Portrait photography is a popular genre but high quality lenses can be expensive. However, the new Viltrox AF 56mm f/1.7 lens offers an affordable option for photographers looking to capture stunning portraits without spending a fortune.
Coming to you from Christopher FrostThis informative video takes a closer look at the Viltrox AF 56mm f/1.7 lens, now available for Nikon Z and Fujifilm X mounts for the incredibly low price of just $139. Despite its affordable price, Frost found that the lens delivered excellent sharpness and contrast, even wide open at f/1.7, with the corners almost as sharp as the middle. It also comes with a bunch of cool features, including:
- Four ED elements and three HR elements to enhance image clarity and reduce aberrations
- The optical design includes 11 elements in 9 groups
- Supports EXIF data transfer for detailed metadata
- Features a nine-blade diaphragm for smooth bokeh
- Equipped with a USB-C port for firmware updates
- Minimum focusing distance: 21.7 inches (55 cm)
- Maximum magnification ratio: 0.11x
- Focus type: Auto focus
- Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.2 inches (65 x 54.7 mm)
- Weight: 6 ounces (171 g)
One potential downside of the lens is heavy vignetting at f/1.7 when shooting in raw mode. However, stopping down to f/2.8 or f/4 will virtually eliminate this problem. This lens also produces smooth and pleasing bokeh, with minimal vertical chromatic aberration. While it may not be the best portrait lens on the market, its performance is impressive considering its low price. Watch the video above for the full rundown of Frost.
