Zhong YI Optics has introduced one of the most budget solutions for modern medium format cameras — the fast Mitakon Speedmaster 80mm F/1.6 lens. The optics do not have an automatic focusing system, but are capable of providing an expressive bokeh effect and have minimal chromatic aberrations. The new lens is available with GFX (medium format Fujifilm cameras) and XCD (Hasselblad cameras) bayonet mounts. Thus, the price threshold for entering medium format systems is gradually decreasing due to the joint efforts of camera and optics manufacturers.
Key features of the new Mitakon Speedmaster 80mm F/1.6 lens:
- Fujifilm GFX and Hasselblad XCD mounts
- Available aperture range: F/1.6 to F/22
- The design allows for manual focusing only
- Shallow depth of field and outstanding bokeh
- Nine-blade diaphragm
- Excellent low light performance
As an example, the following photo is taken, apparently, with the aperture fully open:
Optically, the new Mitakon Speedmaster 80mm F/1.6 medium format lens consists of 10 elements in 6 groups. The design uses 4 HRI (high refractive index) elements and 1 UD (ultra-low dispersion) element. This, according to the manufacturer, minimizes the occurrence of chromatic aberrations.
The Mitakon Speedmaster 80mm A/1.6 also features a built-in retractable lens hood. This design not only prevents extraneous light from entering the frame and causing unwanted glare or ghosting, but also eliminates the need to wear a separate lens hood.
The manufacturer provides examples of portrait shots, demonstrating the capabilities of the new budget lens:
There is currently a trend towards a gradual reduction in the price threshold for entry into digital mirrorless medium format systems. Cameras and lenses in this segment are gradually becoming cheaper.
Thus, the new high-aperture lens Mitakon Speedmaster 80mm F/1.6 is now available for purchase for $599.
Fujifilm has also already registered a new camera. There is no exact information yet about what model it will be, but the source suggests that it will be the Fujifilm X-E5 or the expected advanced Fujifilm X-Pro4. The new camera will reportedly receive a 40-megapixel APS-C X-Trans5 BSI matrix. Apparently, the same one that the company installs in all the latest crop-camera models.
There will also be an advanced X Processor 5, improved automatic focusing, and a function for taking photos with increased resolution due to matrix shift (the total resolution of such frames will be about 160 MP).