TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 Macro 2X

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 Macro 2X is an intriguing option for Nikon F mount users interested in macro photography. With its competitive pricepoint and solid construction, this lens is designed to cater to both enthusiasts and professionals looking to capture intricate details in their subjects.

Build Quality and Design

TTArtisan has crafted this lens with a vintage aesthetic that appeals to many photographers. The all-metal construction provides a sturdy feel, while the smooth manual focus ring allows for precision when composing close-up shots. It weighs around 600 grams, making it relatively lightweight for a macro lens, but it's still substantial enough to provide a solid balance on your Nikon body.

Optical Performance

Optically, the 100mm f/2.8 Macro excels in providing sharp images, particularly at f/8 to f/11, where the lens reaches its peak performance. The 2X magnification factor is impressive, allowing users to get up close to their subjects and reveal stunning details that often go unnoticed. The bokeh produced by this lens is pleasing, with a smooth transition that enhances out-of-focus areas, making it great for isolating subjects.

However, wide open at f/2.8, there's a slight drop in sharpness, especially towards the edges of the frame. Distortion and chromatic aberration are minimal, which is a bonus, but it’s worth noting that you might want to stop down if maximum sharpness is a requirement.

Focusing Mechanism

The TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 employs a fully manual focusing system. While this may deter some users accustomed to autofocus, many macro photographers prefer manual focusing for its control and precision when dealing with tiny details. The focus throw is generous, allowing fine adjustments—a must for macro work where depth of field is incredibly shallow.

Compatibility and Use Cases

This lens is compatible with full-frame Nikon F mount cameras, but it can also be used on APS-C bodies, where it acts more like a 150mm equivalent. It's versatile enough to handle a range of macro subjects, from flowers to small insects, and can also function well for portraiture due to the flattering compression offered by its focal length.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with all-metal construction
• Impressive 2X magnification for macro photography
• Excellent sharpness when stopped down
• Pleasing bokeh for subject isolation
• Smooth manual focusing for precise control

Cons

• Slightly soft at f/2.8
• Fully manual focus may not suit all photographers
• No weather sealing

Verdict

In conclusion, the TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 Macro 2X stands out as an excellent lens for Nikon F mount users seeking to dive into macro photography. While it comes with some limitations, particularly in the area of autofocus and maximum aperture sharpness, its overall optical performance, build quality, and affordability make it a worthy contender in the macro lens market. If you're willing to embrace manual focusing and stop down for optimal sharpness, this lens could be a fantastic addition to your photographic toolkit.