A nifty fifty is a critical lens for many photographers dabbling with various genres. From good portraits to food to landscapes and weddings, one can achieve images that match the human perception. It’s also why many young photographers with a kit lens gradually shift to an f1.2 or f2.8 once they get the hang of it. What if we tell you there is a new 50mm that not only gives you a larger aperture but also has a unique glow-in-the-dark marking? Well, it is true; a new lens like this is reportedly on its way from Brightin Star for you.
The lead images within the article are screenshots from Photo Rumors.
What Does the 50mm Offer?
Brightin Star has produced affordable lenses for users, but they are now trying to offer something more—a fast aperture lens that is also called “Eye of the Night God”—50mm f0.95. Reported by Photo Rumors and Fujifilm Rumors, it also features unique markings on the top of the lens, which is supposed to help photographers shoot in the dark. The fluorescent engravings help one to use the focus and aperture scale better. Fujifilm Rumors also notes that the lenses were first announced via Brightin Star’s Weibo account.
In addition, the new 50mm is also supposed to be a manual-focus lens specially designed for cropped sensors. This means the APS-C lens will function well with only E, Nikon Z, Canon RF & EF-M, Fujifilm X, and even Micro Four Thirds sensors. Other than that, the company has not disclosed any information about its specifications. One can assume that the glow-in-the-dark markings will require one to get enough sunlight before they can use it with minimal or no light. The company also offers another 50mm f0.95 lens for full-frame cameras, which looks quite similar to the upcoming offering and can be confusing for many.
Is it Really Innovative?
An f0.95 aperture is not exactly new. TTartisan, Leica, 7artisans, Meike, and Zenitar all have similar offerings at different price points. As for glow-in-the-dark, that is also not exactly new either. Leica launched its stealth edition years ago, and the lens on the camera featured similar markings. There is also the Irix 15mm f/2.4 Blackstone, which features UV-reactive paint in low-light environments.
So, if you are wondering who the lens is for, our best guess would be astrophotography, or people prefer shooting night trails or environmental portraits. Other than that, we aren’t sure where else the markings would fit.
However, what we do like is that at least third-party lenses are trying to imagine the world differently. Not too long ago, SG-image announced a variable-shaped aperture, allowing photographers to capture unique bokeh. The lens was also cost-effective at just $168. Similarly, the Brightin Star 50mm follows a similar path. Although the price has not yet been disclosed, considering they have a $350 50mm f0.95 full frame lens, then its APS-C offering must cost less.
Since we have not tested the lens, we can’t really comment about it. However, as we often note, lenses or cameras perform decently well today. Whether it is a Sony or Fujifilm, one achieves decent image quality in proper light. The same goes for lenses. However, the major difference comes in the ease of use and its ability to capture images that aren’t sterile or clinical. We tested Funleader and Brightin Star’s 28mm f2.8 lens and thoroughly enjoyed it. So, our hope is that this lens is also unique in its markings and image quality.