Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II

Canon EF

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II is a remarkable lens that brings a unique charm to photography, especially for Canon EF mount users. This lens is well-known for its special bokeh effects and the distinctive soap bubble bokeh that can create beautiful, artistic images. It’s an excellent choice for those who value creative expression in their photographs.

Design and Build Quality

When you first unbox the Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II, you can’t help but appreciate its classic design. The lens features a solid metal construction that conveys a sense of durability and a vintage aesthetic that many photographers find appealing. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise manual focusing, which is crucial given the lens's emphasis on achieving artistic results.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II performs admirably within its intended use. The lens produces generally sharp images across most apertures, but it truly shines when used wide open. You'll find that the subject isolation is excellent, thanks to its f/2.8 maximum aperture. However, the lens does exhibit pronounced vignetting when shot wide open, which can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on your artistic intent.

One of the key features of the Trioplan is its bokeh. The unique design of its aperture blades creates that signature ‘soap bubble’ effect, which is often sought after for portrait and macro photography. Colors are rendered beautifully, with a nice contrast that adds to the depth of the images.

Usability

One downside of using the Trioplan 50mm is that it lacks autofocus capabilities. This could be a dealbreaker for those who rely heavily on autofocus for their shooting style, especially in fast-paced environments. The manual focus experience can be rewarding, but it requires practice and patience. Additionally, while it is relatively compact and lightweight, it may feel slightly less ergonomic compared to modern autofocus lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique and creamy bokeh that enhances artistic portraits and macro shots.
• Solid vintage build quality that adds aesthetic value.
• Produces pleasing color rendition with nice contrast.
• Precise manual focus for intentional compositions.

Cons

• No autofocus, which can be limiting for some users.
• Noticeable vignetting at wide open apertures may not suit all situations.
• Requires a bit of practice to master manual focusing.

Verdict

Overall, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II is an excellent choice for photographers looking to add a bit of artistic flair to their work. With its stunning bokeh and sharp optics, this lens excels in creative applications. However, its limitations regarding autofocus and usability might make it less appealing to those who prioritize speed and convenience. If you appreciate manual focusing and are excited to experiment with its unique character, the Trioplan is a lens that can truly inspire you.