Mark Ellington
TTArtisan 35mm F1.8 II Autofocus Lens
Introduction
The TTArtisan AF 35mm F1.8 II Autofocus Lens is a product designed for Fuji X-mount cameras, offering photographers a versatile and high-quality lens at an affordable price point of $125. Manufactured by TTArtisan, a brand known for delivering exceptional value in photography gear, this lens is intended for various photography applications—from street photography to portraits—making it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
Product Overview
The TTArtisan AF 35mm F1.8 II features a lightweight design, weighing in at just 176 grams, making it a great travel companion. It boasts an optimized optical design with a 7-group, 10-element structure, including 2 high-refractive elements and 2 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements. This lens not only captures stunning images but also offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters, making it suitable for detailed close-up shots.
Appearance and Design
The TTArtisan AF 35mm F1.8 II presents a sleek and modern aesthetic that complements the Fuji X-mount camera line beautifully. The lens features a matte black finish, which not only gives it a professional look but also reduces glare during shooting. Among its unique design elements is the type-C interface located on the rear lens cap, which allows for easy firmware updates without compromising the overall aesthetic of the lens.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 35mm (equivalent to 53mm on full-frame)
- Aperture: F1.8
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.4m
- Optical Design: 7 groups, 10 elements including 2 ED elements
- Weight: 176g
- Autofocus Type: STM with lead screw-type stepping motor
- Firmware Update Interface: Type-C interface on rear cap
- Warranty: 1 year
Experience Using the Product
My experience with the TTArtisan AF 35mm F1.8 II has been overwhelmingly positive. The autofocus feature is impressively fast and accurate, easily locking onto subjects—even in challenging conditions like low light or moving subjects. The large F1.8 aperture allows for excellent light capture, producing stunning bokeh that separates subjects beautifully from the background, ideal for portrait photography.
In street photography scenarios, the 35mm focal length feels natural, allowing for candid shots that mimic the human eye’s perspective. I tested the lens in various lighting conditions, and it performed admirably, maintaining sharpness and color accuracy. The minimum focusing distance of 0.4m is a game-changer for capturing intricate details in everyday objects, making it a versatile option for macro-style photography.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design, perfect for travel.
- Fast and reliable autofocus performance.
- Excellent image quality with sharp details and beautiful bokeh.
- Versatile for various photography styles.
- Affordable price for the quality offered.
Cons:
- Some users may find the lack of weather-sealing a drawback.
- Limited to Fuji X-mount system; not usable with other mounts without adapters.
Conclusion
Overall, the TTArtisan AF 35mm F1.8 II Autofocus Lens is an outstanding addition to any Fuji X-mount camera user’s kit. With its combination of lightweight design, impressive optical performance, and fast autofocus capabilities, this lens meets the demands of various shooting scenarios with ease. While it may lack weather-sealing, the benefits far outweigh this minor setback, making it a smart investment for both budding photographers and seasoned pros looking for a reliable and versatile lens.
