If you’re familiar with TTArtisan, you’ll know they’re more than just a lens manufacturer; they also create a range of camera accessories. TTArtisan has consistently explored ways to make photography more enjoyable, adaptable, and practical through thoughtful accessory design.
M01 Camera FlashLeft to right: Single Color LED, M01 Camera Flash, Full color RGB LEDLeft to right: Single Color LED, M01 Camera Flash, Full color RGB LED
This time, they’re launching not one but two new accessories: the M01 and the J01. One serves as the primary accessory, while the other is designed to complement it.
Before I proceed further, I would like to thank the good people at TTArtisan for sending this beauty to me. Having said that,my thoughts and experiences shared in this post remain completely unbiased.
M01 Let’s talk about the M01 camera flash. Like the other two light accessories TTArtisan released earlier, it comes packaged in a film canister-style case, which is a nice touch. It’s a bit larger than the previous ones, but still small enough to fit in your pocket. Unlike those earlier lights, though, this isn’t an LED or multi-LED light; it’s a proper xenon flash. However, it doesn’t have a magnetic mount this time, which is a bit of a letdown, but understandable because of the hot shoe.
Single Color LED, M01 Camera Flash, Full color RGB LED
The M01 is super lightweight, coming in at just 35 grams. It’s made of plastic, but it doesn’t feel cheap. There’s just one button that controls both power and flash intensity—simple and straightforward. The flash has a Guide Number (GN) of 12, and a color temperature of 5600K with a margin of about ±200K. You get four power levels: 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and full power (1/1), with recycle times of continuous, 2, 3, and 4 seconds, respectively. Given its compactness, I am impressed with the recycling times.
Using the M01 is easy. Just slide it into the hot shoe of any compatible camera (whether it’s Fuji, Nikon, Canon, Sony, OM System, Leica, or Ricoh) turn both the camera and flash on, enable flash in the settings (if needed), and you’re good to go.
X-M5 with M01 Camera FlashX-M5 with M01 Camera Flash
Since it’s a manual flash and not TTL (Through-The-Lens), getting the right exposure might take a bit of trial and error. That said, it is rated for around 800 flashes per charge, which is pretty solid. In my testing, even at the lowest power (1/8), it was strong enough for close-up shots, so 800 flashes should be more than enough for casual use. Oh yes, the maximum sync speed is at 1/250s.
If you want another way to trigger the flash, that’s where the J01 comes in.
J01
This is a new kind of accessory from TTArtisan, a lightweight plastic flash trigger designed specifically for the M01. It weighs 18 grams, about half the weight of the M01.
Left: J01 Wireless Trigger – Front Right: J01 Wireless Trigger – Back
The good news is that it can trigger multiple M01 flashes at once, not just one M01. As for controls, it has two buttons. One for the power on/off switch and the other for testing the flash.
Like the M01, the wireless trigger works with most cameras that have a standard hot shoe mount.
What’s great is that there’s no need to pair it manually with the M01. Just turn on both devices, and they’ll connect automatically. Keep in mind, though, that the recommended working range is up to 3 meters for reliable performance.
X-M5 with J01 Wireless TriggerX-M5 with J01 Wireless Trigger
Others
Both accessories have a USB-C port for charging, which is super convenient! The M01 has a 350mAh battery, while the J01 has a 200mAh battery. This makes sense, considering the size of the J01.
M01 Camera FlashM01 Camera FlashM01 Camera Flash
Price Point
M01 is priced at 29 USD, and J01 is priced at 10 USD.
Conclusion
Both the M01 and J01 are simple, easy to use, and compact enough to carry in your pocket. They’re probably one of the most affordable ways to start exploring the art of flash photography.
X-M5 with Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 and M01 Camera Flash
X-M5 with Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 and M01 Camera Flash
With their attractive price point, I can’t help but think how well they pair with cameras that lack a built-in flash, like the upcoming Ricoh GR IV (not the Fuji X-Half), without putting a dent in your wallet. They also make great gifts for photographer friends.
X-M5 with TTArtisan 23mm f1.8 and M01 Camera Flash & J01 Wireless Trigger
X-M5 with Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 and M01 Camera Flash & J01 Wireless Trigger
X-M5 with TTArtisan 23mm f1.8 and M01 Camera Flash
So far, I’ve really liked what TTArtisan has been putting out, and I can’t help but wonder what exciting accessory they’ll come up with next.
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
The XF35mm f1.4 holds a special place in my heart. It was one of the first three lenses ever released for the X-mount, but I didn’t get my hands on it right away. I finally picked it up when I bought my X-T3, and it’s been with me ever since.
7Artsians 35mm f1.4
Over time, I’ve come to see why it’s such a beloved classic in the Fujifilm community. There’s something almost magical about the way it renders images; there’s a certain characteristic that’s hard to describe but easy to feel. Sure, the autofocus is a bit noisy, and everyone talks about that, but the images it produces more than make up for it. It’s a lens that truly connects with how I see the world.
7Artsians 35mm f1.4X-M5 with 7Artsians 35mm f1.4
Intro
When 7Artisans unexpectedly released their own 35mm f1.4, I couldn’t help but pause and think—could this really hold its own against a lens that’s been loved by so many, including myself, for over 14 years? There was only one way to find out: I had to try it for myself.
