Lomography x Zenit 85mm f/2.2 Petzval Art Lens Review

Lomography, usually known for inexpensive, toy cameras like the Holga, or imported Russian classics like the Lomo LC-A have branched out into something new, thanks to a Kickstarter campaign to fund manufacturing lenses in Nikon F and Canon EF compatible mounts based on the original Petzval lens optical design.

The new lens takes the optical formula conceived by Joseph Petzval in 1840 and adapts it for modern 35mm format cameras. In doing so, Lomography has also kept the retro-looking brass exterior. The lens is manufactured at the Zenit lens factory in Russia, which is proudly engraved on the brass lens barrel alongside the 'New Petzval since 1840' logo in an attempt to give this new lens some provenance. However, this lens is not the same as the one your great grandfather may have used and is a completely new lens that can be considered a homage to the original.

The Kickstarter page raised over a million dollars for the project from over 3000 backers paying around $400 each, or up to an eye-watering $1000 for those that wanted to reserve one with an early serial number. There is demand for this lens, which is now available for pre-order for £459 from the UK Lomography shop. In this review we'll assess whether the claims that this lens creates a 'mind-blowing effect' are true.

Add your message