The Voigtlander Nokton 75mm f/1.5 Aspherical lens offers photographers a distinctive focal length with manual controls tailored specifically for portrait photography. Here's a look at how it performs.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this detailed video gives an in-depth look at the Voigtlander Nokton 75mm f/1.5 Aspherical lens’ build and handling, highlighting the tactile experience you can expect. Frost points out the high-quality metal construction and a smooth, precisely weighted focus ring, essential for accurate manual focus, especially wide open at f/1.5. He does mention the notable absence of weather-sealing, something you might consider if outdoor shooting is your norm. Additionally, Frost emphasizes the lens' significant focus breathing, a consideration if you frequently switch between near and far subjects. Understanding these aspects of physical handling is vital because manual lenses demand comfortable ergonomics to prevent fatigue during longer sessions.
Frost moves into an evaluation of image quality, offering detailed insights into sharpness, chromatic aberration, and bokeh. Sharpness at maximum aperture of f/1.5 is notably good in the center but slightly softer in corners, sharpening substantially as you stop down. This characteristic is typical for lenses of this style, but Frost emphasizes that at f/4, image clarity across the frame peaks impressively. The video also addresses the lens’s pronounced vignetting at wider apertures, which can either be artistically appealing or a drawback depending on your preference. Importantly, Frost notes the significant chromatic aberration at wider apertures—something that you'll have to manage carefully in post-processing or by adjusting aperture settings during shoots.
Key Specs
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Focal Length: 75mm
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Maximum Aperture: f/1.5
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Minimum Aperture: f/16
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Lens Mount: Leica M, Nikon Z, Sony E, Canon RF
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Angle of View: 32.6°
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Minimum Focus Distance: 2.30' / 70 cm
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Optical Design: 7 Elements in 6 Groups
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Diaphragm Blades: 12
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Focus Type: Manual Focus
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Filter Size: 58 mm (Front)
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Dimensions (ø x L): 2.47 x 2.49" / 62.8 x 63.3 mm
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Weight: 12.35 oz / 350 g
In practice, Frost explains that shooting close-up subjects at wide apertures presents challenges, with noticeable softness at the closest distances unless significantly stopped down. Additionally, the lens' performance in bright lighting conditions shows limitations with noticeable flaring, even when the source of light is just outside the frame. These are practical concerns worth considering if you shoot extensively outdoors or in uncontrolled lighting scenarios. On the plus side, Frost praises the bokeh, noting its pleasant softness that complements portrait photography effectively. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