Size-wise, it’s pretty similar to a typical compact lens. It’s nice and lightweight too, coming in at just 228 grams. The 62mm filter size is also pretty standard, which makes finding filters and accessories a breeze.
The build is all plastic, which doesn’t exactly scream premium; it definitely feels a bit cheap in the hand. The lens hood doesn’t help either; it feels even flimsier.
One thing to note: there is no aperture ring. It’s a bit of a letdown, especially for those who like that extra bit of manual control. But considering the price, it’s a compromise that’s easy enough to overlook.
Image Quality
I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed with the image quality. I had hoped for something sharper, with better contrast. Unfortunately, when shot wide open, the results were quite the opposite.
Chromatic aberration is noticeable, and the vignetting is quite pronounced. The sharpness is on the softer side, not entirely unusable, but definitely lacking that crispness I was expecting. Contrast is also underwhelming. While some photographers might appreciate this softer, more vintage look, it’s just not my style.
Things do improve when stopping down; I found f2 to be noticeably better, and in my opinion, the lens performs best at f2.8.
The background blur at wide open isn’t particularly pleasing either. It feels a bit messy, harsh, and nervous. Unfortunately, it is not the smooth, creamy bokeh I personally enjoy.
As for the sunstars, they didn’t impress me much either. The rays are soft and undefined, lacking that clean, sharp look around light sources.
Focusing
When it comes to focusing, it’s quiet but not particularly accurate. Even in good lighting conditions, it often hunts and struggles to lock focus, sometimes requiring me to refocus on a different area before it regains proper focus. Occasionally, it completely misses focus even when the green focus lock is displayed.
At $159, this is the only f1.4 lens currently available on the market. No other manufacturer, not even TTArtisan, has released a fast lens at this price point yet.
It features a USB-C port, but the placement of this port is somewhat uncommon for a third-party manufacturer. It is located at the side of the lens barrel instead of the rear of the lens element. While it does come with a silicone cover for dust and water protection, the cover feels like it could be easily lost.
7Artsians 35mm f1.4 – USB-C port
Who is this for?
For beginner photographers on a tight budget, this lens can be a solid introduction to prime lenses. While it’s not the top performer on the market, it offers a decent glimpse into the benefits of using a fast aperture lens. If you find yourself enjoying this focal length, you might eventually want to upgrade to a higher-quality option like the XF 33mm f1.4. That said, I would not recommend the Sirui 33mm f1.4 as an alternative.
I had hoped that the 7Artisans would deliver something impressive with this attractive price tag, particularly in terms of image quality, but sadly, it doesn’t quite measure up. While I don’t believe image quality can be improved through a firmware update, I do hope that 7Artisans will work on enhancing the autofocus performance in future firmware upgrades.
How does it compare to the XF 35mm f1.4? Honestly, the overall user experience and image quality fall well short of what the XF35mm f1.4 delivers. That said, the key selling point of the 7Artisans 35mm f1.4 is clearly its affordability. Something a $600 lens simply can’t compete with in terms of price point.
In the end, using the 7Artisans 35mm f1.4 served as a reminder of why the XF 35mm f1.4 remains so highly regarded among photographers. It truly stands the test of time as a classic. As for the 7Artisans 35mm f1.4, it is a missed opportunity.
X-M5 with 7Artsians 35mm f1.4X-M5 with 7Artsians 35mm f1.4 and Godox Lux Junior
Thanks for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Battery charging case is not a new product accessory in the market. There are quite a few manufacturers doing similar battery charging cases for the NP-W126S and NP-W235 battery including many other popular camera battery models and brands.
Unfortunately, none of the manufacturers are familiar to me, but they are probably well-known in their home country, China. This is also why I am glad that Viltrox decided to design their own camera battery case, as I am familiar with the brand and have used several of their lenses, which I believe should have the same level of quality in their accessories.
Before I proceed further, I would like to thank the good people in Viltrox for sending this power bank to me. Having said that,my thoughts and experiences shared in this post remain completely unbiased.
Design and Build Quality
First off, it looks blocky & bulky and it does feel bulky when I holding it on my hand. But that’s totally understandable because it is designed to charge 2 x NP-W235 batteries (the battery isn’t any Smalley either) at any one time.
It is made of plastic, not the best plastic material but not the worse one either. Overall, I feel it’s an average build with decent weight (about 320 grams).
It comes with a protection cover that can magnetically snap close. Surprisingly, it gives out satisfying closing sound when the cover closed.
Capacity and Charging Speed
It is equipped with 5500mAh (40.7 Wh). With the recent airlines power bank ban, it is safe from the regulations limitations from 100 Wh. So you are safe to bring it onboard in your carry-on bag.
It is equipped with a decent 30W PD charging USB-C port and it is capable to full charged the power bank within 80 minutes. The power bank can also charge a mobile phone too. All you need is a cable but I think that it is not the main purpose, rather a good addition function to do so.
Oh yes, it takes about an hour to charge an empty NP-W235 to charge to 100%. Pretty decent in my option. The powerbank has a balance of 62% which, assuming no power loss during charging the battery, is about 3410 mAh juice left. In short, this power bank is capable to charge two full NP-W235 batteries and still have some remains. How great is that!
Who is this for?
