7artisans Photoelectric 60mm f/2.8 Macro Mark II

Leica L-Mount

Review

The 7artisans Photoelectric 60mm f/2.8 Macro Mark II is an intriguing lens choice for users of the Leica L mount system. This lens offers excellent macro capabilities and a unique character that can elevate your photography, particularly in close-up work.

Build Quality and Design

One of the standout features of this lens is its solid build quality. The all-metal construction gives it a robust and premium feel that is often lacking in more budget-oriented alternatives. The focusing ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments when you’re working in macro mode. The compact size (for a macro lens) is another plus, making it relatively easy to carry around during your shoots.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the 60mm f/2.8 Macro Mark II delivers sharp images with pleasing contrast at both close and further distances. The lens performs admirably in the center, but you may notice a slight drop in sharpness towards the corners, especially at wider apertures. That said, when stopped down, it offers excellent resolution across the frame, making it a great option for macro subjects, as well as for portraiture. The f/2.8 maximum aperture is not the fastest available, but it still provides good low-light capability and depth of field control.

Bokeh and Color Rendition

The lens is also known for its attractive bokeh, featuring soft and creamy aesthetics thanks to its 9-blade diaphragm. This is particularly useful when creating isolation for your subjects. The color rendition is good as well, providing natural and vibrant colors, making it suitable for a variety of genres beyond macro photography.

Focusing and Compatibility

As a dedicated macro lens, it offers a decent reproduction ratio, allowing you to get very close to your subjects for those intricate details. One downside is that, like many macro lenses, it can be a bit slower to focus than standard lenses, especially in low light. While manual focus is generally smooth, some users might find themselves needing to adapt to the slower pace, particularly when shooting dynamic or moving subjects.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid all-metal construction with a premium feel
• Excellent optical performance in the center, especially when stopped down
• Attractive bokeh and good color rendition
• Compact and relatively lightweight design for a macro lens

Cons

• Slight drop in sharpness at corners when wide open
• Slower autofocus may require patience in certain situations
• Manual focus may take some getting used to for users accustomed to autofocus

Verdict

Overall, the 7artisans Photoelectric 60mm f/2.8 Macro Mark II is a fantastic choice for macro enthusiasts who prioritize build quality and optical performance. While it has some limitations, particularly regarding autofocus speed, its image quality and manual focusing experience make it a valuable addition to any Leica L user's kit. If you're looking for a lens that excels in detail and offers a unique character in your macro photography, this lens may just be the perfect fit for you.