Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0

Sony E

Review

The Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0 is a prime lens designed for Sony E-mount cameras, aimed at both enthusiasts and professional photographers alike. Voigtländer has a long-standing reputation for crafting high-quality lenses, and this offering is no exception. The combination of its compact size, outstanding optical performance, and classic design makes it a compelling option for those looking to enhance their creative toolkit.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0 is impressive. Constructed of metal with a beautifully machined finish, this lens feels solid in the hand and is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. Its compact design, weighing approximately 300 grams, makes it easy to carry around for extended shoots without feeling cumbersome. The lens comes with a sleek, understated look that appeals to those who appreciate classic styling in their gear.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the Voigtländer APO-Lanthar is its exceptional optical performance. The lens is acknowledged for its sharpness across the frame, even at wider apertures. It incorporates specialized glass elements designed to minimize chromatic aberration, ensuring images maintain a high level of clarity and contrast. The f/2.0 aperture allows for a pleasing depth of field, making it particularly well-suited for street photography, portraits, and low-light situations.

Usability

In terms of usability, the lens boasts a smooth focus ring that allows for precise manual focusing, which many photographers will appreciate. Unfortunately, there is no autofocus feature, which may deter some users, especially those accustomed to the convenience of autofocus systems in modern lenses. However, the manual focus is very satisfying, and those willing to invest time in honing their skills will find it a rewarding experience.

Image Quality

Images produced by the Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0 are characterized by their richness in color and impressive bokeh. The lens handles highlights beautifully and manages flare well, making it appropriate for various lighting conditions. Distortion and vignetting are minimal, which is often a concern with wide-angle lenses. This lens performs admirably, producing images with a nice level of detail and pleasing color rendition.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality and aesthetics.
• Excellent sharpness and contrast.
• Minimal distortion and vignetting.
• Beautifully rendered bokeh.
• Compact and lightweight design.

Cons

• No autofocus, limiting usability for some photographers.
• Price point may be higher than similar options on the market.
• Some may find the manual focus challenging for fast-paced shooting.

Verdict

The Voigtländer APO-Lanthar 35mm f/2.0 for Sony E-mount is an exquisite lens that combines exceptional optical performance with stunning build quality. While it may not suit everyone due to the lack of autofocus, its manual focusing capabilities can be a significant advantage for those willing to engage more deeply with their craft. If you're in the market for a versatile prime lens that delivers outstanding results for portraits, street photography, and general use, the APO-Lanthar stands as an excellent investment.