I can’t deny this power bank is bulky to carry around and it is not pocketable. But I asked myself is that the purpose of this powerbank? After some thought, it is suitable for camping photographers, travel photographers and event photographers who need to juice up their batteries but there are no charging source available at their disposal.
I know there are camera batteries that come with a USB-C port for direct charging. It is a good alternative battery solution without the need for a charging dock and charging case. I think no harm in having more solutions for us to choose from based on our preferences and using behaviors.
Conclusion
This is a great attempt by Viltrox. This power bank battery charger case is available for Nikon (BT-EL15), Canon (BT-E6) and Sony (BT-FZ100) as well. However, it is priced at 70 USD. Pretty steep in my opinion but I believe the quality from the brand gives me a certain level of assurance. I hope there will be a bigger capacity like 10,000 mAh in the future.
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
It’s hard to believe it’s been almost two years since I last got my hands on a tilt lens. Back then, as I packed it away after testing, I remember thinking, ‘This might actually be the last time I see a new tilt lens come out.’ It felt like that chapter was quietly closing, and I wasn’t sure if anyone would try something new with this quirky, beautiful niche again.
A tilt lens isn’t quite the same as a tilt-shift lens, but they are definitely in the same quirky, niche family. When TTArtisan dropped the 50mm f1.4 Tilt back in 2023, it caught me by surprise—in the best way. I couldn’t help but wonder if that was just a one-off experiment or if they were quietly working on something new to follow it up. Part of me hoped it wasn’t the end of the road for creative tilt lenses.
If you are familiar with its sibling, this TTArtisan 35mm f1.4 Tilt has the same design language and sturdy metal construction build quality. You will still get to see 2 extra knobs (one silver and one black) which you don’t see it on a typical lens. These two knobs are the main key roles for the tilt function.
The black knob is to control the tilt mechanism with a tilt angle of ± 8°. It’s where is the tilt effect comes in.
The silver knob is the rotation lock knob which allows the rotation mechanism to rotate the lens 360° with 15° rotation per step. This helps to orient to which focus plane where the tilt effect will be.
Typically how I use them is that I will adjusted the black knob first, then I used the silver knob to adjust to the my desired focus plane. All this is with the focus peaking, to visualize and easily notice where my plane of focus is.
At 341 grams, I have feel the weight on my hand. It comes with a sizable 52mm filter size which is smaller than it’s sibling.
The aperture ring is clickless which means I have look at the aperture value when I am changing. This is something I missed the most as I am quite rely on the click when change aperture value.
At f1.4, image quality feels quite soft—there’s a noticeable lack of contrast and sharpness in both normal and tilt modes. In tilt mode especially, the extreme shallow depth of field makes the shots pretty much unusable, at least in my opinion.
Considering where lens design is these days, the amount of vignetting and chromatic aberration wide open feels like a bit of a throwback—and not in a good way. It’s the kind of look that might work for a specific aesthetic, but definitely not something I’d rely on for consistent results.
That said, once you stop it down to around f2.8, things begin to turn around. The contrast improves, sharpness gets noticeably better, and the overall rendering feels more dependable. Even tilt mode starts to feel a bit more manageable at smaller apertures, though it still requires a lot of care to get the most out of it.
One thing I really did enjoy, though, was the way it renders sunstars. Compared to many other manual lenses I’ve used, the sunrays feel a bit more refined and clean right at the source of light. They do taper off and lose some of that definition toward the tail end, but overall, it’s a nice touch—especially if you’re someone who enjoys shooting into the light.
The focus throw from minimum focus distance to infinity is about 160°, which gives you plenty of room for precise focusing. I have to say, the focus ring feels great in use—it has just the right amount of resistance, making it both smooth and reassuring to operate.
One thing to note: the front element does extend outward when focusing at the minimum distance and retracts as you move toward infinity. It’s not a huge deal, but it’s something to be aware of, especially when working up close.
Also, like many manual lenses I’ve tested, the infinity mark isn’t perfectly accurate. Whether you’re shooting normally or using tilt mode, focusing all the way to the infinity stop usually results in slightly soft or missed focus. To get a truly sharp image at infinity, you’ll need to dial it back just a bit before the marking.
Minimum Focus Distance (MFD)
It’s MFD is 35cm which makes it similar to most 35mm APS-C lenses offered. Unfortunately or fortunately, the image quality isn’t any better or worse at wide-open. At least the characteristics remains the same.
It is priced at 169 USD. If you are comparing with the same “manual 35mm f1.4” category, we have the TTArtisan 35mm f1.4 at 73 USD and the Artralab 35mm f1.4 at 419 USD. On the other hand, 7Artisans just launched the autofocus 35mm f1.4 at the same 169 USD.
Is the TTArtisan 35mm f1.4 Tilt considered expensive? That really depends on the individual. If you want certain shots that only this lens can achieve, I think you will get them eventually.
Others
This lens comes with various mounts such as E-mount, Z-mount, RF-mount, M43-mount, and of course the X-mount. If you are from the Z-mount and RF-mount, this lens is awesome, given that there isn’t any similar kind of lens available in the market.
Like other manual lenses, this lens can also experience a shift in white balance as you change the aperture values. However, this can be resolved in post if you are taking in raw format.
