Any bokeh fanatic knows that to push the boundaries of background blur further and further, you need ultra-wide aperture lenses. But it is not just a wide aperture that can produce that buttery smooth bokeh. Lenses with an apodization filter can also make bokeh much nicer. This great video review takes a look at Fujifilm's version of such a lens and if it is worth the extra price.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost Photography, this excellent video review takes a look at the Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R APD lens. This lens is a bit unique, as it employs an apodization element. Apodization lenses are relatively rare (most manufacturers make one or two versions), but they can be quite an interesting optic for bokeh lovers. An apodization element is essentially a radially graduated density ND filter that sits inside the lens. This has the effect of smoothing the edges of out of focus elements, creating much more favorable bokeh. There are two drawbacks, however. First is that the ND filter cuts light transmission, meaning APD lenses typically have a T-stop that is about 1.5 to 2 stops slower than their f-stop. Second, the extra optical element adds to the cost. Nonetheless, they can be great for portrait photographers. Check out the video above for Frost's full thoughts.
