7artisans Photoelectric 50mm f/1.05

Canon RF

Review

The 7artisans Photoelectric 50mm f/1.05 is an interesting entry into the realm of Canon RF lenses, especially for photography enthusiasts seeking a unique optical character and distinctive performance. This large aperture lens aims to deliver exceptional low-light performance and depth of field control, making it appealing for both portrait and street photography.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the lens boasts a metal construction that feels robust and well-made. It's compact for a fast 50mm prime, weighing in at approximately 500 grams. The smooth focus ring and aperture ring provide satisfying feedback, allowing for precise adjustments. The minimalistic design features classic aesthetic elements, making it a joy to use and handle. That said, the lack of weather-sealing might be a drawback for some photographers, particularly those who often shoot in unpredictable conditions.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the 7artisans 50mm f/1.05 is its maximum aperture, allowing for beautiful, dreamy bokeh and excellent subject isolation. At wide open, the lens produces soft and pleasing images, but it does have some noticeable softness, especially at the edges. Stopping down to f/1.4 or f/2 improves sharpness, making it more versatile for various shooting situations. Color rendition is quite vibrant, contributing to pleasing skin tones and lively landscapes.

Focus System

This lens features a manual focus system, which can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, manual focusing allows for fine-tuning and adds a degree of artistry to one's shooting style. On the other hand, it can be challenging to achieve precise focus, particularly for moving subjects or in low-light environments. The focus throw is relatively long, which aids in accuracy but may slow down shooting in fast-paced scenarios.

Versatility

The 50mm focal length makes this lens versatile; it performs well in diverse scenarios, from portrait photography to street scenes. However, due to its manual focus design and unique rendering, it might not be everyone's go-to lens for fast-paced action or events. It's suitable for photographers who appreciate a more deliberate approach to composition and focus.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Robust metal build with a classic design
• Extremely fast maximum aperture (f/1.05) for low-light performance and pleasing bokeh
• Vibrant color rendition and good subject isolation
• Compact and lightweight for a fast prime lens

Cons

• Manual focus may not be ideal for all photographers, especially in dynamic situations
• Softness at maximum aperture with improvements needed at narrower apertures
• Limited weather sealing may restrict outdoor use in inclement weather

Verdict

The 7artisans Photoelectric 50mm f/1.05 offers a unique and characterful option for Canon RF users who enjoy manual focus and the artistry of deliberate shooting. While it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who prefer autofocus and demand pristine sharpness at every f-stop, its wide aperture and pleasing bokeh make it a solid choice for portraiture and creative photography. If you're willing to embrace its quirks, this lens could add a delightful dimension to your photography toolkit.