The Evolution of Portrait Lenses: Viltrox's New APS-C Primes
Viltrox has just unveiled a duo of APS-C portrait primes, the AF 75mm F1.8 EVO and AF 90mm F2.2 EVO, marking a significant step forward in the world of mirrorless camera lenses. These lenses are a photographer's dream, offering a unique blend of versatility and portability, especially for those working with Sony E, Nikon Z, or Fujifilm X mirrorless cameras.
The Perfect Balance
What immediately stands out is the delicate balance these lenses strike. With focal lengths of 75mm and 90mm (equivalent to 112.5mm and 135mm on APS-C), they provide the perfect range for portrait photography. The 75mm, in particular, is a versatile choice for street portraits and urban detail work, while the 90mm excels in headshots and outdoor portraits, offering that classic portrait look.
Optical Excellence
Viltrox has not compromised on optical quality. Both lenses feature ED and HR glass, ensuring sharp edge detail and minimal chromatic aberration. The optical design, with 11 elements in 9 groups for the 75mm and 10 elements in 8 groups for the 90mm, is a testament to Viltrox's commitment to delivering high-quality images. This level of optical precision is crucial for photographers seeking consistent and reliable results.
Compact and Lightweight
The real game-changer here is the size and weight. These lenses are incredibly compact and lightweight, with the 75mm weighing around 325g to 355g and the 90mm at approximately 320g to 345g. This is a significant departure from traditional telephoto lenses, which often come with bulk and weight. Viltrox has truly embraced the APS-C philosophy, catering to photographers who value portability, especially those who travel or work in hybrid environments.
Autofocus and Controls
Viltrox has included an STM autofocus system, a feature that will appeal to both stills and video photographers. The addition of a 58mm filter thread and USB-C firmware update port further enhances the user experience. Interestingly, the Sony E and Nikon Z versions offer an Fn button, AF/MF switch, and click/de-click aperture control, while Fujifilm X users will find these features absent in the XF versions. This differentiation is worth noting for photographers who rely on these external controls.
A Growing Lens Ecosystem
This release is part of Viltrox's expanding EVO line, which already includes the 35mm and 55mm EVO primes. The company is clearly targeting photographers who desire small, fast autofocus lenses. With the APS-C market thriving, as evidenced by the popularity of cameras like the Sony A6700, Nikon Z50 II, and Fujifilm X-E5, these lenses fill a crucial gap, offering a more comprehensive system for APS-C users.
Pricing and Availability
The pricing is quite competitive, with the lenses retailing at £319 and £359 in the UK, $329 and $369 in the US, and €389 and €429 in Europe. This makes them an attractive option for photographers looking to upgrade their lens collection without breaking the bank.
In my opinion, Viltrox has hit the sweet spot with these lenses. They offer a perfect blend of optical quality, portability, and versatility, catering to the evolving needs of modern photographers. The APS-C market is clearly a focus for lens manufacturers, and Viltrox is making a strong statement with these new additions. I'm excited to see how these lenses perform in the hands of photographers, especially those who value the balance between reach and portability.
