Mark Ellington
AstrHori 9mm F2.8 Ultra-Wide Lens
Ultimate Review of AstrHori 9mm F2.8 Ultra-Wide Lens: Perfect for Landscape & Night Photography
Introduction
The AstrHori 9mm F2.8 Ultra-Wide Lens is a remarkable addition to the world of photography, designed specifically for APS-C cameras. Manufactured by AstrHori, a brand known for its innovative optical products, this manual focus prime lens caters to photographers who are passionate about landscape, cityscape, architecture, and creative photography. With its wide-angle capabilities and low-light performance, it aims to elevate your photographic experience.
Product Overview
This lens is particularly notable for its impressive 150° field of view, which allows for expansive and dramatic compositions. It is constructed with 11 elements in 8 groups, incorporating extra-low dispersion and aspherical lenses to minimize distortion and chromatic aberration. The lens is compatible with various mounts including Sony E, Fuji X, Canon RF, Nikon Z, and M43, making it versatile for different camera systems.
Appearance and Design
The AstrHori 9mm F2.8 lens features a sleek, all-metal construction that gives it a robust and premium feel. Weighing in at approximately 307g, it is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for travel. Its aesthetic is both modern and functional, with a matte black finish that reduces glare and adds a touch of sophistication. The manual focus ring is textured for improved grip, allowing for precise adjustments even in challenging shooting conditions. The lens design includes a petal-shaped lens hood that helps prevent flare while enhancing the overall profile of the lens.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 9mm (equivalent to 13.5mm on full-frame sensors)
- Aperture: F2.8 (adjustable up to F16)
- Field of View: 150°
- Construction: 11 elements in 8 groups
- Close Focusing Distance: 0.2m
- Weight: Approximately 307g
- Compatibility: Sony E, Fuji X, Canon RF, Nikon Z, M43 mounts
- Warranty: One year manufacturer’s warranty
Experience Using the Product
During testing, the AstrHori 9mm F2.8 lens proved to be an excellent choice for both landscape and night photography. The wide field of view allowed for capturing expansive vistas with dramatic results. In daylight, stopping down to F16 ensured stunning depth of field and sharpness throughout the frame. The lens performed admirably in low-light conditions, with the F2.8 aperture allowing for exceptional light-gathering capability. The manual focus mechanism, while requiring a bit of practice, offered a rewarding level of control over composition, particularly when shooting at close distances. The lens also excelled in video shooting, providing smooth focus transitions and minimal distortion.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional wide-angle capabilities for dramatic compositions
- High-quality build with all-metal construction
- Lightweight and portable for travel photography
- Great performance in low-light situations
- Minimal chromatic aberration and distortion
Cons:
- Manual focus may not be suitable for all users, particularly beginners
- Limited to APS-C cameras, not suitable for full-frame users
- No image stabilization, which may be a drawback for handheld shooting
Conclusion
Overall, the AstrHori 9mm F2.8 Ultra-Wide Lens is a powerful tool for photographers looking to explore the expansive world of landscape and night photography. Its robust build, impressive optical performance, and unique design make it an excellent choice for both enthusiasts and professionals. While the manual focus may pose a challenge for some, the creative possibilities it offers are well worth the effort. For the price of $149, this lens stands out as a compelling option, providing excellent value for those seeking an ultra-wide perspective.