It is a niche lens, and there are not a lot of choices in the market. In terms of versatility, this 50mm focal length (in full frame equivalent) is a better focal length and easier to adapt to those photographers who are attempting to use it in both the normal mode and the tilt mode. I am glad that TTArtisan isn’t slowing down and they are trying to explore more lens options for all kind of photographers to choose and I hope they don’t stop it here.
This is definitely a niche lens, and there aren’t many options like it out there. That said, the 50mm focal length (full-frame equivalent) makes it one of the more versatile choices as it is a better focal length and easier to work with for photographers who want to use both the normal and tilt functions. I really appreciate that TTArtisan is continuing to push into this space, exploring creative lens designs for more choices for the photographers. I just hope they keep going and don’t stop here.
Fuji X-M5 with TTArtisan 35mm f1.4 Tilt
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Lately, there’s been a noticeable rise in the popularity of external flashes, particularly vintage manual models. Viltrox, a brand we’re already familiar with, has also jumped on this growing trend.
The Vintage Z1 is the company’s latest introduction to the world of nostalgic portable flash in the market.
Before I proceed further, I would like to thank the good people in Viltrox for sending this beauty to me. Having said that,my thoughts and experiences shared in this post remain completely unbiased.
X-M5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7 and Vintage Z1X-T5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7 and Viltrox Vintage Z1
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the flash exudes a classic direct flashgun aesthetic—and it pulls it off beautifully. It features a plastic body complemented by a leather-like material on the top, creating a two-tone look that enhances its vintage appeal.
Viltrox Vintage Z1
Don’t get deceived by its plastic construction. It’s actually well-built, feels good in the hand, and is impressively lightweight at just 116 grams.
Viltrox Vintage Z1Viltrox Vintage Z1
Controls
Z1 comes with a 1 button, 1 knob, and 2 switches. Button is testing out the flash output. The knob is controlling the power level of the flash output, it has a total of 7 levels from 1/1 to 1/64. The first switch is the power-on/power-off, and the second switch is to control the Off, S1, and S2 switchers.
Left: X-T5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7 and Vintage Z1 Right: X-M5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7 and Vintage Z1
S1 and S2 are optical slave modes that trigger a flash when they sense another flash burst. This is useful if you have multiple flash setups for your shots.
However, both switches are different in responding to the other flash shot. S1 triggers on the first flash burst, while S2 skips the first flash (pre-flash) and triggers on the second burst.
X-T5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7 and Vintage Z1
Flash Power
While this flash does not spell out the power output in watts, it is stated to have Guide Number (GN) 12 at ISO 100.
X-T5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7 and Vintage Z1
Color temperature
It is stated at 6500K with variables around 200K, which falls under “Daylight” range.
Viltrox Vintage Z1
Price Point
It is priced at 49.99 USD / 56.99 EUR / 47.99 GBP. In my opinion, this is one affordable price tag for a manual flash and it does not break the band if one ever want to give it a try.
X100VI with Viltrox Vintage Z1
X100VI with Viltrox Vintage Z1
X100VI with Viltrox Vintage Z1
Others
It features a built-in 1100mAh battery and charges via a USB-C port. In my testing, a full charge took closes to an hour—fairly average charging speed, and perfectly acceptable in my opinion.
On paper, it’s rated for between 400 to 10,000 flashes per charge. That sounds like a lot, though it’s a bit tricky for me to verify firsthand. So, take that number with a grain of salt—and just recharge it whenever it feels like the right time.
It’s a great choice for photographers looking for an affordable, pocket-sized flash to carry on any occasion. It also makes a thoughtful gift—perfect for birthdays, Christmas, or simply when you feel like surprising someone.
X-T5 with Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 & Viltrox Z1
Conclusion
The Viltrox Vintage Z01 is a solid product with enough flash power for casual use. While using manual controls without having the TTL (Through The Lens) function takes a bit of trial and error to get the perfect shot, it’s a fun and rewarding way to dive into the art of flash photography. This also means that it works with any camera that comes with a hotshoe.
X-T5 with Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 & Viltrox Z1
The Viltrox Vintage Z01 appears to be a direct competitor to the Godox Lux Junior. That alone shows just how popular this trend has become lately.
X100VI with Viltrox Vintage Z1
If you like the product, please refer to this link to place your order. If you like other Viltrox products, you can use this code “ALWINKOK” to have a small discount.
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
The Sigma BF—arguably the most minimalist camera of our time—has officially launched in Singapore. I’m grateful to have been invited by Mr. Lawson from Sigma Marketing (Singapore) to attend the launch event, which took place at Artizen Singapore. While the venue was more compact than I had anticipated, it turned out to be a cosy and thoughtfully arranged space.
Artizen SingaporeArtizen Singapore EntranceSigma BF launch bannersThe balcony space for Sigma BF launch Left: Mr. Bobbi Tonelli, the host of the event, also shared his experience about the Sigma BF. Right: The Sigma ambassador from Malaysia, Mr Wesly Wong, explaining the philosophy behind the design of Sigma BF
Sigma BF Silver
Comes with a replaceable battery pack.
Following the opening segment, we were grouped into small teams of three, each guided by a Sigma staff member, and began exploring the charm of this unique camera. The user interface—distinctly different from the conventional design—caught my attention right away. Surprisingly, it took me less than five minutes to get the hang of it and feel completely comfortable using it. It’s impressively intuitive.
