ideal.

However, it’s essential to address the lens’s quirks. As an entirely manual lens, focusing can be a bit of a challenge, especially for those who are accustomed to autofocus systems. The lack of electronic contacts also means that aperture control is done manually, which can be cumbersome for fast-paced shooting scenarios. In fast-paced environments, the manual focusing and stopping down can detract from the overall shooting experience, making this lens more suitable for deliberate photography rather than quick snapshots.

As with many fast lenses, shooting wide open at f/0.95 can lead to some softness in the corners, especially when compared to stopping down to a more conventional aperture like f/2.8 or f/4. Chromatic aberration and distortion are also present at full aperture, which some photographers may find problematic during post-processing or when shooting at wide angles. However, many users may welcome these characteristics as part of the lens's charm or character.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extremely fast maximum aperture of f/0.95 ideal for low-light conditions.
• Beautiful bokeh due to 12-blade diaphragm.
• Solid build quality with an all-metal construction.
• Excellent subject isolation capabilities.

Cons

• Manual focus may not be suitable for all photographers, especially in dynamic situations.
• Some softness and optical aberrations when shooting wide open.
• No electronic contacts can limit functionality in terms of aperture control.

Verdict

The TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95 is a captivating lens for those who deeply value the artistic aspects of photography. While it may not cater to every photographer's needs due to its manual controls and optical limitations at wide apertures, it offers a distinctive perspective for those willing to work within its unique constraints. If you appreciate the craftsmanship and creative potential of a fast prime lens with character, the TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95 could very well be a perfect fit for your Canon EF-M setup.