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Pentax-D FA 645 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW Lens

The Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW is a 55mm f/2.8 lens designed for Pentax 645 mount cameras. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Pentax-D FA 645 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW Lens

Pentax-D FA 645 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW Lens

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Lens Overview — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

The Pentax-D FA 645 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW is a prime lens built for the Pentax 645 medium format camera system. With a maximum aperture of f/2.8, it offers solid light-gathering capability for a medium format standard prime, making it a versatile choice for portrait, documentary, and general-purpose shooting on 645-format bodies. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, giving photographers the flexibility to switch between shooting styles depending on the situation.

At 416 grams, it strikes a reasonable balance between the inherent size demands of medium format optics and practical portability in the field. The 67mm filter thread is a common size, making it straightforward to use with existing filter systems. As a prime lens in the standard focal length range, it is well-suited to photographers who value the optical simplicity and typically superior rendering characteristics that prime designs offer over zooms.

Designed specifically for the Pentax 645 mount, it integrates natively with compatible Pentax medium format bodies, ensuring full communication and autofocus functionality. This lens is a compelling option for anyone working within the Pentax 645 ecosystem who needs a reliable, fast standard prime.

Key Features — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

55mm Medium Format Prime: On the Pentax 645 system, 55mm delivers a roughly 35mm-equivalent field of view, making it a versatile standard focal length for documentary, portrait, and general-purpose work.

f/2.8 Maximum Aperture: Provides strong light-gathering capability for a medium format prime, enabling handheld shooting in lower light and moderate background separation.

SDM Autofocus Motor: Supersonic Drive Motor delivers quiet, smooth autofocus operation well-suited to both still photography and situations where noise is a concern.

All-Weather Construction: AW (All Weather) sealing protects against dust and moisture, allowing use in outdoor and challenging shooting conditions.

Internal Focus Design: IF (Internal Focus) means the lens length does not change during focusing, keeping balance consistent and allowing use with polarizing filters without rotation issues.

Aspherical Lens Element: AL (Aspherical Lens) construction helps control spherical aberration and distortion for cleaner rendering across the frame.

Lens Specifications — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesStudio, Travel
Lens TypePrime
FormatMedium Format
Zoom/PrimePrime
Focal Length55mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Camera SystemMedium Format
Lens MountPentax 645
AutofocusYes
Focus TypeAuto, Manual
Image StabilizationNone
Filter Thread67mm

Description — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

The Pentax-D FA 645 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW is a prime lens built natively for the Pentax 645 medium format system. With a focal length of 55mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, it sits in the standard focal length range and delivers consistent exposure performance across a variety of shooting conditions. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, making it adaptable to different workflows and subject types.

Weighing in at 416 grams, it is practical to carry and handle during extended shoots. The 67mm filter thread accommodates a broad range of commonly available filters, adding further versatility. Image stabilization is not present in this lens, so photographers should plan accordingly for low-light or slow-shutter work.

Designed exclusively for the Pentax 645 mount, it integrates seamlessly into the Pentax medium format ecosystem for a straightforward shooting experience.

Pros — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

  • ✓Maximum aperture of f/2.8 provides strong light-gathering for a medium format prime
  • ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus, offering flexible shooting control
  • ✓Native Pentax 645 mount ensures full system compatibility

Cons — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

  • ✗No image stabilization, which may be a drawback in lower-light handheld situations
  • ✗Exclusively compatible with Pentax 645 mount bodies, limiting flexibility across systems
  • ✗f/2.8 maximum aperture, while solid, is not as fast as some competing standard primes in other formats

Resources & Downloads — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

Frequently Asked Questions — Pentax 55mm f/2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

What camera systems is this lens compatible with?+
This lens is designed exclusively for the Pentax 645 mount, making it compatible with Pentax 645 medium format camera bodies. It is not compatible with other mounts without an adapter.
Does this lens support autofocus?+
Yes, the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation. This gives photographers the option to use AF for faster shooting or switch to manual focus when precise control is needed.
What is the maximum aperture of this lens?+
The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which provides good light-gathering capability and the ability to achieve subject separation in medium format photography.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
No, this lens does not include image stabilization. Photographers shooting in lower light or at slower shutter speeds will need to rely on in-body stabilization if available on their camera body, or use a tripod.
What filter size does this lens use?+
The lens uses a 67mm filter thread, which is a common and widely available size, making it easy to use standard screw-in filters for photography.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 416 grams, which is relatively manageable for a medium format prime lens and should be comfortable for extended handheld use.

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