TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4

Canon RF

Review

The TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 for Canon RF is an intriguing option for photographers seeking a versatile prime lens with a classic focal length. With its wide aperture and compact design, this lens has gained a reputation for being a strong performer in various shooting conditions, from casual street photography to more serious portrait sessions.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 is impressive for a lens in its price range. The lens features an all-metal construction that gives it a solid, durable feel. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, making it easy to achieve precise manual focus. Although it lacks weather sealing, the robust construction should hold up well in everyday use. The compact design makes it an attractive option for photographers who prefer lightweight gear that still performs well.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 excels in several areas. The f/1.4 aperture allows for excellent low-light capabilities, enabling photographers to shoot in challenging lighting conditions without needing to boost ISO significantly. The lens delivers sharp images across a good portion of the frame, and when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4, images become razor-sharp with pleasing contrast.

However, the lens does exhibit some noticeable vignetting and barrel distortion, particularly at its widest aperture. While this can be easily corrected in post-processing, it is something to keep in mind if you're looking for a lens that requires minimal editing.

Usability

The TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 is designed for manual focus, which some photographers might find appealing for precision. However, it may not be ideal for those who predominantly rely on autofocus, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios. The absence of autofocus also means users will need to invest some time getting acclimated to manual focusing techniques.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid all-metal construction and compact design
• Excellent low-light performance with f/1.4 aperture
• Sharpness improves when stopped down
• Good rendering of bokeh for portraits and isolated subjects

Cons

• Manual focus may not suit everyone, especially for fast-paced situations
• Noticeable vignetting and barrel distortion at wider apertures
• Lack of weather sealing may limit its use in harsh conditions

Verdict

The TTArtisan 35mm f/1.4 for Canon RF is a highly capable and affordable prime lens ideal for photographers who appreciate manual focus and solid optical performance. While it does have its limitations regarding distortion and a lack of autofocus, its build quality and low-light prowess could make it a valuable addition to your lens collection, particularly for those who enjoy the process of fine-tuning their shots manually. Overall, it's a lens that balances value with performance but may not be for everyone, especially those who rely on autofocus.