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Carl Zeiss Sonnar 180mm f/4 CF

Carl Zeiss · 1982-2013

The Zeiss Sonnar 180mm f/4 CF is a versatile moderate telephoto, roughly equivalent to 100mm on 35mm. Bridge between 150mm portrait lens and longer telephotos. The Sonnar design delivers classic rendering with beautiful bokeh.

Known for

  • Portraits
  • Fashion
  • Nature
  • Telephoto landscapes

Considerations

  • Can be handheld but tripod helps
  • Not as fast as some portrait options

Optical Characteristics

Sharpness (wide)
5/5
Sharpness (stopped)
5/5
Contrast
5/5
Flare Resistance
5/5
CA Control
4/5
Vignetting Control
5/5
Distortion Control
5/5

Bokeh: Beautiful Sonnar bokeh

Rendering: 3D pop with excellent separation

Color: Classic Zeiss

Common Issues

  • Very reliable, few issues

Buying Guide

Check shutter speeds and optics. Versatile and reliable.

Specifications

MountHasselblad V
Focal Length180mm
Max Aperturef/4
Min Aperturef/32
Aperture Blades5
Min Focus1.6m
Filter Size60mm
Weight760g

Optical Design

FormulaSonnar
Elements5
Groups4
CoatingZeiss T*

Pricing

£500 - £850

Typical used price

Mint: ~£1000

Versatile telephoto

Last verified: Jan 2025Report an error
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