Mark Ellington
Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 Wide Angle Lens
Introduction
The Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS Wide Angle Lens is a specialized lens designed for Fujifilm X-series mirrorless cameras. Manufactured by Rokinon, a brand known for its high-quality optics, this lens is intended for photographers looking to capture expansive landscapes, architectural masterpieces, and low-light scenes with stunning clarity. With a fast aperture and advanced optical design, the Rokinon 12mm lens aims to deliver exceptional image quality and versatility.
Product Overview
Featuring a sleek black design, the Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 lens is both lightweight and compact, making it an ideal companion for photographers on-the-go. The lens incorporates advanced optical elements, including 3 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and 2 aspherical elements, which work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion, ensuring crisp and clear images across the frame.
Appearance and Design
The Rokinon 12mm lens sports a modern aesthetic with a robust build quality. Its matte black finish gives it a professional look, while the smooth manual focus ring allows for precise adjustments. Weighing in at just under 9 oz, this lens is highly portable. The elongated focus throw provides excellent control over focusing, making it easier to achieve the desired sharpness in your shots. The lens also features a Nano Coating System that helps suppress flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color accuracy.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 12mm
- Aperture: f/2.0
- Angle of View: 98.9°
- Lens Construction: 12 elements in 10 groups, including 3 ED and 2 aspherical elements
- Weight: Approximately 8.4 oz (239 g)
- Manual Focus: Yes
- Compatible Mount: Fujifilm X
- Price: $219
- Warranty: 1 year
Experience Using the Product
During my time using the Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 lens, I tested it in various scenarios, including landscapes, cityscapes, and low-light environments. The ultra-wide angle was fantastic for capturing expansive vistas without distortion at the edges. I was particularly impressed with the lens’s performance in low-light conditions. The f/2.0 aperture allowed me to shoot in dimly lit environments, producing vibrant images that retained detail without excessive noise.
In urban settings, the lens excelled at capturing architecture with precision, providing a sense of depth and space. The manual focus feature took some time to get used to, but it ultimately allowed for greater creative control. Whether I was shooting a sunset over mountains or an intricate interior of a building, the Rokinon 12mm lens delivered sharp and colorful images that exceeded my expectations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent image quality with minimal distortion
- Fast f/2.0 aperture for low-light scenarios
- Lightweight and compact design for portability
- Precise manual focusing for creative control
- Affordable price point for the quality offered
Cons:
- Manual focus may not be suitable for all users
- Non-zoomable lens limits versatility in certain situations
Conclusion
Overall, the Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS Wide Angle Lens is an outstanding choice for Fujifilm X users seeking a high-quality, wide-angle lens. Its combination of advanced optics, fast aperture, and compact design make it an excellent tool for capturing stunning images in various conditions. While the manual focus may not appeal to everyone, those willing to adapt will benefit from the lens’s precision and image quality. At a price point of $219, it presents great value for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
