Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II

Canon RF

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II for Canon RF mount is a lens that captures the essence of vintage glass while providing modern optical performance. This lens is perfect for portrait photographers and those who enjoy rich, creamy bokeh, owing to its unique optical design.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II is impressive. Encased in a solid metal body, it exudes a sense of durability and premium quality that is somewhat rare in today's market filled with plastic options. The focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for excellent control, which is crucial for achieving critical focus when shooting wide open. The lens is also relatively compact considering its f/1.5 maximum aperture, making it a versatile addition to your kit.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II delivers stunning results. The lens is sharp in the center even at wide apertures, providing wonderful detail in portrait work. The out-of-focus areas are pleasingly soft, creating that desired bokeh effect that many photographers seek. However, it's worth noting that corner sharpness can drop a bit when shooting wide open, but it's not a deal-breaker for most portrait applications, as the primary focus is usually on the subject's face rather than the edges of the frame.

Use Cases

As a portrait lens, the Biotar excels. The flattering compression of the 75mm focal length combined with the fast f/1.5 aperture allows for tight headshots with blurred backgrounds that separate the subject beautifully. Additionally, due to its unique rendering, it can evoke a classic feel in images, making it an appealing choice for event and wedding photographers looking to create a romantic atmosphere in their shots.

Compatibility with Canon RF

Designed specifically for the Canon RF mount, this lens incorporates electronic contacts for better communication with the camera body. You'll benefit from features like autofocus assist and EXIF data recording, which is handy for digital workflow.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with a solid metal construction.
• Versatile f/1.5 maximum aperture for low light and depth of field control.
• Beautiful bokeh and pleasing out-of-focus rendering.
• Sharp center performance, ideal for portraits.

Cons

• Corner sharpness may not be as good when shooting wide open.
• Manual focus only, which may not suit every photographer’s style.
• Relatively heavy compared to more modern alternatives.

Verdict

Overall, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II is a stellar choice for those looking to incorporate a vintage character into their portrait work without sacrificing optical performance. While it may not be the most versatile lens due to its manual focus mechanism, the artistic qualities it brings to your images can be well worth the trade-off. If you appreciate the nuances of classic glass and require a lens that can deliver striking results, the Biotar 75mm f/1.5 II is certainly worth considering.