Samyang / Rokinon T-S 24mm F3.5 ED AS UMC

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon T-S 24mm F3.5 ED AS UMC is a tilt-shift lens designed for Nikon F (DX) mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for those looking to expand their creative horizons, especially in architectural and landscape photography. This lens offers a unique set of features that cater to photographers seeking precise control over perspective and depth of field.

Design and Build Quality

This lens boasts a solid build quality with a durable metal construction that gives it a premium feel. The focus and shift rings are well-damped, allowing for smooth adjustments, while the compact size makes it easy to handle. Weighing in at around 850 grams, it's relatively lightweight for a tilt-shift lens, making it a suitable option for extended shooting sessions.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Samyang T-S 24mm is commendable. It features a 16 elements in 11 groups configuration, including ED glass elements to reduce chromatic aberration and enhance image quality. At F3.5, the lens provides sharp images across the frame, but stopping down to F8 or F11 yields even better sharpness—ideal for landscape photography. The image quality remains impressive with minimal distortion and excellent color fidelity.

Tilt and Shift Functionality

What sets this lens apart is its tilt and shift functionality. The tilt allows for control of the plane of focus, which is perfect for creating selective focus effects or increasing depth of field without the need for a small aperture. The shift feature helps in correcting perspective errors, particularly when photographing tall buildings or infrastructure. Both functions offer a significant degree of freedom and creativity in image-making but require some practice to master.

Limitations

While the lens excels in many aspects, it does have its limitations. The maximum aperture of F3.5 may not be fast enough for low-light situations, making it less ideal for indoor photography without additional lighting. Furthermore, the lack of autofocus can be a drawback for photographers who prefer a quicker shooting experience. Manual focusing can be tricky, especially in fast-paced situations, but this is a common characteristic of specialty lenses, and those willing to take their time will benefit from its precision.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a solid metal construction
• Sharp images with minimal distortion
• Effective tilt and shift functionality for creative control
• Compact for a tilt-shift lens, making it easy to transport

Cons

• Maximum aperture of F3.5 may limit low-light use
• Manual focus only, which may slow down the shooting process

Verdict

In conclusion, the Samyang / Rokinon T-S 24mm F3.5 ED AS UMC is a fantastic lens for photographers looking to explore tilt and shift capabilities. Its solid construction, sharp optics, and effective perspective control make it a valuable addition to any Nikon F (DX) mount camera kit. While it may have some limitations regarding low-light performance and autofocus, the creative possibilities it offers are undeniably rewarding for those willing to invest the time and effort into mastering its functionalities. If you are serious about architectural or landscape photography, this lens is certainly worth considering.