New Mitakon 55mm f/2.8 Macro Lens

credits: Mitakon

Zhong Yi Optics has introduced a new addition to their Mitakon lineup, the 55mm f/2.8 1–5x Macro lens, for photographers who want extreme close-up capabilities. Unlike most macro lenses that top out at 1:1 reproduction, this one goes all the way to 5:1, meaning it can project a subject onto the sensor at five times its actual size.

The lens itself is built around an optical design of 13 elements in eight groups, with coatings designed to keep chromatic aberrations under control while maintaining sharpness across the frame. It is a manual-focus lens with a nine-bladed aperture diaphragm and works with both full-frame and medium-format sensors. At lower magnifications, the working distance is somewhat practical (about 150mm at 1:1) but at 5:1 it drops to just 65mm. In other words, lighting can be difficult when working at the higher end, so Zhong Yi has included a USB-C powered LED ring light that attaches directly to the front of the lens.

Physically, the 55mm f/2.8 is fairly substantial for its focal length, measuring up to 162mm long at maximum extension and weighing 690 grams. It accepts 58mm filters and comes with a detachable Arca-Swiss tripod foot. The lens comes in a wide range of mounts, including Canon EF, Canon RF, Fujifilm X, Fujifilm GFX, L-Mount, Nikon F, Nikon Z, Sony E, and Hasselblad XCD. Pricing for this lens sits at $399.

You can see full details and sample shots on Mitakon’s website here