There are several lenses with several camera bodies. But somehow, I am fated to try with my recently reviewed Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS (and manage to test out the Sigma 90mm f2.8 too), at least I get to hold onto the silver color.
Sigma BF with Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7Sigma BF with Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7Sigma BF with Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7Sigma BF with Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7Sigma BF with Sigma 90mm f2.8
Along with the Sigma 16-300mm, this lens was the second one I packed for my recent trip to Japan. In a previous post, I mentioned how I was unsure about which lenses to bring, but then Sigma Marketing Singapore reached out, and my good friend Ivan Joshua Loh handed me this compact prime lens to try out. So, these are the two lenses I took with me on my Japan trip. (And by the way, I also brought along the Instax Wide Evo, but that is for the other day.)
Viltrox 25mm f1.7Viltrox 25mm f1.7
Intro
The Viltrox “Air” series has gained significant popularity among photographers, and Viltrox shows no signs of slowing down. Following the release of the Viltrox 56mm f1.7 and Viltrox 35mm f1.7, the company introduced the latest addition to the “Air” family, the Viltrox 25mm f1.7, in February 2025. This completes the “Air” trinity.
As part of the “Air” series, this lens follows the same design language as the other two “Air” lenses, staying true to the series’ characteristics. It features the same plastic build, is lightweight at just 170 grams, and has a 52mm filter size. It also lacks an aperture ring. I previously mentioned that the Viltrox 35mm f1.7’s plastic material is resistant to fingerprints, and this lens shares the same feature.
Overall, it feels comfortable to hold and pairs nicely with the smallest Fuji camera, the X-M5. And yes, it comes with a plastic petal lens hood.
Image Quality
While the image quality doesn’t quite match the “Pro” or “Lab” series, the results are still solid, offering good contrast and sharpness when wide open. While it may not reach the benchmark set by Fujifilm’s compact prime lenses, like the XF 23mm f2 WR, I think it’s more than sufficient for social media posts and even prints, as long as you’re not too particular.
That said, the vignetting appears more pronounced than on the 35mm variant, which isn’t to my preference. As for chromatic aberration, Viltrox has done a good job here, as it’s not noticeable to my eyes.
When it comes to sun stars, the lines appear softer, similar to the Viltrox 35mm f1.7.
The lens is equipped with a Stepper Motor (STM), and in my experience, it performs quite well. While it isn’t as fast as high-end prime lenses, the focusing speed is still decent, and it locks onto subjects effectively. During my testing on a trip, even in low-light conditions, I didn’t encounter any issues with misfocusing or focus-pulling. The only time it struggles is when I’m too close to the Minimum Focus Distance (MFD).
Focusing from MFD to infinity is relatively quick, especially considering its price point, and Eye-AF functions properly as well.
Minimum Focus Distance (MFD)
I was hoping for a closer Minimum Focus Distance (MFD), but unfortunately, it’s 30cm. It’s not terrible, though I wish it were a bit closer for a better perspective. On the bright side, I’m pleased to see that the image quality remains consistent and doesn’t degrade.
At 176 USD, this lens is priced similarly to its two siblings. It seems to be part of Viltrox’s strategy to keep the price of all three lenses competitively low in order to attract more photographers. However, Viltrox faces stiff competition from TTArtisan, which offers similar lenses at an even lower price point.
An interesting detail is that all the “Air” lenses share the same weight and filter size. This is great for photographers looking to travel light with minimal filters. In fact, combining the X-M5 with all three “Air” lenses results in a total weight of 865 grams (355 grams for the camera + 170 grams for each lens x3).
Like most third-party brands, it includes a USB-C port for firmware updates, which is located at the rear of the lens.
Viltrox 25mm f1.7 USB-C port
Who is this for?
At 25mm (equivalent to 37.5mm on full-frame), the focal length falls somewhere between 35mm and 40mm. Personally, I find it quite comfortable. During my trip, I had no issues using this focal length for street photography, product shots, and environmental portraits.
Probably due to my preference for the focal length, I find myself liking this lens more than the Viltrox 35mm f1.7. One of the things I appreciate about these trinity lenses is that they all share the same size, filter size, and weight. It’s a smart design choice that allows Viltrox to maintain a consistent philosophy across three different focal lengths.
Viltrox has created a solid budget-friendly trinity lineup, which is great for new photographers who either have a limited budget or don’t want to invest in more expensive lenses. The image quality is quite good for the price. If you’re a fan of Viltrox, this lens is a great starting point for prime lenses. That said, I still think TTArtisan offers a more cost-effective option.
Fuji X-M5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7Fuji X-M5 with Viltrox 25mm f1.7
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me. 5. If you are interested in this lens and also wish to support me, this is the affilinate linkto purchase.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Lens caps that can shoot aren’t exactly new to the market, but they are certainly a niche, unique, and interesting product. If you’ve been using Fujifilm for a while, you might recall that they released the XM-FL before.
Viltrox 28mm f4.5
You can even make one yourself using a plastic lens from a disposable camera and a lens cap. While not many third-party manufacturers venture into this, 7Artisans and FunLeader are among those who create manual lens caps that shoot. These lenses are fun to use with no high expectations for image quality, typically featuring a slow aperture.
