Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.2

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.2 for Nikon Z is a remarkable lens that offers both vintage charm and modern optical performance. This lens caters to photographers looking for a fast aperture in a compact prime lens, making it especially appealing for street photography, portraiture, and low-light situations.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the Nokton 35mm f/1.2 is excellent, showcasing Voigtländer's commitment to fine craftsmanship. The lens features an all-metal construction that feels robust and durable, while the classic design incorporates smooth manual focusing with a well-damped focus ring. The aperture ring is clickless, allowing for smooth transitions in exposure settings without the clicking sound – an enhancement for video recording. However, the lens is relatively heavy compared to contemporary autofocus lenses in the same class, which may deter some photographers who prefer lighter setups.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.2 delivers stunning images with rich colors and impressive sharpness from wide open. The f/1.2 aperture allows for exceptional bokeh, providing beautiful background separation. Chromatic aberrations are well-controlled, making it suitable for high-contrast scenes. However, this lens can exhibit some vignetting at f/1.2, which may require correction in post-processing for some users. Stopping down to around f/2.8 alleviates this issue, improving overall image quality.

Usability and Compatibility

Designed for the Nikon Z mount, this lens is compatible with full-frame Z-series cameras, ensuring excellent coverage of the sensor. Being a manual focus lens, it doesn't offer the autofocus capabilities that many photographers may desire, but this can be a plus for those who appreciate the tactile experience of manual focusing, especially in creative environments where focus precision is paramount. Additionally, there are no electronic contacts, which means users won’t get lens information in-camera—another consideration for those who prefer to shoot in full automation.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with an all-metal construction.
• Fast f/1.2 aperture for low-light performance and beautiful bokeh.
• Excellent optical performance with sharpness across the frame.
• Great tactile experience with smooth manual focus and clickless aperture.

Cons

• Heavier than many autofocus alternatives in the same focal length.
• Some vignetting at f/1.2 that may require post-processing correction.
• Lack of autofocus which may not suit all users.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.2 for Nikon Z is a lens that excels in terms of optical quality and build. It offers a nostalgic manual-focusing experience combined with modern optical advancements, making it a fantastic choice for enthusiasts and professionals who value image quality and character over speed and convenience. While it may not be the most versatile or lightweight lens on the market, its capabilities and craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment for those willing to embrace the manual approach.