7artisans Photoelectric 50mm f/1.05

Leica L-Mount

Review

The 7artisans Photoelectric 50mm f/1.05 is a unique lens that capitalizes on the classic manual focus design, serving as an appealing option for Leica L mount users seeking a fast prime lens. With its wide f/1.05 aperture, this lens promises excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field, making it a great choice for portraiture and capturing expressive images.

One of the standout features of this lens is its build quality. The metal body gives it a sturdy and premium feel that is characteristic of high-end lenses. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precision focusing, which is particularly beneficial for those shooting in manual mode. This tactile experience can be quite satisfying, especially for photographers who appreciate the craftsmanship in their gear.

Image quality is another area where the 7artisans 50mm f/1.05 shines. The lens produces sharp images, even when shooting wide open at f/1.05. As you stop down, you will notice increased sharpness across the frame. However, the lens does exhibit some distortion and vignetting, particularly at wider apertures, but this can be corrected in post-processing. Flare and ghosting are well-controlled, allowing for excellent contrast and color reproduction.

While the lens excels in certain areas, it does have its drawbacks. As a manual focus lens, it may not be suitable for everyone, as it requires practice to master. Additionally, the larger and heavier design compared to other 50mm lenses might be a consideration for those seeking a lightweight setup.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast f/1.05 aperture for low-light shooting and shallow depth of field.
• Excellent build quality with a smooth focus ring for manual focusing.
• Sharp images, particularly when stopped down.
• Good control over flare and ghosting.

Cons

• Manual focus might be challenging for some users.
• Heavier and larger compared to other 50mm options.
• Distortion and vignetting present at wider apertures.

Verdict

In summary, the 7artisans Photoelectric 50mm f/1.05 is a solid choice for Leica L mount users looking for a high-quality, fast prime lens. Its build quality and image performance make it appealing, particularly for those who enjoy manual focusing and want a unique look in their images. While it does come with some weight and the challenges of manual focus, the rewards can be substantial for committed photographers willing to embrace its quirks. If you're drawn to the art of manual photography and appreciate a classic lens design, this could very well be your next photographic companion.