Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye

Canon EF

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye lens for Canon EF mounts is a unique addition to any photographer's kit, especially for those who enjoy creative wide-angle perspectives and distinctive visual storytelling. With its impressive build quality and intriguing optical characteristics, this lens has carved out a niche for itself among both amateur and professional photographers.

Design and Build Quality

The lens exhibits a robust construction that feels durable in hand. It's relatively compact for a fisheye lens, making it easy to carry around. The matte black finish gives it a sleek look, while the manual focus ring provides a good amount of resistance, allowing for precise adjustments. However, being a fully manual lens can be a drawback for some, as it requires the photographer to adapt to focusing without electronic assistance.

Image Quality

In terms of image quality, the Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 delivers excellent performance. The wide f/2.8 aperture allows for good low-light capabilities and provides a shallow depth of field, which can be creatively exploited. The lens is sharp in the center even at wide open apertures, and while the edges are slightly softer, this is typical for fisheye designs. Distortion, though inherently part of fisheye characteristics, is well controlled, creating a pleasing perspective that many photographers will find appealing.

Usability

This lens is designed for creativity, making it an excellent choice for landscape, architecture, and even creative portraits. The 180-degree field of view provides an extraordinary perspective, allowing photographers to include more elements within a frame than a standard wide-angle lens would. However, the fisheye effect may not be suitable for all genres of photography. Additionally, manual focusing means that photoshoots in dynamic environments may require more attention and practice to capture sharp images consistently.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a durable and sleek design.
• Wide f/2.8 aperture for low-light photography and creative depth of field.
• Produces distinctively artistic images with a broad 180-degree field of view.
• Sharp in the center, making it suitable for landscape and architectural photography.

Cons

• Fully manual focus can be challenging for those accustomed to autofocus.
• The fisheye distortion may not be desirable for all types of photography.
• Slightly soft edges could be an issue for critical applications.

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye lens for Canon EF mounts is a well-crafted and creative option for photographers looking to delve into the world of fisheye optics. While it has its quirks, particularly regarding manual focusing and distortion, it excels in delivering unique perspectives and stunning artistic effects. If you’re willing to adapt your shooting style, this lens can open up a realm of creative possibilities that can enhance your photography portfolio.