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

Lomography Petzval 85mm f/2.2 Art Lens Verdict

I imagine when Marmite was first conceived (other yeast extract spreads are available), there were similar discussions over its merits as there are with this lens. Some people will love the effect it can produce in the right conditions and the retro-looking brass construction.

On the other hand, many will find the design of this lens flawed, the focusing mechanism poorly conceived and the effect outweighed by relatively poor optical performance, even before any of the Waterhouse Aperture plates have been misplaced, along with the brass lens cap. Given the price of this lens is quite high, there are simply too many issues to recommend it to most people in its current guise. Even so, being a Lomography product and due to its quirky nature, this optic will always have its advocates. Unfortunately, I'm not one of them.

Lomography Petzval 85mm f/2.2 Art Pros

Brass construction
Swirly out of focus effect (under right conditions)
Novelty value

Lomography Petzval 85mm f/2.2 Art Cons

Not very sharp, even in the centre unless stopped down
Stopping down diminishes the effect
Focus mechanism is sloppy and feels poorly machined
Waterhouse Aperture plates are easy to misplace and fit loosely
Effect limits compositional choices as the lens is only approaching sharp in the centre of the frame at fast apertures
Expensive

FEATURES
HANDLING
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY
VERDICT

Add your message