The launch of the Viltrox AF 14mm f/4 Air Z lens marks a notable addition to the compact lens market, catering to photographers seeking a lightweight and versatile option for landscape and architectural photography. This ultra-wide prime lens offers full-frame capabilities without the bulk, making it an attractive choice for travel enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Designed with portability in mind, the lens weighs just 185 grams, allowing for easy handling during extended shooting sessions. According to a recent review by photographer Alex Cooke, the lens performs exceptionally well when mounted on a Nikon Z7, showcasing its quick and quiet autofocus capabilities. The inclusion of a USB-C port for firmware updates enhances its usability, ensuring that users can keep the lens updated with the latest features.
Performance and Features in Real-World Use
In his practical video demonstration, Cooke highlights several key attributes of the lens. The smooth focus ring facilitates precise adjustments, while the lens’s compact design ensures compatibility with gimbals and handheld setups, particularly for video work. Cooke points out the minimal focus breathing exhibited by the lens, a significant advantage for videographers who prefer stable framing during shots.
The 58mm filter thread provides flexibility for photographers looking to use ND filters or lens protection without the need for cumbersome adapters. Cooke tests the lens in various scenarios, including vlogging and capturing expansive landscapes. At a focal length of 14mm, the lens allows users to create dynamic compositions that enhance the perception of space, making tight indoor areas feel more open and cinematic.
Despite its maximum aperture of f/4, the lens can still achieve a pleasing background blur, particularly when focusing on subjects within 13 cm of the lens. This feature makes it suitable for capturing detailed shots in diverse environments, from bustling urban settings to serene natural landscapes.
Comparative Analysis and Final Thoughts
Cooke briefly compares the Viltrox AF 14mm f/4 to the Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8, which serves a similar purpose for APS-C camera bodies but offers a faster aperture. He concludes that full-frame shooters will likely find the 14mm option more beneficial for its performance and adaptability.
Demonstrating additional techniques, Cooke showcases focus stacking at f/9 to achieve impressive clarity from foreground to background. He utilizes software like Photoshop to merge images, highlighting the lens’s ability to maintain sharpness across various focal points. Furthermore, the lens excels in time-lapse photography, capturing the movement of clouds and changing skies, enriching the visual narrative of any scene.
In summary, the Viltrox AF 14mm f/4 Air Z lens is a commendable choice for photographers who prioritize portability and versatility over maximum aperture. As Cooke notes in his review, the continuous improvement in Viltrox’s Air series reflects a commitment to quality and user experience. While it may not replace faster wide primes for low-light conditions, it stands out as a practical, budget-friendly option for those looking to expand their photographic toolkit. For a complete overview, viewers can check out Cooke’s full video review.