Samyang / Rokinon 16mm F2 ED AS UMC CS

Fujifilm X

Review

The Samyang (or Rokinon) 16mm F2 ED AS UMC CS is a wide-angle lens that has gained popularity among photographers using the Fujifilm X mount system. This lens offers a fixed focal length that is perfect for landscape photography, architecture, and street photography. With its compact design and robust construction, it makes for a reliable companion for those who want to capture sweeping vistas or tight urban scenes.

Build Quality and Design

This lens boasts a solid build quality—primarily featuring a metal body that feels durable yet lightweight in hand. The internal structure minimizes the impact of environmental factors, which is excellent for outdoor shooting. The lens design is sleek and compact, making it easy to carry around without adding too much weight to your camera kit. The wide focus ring has a pleasing texture, allowing for easy manual adjustments, which many photographers will appreciate.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Samyang 16mm F2 is impressive for a lens in this price range. It offers excellent sharpness, especially when stopped down to F4 or F5.6, while the F2 aperture provides a decent depth of field for isolating subjects in certain compositions. The lens exhibits minimal chromatic aberration, which further supports its usability for various photography styles. However, distortion, while manageable, is noticeable at the edges in some situations, especially when shooting wide open.

Versatility

Being a wide-angle lens, the Samyang 16mm is versatile for various genres of photography. It excels at capturing vast landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor and travel photographers. The wide perspective also allows for unique street scenes, where the lens can accentuate the sense of depth and action within the frame. However, it may not be the best choice for portrait photography due to its wide field of view unless you're intentionally looking for a particular artistic effect.

Autofocus and Manual Control

One notable feature of this lens is that it is a manual focus lens, lacking autofocus capabilities. This may deter some photographers who prefer the convenience of autofocus systems. However, it can also be seen as a positive aspect for shooters who appreciate the art of manual focusing, enabling precise control over depth of field and focus points. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, providing enough resistance to allow for accurate adjustments.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Great build quality and compact design.
• Excellent sharpness, especially at mid apertures.
• Minimal chromatic aberration.
• Versatile for landscape and street photography.
• Smooth manual focus control.

Cons

• No autofocus capability may deter some users.
• Noticeable distortion at the edges when shot wide open.
• May not be suitable for traditional portrait photography.

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon 16mm F2 ED AS UMC CS is a strong contender in the wide-angle lens category for Fujifilm X mount users. Its solid build, excellent optical performance, and versatility make it an attractive option for photographers looking to expand their creative horizons. However, the lack of autofocus may be a dealbreaker for those who prioritize speed and convenience in their shooting process. For dedicated photographers who value control and manual focus, this lens can serve as an essential tool for capturing breathtaking images.