Category: Lens Reviews

Viltrox TCL-X100VI Review | A Budget-Friendly 50mm Upgrade

The Fujifilm X100 series has always thrived on the constraints of its fixed 23mm lens. But with the X100VI’s high-resolution 40MP sensor, photographers are cropping more than ever to achieve that standard 50mm “human eye” look. While digital zooming is convenient, nothing quite replicates the optical compression and depth-of-field control of a true 50mm lens.…
Thypoch Simera 75mm f1.4 Review & Sample Photos

When a new manufacturer steps into the M-mount arena with an ambitious focal length like a 75mm f1.4, they are entering a space defined by some of the greatest lenses ever made. You’re competing against the legendary Summilux and the modern, clinical precision of the APO-Summicron. While it’s a relatively newish third-party brand, the Thypoch Simera…
Viltrox WCL-X100VI Review | A Budget-Friendly 28mm Upgrade

The Fujifilm X100 series has always been about the “one camera, one lens” philosophy. But as we’ve seen with the jump to the 40MP sensor in the X100VI, that “one lens” is being asked to do more than ever. While the native 23mm f/2 lens holds up remarkably well, sometimes you just need a wider…
Viltrox 9mm f2.8 AIR Review & Sample Photos

The Viltrox 9mm f2.8 Air is a super-compact APS-C autofocus lens available in Fujifilm X-mount, Sony E, and Nikon Z. The 9mm on APS-C is roughly equivalent to a 13.5mm full-frame lens, which is that magical 12-14mm range where landscape photography can get really fun. I’m testing the Fuji version here, shot primarily on my…
Viltrox 15mm f1.7 Air Lens Review & Sample Photos

The Viltrox 15mm f1.7 Air is a compact APS-C autofocus lens available in both Sony E-mount, Nikon Z-mount and Fujifilm X-mount formats. I’m using a Fujifilm version for this review, shot mostly on the Fujifilm X-T2. Pros Cons Viltrox 15mm f1.7 Air – Amazon / B&H Use Coupon Code AlikGriffin for an extra 5% off…
Viltrox 135mm f1.8 LAB Review – Don’t Sleep On This One

A lot of interesting things have come from Viltrox this year, one of them is a new line of premium lenses that they are labeling as LAB. Today, we have the Viltrox AF 35mm f1.2 LAB Lens for Sony, the Viltrox 135mm f1.8 LAB for both Nikon and Sony and the newest Viltrox AF 85mm…
Kipon 24mm f2.4 Lens Review & Sample Images

The Kipon IBERIT 24mm f2.4 (or sometimes branded as the Elegant) is a compact, manual-focus lens designed for mirrorless cameras, available in mounts like Fujifilm X, Sony E, Leica M, Nikon Z, and Canon RF. It’s also available in a Cine body, rebranded as part of the Colibri line. I tested this lens on the…
Nikon Z 50mm f1.4 Review & Sample Photos

Announced in September 2024, the Nikon Z 50mm f1.4 is a great addition to Nikon’s Z-mount lineup. Promising a classic focal length, a bright aperture, and a budget-friendly price tag. After spending some time with it, I’m excited to share my thoughts on how it performs in the real world. This is a nice one,…
Kipon M-M 2X Optical Extender Review

Leica enthusiasts have something new to celebrate—Kipon has introduced its latest innovation, the M-M 2x Extender. Designed specifically for the Leica M mount camera and lens system, this accessory is a game-changer for photographers seeking extended reach. This expander uses 7 elements in 4 groups and is priced at $900 USD. Kipon M-M 2X Optical…
TTArtisan AF 27mm f2.8 Review & Sample Photos

The TTAritsan 27mm f2.8 AF lens is a compact autofocus lens designed for APS-C cameras. It offers an affordable alternative to higher-priced pancake lenses from leading brands while delivering impressive performance in both optics and autofocus. TTArtisan 27mm f2.8 AF Lens Specs Format: APS-CFocal length: 27mm (40.5mm Full Frame Equiv)Elements: 6 in 5 groupsAperture: 8…