Samyang / Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 RF Canon RF
Review
The Samyang / Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 RF is a wide-angle lens designed specifically for the Canon RF mount, making it an enticing option for both landscape photographers and anyone who requires a broader field of view. With a maximum aperture of F2.8, this lens promises to deliver impressive image quality and performance, especially in low-light conditions.
One of the standout features of the Samyang AF 14mm is its autofocus capability, which has been a significant improvement compared to its manual-focus predecessors. The autofocus performance is notably quick and accurate, allowing you to effortlessly capture sharp images, even in dynamic scenes. This makes it an excellent choice for event photography, astrophotography, and architecture, where speed can be crucial.
In terms of optical quality, the lens features a combination of aspherical and low-dispersion elements, which helps in minimizing distortion and chromatic aberrations. The result is sharp images with good contrast and excellent color rendition, especially across the frame. The wide aperture also allows for some decent control over depth of field, providing opportunities for creative framing and isolation of subjects when needed.
On the downside, while the lens does exhibit solid performance, it is not without its flaws. Some users have noted that the edge performance can be somewhat soft when shooting wide open at F2.8. Additionally, distortion is present at the corners, although it's generally well-controlled thanks to the lens's advanced design. Vignetting can also be an issue when using the lens wide open, but this can often be corrected in post-processing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Good optical performance with minimal distortion
- Light and compact for a wide-angle lens
- Versatile for various photography styles including landscape and astrophotography
Cons
- Some edge softness at F2.8
- Vignetting noticeable at wide apertures
- May require post-processing to correct distortion
Verdict
Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 RF is an excellent option for Canon RF users looking for a high-quality wide-angle lens. While it has some minor drawbacks regarding edge sharpness and vignetting, its strengths in autofocus performance, compact design, and optical quality make it a strong contender in its category. Whether you're shooting sweeping landscapes or capturing the night sky, this lens can serve you well, offering a reliable and enjoyable photography experience.