AstrHori 28mm f/13 90° 2x Macro Probe

Canon RF

Review

The AstrHori 28mm f/13 90° 2x Macro Probe for Canon RF is an intriguing addition to the world of macro photography. This lens stands out due to its unique design, allowing photographers to capture extraordinary close-up details that are often missed with standard macro lenses. One of the most notable features is its elongated probe shape, which not only provides an interesting aesthetic but also enables the photographer to get much closer to the subject without disturbing it.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the AstrHori 28mm f/13 is commendable. The metal construction provides a solid and durable feel, essential for outdoor macro shooting. Its compact size makes it relatively lightweight, which is advantageous for handheld shooting in the field. Additionally, the lens features a 90-degree perspective, which opens up creative opportunities by allowing for unique framing and compositions.

The lens also lacks an autofocus mechanism, which can be a drawback for some users. While this limitation encourages photographers to hone their manual focusing skills, it can make it challenging to achieve sharpness during fast-paced shooting situations or with moving subjects. The f/13 aperture ensures a great depth of field despite the close focusing ability, although this can limit low-light performance.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the AstrHori 28mm f/13 impresses with its sharpness and detail at the center of the frame. It can produce stunning macro images, showcasing intricate textures and fine details that few lenses can manage. The color rendition is accurate, with good contrast levels and minimal chromatic aberration. However, as the focus moves toward the edges, there's a slight decline in sharpness, which is common in macro lenses.

Versatility

This lens excels in versatile applications, from insect and flower photography to product and texture shots. Its unique design allows photographers to fit the lens into tight spaces and capture angles that would be difficult with traditional lenses. That said, the specific purpose of this lens might not appeal to every photographer, especially those looking for a more general-purpose option.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique probe design allows for extreme close-ups.
• Excellent image sharpness and detail at the center.
• Durable metal construction with a lightweight design.
• Good color rendition and minimal distortion.

Cons

• Manual focus only may deter some photographers.
• Limited low-light performance due to f/13 aperture.
• Slight decline in edge sharpness.

Verdict

In conclusion, the AstrHori 28mm f/13 90° 2x Macro Probe for Canon RF is a niche lens that offers exceptional capabilities for macro enthusiasts and creatives looking to explore new photographic depths. While its design may not suit everyone's style, the lens delivers impressive image quality and a robust build, making it a worthy consideration for those who are serious about macro photography. Its manual-only focus and narrow aperture might push some away, but for dedicated macro photographers, it’s a tool that can provide unique perspectives and stunning results.