Then Viltrox shook things up by introducing something entirely different—a lens cap with autofocus. A concept so unique, no one else had even thought to try it.
Intro
The Viltrox 28mm f4.5 for X-mount officially launched on January 20, 2025. If you recall, Viltrox initially introduced this lens cap concept through an Indiegogo campaign—but that version was exclusively for Sony E-mount. Thankfully (no surprise), the campaign was a success, which eventually led to the release of the X-mount version.
Before diving deeper, I want to express my gratitude to the awesome team at Viltrox for sending this lens cap over. That said, my thoughts and experiences shared in this post remain completely unbiased.
Design and Build Quality
Weighing in at just 60 grams, this is the lightest autofocus lens I’ve ever used. Despite its featherweight, the lens features a full metal build—nothing about it feels flimsy or cheaply made.
Like most lens cap-style lenses, it offers only a single aperture setting. In this case, it’s fixed at f4.5 and there is no adjusting it beyond that.
If you prefer manual focus, the lens does include a tiny focus ring, giving you a bit of control when needed.
Image Quality
Image quality is fairly decent and nothing groundbreaking, but it delivers acceptable contrast and sharpness that’s more than enough for casual or social media use.
At f4.5, vignetting is definitely noticeable, though thankfully, chromatic aberration remains minimal and isn’t too distracting.
Given the fixed aperture of f4.5, background and subject separation isn’t as pronounced compared to faster lenses. That said, with the right composition, you can still achieve a pleasing bit of background blur.
Focusing
To my surprise, the autofocus performance is better than I have expected. There are occasional hiccups where it doesn’t lock focus on the first try, but it usually kicks in by the second or third attempt.
When it does work, the focusing speed is reasonable. Transitions between the minimum focus distance and infinity are decent—not lightning-fast, but perfectly acceptable for a lens of this kind. All of this is driven by a Voice Coil Motor (VCM), which gets the job done for a compact, chip-style lens.
Minimum Focus Distance (MFD)
No lens is without its flaws, and this one is no exception. It features a minimum focus distance (MFD) of 34cm—which, considering its compact size, is actually better than expected. Fortunately, image quality doesn’t take a hit at this distance. However, the depth of field remains fairly shallow and not particularly impressive.
At just 99 USD, this is likely the most affordable autofocus lens you can get your hands on. With no direct competitors in its category and price range, it really stands out. Honestly, it’s a no-brainer for any photographer looking for a lens cap they can actually shoot with—practical, fun, and ready to go.
This lens doesn’t come with a separate external lens cap—instead, it has one built in. A sliding lever lets you open it up for shooting or close it to protect the glass. It’s a pretty clever design. But the real question is: would you want to see this kind of innovation carried over to future lenses?
Lens: Fuji X-M5 with Viltrox 28mm f4.5 – open lens cap Right: Fuji X-M5 with Viltrox 28mm f4.5 – close lens cap
Like other Viltrox autofocus lenses, this one also features a USB-C port at the rear. It’s there for potential firmware updates. You might wonder what kind of updates a tiny “chip-sized” lens would even need—possibly improvements to autofocus performance or compatibility tweaks for newer camera bodies. Either way, it’s a handy feature to have.
Viltrox 28mm f4.5 USB-C port
Who is this for?
Everyone. Honestly, this lens is so affordable that I can’t help but recommend it to everyone, just for the fun of it. It’s the kind of gear that’s easy to enjoy without overthinking. In fact, it even makes for a great gift that won’t hurt your wallet.
This lens isn’t perfect by any means. The lack of adjustable aperture values can limit your shooting options and flexibility. However, I find it enjoyable to explore and shoot with this 42mm (full-frame equivalent) focal length.
While the fixed aperture is small, I do wish Viltrox could have made it a bit brighter—maybe around f3.5. That said, I also understand that a brighter aperture would require a larger, heavier design, which could defeat the purpose of creating a compact, lens cap-style shooter.
Fuji X-M5 with Viltrox 28mm f4.5Fuji X-M5 with Viltrox 28mm f4.5
Overall, this is a fun and unique lens to experiment with. I’m looking forward to seeing more creative lenses from Viltrox for the APS-C and Fujifilm community.
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me. 5. If you are interested in this lens and also wish to support me, this is the affilinate link to purchase
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
I went on a trip to Japan with my family in mid-March. Just days before the trip, I was still trying to figure out which lens to bring. Then, Mr. Lawson from Sigma Marketing (Singapore) reached out to me, asking if I’d be interested in testing the Sigma Contemporary 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS lens. This opportunity came at the perfect moment, resolving my lens dilemma.
Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS
Intro
The Contemporary 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS is Sigma’s first lens with an 18.8x zoom ratio. It is also the second long zoom lens made available to the Fuji X-mount community. This lens is offered in a variety of mounts, including RF-mount, E-mount, L-mount, and of course, X-mount. It was announced on February 13, 2025, alongside the stunning Sigma BF camera.
Before continuing, I’d like to extend my thanks to Mr. Lawson from Sigma Marketing (Singapore) for loaning me this lens for review, and to Kai for coordinating everything. I truly appreciate their generous support in making this review possible.
