Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III

Sony E

Review

The Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III is an impressive offering for photographers looking to achieve stunning low-light performance and achieve a unique aesthetic in their portraits. This lens, designed for the Sony E mount, brings together a combination of exceptional brightness and solid build quality, making it an appealing option for aficionados of fast glass.

Build and Design

The Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III boasts a robust and well-crafted design, with a mix of metal and high-quality plastic components. The focus ring is smooth and nicely damped, allowing for precise adjustments, especially when you are working in manual focus mode—an essential component for using a lens this wide-open. The lens has a minimalistic aesthetic with a matte black finish that not only looks professional but also helps reduce flare and reflections.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, this lens excels in producing sharp images, even when wide open at f/0.95. In fact, the sharpness in the center is remarkable, with pleasing bokeh that gives your photos a beautiful, creamy background. That said, corner sharpness at wide apertures can be a bit soft, particularly on the edges of the frame, which is an expected trade-off with such fast lenses. Stop down to f/2 or f/2.8, and the performance improves significantly across the frame.

Low-Light Capability

One of the standout features of the Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III is its low-light capability. Being able to use f/0.95 opens up opportunities for shooting in conditions where most other lenses would struggle. This lens can capture stunning images in dimly lit environments or indoors without having to significantly boost ISO levels, which can cause unwanted noise.

Manual Focus

It’s important to note that the Mitakon Speedmaster is a manual focus lens. While this can be a positive aspect for those who enjoy the tactile experience of focusing manually, it may be a challenge for those used to autofocus systems. The focus peaking feature on Sony cameras can assist you in achieving accurate focus, but it does require a bit of practice, especially with the shallow depth of field afforded by the large aperture.

Compatibility with Camera Features

This lens does not support autofocus or electronic aperture control, which may deter some users who prefer the convenience of automatic settings. It’s fully manual, requiring you to adapt your shooting style accordingly. However, this can also lead to a more immersive photography experience, allowing you to slow down and think more about composition and exposure.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extremely fast f/0.95 maximum aperture for low-light shooting.
• Excellent center sharpness, even wide open.
• Beautiful bokeh that enhances portraits and soft backgrounds.
• Solid and well-built design, giving a premium feel.

Cons

• Corner sharpness can be soft at f/0.95.
• Manual focus only, which may not suit everyone.
• Lacks autofocus and electronic aperture control, limiting quick adjustments.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III is a fantastic lens that excels in specialized shooting conditions, particularly in low-light scenarios or for creating a specific look in portrait photography. Its solid build, sharpness at the center, and pleasing bokeh make it a worthy addition for any serious photographer's kit. However, those who rely on autofocus or are inflexible with manual focus may find it challenging to adapt. If you're willing to invest time in mastering its manual operations, the rewards can be truly exceptional.