AstrHori 12mm f/2.8 Fisheye

Canon RF

Review

The AstrHori 12mm f/2.8 Fisheye lens for Canon RF mount delivers a unique perspective that is both captivating and fun to work with. This lens is engineered specifically for ultra-wide-angle photography, and its fisheye effect adds a distinct twist to the compositions. With its fast f/2.8 aperture, it excels in low-light conditions while allowing for shallow depth of field effects, which can be intriguing for creative shots.

One of the standout features of the AstrHori 12mm is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at a mere 452 grams (approximately 1 lb), it becomes an excellent companion for travel photographers looking to minimize the weight of their gear. The build quality feels solid, and the metal construction adds to its durability while maintaining a premium feel in hand.

In terms of optical performance, the lens is impressive with minimal distortion for a fisheye lens, which is often a concern for photographers venturing into this niche. It effectively captures wide scenes with vibrant color reproduction and good contrast. The sharpness is commendable, especially in the center of the frame, although there may be softer areas toward the edges, a characteristic common in fisheye designs. Chromatic aberration is fairly well-controlled, but some noticeable fringing may appear in high-contrast situations.

The lens also features a 180-degree field of view, providing a distinctively exaggerated perspective that is particularly effective in landscape, architecture, and creative portrait photography. However, using this lens does require an understanding that it will introduce significant bending of straight lines unless you intentionally seek that effect.

One aspect that may turn some photographers away is the lack of image stabilization. In situations where you might be shooting handheld in dim lighting, this could be a drawback as it makes it harder to manage motion blur at slower shutter speeds. Additionally, the lens has a fixed aperture, which limits flexibility when it comes to exposure adjustment in changing light conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design ideal for travel.
• Fast f/2.8 aperture benefits low-light photography.
• Exceptional sharpness in the center with vibrant color reproduction.
• Minimally distorted images for a fisheye lens with a good control of chromatic aberration.
• Offers creative and unique perspectives.

Cons

• No image stabilization, which may affect handheld shooting.
• Slightly soft edges compared to the center.
• Fixed aperture can limit exposure flexibility.

Verdict

The AstrHori 12mm f/2.8 Fisheye lens for Canon RF mount proves to be an exciting tool for photographers interested in exploring the unique visual possibilities provided by a fisheye perspective. Its compact size, attractive optical qualities, and f/2.8 aperture make it a valuable addition to any creative photographer's toolkit. While it does have some limitations, particularly regarding image stabilization and edge sharpness, the advantages it brings in terms of design and visual creativity outweigh these drawbacks, making it a worthy investment for those ready to embrace its unique characteristics.