Kamlan 50mm F1.1 II

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Kamlan 50mm F1.1 II is an intriguing lens option for photographers using the Micro Four Thirds mount. It offers a fast maximum aperture of f/1.1, which is particularly appealing for those who enjoy shooting in low-light conditions or wish to attain a shallow depth of field for beautiful bokeh effects. The 50mm focal length on the Micro Four Thirds system effectively translates to a 100mm equivalent, making it well-suited for portrait photography and other applications that benefit from a tighter composition.

One of the standout features of the Kamlan 50mm F1.1 II is its impressive build quality. The lens has a robust construction with a metal body that feels substantial in hand, giving it a premium feel. The focus ring operates smoothly, allowing for precise manual focus adjustments, which is critical when working with such a shallow depth of field. This lens is also relatively compact given its aperture size, making it convenient for photographers on the go.

In terms of optical performance, the lens produces sharp images with excellent contrast. At f/1.1, images maintain good sharpness in the center, although some softness can be observed towards the edges—this is quite common for fast prime lenses. Stopping down to f/2 or f/2.8 noticeably enhances edge sharpness, making it an excellent lens for a variety of shooting scenarios, especially portrait work where subject isolation is desired.

Aberrations are generally well-managed; however, some chromatic aberration can become noticeable at wider apertures. It's worth noting that while bokeh is creamy and pleasing, the circular diaphragm can occasionally create some undesirable shapes in the bokeh highlights when the lens is used at its maximum aperture under certain conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast maximum aperture of f/1.1 for excellent low-light performance.
• Solid, durable metal build quality.
• Smooth manual focusing for precise control.
• Good center sharpness and pleasing bokeh for portraiture.
• Compact size relative to its fast aperture.

Cons

• Some edge softness when shot wide open at f/1.1.
• Occasional chromatic aberration at wider apertures.
• Manual focus only, which might not suit all users.

Verdict

The Kamlan 50mm F1.1 II is an excellent choice for Micro Four Thirds users looking for a fast prime lens that excels in low light and offers beautiful bokeh. While its manual focus design and minor optical imperfections at wide apertures may pose challenges for some, the overall performance and build quality make it a worthy addition to any photographer's kit, especially those focused on portrait work. If you value creative control and are ready to embrace manual focusing, this lens is sure to impress.