Capturing stunning portraits doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The TTArtisan AF 75mm f/2 proves that budget-friendly lenses can still deliver sharp images and smooth bokeh, making it a compelling choice for everyday use.
Coming to you from Mark Bennett's Camera Crisis, this excellent video compares the TTArtisan AF 75mm f/2 to Sony’s 85mm f/1.8, a popular portrait lens. At $178, the TTArtisan lens costs a third of its first-party competitor, yet it holds its own in many areas. The f/2 aperture may not seem as wide as f/1.8 on paper, but in practice, the difference is negligible when it comes to background blur. Images shot with this lens offer sharp central detail and smooth bokeh, even on high-resolution cameras like the Sony a7R V.
The lens’ construction is another highlight. It features a metal body, giving it a premium feel despite its budget-friendly price. A clickable aperture ring adds a tactile control option, though it cannot be declicked, which could limit some video applications. The compact design and lightweight build (just 340 g) make it easy to handle, especially compared to larger portrait lenses. However, the lack of weather-sealing and occasional variability in focus ring smoothness are worth noting.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 75mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2
- Minimum Aperture: f/16
- Lens Mount: Nikon Z, Sony E
- Minimum Focus Distance: 2.5 feet (75 cm)
- Optical Design: 10 elements in 7 groups
- Diaphragm Blades: 9
- Weight: 12 oz (340 g)
The lens performs well optically, especially in terms of sharpness and chromatic aberration control. It excels at rendering clean, sharp images with minimal fringing, even in challenging lighting. Autofocus is reliable, albeit slightly slower than premium lenses, and it operates quietly enough for most uses. Focus breathing is present, which may deter those looking to use this lens for video or focus stacking.
Flare resistance is the weakest aspect of the lens. Without advanced coatings, it struggles in direct sunlight, producing prominent flares. Portraits without strong backlighting, however, remain unaffected, and the smooth bokeh contributes to an attractive overall aesthetic. The lens' small size and simplicity make it ideal for casual shooting and travel. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bennett.