The lens is built with the familiar “Thermally Stable Composite” (TSC) polycarbonate material, the same used in Sigma’s 10-18mm f2.8, 23mm f1.4, and other Contemporary lenses. This construction ensures a solid, high-quality feel while keeping the lens lightweight. Weighing in at 615 grams, it is well-balanced with the X-T5, even though when it’s at the longer zoom.
Handling-wise, it’s generally good. The zoom ring is a bit stiff at first but loosens up with use. When collapsed at 16mm, the lens measures 123.7mm in length. When extended to 300mm, it stretches to 200mm, nearly doubling in size. Shooting at 300mm can be a bit challenging, as I found myself wobbling slightly when framing the shot with the X-M5. However, with the X-T5, the lens feels more balanced, providing better overall stability.
Left: Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS before extension Right: Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS extended to 300mm
The focus range from minimum focus distance to infinity is just 90°, which is quite efficient for a long-zoom lens. This allows for quick adjustments to the focal length without needing to turn the ring too much. It comes with 67mm filter size.
No lens is perfect. When you have the versatility of a wide focal length range, other aspects are often compromised, and in this case, it’s image quality. In my opinion, the image quality isn’t the best Sigma has delivered. It’s acceptable with nice contrast, but the sharpness tends to be soft at most focal lengths. The softness is particularly noticeable when shooting close to a subject and when viewing the image at 100%.
Chromatic aberration is generally well-controlled, with little to no noticeable issues in my photos. As for vignetting, it is present when shooting wide open, though it’s not very noticeable.
Regarding sun stars, I was able to capture them at 16mm, but not at 300mm. The result is soft but acceptable, without any dramatic effects.
Sigma employs a High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) motor for the autofocus system in this lens. Overall, the autofocus locking is quite fast across most focal lengths. However, at the telephoto end, particularly from 180mm onwards, there are occasions where the lens struggles to lock focus. Sometimes, I have to attempt to focus a few times before I lock onto the subject. On some occasions, I even need to refocus at a wider focal length before it can focus properly at the telephoto end. I hope this issue can be addressed with a future firmware update.
At 16mm, the minimum focus distance (MFD) is 17cm, which means I have to remove the lens hood to get close enough to the subject. At 300mm, the MFD is 105cm, making it a bit tricky to frame the shot with my shaky hands.
However, Sigma notes that the best magnification ratio of 1:2 is achieved at 70mm. In my testing, though, the image quality remained consistent across all focal lengths, with the same characteristics as mentioned earlier.
At 699 USD / 1088 SGD, the price is highly competitive. It’s clear that this lens directly competes with the Tamron 18-300mm, which is priced at 699 USD / 1099 SGD.
(I’m aware that Tamron Singapore currently has a promotion offering an attractive price of 991 SGD, and on Amazon Singapore, it’s available for 768 SGD.)
Others
This lens features an Optical Stabilizer (OS), which, according to the specifications, provides up to 6 stops of stabilization at the wide end and 4.5 stops at the telephoto end. In real-world use (I turned off the IBIS on the X-T5 during this trip), I had no issues shooting in daylight at any focal length. However, in low-light or challenging conditions, the OS performs well at wide focal lengths but is less effective at the telephoto end, where I experienced some handshake. This is likely due to the lens’s smaller aperture.
This lens is designed for travel photographers who prefer to carry just one lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths, even if it means sacrificing some image quality and adding a bit of weight. It’s also ideal for photographers who want to simplify their lens setup.
When Tamron released their 18-300mm f3.5 – f6.3 lens, many Sigma fans were hoping for a Sigma version, and now it’s here. I believe Sigma has delivered a great response to that demand.
To quickly compare, the Sigma 16-300mm (24mm to 450mm in full frame equivalent) offers a slightly wider focal length at 16mm, compared to Tamron’s 18mm. However, the Sigma lens has a slightly smaller aperture at the 300mm end, but in my opinion, this difference is negligible and doesn’t significantly affect shutter speed or other settings. The Sigma lens is also just 5 grams lighter than the Tamron, which again, is insignificant. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize a wider focal length or a lower price.
In my view, the wider focal length is more important, as it’s always handy to have that extra 2mm for those “just-in-case” situations.
Thank you for reading.
Fuji X-M5 with Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS Left: Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS with lens cap Right: Sigma 16-300mm f3.5 – f6.7 DC OS extended with lens cap
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
We all know that 50mm is a very popular focal length among manufacturers, and many Chinese manufacturers are doing the same focal length with a slight difference in aperture value. To name a few that I have shared before: TTArtisan 50mm f0.95, Artralab 50mm f1.2, AstrHori 50mm f1.4 tilt, and even their released not all ago Brightin Star 50mm f1.4.
Brightin Star 50mm f0.95
Intro
While I thought Brightin Star was focusing on producing more autofocus lenses, they decided to release this manual lens. So I guess there is still demand for manual lenses in the market.
Brightin Star 50mm f0.95
Before I proceed further, I appreciate the kind people in Brightin Star for their continuous support for sending me this lens for a sharing session opportunity. Having said that, Brightin Star has no influence on my opinion.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the bold, bright yellow brand immediately grabs attention—a clever way to stand out in a crowd. Upon closer look, you’ll notice the lens body is made of metal with a matte finish, giving it a sleek, modern look that helps it stand apart from the rest.
