Irix 15mm F2.4

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Irix 15mm F2.4 for Nikon F (DX) is a unique wide-angle lens that offers a host of features particularly appealing to landscape and architecture photographers. This lens stands out due to its stunning optical performance and build quality, making it a compelling choice in the ultra-wide category.

Optical Quality

The Irix 15mm F2.4 is equipped with a robust optical design that employs a number of high-quality glass elements. With 16 elements in 11 groups, this lens is designed to minimize distortion and chromatic aberrations even at its widest aperture. The lens produces sharp images with impressive detail from the center to the corners, which is pivotal for landscape captures where detail plays a key role. The fast maximum aperture of F2.4 allows for some creative depth of field control and performs fairly well in low-light conditions, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.

Build and Handling

One of the standout features of the Irix 15mm F2.4 is its solid construction, which is particularly appealing for outdoor photographers. It's designed to withstand the elements, featuring weather sealing that allows for usage in challenging environments. The full-metal body feels durable and robust in hand, giving a sense of quality. Additionally, the lens includes an ergonomic focus ring that has a smooth operation, allowing for precise manual focusing, an often essential feature in wide-angle photography.

Autofocus and Usability

It's important to note that the Irix 15mm F2.4 is a manual focus lens. While this may deter some users looking for autofocus convenience, the precision in focusing aids in producing excellent results once mastered. Ultra-wide angles can be forgiving in terms of depth of field, which means that even with manual focusing, achieving sharp imagery is generally achievable.

Distortion and Vignetting

Wide-angle lenses often battle with distortion, and while the Irix 15mm does exhibit some barrel distortion at wider apertures, it is handled better than many other models in the same range. The lens also features a slight vignette; however, this tends to be less noticeable when stopped down, especially for landscape photography where detail across the whole frame is paramount.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical quality with minimal distortion.
• Robust build with weather sealing for outdoor use.
• Fast aperture of F2.4 allows for low-light performance and bokeh effects.
• Smooth manual focus operation for better creative control.

Cons

• Lack of autofocus may not suit every user.
• Slight barrel distortion noticeable at wider apertures.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Irix 15mm F2.4 for Nikon F (DX) is an excellent choice for photographers who prioritize optical quality and rugged build over the convenience of autofocus. While manual focusing may require a learning curve, the results yield beautiful, sharp images that are perfect for wide landscapes and architectural shots. If you are a dedicated photographer who can appreciate the nuances of manual focus, the Irix 15mm F2.4 will undoubtedly enhance your photographic toolkit.