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 breaking the bank.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this informative video takes a closer look at the Viltrox AF 56mm f/1.7 lens, which is currently available for Nikon Z and Fujifilm X mounts at a remarkably low price of just $139. Despite its budget-friendly price point, Frost finds that the lens delivers excellent sharpness and contrast, even wide open at f/1.7, with the corners being nearly as sharp as the center. It also comes with a nice range of features, including:
- Four ED elements and three HR elements to enhance image clarity and reduce optical aberrations
- Optical design of 11 elements in 9 groups
- Supports EXIF data transmission for detailed metadata
- Features a nine-bladed diaphragm for smooth bokeh
- Equipped with a USB-C port for firmware updates
- Minimum focus distance: 21.7 inches (55 cm)
- Maximum magnification ratio: 0.11x
- Focus type: Autofocus
- Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.2 inches (65 x 54.7 mm)
- Weight: 6 ounces (171 g)
One potential drawback of the lens is the heavy vignetting at f/1.7 when shooting in raw. However, stopping down to f/2.8 or f/4 mostly eliminates this issue. The lens also produces smooth and pleasing bokeh, with minimal longitudinal chromatic aberration. While it may not be the absolute best portrait lens on the market, its performance is impressive considering the low cost. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
