Zeiss 28mm f/2 Distagon (on Canon)

I’ve begun shooting/testing the new Zeiss ZE 28mm f/2 Distagon (Guide to Zeiss ZF/ZE Lenses has long covered the ZF/Nikon mount version in detail). Like the 21/2.8 Distagon, the ZE 28/2 Distagon offers near-macro capabilities. My first impression is that I prefer the extreme perspective of the Zeiss 21/2.8 Distagon, but both lenses attain a very similar magnification.

But first may I say that one of the true pleasures in life of the late fall is picking a juicy red ripe pomegranate off one’s own tree, which I planted 17 years ago. Work and effort should always be rewarded, and nothing beats the literal fruits of one’s own labor.

The ZE 28/2 Distagon feels absolutely rock solid sturdy on Canon EOS, nicely balanced and with luxuriously damped focus along with ample “throw” for fine adjustments. This is a pleasurable lens to work with, one that will never go out of style if you like such things.

I’m also struck by the color rendition and contrast, which come through as very lively and pleasing. This comes as no surprise really, but impressions are always worth noting.

Bokeh is very pleasing with nice “motion”. Shooting the lens wide open offers creative possibilities by exploiting the vignetting and shallow depth of field. I focused tonight’s shooting on close-ups at f/2. Like the 21/2.8 Distagon, I’ll likely post a whole new page of high-res examples in Guide to Zeiss ZF/ZE Lenses.