Zeiss launches high-end Otus ML lens series for mirrorless cameras
After five years of absence from the world of consumer photography, premium lens manufacturer Zeiss has announced two f/1.4 lenses as part of a new series for mirrorless cameras. The Otus ML f/1.4 50mm and 85mm lenses are a departure from the DSLR-focused products in the Otus family, as mirrorless is now becoming the industry standard.
The lenses are excellent for taking shots in low light with low depth-of-field thanks to its large max aperture. The 50mm has 14 optical elements in 11 groups, while the portrait-focused 85mm includes one more. Each Otus ML lens also has ten diaphragm blades, giving them a refined bokeh with natural rendering that enhances subject isolation.
All Otus lenses bear the precision engineering and superb build quality that are the hallmarks of Zeiss products and in this regard, the ML series does not disappoint. Fully metal, with a blue seal at the base for protecting the camera interface from inclement weather, landscape photographers can have confidence in using the shock-resistant Otus ML lenses outdoors.
Unsurprisingly, Otus ML lenses do not possess any AF motors, as Otus has always been manual-focus only. And while the mirrorless form factor allows the lens to be compact and more portable, both lenses are on the heavier side (1.5 lb/677 g) which will add considerable weight to the camera setup. Yet to the photography aficionado or professional who the Otus ML series is likely targeted at, this is probably a minor tradeoff for the sharpness, tonal accuracy and optical performance that Zeiss is known for.
Although Zeiss Otus lenses are stills-focused, they can also be used effectively for cinematography thanks to the 259.5° focus throw and large rotation angle. To top it off, a de-clicked aperture control key on the inside of the lens barrel lets videographers make silent, stepless and seamless transitions. Expected in late Spring 2025, the versatile Otus ML f1.4 50mm lens can be pre-ordered for $2499 while the more portrait-friendly Otus ML f1.4 85mm pre-orders for $2999.
