AstrHori 28mm f/13 Macro Probe

Canon EF

Review

The AstrHori 28mm f/13 Macro Probe lens for Canon EF mount is a unique and innovative addition to the world of macro photography. This lens stands out due to its slim, elongated design, which allows photographers to achieve incredible close-up shots and explore the tiny details of the subject matter that would be difficult to capture with traditional lenses.

Design and Build Quality

One of the most striking features of the AstrHori 28mm f/13 is its unusual form factor. The lens is approximately 30 centimeters long, making it almost an extension of your camera body. This design allows for extreme close focusing distances without the need for a traditional macro lens approach. The build quality is solid, featuring a robust metal construction that feels durable and professional in hand. The lens also sports a removable rubber front cap to protect the lens when not in use.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the AstrHori 28mm f/13 Macro Probe lens truly excels. Despite its affordable price point, it delivers sharpness and clarity that can rival much pricier alternatives. The f/13 aperture, while limiting in terms of depth of field, ensures excellent detail in macro shots. However, it's important to note that this lens is designed primarily for macro photography, so users may find its performance less impressive for general-purpose photography.

Unique Features

One of the most exciting features of this lens is its integrated LED ring light. This lighting element is a game changer for macro photography, especially when capturing tiny subjects or in low-light conditions. The adjustable brightness of the ring light ensures that you can illuminate your subject effectively without the harsh shadows that often come with traditional flash setups. Additionally, the lens supports a very shallow depth of field at close ranges, allowing creative possibilities that are unique to macro lenses.

Usability

While the unique design offers advantages for macro photography, it does come with its own set of usability challenges. The longer barrel can make it cumbersome to use in tight spaces, and the lack of autofocus means that photographers must rely on manual focusing, which can be challenging when working at such close distances. Moreover, the f/13 maximum aperture may not be suitable for all shooting scenarios, especially in situations that require a wider aperture for better subject isolation.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance for macro photography.
• Unique probe design allows for extreme close-up shots.
• Built-in LED ring light for enhanced subject illumination.
• Solid build quality that feels durable.

Cons

• Lengthy design can be cumbersome in tight spaces.
• Lacks autofocus, requiring manual focus.
• f/13 aperture may limit versatility for other photography styles.

Verdict

The AstrHori 28mm f/13 Macro Probe lens is a testament to innovation in macro photography. Its unique design and built-in lighting make it a valuable tool for those serious about exploring the minute details of their subjects. While it may not be an all-purpose lens due to its quirks and limitations, for dedicated macro photographers, this lens offers incredible capabilities that can elevate your photography. If you’re looking to delve into the fascinating world of close-up imagery, the AstrHori 28mm f/13 is certainly worth considering.