AstrHori 18mm f/8 Macro Probe

Leica L-Mount

Review

The AstrHori 18mm f/8 Macro Probe lens for the Leica L mount is an intriguing addition to any macro photography enthusiast's toolkit. Known for its unique design and technical features, this lens offers a fresh approach to macro shooting, albeit with its distinct quirks.

Design and Build Quality

The most striking feature of the AstrHori Macro Probe is its elongated barrel, which stretches to about 30 cm. This clever design allows for a unique perspective on close-up subjects, enabling photographers to reach into tight or hard-to-access areas without disturbing the environment. The lens is built from high-quality materials, giving it a sturdy feel in hand. However, due to its size and weight, it may not be the most convenient for everyday carry, especially for casual photographers.

Optical Performance

The lens boasts a 18mm focal length, providing an expansive field of view that is perfect for extreme close-ups and wider macro shots alike. Its f/8 aperture tends to provide good sharpness across the frame, and the macro capabilities excel, allowing you to focus as close as 2 cm from the subject. Image quality is generally impressive, with well-defined details in focus areas. However, some users may find that bokeh is not as creamy or aesthetically pleasing as lenses with wider apertures.

Versatility

While the lens is primarily designed for macro photography, it can also serve well for other applications such as landscape photography due to its wide-angle capabilities. The lens performs reasonably well in various lighting conditions, although the lack of a wider aperture might limit its effectiveness in lower light situations. Moreover, the focus mechanism is manual, which can be a turn-off for those used to automated systems, but it also allows for fine-tuning that some photographers may appreciate when working on intricate macro details.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique elongated design provides unique shooting angles for macro.
• Excellent sharpness and detail at macro distances.
• Solid build quality that feels durable and substantial.
• Capable of serving both macro and wider landscape photography needs.

Cons

• Limited to f/8 aperture, which can restrict low-light performance.
• Manual focus only, which may not appeal to all users.
• Size and weight may be cumbersome for a walk-around lens.

Verdict

Overall, the AstrHori 18mm f/8 Macro Probe lens offers an innovative take on macro photography for Leica L mount users. Its design and optical characteristics cater well to specific use cases, particularly for those who are passionate about extreme close-ups. While it may not be the best choice for everyone, especially due to its manual focus and fixed aperture, it holds great potential for photographers willing to embrace its unique approach. If you’re looking to push the boundaries of macro photography, this lens is definitely worth considering.