TTArtisan has recently introduced a vivid, limited-run iteration of its acclaimed AF 35mm f/1.8 II APS-C prime optic. This new offering, dubbed 'Orange Pop,' features a flamboyant color scheme, reminiscent of iconic Kodak branding, designed to capture attention. Whether its bold appearance is a desirable trait remains subjective, depending on individual photographic preferences.
This distinct 35mm f/1.8 prime lens maintains the exact operational capabilities of its conventional black and silver predecessors, differing solely in its visual presentation. Crafted from robust 5052 aviation aluminum, this autofocus-enabled lens boasts a lightweight construction, tipping the scales at just under 200 grams. Its design ensures a compact and durable accessory for photographers.
Engineered to cover an APS-C image sensor, the lens delivers a classic focal length equivalent to slightly over 50mm on a full-frame system. Its optical composition comprises ten elements arranged within seven groups, meticulously designed to achieve exceptional image clarity and produce a creamy, smooth bokeh effect. Demonstrative photographs corroborate TTArtisan's assertions, showcasing a pleasing 'cat's eye' bokeh characteristic. The inclusion of high-index and ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements further enhances its performance by mitigating various optical aberrations.
The lens incorporates a modern STM (Stepping Motor) and lead-screw stepping motor system, facilitating rapid and quiet autofocusing. TTArtisan highlights the lens's compatibility with advanced autofocus modes, including facial and eye detection, across a range of popular camera bodies from Sony, Fujifilm, and Nikon. It also features an impressive minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters (approximately 1.3 feet), enabling close-up captures with ease.
A thoughtful addition to the lens's design is a USB-C port integrated into its rear lens cap. This feature allows for convenient firmware updates, crucial for ensuring ongoing compatibility with new camera models as they emerge. TTArtisan emphasizes that this ingenious design choice contributes to the lens's overall streamlined and elegant appearance, avoiding any aesthetic compromises.
The visual appeal of the new limited-edition 'Orange Pop' version of the TTArtisan AF 35mm f/1.8 II lens is anticipated to be a point of contention among photographers. While some may appreciate the audacious bright yellow casing paired with a striking red focus ring, others might find its vibrant 'ketchup-and-mustard' aesthetic somewhat overwhelming. This divergence in opinion underscores the subjective nature of design preferences within the photography community.
This isn't TTArtisan's inaugural venture into such a vibrant color palette for their lenses. In a prior release, a similarly styled lens was noted for its exceptionally distinctive coloration. Fast forward two years, and this particular color scheme has yet to universally resonate. In contrast, the company's 'Year of the Ox' red lens from 2021 was widely admired for its elegance. Conversely, their gold-plated 35mm f/1.4 Leica M-Mount Lens was perceived by some as rather flamboyant.
It's worth noting that the yellow and red coloring of the lens is not merely arbitrary. There's a deliberate concept behind it. In 2024, TTArtisan launched a Mini LED Light designed to mimic a classic Kodak film canister, complete with a matching yellow and red finish. This affordable LED light, which attaches magnetically to cameras and offers various color temperatures, was well-received for its playful and cool design. The new 'Orange Pop' lens, despite its name, shares this color scheme, creating a cohesive visual theme. However, there's a significant distinction between a small, colorful flash accessory and a prominently featured yellow and red lens adorning the front of a camera. Ultimately, aesthetic preferences are diverse.
The TTArtisan AF 35mm f/1.8 II 'Orange Pop' lens is currently available for purchase at a price of $140, which is a slight premium compared to its standard black and silver counterparts. This lens supports Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Nikon Z camera mounts, catering to a broad spectrum of APS-C users.