Simultaneous Launch for E, Z, and L Mounts—A New Powerhouse for Portraiture Combining Value and Performance
7Artisans, a brand well-known among photographers for its high value-to-performance ratio, is set to officially release its first high-performance autofocus telephoto prime lens, the "AF 135mm f/1.8 MAX," this May. Supporting Sony E, Nikon Z, and L-Mount (Panasonic, Leica, Sigma) systems, this new addition is expected to be a formidable alternative in the full-frame mirrorless market.
■ Stunning Bokeh and Compression, Optimized for Portraits
The combination of a 135mm focal length and a bright f/1.8 aperture delivers shallow depth of field and powerful background compression. It excels in dramatic subject separation, making it an ideal choice for portrait photography. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.68m, it offers superior versatility for close-up shots compared to other lenses in its class.
■ Intuitive Controls Designed for the User
The lens exterior is engineered to maximize practical shooting convenience:
- Aperture Ring: Allows for intuitive manual control of aperture values directly on the lens barrel.
- AF/MF Switch: Enables instant switching between focus modes depending on the shooting environment.
- Custom Button: A functional button located on the side of the lens can be assigned various camera body settings to support personalized shooting styles.
■ The New "King of Value"? Shaking Up the Existing Market
According to international rumor sites and industry news, the expected price for the 135mm f/1.8 MAX is projected to be around $800 USD. This is less than half the price of premium offerings like Sony’s 135mm GM or Nikon’s Plena. Alongside the recently released Viltrox 135mm LAB series, intense competition is anticipated in the third-party lens market.
[Key Specifications]
| Category | Details |
| Model | 7Artisans AF 135mm f/1.8 MAX |
| Mounts | Sony E, Nikon Z, L-mount (Full-frame) |
| Max Aperture | f/1.8 (12-blade circular diaphragm) |
| Min. Focus Distance | 0.68m |
| Filter Size | 82mm |
| Weight | Approx. 985g |
| Key Features | STM Stepping Motor, Aperture Ring, AF/MF Switch, Custom Button |
| Release Date | May 2026 |
[Editor's Note]
7Artisans' latest move signals a clear intent to move beyond its image as a manual lens brand and establish a strong presence in the AF lens market. For many Nikon and Panasonic users, this presents an excellent opportunity to own a high-quality telephoto prime at a reasonable price point.
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