Brightin Star 50mm f0.95
Like all manual lenses, it features an aperture ring, and it’s clickable. I’ve had a great experience with this ring, as it provides a light and smooth tactile feedback when you adjust it to different aperture settings.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/11,000″ . ISO 640 . Nostalgic Negative Left: Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/125″ . ISO 320 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/280″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative
Weighing in at 443 grams, the lens feels surprisingly dense. You can definitely sense its weight, especially when paired with a smaller camera like the X-M5, where the unbalanced heft becomes more noticeable. And, by the way, it has a 62mm filter size.
Image Quality
Like the Brightin Star 35mm f0.95, the image quality is soft and lacks contrast when shot wide open but slightly usable. Some photographers may appreciate this look, but it’s not quite to my taste. I find that stopping down to f2 or higher gives me better contrast and sharper results that is within my acceptance. Additionally, for the best optical performance, it’s ideal to center your subject, as the corners tend to be much softer.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/140″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/680″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f4. 1/600″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative
When it comes to background or foreground blur, I am not particularly fond of the rendering. It feels a bit busy to some (but very busy in my own opinion) and can be quite distractive from the main subject. One notable issue is barrel distortion, which becomes quite apparent when shooting wide open. If you’re particular about distortion, this could be a concern for you.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/680″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/400″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2.8. 1/80″ . ISO 500 . Nostalgic Negative
On the plus side, I didn’t notice any chromatic aberration in the shots I took. Vignetting is present at wide open, though it’s relatively mild.
As for the sun stars, the lines are visible but not as well-defined as I would have liked.
Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f16. 1/125″ . ISO 1600 . Nostalgic Negative
Focusing
The focus ring is smooth, but I can feel slightly damp when I rotate. Nevertheless, it is an enjoyable experience.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/240″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/220″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/500″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative
As for the focus range between MFD to infinity, the focus throw is approximately 90°. The focus throw is similar to Brightin Star 35mm f0.95, giving a fair amount of “traveling” for precise focusing.
Minimum Focus Distance (MFD)
50cm minimum focus distance is decent, fair, and also similar to many other lenses of the same focal length. However, the softness and lack of contrast have elevated, even more obvious for wide-open shots.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/300″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/210″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/120″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative
Price Point
The introductory price is 199 USD, and then it will be priced at 219 USD thereafter. I have no idea how long this introductory price will last. But if you really like this lens, I think you can act quickly.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/500″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/1000″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative
Left: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/240″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/80″ . ISO 250 . Nostalgic Negative
However, this is a very competitive price point. Because Meike 55mm f1.4 is selling very similarly at this price point, and Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 is trading at 239 USD. Both are autofocus lenses, and they have a pretty good IQ.
Others
One standout feature of this lens is its built-in lens hood, a unique touch I haven’t encountered before. Typically, manual lens manufacturers rarely include a lens hood with the lens itself, but Brightin Star goes a step further by not only providing one, but also integrating it directly into the lens body. However, there is a small downside: the hood feels a bit flimsy. Hopefully, Brightin Star will refine this innovative design in future lenses.
Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 with lens hood extended.
Like the 35mm f0.95, this lens doesn’t have an f5.6 option. Instead, it jumps from f/4 to f/8, skipping two full stops of light. However, this may not be a significant issue if you’re looking for a brighter lens.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/80″ . ISO 320 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/10500″ . ISO 160 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/3500″ . ISO 320 . Nostalgic Negative
There’s one more distinctive feature that I haven’t fully tested yet: it’s the first time a Chinese manufacturer has added luminous paint to the numbers on the scale marks of APS-C lenses, making it possible for photographers to see the numbers in low-light conditions.
Who is this for?
If you are looking to experience manual handling experience, this 75mm (equivalent to 35mm format), is a nice-looking manual portrait lens for someone who is looking for one. When it comes to genres, it is suitable for most typical ones like street, documentation, product shots, etc.
Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/5000″ . ISO 320 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/280″ . ISO 125 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/80″ . ISO 160 . Nostalgic Negative
Conclusion
I had a very positive impression of the Brightin Star 35mm f0.95, the 50mm f0.95 is no exceptional.
Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/2000″ . ISO 160 . Nostalgic NegativeFuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/2400″ . ISO 320 . Nostalgic NegativeFuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f4. 1/80″ . ISO 1600 . Nostalgic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/80″ . ISO 3200 . Nostalgic Negative Right: Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f2. 1/80″ . ISO 160 . Nostalgic Negative
The Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 is a decent lens, but given its price, I might find it hard to recommend, especially for those looking for a portrait lens. There are several solid alternatives in a similar price range that offer autofocus. Unless you’re specifically attracted to its design, the unique lens hood, or you love its sibling, it may not be the best choice. On the bright side, the handling experience is quite enjoyable.
Fuji X-T5 . Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 @ 50mm . f0.95. 1/80″ . ISO 400 . Nostalgic Negative
I’m hopeful that Brightin Star will continue to innovate and improve, and I’m particularly looking forward to seeing more autofocus lenses from them in the future.
Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 with X-M5 Brightin Star 50mm f0.95 with X-M5
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing and Capture One. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Alwin Kok 