AstrHori 18mm f/8 (APS-C) 90° Macro Probe

Canon EF

Review

The AstrHori 18mm f/8 (APS-C) 90° Macro Probe lens is an intriguing addition to the world of macro photography, particularly for Canon EF mount users. This lens is uniquely designed for those who wish to explore the intricate details of small subjects, offering a fascinating wide-angle perspective that can reveal aspects of the world often overlooked.

One of the standout features of this lens is its exceptional close-focusing capability. With the ability to focus as close as 2.4 cm from the subject, photographers can capture stunningly detailed images of tiny subjects such as insects, plants, and other delicate objects. The 90° field of view adds to its versatility, allowing photographers to compose shots that are not only close-up but also include contextual backgrounds that add depth to the image.

Build quality is another strong point of the AstrHori 18mm f/8. The lens is constructed well, suggesting that it can withstand the rigors of fieldwork, making it suitable for outdoor shooting in various conditions. Its lightweight design ensures ease of handling, which is essential when working in tight or challenging shooting environments.

On the downside, the fixed f/8 aperture limits creativity in terms of depth of field control and low-light performance. Photographers accustomed to manipulating aperture for artistic effects might find this restrictive. Additionally, because the lens is specifically designed for macro photography, it may not be the ideal choice for general wide-angle shots.

When using the AstrHori 18mm f/8, users may notice some distortion and vignetting, particularly at the edges of the frame. While these characteristics can be corrected in post-processing to some extent, they may still detract from the overall image quality if not managed properly. Moreover, the lens is manual focus only, which can be a learning curve for those used to autofocus systems, particularly in demanding macro scenarios.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional close-focusing capability (2.4 cm).
• Unique 90° field of view excellent for macro contexts.
• Solid build quality, great for field use.
• Lightweight and easy to handle, even in tight spots.

Cons

• Fixed f/8 aperture limits creative depth of field control.
• Not ideal for general wide-angle photography.
• Noticeable distortion and vignetting at frame edges.
• Manual focus may be challenging for some users.

Verdict

The AstrHori 18mm f/8 (APS-C) 90° Macro Probe lens is a specialized tool that shines in the hands of dedicated macro photographers. With its impressive close-focusing capabilities and unique wide perspective, it opens up new possibilities for capturing the beauty of small subjects. However, potential buyers should weigh the limitations of fixed aperture, the manual focus experience, and possible optical imperfections against their specific needs. Overall, this lens is an excellent choice for those seeking to delve deeper into the fascinating world of macro photography with a Canon EF mount camera.