Mark Ellington
YONGNUO 42.5mm F1.7 Prime Lens
Introduction
The YONGNUO YN42.5mm F1.7M II is a prime lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Manufactured by YONGNUO, a brand known for delivering quality optical products at competitive prices, this lens targets photographers and videographers seeking versatility and performance in their shooting endeavors. Priced at around $138, it promises exceptional bokeh, low-light capabilities, and a compact design, making it an appealing option for both amateur and professional users.
Product Overview
The YONGNUO 42.5mm F1.7 lens features a fixed focal length of 42.5mm, which is equivalent to 85mm in full-frame terms, making it an ideal choice for portrait photography. Its minimum focusing distance of 0.30m allows for striking close-up shots. The lens is compatible with a wide array of Micro Four Thirds cameras, including popular models from Panasonic and Olympus.
Appearance and Design
The YONGNUO YN42.5mm F1.7M II boasts a sleek black finish that exudes professionalism and style. The lens body is crafted from durable yet lightweight materials, making it easy to transport without compromising on robustness. One of its standout design features is the smooth, metal focus ring that offers precise control during manual focusing, alongside a compact size that fits comfortably in camera bags—ideal for travel photographers.
Key Features and Specifications
- Fixed Focal Length: 42.5mm (85mm equivalent)
- Aperture: f/1.7 to f/22
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.30m
- Weight: Lightweight and portable design
- Compatibility: Most Micro Four Thirds cameras, including Panasonic and Olympus models
- Included: YN42.5mm F1.7M II lens, Product Guide, 12-month warranty
Experience Using the Product
In various shooting scenarios, the YONGNUO YN42.5mm F1.7M II performed exceptionally well. In low-light environments, the wide aperture of f/1.7 allowed for ample light capture, resulting in crisp and well-exposed images. The bokeh produced in portrait shots was smooth and aesthetically pleasing, making subjects stand out beautifully against soft backgrounds.
During outdoor shoots, the lens exhibited excellent sharpness, even at wider apertures. The focus ring offered a satisfying tactile experience, allowing for fine adjustments when needed, especially in close-up photography. Additionally, the lens handled video shooting smoothly, providing clear and stable footage without excessive focus breathing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional low-light performance with f/1.7 aperture
- Beautiful bokeh for portraits and close-ups
- Lightweight and compact for easy portability
- Compatible with a wide range of Micro Four Thirds cameras
- Affordable price point for the quality offered
Cons:
- Fixed focal length may limit versatility for some users
- Build quality, while good, may not match high-end lenses
- Some users may prefer autofocus over manual focusing
Conclusion
Overall, the YONGNUO YN42.5mm F1.7M II is an impressive prime lens that delivers outstanding performance for Micro Four Thirds users. Its ability to create beautiful portraits with smooth bokeh, along with its compact design and affordability, makes it a strong contender for photographers looking to enhance their toolkit. While it may not be the most versatile option due to its fixed focal length, the quality it offers makes it a worthy investment for anyone serious about photography. If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient lens for portraits and low-light shooting, the YONGNUO YN42.5mm F1.7M II is definitely worth considering.
