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Viltrox’s New AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro Z Lens
credits: Viltrox
Nikon Z photographers now have another 85mm option, as Viltrox has brought its AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro design over from the Sony E-mount lineup. The new lens keeps the same optical layout as the E-mount model with 15 elements in 11 groups, including extra-low dispersion and high-refractive elements, along with an 11-blade aperture. The optical formula is designed to control axial chromatic aberration and maintain sharpness across the frame, while the aperture geometry produces a rounded blur profile. Autofocus is handled by the same dual HyperVCM motor setup, and the lens supports both AF and manual focus.
Most core specifications remain unchanged. The minimum focusing distance stays at 0.79 m (2.6 ft) and the front of the lens uses a 77 mm filter thread. The Nikon Z version is slightly heavier at 835 g (29.5 oz), around 35 g more than the Sony version, and is about the same overall size. The build is metal, with weather sealing in the usual spots, and Viltrox kept the USB-C firmware port on the mount, which has become standard for its newer lenses.
Image characteristics and general handling should match what Sony users already know, the lens keeps its internal focusing design, works smoothly with Nikon’s IBIS, and behaves like a typical fast 85mm at f/1.4. For reference, Nikon’s own lineup covers the same focal length at different levels, the Z 85mm f/1.8 S sits just below it in speed, while the Z 85mm f/1.2 S is the high-end option with much larger optics. The Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro Z is priced at $598 (€669).
Zeniko’s ZA12 Compact Camera Flash
credits: Zeniko
Zeniko has announced the ZA12, a small retro-style flash built to work with essentially any camera that uses a standard hot shoe, including Fujifilm, Sony, Canon, Nikon, Olympus, and others. Since it relies on a single-contact trigger rather than system-specific TTL pins, it operates purely in manual or classic auto modes. Inside is a 300mAh Li-ion battery charged over USB-C, and the unit is rated for roughly 400 full-power flashes per charge. Full-power recycle time is about 2.5 seconds, and output spans seven steps from 1/64 to 1/1.
The ZA12 is pretty compact, measuring about 55×47×36 mm and weighing 60 g (2.12 oz). The flash uses a dual-dial layout, one dial for ISO and power, the other for aperture. In manual use, you align the dials to your camera settings to get a calculated output, auto mode handles exposure for you. The approach is intentionally simple and relies on the built-in metering rather than any brand-specific communication.
Zeniko lists an operating range of –10°C to 40°C and standard hot-shoe syncing. Given its size, the ZA12 seems to be best suited for close-range lighting, small portraits, or travel situations where a full-sized strobe isn’t really practical. Pricing is at $50.
You can see full details on Zeniko’s website here
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