Mitakon Zhongyi Creator 135mm f/2.5

Canon EF

Review

The Mitakon Zhongyi Creator 135mm f/2.5 is a unique lens that offers photographers a more specialized option for portrait and event photography. This manual focus lens is designed for Canon EF mounts, making it suitable for a variety of Canon DSLRs. With its relatively fast aperture and compact design, it provides a terrific opportunity for creative photographers looking to stand out in their work.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Mitakon 135mm f/2.5 is impressive, featuring a sturdy metal body that exudes durability. Its traditional design makes it feel solid in hand, and the finish is pleasing to the eye. However, the manual focus mechanism can feel a bit stiff at times, requiring some practice to achieve the desired focus accurately. It’s worth noting that this lens is slightly heavier than some of its competitors, which could be a consideration for those who prefer a lightweight setup.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the lens is a mixed bag. The sharpness at f/2.5 is reasonably good, especially when stopped down to f/4. You can expect good detail in portraits, with a gentle bokeh that gives images a pleasing aesthetic. Color rendition is also satisfactory, with vibrant but not overly saturated colors. However, there are some notable issues with chromatic aberration, particularly at wider apertures, which can detract from the overall quality of your images if not post-processed.

Focusing and Usability

Being a manual focus lens, the Mitakon 135mm f/2.5 requires a more hands-on approach than autofocus lenses. Photographers who are accustomed to manual focusing may appreciate the challenge, as it allows for greater control over composition and sharpness. However, beginners or those accustomed to speedy autofocus systems may find this aspect somewhat cumbersome. The lack of image stabilization can also make handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds more difficult.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Sturdy metal build quality enhances durability.
• Pleasant bokeh and good detail when stopped down.
• Compact size for a 135mm lens.
• Good color rendition for portraits.

Cons

• Manual focus can be stiff and less intuitive.
• Noticeable chromatic aberration, particularly at wider apertures.
• Heavier than some competing models.
• No image stabilization makes handheld shooting challenging.

Verdict

The Mitakon Zhongyi Creator 135mm f/2.5 for Canon EF mounts offers a unique blend of charming aesthetics and optical performance for those willing to embrace manual focusing. While it has its flaws, including chromatic aberration and the absence of image stabilization, it shines in build quality and delivering beautiful images, especially in portrait scenarios. For photographers who value artistry and traditional techniques, this lens can be a worthwhile addition to their kit. However, those looking for a modern, fast-paced shooting experience may want to look elsewhere.