The CP+ 2026 photography trade show served as a global stage for lens manufacturers, particularly spotlighting the remarkable strides made by independent brands. Following the discontinuation of Photokina, CP+ has emerged as a crucial platform where companies unveil their latest innovations. This year, the focus was firmly on a diverse array of lenses from third-party producers, offering everything from high-end professional equipment to budget-friendly options. These developments indicate a dynamic shift in the market, with smaller manufacturers demonstrating significant potential to challenge the dominance of industry titans. The range of products presented underscored a commitment to advanced optical performance, innovative features, and expanded accessibility for photographers across all skill levels.
A notable collaboration at CP+ 2026 was between Schneider-Kreuznach and LK Samyang, who presented an impressive lineup of lenses that generated considerable buzz. Among their showcased products were a 60-180mm f/2.8 zoom, a 20-50mm f/2, a 28-85mm f/2, a 200mm f/1.8, and a 300mm f/4. The 60-180mm and 200mm lenses were particularly highlighted for their potential impact, expected to attract a broad customer base due to their competitive pricing once released. The ambition of these offerings, especially the zoom lenses maintaining a constant f/2 aperture, underscores the partnership's goal to redefine the third-party lens landscape. Even in their prototype stages, these lenses signal a future where high-quality, versatile optics are more attainable.
Kase also made a significant reappearance at CP+ 2026, reintroducing itself to the market with a unique offering: a 150mm f/5.6 Reflex autofocus lens. This lens is designed for Nikon, Sony, and Canon EF mounts. Reflex lenses are traditionally known for their distinctive donut-shaped bokeh and compact form factor, but Kase's addition of autofocus capability is a game-changer. Historically, reflex lenses have been manual focus, making this development particularly intriguing for macro photographers who often require precise focus control. This innovation suggests Kase's strategic move to blend classic optical characteristics with modern conveniences, appealing to a specialized segment of the photography community.
7Artisans, a consistent presence at photography trade shows, continued its tradition of introducing compelling and affordably priced lenses. This year's showcase included the full-frame AF 40mm f/2.5, which was already released earlier in the year at a price point of $159. They also unveiled an AF 135mm f/1.8 lens compatible with E, Z, and L mount cameras. A particularly quirky introduction was the 18mm f/6.3 APS-C lens, named Dionysus, featuring a decorative lens cap that doubles as a photographic element and offers multi-color engravings. With these new autofocus models, 7Artisans reinforces its commitment to making advanced lens technology accessible to both emerging and experienced photographers, bridging the gap between performance and cost.
The CP+ 2026 event also provided a clear indication of the rapid maturation of the Chinese lens market, with brands like Songraw, Meike, and TTArtisan presenting impressive new products. Songraw debuted its AF 50mm f/1.2 and 85mm f/1.2 lenses, targeting full-frame camera users. Meike showcased its 85mm f/1.4 II full-frame lens, available for Nikon, Sony, and L-mount cameras. TTArtisan revealed a prototype of a 24mm f/3.8 lens, with further details yet to be announced. These offerings cater to photographers who appreciate pronounced bokeh effects but find the cost of first-party lenses prohibitive, providing high-quality, cost-effective alternatives that allow for creative expression without financial strain.
Viltrox solidified its position as a major competitor at CP+ 2026 by unveiling two new full-frame lenses: the 35mm f/1.8 EVO and the 55mm f/1.8 EVO. These lenses are notable for their apochromatic (APO) design, which provides superior lens correction, minimizing spherical aberration and other optical imperfections. Featuring a 58mm filter thread and impressive close-focusing distances of 0.34m and 0.43m respectively, these lenses are anything but standard. The apochromatic construction is typically associated with premium optics, delivering intense micro-contrast and exquisite bokeh, characteristics highly valued in high-end systems like Leica M and L mount. Viltrox's entry into this specialized segment suggests a significant leap in their optical engineering capabilities.
SG-Image contributed to the diverse array of products with an 18mm f/6.3 Ultraman limited-edition APS-C pancake lens, available for E, X, and MFT mounts. Developed in partnership with the iconic Japanese tokusatsu franchise, this lens, while appealing to a niche audience, highlights the growing popularity of compact pancake lenses. Its introduction underscores a broader industry trend where manufacturers are increasingly focusing on launching more compact and specialized optics. Additionally, other brands like Voigtlander and Bright Star also presented new lenses, further diversifying the market. Overall, CP+ 2026 underscored the increasing innovation and competitive spirit of third-party lens manufacturers, particularly those from China, who are rapidly catching up to established names like Sigma and Tamron with their advanced and accessible offerings, signaling a promising future for consumers.