Lensbaby launched two new fixed focal length lenses Sol 45 and Sol 22. Whereas the Sol 45 is designed for full frame and APS-C sized cameras, the Sol 22 is specifically designed for Micro 4/3 sized cameras. Lenses feature a sharp focus area and soft edge blur combined with textured bokeh.
The lenses differ in focal length and minimum focusing distance. The Sol 45 lens has a focal length of 45 mm and a minimum focusing distance of 0.36 m. For the Sol 22 these values are 22mm and 0.08m respectively. The optical design of both lenses has three elements in two groups. They also have no aperture control, so the aperture value stays the same at f/3.5
The lenses have a tilt mechanism and aperture patterned blades for creative effects. The tilt mechanism allows you to move the lens up or down 8 degrees and is used to select the area of the frame that will remain sharp. The tilt mechanism also features a locking system that allows you to lock the selected position or adjust the lens so that the sharpness area always remains in the center of the frame.
The aperture blades are on the front of the lens and allow you to add texture to the bokeh pattern you create. Each is mounted on a separate hinge, so they can be used together or separately, and can be rotated with an adjustment ring to change their position from horizontal to vertical or diagonal. The process of shooting with lenses requires a minimum of adjustment and essentially boils down to selecting the sharpness area and adjusting the focus, made much easier if the tilt mechanism is permanently set to the center of the frame.
Price and availability
The lenses are available for order on the Lensbaby website for $199.95
Image examples:
© Gerri Jones
© Josh Chang
© Meg Loeks
© Chris Zielecki
© Chris Zielecki
These lenses sound intriguing! As a reader, I’m curious about their specific features and capabilities. Could you please elaborate on the unique qualities of Sol 45 and Sol 22? How do they differ from other lenses in terms of size, weight, and performance? Additionally, are there any notable advantages or limitations of these lenses that potential buyers should be aware of? Thank you!