Mark Ellington
Leica 135mm f/3.4 Manual Focus Lens
Introduction
The Leica 135mm f/3.4 Apo Telyt M Manual Focus Lens (11889) is a remarkable piece of optical engineering designed for photographers seeking high-quality results in a compact form. Manufactured by Leica, a brand renowned for its precision and quality in the world of photography, this lens is part of the M-series, primarily intended for street, portrait, and landscape photography. With a manual focus mechanism, it caters to enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate tactile control over their shooting experience.
Product Appearance and Aesthetic
The Leica 135mm f/3.4 lens boasts a classic yet modern aesthetic that mirrors Leica’s commitment to elegance and functionality. Its barrel is crafted from high-quality metal, providing a robust feel while maintaining a lightweight profile, ideal for handheld shooting. The matte black finish reduces reflections, ensuring that the lens remains unobtrusive during use. Unique design features include a finely ribbed focus ring that offers smooth and precise adjustments, as well as a compact form factor that enhances portability.
Key Features and Specifications
- Construction: 4 Groups / 5 Elements
- Angle of View: 18 degrees
- F-stop Range: f/3.4 to f/22
- Closest Focusing Distance: 5 feet (1.5 meters)
- Maximum Magnification: 1:9
- Part Number: 11889
- Model: 11889
Experience Using the Product in Various Scenarios
My experience with the Leica 135mm f/3.4 lens has been overwhelmingly positive. In portrait photography, the lens excels, producing stunningly sharp images with beautiful bokeh, thanks to its superior optics. The f/3.4 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance, making it suitable for indoor and evening shoots.
During street photography sessions, the lens’ compact size and lightweight nature make it easy to carry around, allowing for spontaneous captures without the bulk of larger lenses. The manual focus is responsive, though it requires a bit of practice to master, especially in fast-paced environments.
Landscape photography benefits from the lens’ sharpness and contrast, rendering distant subjects with remarkable clarity. The ability to control depth of field manually also allows for creative compositions, enhancing the overall photographic experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness and contrast.
- Compact and lightweight design, ideal for travel.
- Smooth manual focus for precise control.
- Beautiful bokeh for portraiture.
- Solid construction with premium materials.
Cons
- Manual focus may not be suitable for everyone, particularly beginners.
- Higher price point compared to other lenses in similar focal lengths.
- Limited maximum aperture compared to some faster alternatives.
Conclusion
The Leica 135mm f/3.4 Apo Telyt M Manual Focus Lens is a fantastic investment for photographers who value quality and craftsmanship. While it may present a learning curve for those accustomed to autofocus systems, the end results are truly rewarding. Its combination of sharpness, aesthetic appeal, and portability make it a versatile choice for various photography styles. If you are in the market for a premium lens that delivers exceptional performance, the Leica 135mm f/3.4 is certainly worth considering.
