7Artisans AF 135mm f/1.8 MAX Expected to Debut in May 2026

Darryl Lara Administrator

Darryl Lara is a portrait and concert photographer based in the Philippines. Since 2010, he has captured performances of some of the biggest local and international artists and built a strong presence in the concert scene. In 2022, he shifted to full-time writing and editing, where he now covers photography, technology, and gaming with the same passion for storytelling that defines his photography.

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By Darryl Lara

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Last updated 05/04/2026

7Artisans is reportedly preparing to launch a fast 135mm f/1.8 autofocus prime, adding another option to the growing lineup of third-party telephoto portrait lenses. The upcoming lens is expected to arrive as early as May 2026.

According to a report from Photo Rumors, the lens—referred to as the AF 135mm f/1.8 MAX—will be designed for full-frame cameras and released for Sony E, Nikon Z, and Leica L mounts.

A New Rival in the 135mm Space

The 135mm f/1.8 category has become increasingly competitive, with Viltrox’s AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB gaining attention for its performance and pricing. Early speculation suggests that 7Artisans’ version could be positioned as a more accessible alternative in the same segment.

Some reports even suggest the new lens may share similarities in design or concept with the Viltrox model, though this hasn’t been confirmed.

Portrait-Focused Design

As expected for this focal length, the 135mm f/1.8 MAX is geared toward portrait photography. The combination of a telephoto field of view and a wide aperture allows for strong subject separation and compressed backgrounds.

The lens is also rumored to focus as close as 0.68 meters, which would make it relatively flexible for tighter compositions. It’s expected to use 82mm filters, in line with other lenses in this class.

The new 7Artisans 135mm f/1.8 MAX lens (E/Z/L) will be released in May:https://t.co/zDY9ArGEPw pic.twitter.com/QSGzXJmmbJ

— Photo Rumors (@photorumors) May 1, 2026

Controls and Handling

Leaked details suggest the lens will include multiple physical controls, including two customizable function buttons. An aperture ring is also expected, though the Nikon Z version may use a programmable control ring instead.

Unlike the Viltrox 135mm, the 7Artisans model is not expected to include an OLED display on the barrel. That keeps the design simpler, and potentially helps keep costs down.

Launch Timeline

The 7Artisans AF 135mm f/1.8 MAX is expected to be announced sometime in May 2026. Images of the lens have already surfaced online, which typically suggests a launch is close. As with most early reports, final specifications and pricing have not yet been confirmed. More details are likely to emerge closer to the official announcement.

If the rumors hold, 7Artisans could soon offer another compelling option in the fast 135mm category—adding more competition to a segment that’s been heating up in recent months.