Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM Lens for Leica Camera

Key Takeaways

• The Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is known for its compact size and exceptional optical quality, making it ideal for street and travel photography.

• It features a unique T* coating, enhancing image contrast and reducing flare, which is particularly beneficial in challenging lighting conditions.

• This lens is compatible with Leica M mount cameras, providing a versatile option for photographers using these systems.

• Despite being an f/2.8 lens, it offers impressive sharpness and edge-to-edge clarity, even when used wide open.

• Second-hand markets can offer this lens at a more affordable price, making it accessible for photographers on a budget.

Overview of Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM

The Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is a standout piece of equipment that has earned a special place in the hearts of many photographers. This lens is celebrated for its compact size, high-quality construction, and remarkable optical performance. It’s a versatile tool that excels in various photography genres, particularly street and travel photography.

Designed to be compatible with Leica M mount cameras, this lens brings the renowned Zeiss quality to the Leica system. The “C” in its name stands for compact, and it truly lives up to this designation. Despite its small size, the lens does not compromise on performance, making it a favorite among photographers who value portability without sacrificing image quality.

Lens Compatibility and Application

The Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is designed for Leica M mount cameras, which are popular among professional and enthusiast photographers alike. This compatibility ensures that users of Leica cameras can enjoy the benefits of Zeiss optics without any compatibility issues. For a broader understanding of lens advantages, you might also want to explore the Voigtlander Ultron 28mm f/2 lens.

Image Samples

Seeing is believing, and the best way to appreciate the capabilities of the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is through the images it produces. The lens delivers stunning results, with sharpness, color accuracy, and contrast that stand out.

For instance, when I used this lens for street photography, I was impressed by how it handled various lighting conditions. The images were consistently sharp, with rich colors and excellent contrast. The T* coating played a significant role in reducing flare and maintaining image quality, even in harsh sunlight.

Price

Investing in high-quality lenses often comes with a significant price tag, and the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is no exception.

Second-Hand Market Insights

For those who are budget-conscious, exploring the second-hand market can be a viable option. The Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is available in various online marketplaces and camera stores that deal in used equipment.

Try looking for one in these shops:

• Wexphotovideo.com (UK)

• Amazon silver

• Amazon all variants

Optical Quality

The optical quality of the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is nothing short of impressive. It delivers outstanding sharpness across the frame, even when used wide open at f/2.8. The lens uses a Biogon design, which helps in minimizing distortion and maintaining high resolution from edge to edge. This makes it particularly suitable for architectural and landscape photography where straight lines and fine details are crucial.

Moreover, the T* coating on the lens elements enhances contrast and reduces flare, ensuring that your images remain clear and vibrant, even in challenging lighting conditions. This coating is particularly beneficial when shooting against strong light sources, such as the sun or street lights, as it helps to maintain the integrity of the image without unwanted artifacts.

Build Quality and Durability

When it comes to build quality, the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens stands out as a robust and well-constructed piece of equipment. The lens barrel is made of high-quality metal, providing a solid feel and ensuring durability over time. The focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for easy and accurate manual focusing.

• Material: High-quality metal construction

• Focus Ring: Smooth and precise

• Aperture Ring: Click-stopped for easy adjustment

• Weather Sealing: Not included, so extra care is needed in harsh conditions

The aperture ring is click-stopped, which means it offers tactile feedback as you change the aperture settings. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who prefer to adjust settings without taking their eyes off the subject. However, it’s important to note that the lens is not weather-sealed, so extra care is needed when using it in adverse weather conditions.

F2.8 vs F2 version?

One common question that arises is whether to choose the f/2.8 version of the Zeiss 35mm Biogon ZM lens or opt for the f/2 version. While both lenses offer excellent optical quality, there are some key differences to consider.

• f/2.8 Version: More compact and lightweight, excellent edge-to-edge sharpness

• f/2 Version: Wider maximum aperture, better for low-light and shallow depth of field

Ultimately, the choice between the two versions depends on your specific needs and shooting style. If you frequently shoot in low-light conditions or require a very shallow depth of field, the f/2 version may be the better option. However, if you value portability and still want exceptional image quality, the f/2.8 version is a fantastic choice.

Low Light Performance

Low light performance is often a critical factor for many photographers. While the f/2.8 version of the Zeiss 35mm Biogon ZM lens may not offer the same light-gathering capabilities as its f/2 counterpart, it still performs admirably in low light conditions. The lens’s sharpness and contrast remain consistent, even when shooting at its maximum aperture.

Pros and Cons Table

Downsides

Lens Focus Bump Concern

Another minor flaw is the smoothness of the focus ring. While many photographers appreciate the precision it offers, some may find it too smooth, making it challenging to achieve the desired focus quickly. This can be particularly noticeable when shooting in fast-paced environments where quick adjustments are necessary.

Additionally, the lack of weather sealing means that extra care is needed when using the lens in harsh conditions. While the lens is built to last, it may not be the best choice for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging weather.

Other Minor Flaws

Besides the price and the focus ring smoothness, there are a few other minor flaws worth mentioning. One such issue is the lack of a built-in lens hood. While this is not uncommon for lenses in this category, it does mean you’ll need to purchase a separate hood to protect the lens from flare and physical damage. Additionally, some users have reported that the aperture ring can be a bit too stiff, making it slightly challenging to adjust quickly.

Conclusion

The Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens is a remarkable piece of equipment that offers exceptional optical quality, robust build, and compact design. It’s an excellent choice for photographers who value portability and high performance, making it ideal for street, travel, and documentary photography.

While it comes with a few minor flaws, such as the higher price point and the lack of weather sealing, the benefits far outweigh these drawbacks. The lens’s sharpness, contrast, and overall image quality make it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.

Sample photos

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does this lens compare to Leica lenses?

The Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens offers comparable optical quality to many Leica lenses, with the added benefit of being more affordable. While Leica lenses are renowned for their craftsmanship and performance, the Zeiss lens provides a high-quality alternative that integrates seamlessly with Leica M mount cameras.

Can I use this lens on digital cameras?

Yes, the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens can be used on digital cameras that have a Leica M mount. Additionally, with the appropriate adapters, it can be used on other digital camera systems, making it a versatile option for photographers who shoot both film and digital. For example, you can learn more about using the Voigtlander Ultron 28mm f/2 lens on various camera systems.

What are the care and maintenance tips for this lens?

• Keep the lens clean and free of dust and debris.

• Use a lens hood to protect against flare and physical damage.

• Store the lens in a protective case when not in use.

• Avoid exposing the lens to extreme temperatures and moisture.

• Regularly check and clean the lens elements and mount contacts.

By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens remains in excellent condition and continues to deliver outstanding performance.

Where can I buy this lens?

You can purchase the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 Biogon ZM lens from various online retailers, camera stores, wexphoto, amazon and authorized Zeiss dealers. Additionally, second-hand markets and camera forums often have listings for used lenses at more affordable prices.

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to research and compare prices from different sources to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Additionally, consider buying from reputable sellers to avoid potential issues with counterfeit or damaged products.