Overview
Are you in the market for a high-quality lens that can capture stunning images? Look no further than the Olympus OM 135mm f2.8. This lens is a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering exceptional performance and build quality. In this detailed review, we’ll explore the various aspects of the Olympus OM 135mm f2.8, including its design, image quality, autofocus, and compatibility with different camera systems.
Design and Build Quality
The Olympus OM 135mm f2.8 is a beautifully crafted lens, with a classic, timeless design. It features a metal barrel and a weather-sealed construction, making it a durable and reliable choice for outdoor photography. The lens measures approximately 3.5 inches in length and weighs about 1.5 pounds, which is quite manageable for a telephoto lens. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, providing a comfortable shooting experience.
Image Quality
One of the standout features of the Olympus OM 135mm f2.8 is its exceptional image quality. This lens delivers sharp, detailed images with excellent contrast and color rendition. The f2.8 maximum aperture allows for low-light shooting and shallow depth of field, which is perfect for portrait photography. The lens also boasts a minimum focusing distance of 3.6 feet, which is ideal for capturing close-up shots.
Here’s a breakdown of the lens’s image quality characteristics:
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Sharpness | 9/10 |
| Contrast | 9/10 |
| Color Rendition | 9/10 |
| Bokeh | 8/10 |
Autofocus Performance
The Olympus OM 135mm f2.8 features a fast and quiet autofocus system, making it an excellent choice for action photography. The lens can focus down to 0.3 seconds, which is impressive for a telephoto lens. The autofocus performance is consistent, with minimal hunting and accurate tracking of moving subjects. However, it’s worth noting that the lens is not compatible with Olympus’s latest autofocus systems, so it may not perform as well with some newer camera models.
Compatibility and Mount Options
The Olympus OM 135mm f2.8 is available in several mount options, including Olympus OM, Four Thirds, and Pentax K mounts. This makes it a versatile lens that can be used with a wide range of camera systems. However, it’s important to note that the lens is not compatible with autofocus cameras, so you’ll need to use manual focusing for the best results. Additionally, the lens is not weather-sealed, so it may not be the best choice for outdoor photography in inclement weather.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Olympus OM 135mm f2.8 is a fantastic lens that offers exceptional image quality, build quality, and performance. Its classic design, fast aperture, and manual focusing capabilities make it an excellent choice for portrait, wildlife, and sports photography. While it may not be the best choice for all types of photography, its versatility and exceptional image quality make it a worthwhile investment for any photographer looking to add a high-quality telephoto lens to their collection.