Viltrox, known for producing budget-friendly third-party lenses, has introduced its first professional-grade full-frame portrait lens designed for mirrorless cameras. The Viltrox 85mm F1.4 Pro FE is an autofocus lens tailored for Sony E-mount systems. Targeted at serious hobbyists and professionals, it features Viltrox’s HyperVCM autofocus motor, allowing for quick and silent focusing, with the ability to shift focus from near to far in just 100ms. It works well with compatible cameras that have face and eye detection autofocus capabilities.
Quick Overview of Viltrox’s AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE:
- Lens mount: Sony-E
- Filter thread: 77mm
- Aperture range: F1.4-F16
- Diaphragm blades: 11
- Optical structure: 15 elements in 11 groups
- Minimum focusing distance: 78cm
- Dimensions: 84.5×108.5mm
- Weight: 800g
- Weather sealed
The Viltrox AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE showcases an aspherical design with 15 lens elements arranged in 11 groups, incorporating three low-dispersion ED elements and nine high-refractive index elements. This construction helps reduce onion ring bokeh, an optical effect where bokeh circles show concentric rings upon close inspection. It also aims to effectively control coma aberration as well as minimize ghosting and flare even in backlit conditions.
With an all-metal body weighing approximately 800g, it includes an AF/MF switch and a click switch to toggle between clicked or smooth aperture ring operation, making it suitable for video recording as well. Users can customize the focus function button and perform firmware updates via the USB-C port using the Viltrox application. Additionally, it boasts dust and splash resistance with a water-repellent coating on the front element, allowing for use in challenging environments.
The Viltrox AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE is priced at $598/£569, which includes a lens hood and storage bag. It is available on Viltrox’s website as well as on Amazon.
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