The Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8 for Nikon Z is a medium-telephoto prime designed for portraiture and selective subject isolation. The 135mm focal length delivers natural compression for flattering perspectives, while the bright f/1.8 aperture supports low-light shooting and precise depth of field control.

An advanced optical design, fast HyperVCM autofocus, and robust weather-sealed construction make it suitable for both studio and outdoor work. With smooth bokeh, strong edge-to-edge sharpness, and reliable handling, it fits comfortably into professional stills and video workflows.

Who this is for

• Portrait photographers working in studio or on location
• Hybrid shooters capturing both stills and video
• Creators who want strong subject separation and clean background blur
• Nikon Z users needing a fast, high-quality telephoto prime

At a glance

• 135mm medium-telephoto prime for Nikon Z
• Fast f/1.8 aperture for low light and shallow depth of field
• HyperVCM autofocus motor with fast, quiet performance
• 14-element, 9-group optical design with ED and HR elements
• 11-blade diaphragm for smooth, circular bokeh
• Minimal focus breathing for video work
• Dual Fn buttons and custom control ring
• 0.72m minimum focus distance
• Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body
• USB-C port for firmware updates
  

Component breakdown

135mm focal length
Gives natural compression that flatters facial features and separates subjects from the background—ideal for portraits.

f/1.8 aperture
Lets in more light for low-light environments and creates a shallow depth of field for strong subject isolation.

HyperVCM autofocus motor
Delivers fast, precise focusing with near-silent operation. Useful for both stills and video where speed and quietness matter.

Advanced optics (14 elements in 9 groups)
Includes 4 ED and 2 high refractive index elements to reduce chromatic aberration and maintain sharpness across the frame.

11-blade diaphragm
Produces smooth, rounded bokeh for more natural-looking background blur.

Internal focusing system
Maintains balance when focusing, helpful when using gimbals or rigs.

Custom controls
Dual Fn buttons, a multi-function ring, and a focus limiter switch allow quick access to frequently used settings.

Weather-sealed construction
Protects key areas from dust and moisture, supporting use in more demanding environments.

Why choose this lens

This lens combines classic 135mm portrait rendering with modern autofocus performance and video-friendly features. The fast aperture and optical design give consistent sharpness and pleasing bokeh, while the quiet AF and reduced focus breathing make it equally capable for video.

Customisable controls and durable construction add practical advantages for professional use, whether in controlled studio setups or unpredictable outdoor conditions.

Ideal uses

• Portrait photography (studio and location)
• Fashion and editorial work
• Interviews and talking-head video
• Detail-focused close-ups with shallow depth of field
• Cinematic telephoto shots