Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye

Sony E

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye lens is an intriguing option for those looking to expand their creative photography capabilities, particularly for Sony E mount users. This lens offers a unique perspective that is hard to resist, especially if you're interested in architecture, landscapes, and those adventurous, out-of-the-box compositions that only a fisheye lens can provide.

Build and Design

One of the standout features of the Samyang 12mm F2.8 is its solid build quality. The construction feels robust, and the lens is surprisingly compact for a fisheye, making it easy to pack for your next photography adventure. With a metal lens barrel and a textured focus ring, it not only feels good in the hand but also gives a premium impression at a relatively affordable price point. The lens features a wide 180-degree field of view, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or cramped interiors.

Optics and Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Samyang 12mm F2.8 is impressive. It incorporates several special elements, including ED (extra-low dispersion) and aspherical lenses, which help to reduce chromatic aberrations and improve sharpness. Images captured with this lens are vibrant and have a good level of detail even at the edges, which can be a concern with other fisheye lenses.

However, the lens does exhibit noticeable distortion, a characteristic that's inherent to fisheye optics, but it's worth mentioning that the distortion is often quite pleasing and adds to the unique aesthetic that many photographers seek. The bokeh produced by this lens is not its strong suit, as fisheye lenses tend to have a large depth of field. That said, the rounded diaphragm blades help create softer background transitions compared to other wide-angle lenses.

Compatibility and Usage

This lens is designed specifically for Sony E mount cameras, offering seamless integration with features such as auto-focus. However, it's important to note that this lens is fully manual. Photographers who prefer the convenience of auto-focus may need to adjust their shooting style with this lens, as it relies heavily on manual focus for achieving precise results. This may pose a challenge for fast-moving subjects or in dynamic shooting environments, but it does allow for greater creative control, particularly in more static settings.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with a premium feel.
• Excellent field of view for creative wide-angle compositions.
• Good sharpness across the frame despite fisheye distortion.
• Robust optical design minimizes chromatic aberrations.

Cons

• Fully manual operation may not be suitable for all users.
• Distortion and bokeh may not appeal to everyone.
• Limited versatility for typical portrait or product photography due to the inherent characteristics of its fisheye design.

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.8 ED AS NCS Fisheye lens for Sony E mount is an outstanding addition to any photographer's toolkit who values creative expression and enjoys experimenting with perspective. While it may not be the most versatile option for everyday shooting, it excels in providing a distinct viewpoint that can elevate your photography to new heights. If you are comfortable with manual focusing and looking to capture unique images, this lens is well worth considering.