No photo available for this lens
Production
1974
Country
Japan
Optical
The first version used a 7 elements in 6 groups design, while the later version may have used a 6 elements in 5 groups design, but this is uncertain.
Updated
Feb 15, 2026
Yashica ML 35mm f/2.8
Contax/Yashica (C/Y)
Overview
The Yashica ML 35mm f/2.8 is another example of Yashica's strategy of delivering quality optics to working photographers who couldn't justify Zeiss prices. The 35mm focal length was essential for street photography and photojournalism, and this lens delivered reliable performance day after day. While it never achieved legendary status, it served countless photographers who needed a wide lens that just worked.
Verdict: A practical wide-angle lens that won't win awards but won't let you down. If you need a 35mm for your C/Y kit and can't justify Zeiss prices, this delivers honest results. Not exciting, but effective.
Community Insights
What people love
- Very affordable wide-angle option
- Compact and lightweight
- Reliable, workmanlike performance
- Good build quality for the price
- C/Y mount versatility
- Neutral color rendering
What people dislike
- Not particularly exciting
- f/2.8 limiting in low light
- Overshadowed by Zeiss Distagon 35mm
- 6-blade aperture
- Some corner softness wide open
- Barrel distortion present
Pro Tips
- Use at f/5.6-8 for best across-frame sharpness
- Great documentary/street lens
- Pairs well with ML 50mm for a two-lens kit
- Hood recommended for flare control
Sources (2)
unknown-
https://japb.net/gear/gear-review-index/ds_yashica_cy_ml35f28/
Lens Heritage 2nd JSONsecondary
The Yashica ML 35mm f/2.8 is another example of Yashica's strategy of delivering quality optics to working photographers who couldn't justify Zeiss prices. The 35mm focal length was essential for street photography and photojournalism, and this lens delivered reliable performance day after day. While it never achieved legendary status, it served countless photographers who needed a wide lens that just worked.