1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and care of your VILTROX AF 25mm F1.7 Z-Mount lens. Designed for Nikon Z-mount APS-C cameras, this lens offers a bright f/1.7 aperture and fast autofocus, making it suitable for various photographic applications. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
2. Product Features
- Bright f/1.7 Aperture: Enables excellent low-light performance and produces pleasing background blur (bokeh), ideal for portraits and creative photography.
- Optimized Optical Design: Features 12 elements in 10 groups, including 2 High Refractive (HR) elements, 1 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) element, and 2 Aspherical (ASPH) elements. This design minimizes chromatic aberrations, distortion, and flare for high image quality.
- 38mm Equivalent Focal Length: Provides a natural perspective on APS-C sensors, suitable for landscapes, portraits, and general everyday shooting.
- Fast Autofocus and Low Focus Breathing: Equipped with a new STM motor for quick, precise, and quiet autofocus. Minimized focus breathing ensures stable framing during video recording.
- Compact & Lightweight Design: Weighs approximately 180g, enhancing portability for photographers on the go.
- 0.3m Minimum Focusing Distance: Allows for detailed close-up shots, expanding the lens's versatility.
3. What's in the Box
The image above displays the typical contents included with your VILTROX AF 25mm F1.7 Z-Mount lens package.
- VILTROX AF 25mm F1.7 Z-Mount Lens
- Front Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap
- Lens Hood
- Lens Pouch
- Warranty Card
- Instruction Manual (this document)
4. Setup
4.1 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera
- Ensure your camera is powered off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 Z lens and the body cap from your Nikon Z-mount camera.
- Align the white dot on the lens barrel with the white dot on your camera's lens mount.
- Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
This image shows the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 Z lens correctly attached to a Nikon Z-series camera body, ready for use.
4.2 Removing the Lens
- Ensure your camera is powered off.
- Press and hold the lens release button on your camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it detaches from the camera mount.
- Immediately attach the rear lens cap to the lens and the body cap to the camera to protect the sensors and lens elements from dust.
4.3 Attaching the Lens Hood
The included lens hood helps to prevent flare and ghosting caused by stray light entering the lens. Align the lens hood with the front of the lens and twist it until it locks into place. Ensure it is securely attached.
4.4 Firmware Updates
The lens features a USB-C port on its mount for firmware updates. Connect the lens to a computer using a USB-C cable and visit the official VILTROX website for the latest firmware and update instructions. Keeping your lens firmware updated ensures compatibility and optimal performance.
This image highlights the metal lens mount and the USB-C port located on the rear of the lens, used for firmware updates.
5. Operating the Lens
5.1 Autofocus (AF)
The VILTROX 25mm F1.7 Z lens is equipped with an STM stepping motor, providing fast, precise, and quiet autofocus performance. To use autofocus, set your camera's focus mode to AF. The lens supports various AF modes available on your Nikon Z camera, including single-shot AF (AF-S) and continuous AF (AF-C).
The lens is designed to be lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and operate for extended periods.
5.2 Manual Focus (MF)
To use manual focus, set your camera's focus mode to MF. Rotate the focus ring on the lens to adjust focus. Your camera's focus peaking and magnification features can assist in achieving critical focus.
5.3 Aperture Control
The lens features a bright f/1.7 maximum aperture. Aperture is controlled electronically through your camera body. Adjusting the aperture allows you to control the depth of field and the amount of light entering the lens.
5.4 Focus Breathing
This lens is designed with minimized focus breathing, which means the angle of view remains largely consistent when adjusting focus. This feature is particularly beneficial for video recording, preventing distracting changes in framing.
5.5 Sample Images
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Use a blower brush to remove dust and loose particles from the lens surface.
- For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics, along with a small amount of lens cleaning solution. Apply the solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
- Wipe gently in a circular motion from the center outwards.
- Avoid touching the lens elements with your fingers.
6.2 Storage
- Always attach the front and rear lens caps when the lens is not in use.
- Store the lens in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If storing for extended periods, consider using a dehumidifying cabinet or silica gel packets to prevent mold and fungus growth.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Lens not recognized by camera | Improper mounting; dirty electrical contacts; outdated firmware. | Re-mount the lens securely; clean lens and camera contacts with a dry cloth; check for and install latest firmware. |
| Autofocus is slow or inaccurate | Low light conditions; camera AF settings; dirty lens elements; outdated firmware. | Ensure adequate lighting; check camera AF mode (e.g., switch to AF-S for still subjects); clean lens; update firmware. |
| Images are blurry or soft | Incorrect focus; camera shake; dirty lens; shooting at extreme apertures. | Verify focus; use a faster shutter speed or tripod; clean lens; try shooting at f/2.8 or f/4 for optimal sharpness. |
| Lens not focusing in manual mode | Camera still in autofocus mode. | Set camera's focus mode to MF (Manual Focus). |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 25mmF1.7STM(Z-mount) |
| Focal Length | 25mm (38mm equivalent on APS-C) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.7 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 |
| Lens Mount | Nikon Z |
| Format Compatibility | APS-C |
| Optical Design | 12 Elements in 10 Groups (including HR, ED, ASPH elements) |
| Autofocus Motor | STM (Stepping Motor) |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.3m (1 ft) |
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | 2.22 x 2.52 x 2.52 inches (approx.) |
| Weight | 180g (6.3 ounces) |
| Firmware Update Port | USB-C |
9. Official Product Videos
9.1 VILTROX 25mm f1.7 Z Lens Overview
This video provides a brief overview and unboxing of the VILTROX AF 25mm F1.7 Z-Mount lens, demonstrating its compact size and how it attaches to a camera.
9.2 AF 25mm F1.7 Air Z Nikon Half-Frame Humanities Lens Showcase
This video showcases the VILTROX AF 25mm F1.7 Air Z lens, highlighting its features and providing examples of its use in various photographic scenarios, including humanities and street photography.
10. Warranty and Support
VILTROX products are covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms, registration, and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official VILTROX website. If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual, please contact VILTROX customer service for assistance.
Official VILTROX Website: www.viltrox.com
