Mark Ellington
Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 Wide-Angle Lens
Introduction
The Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 CS Lens for Sony E is a prime wide-angle lens designed for photographers and videographers who seek to capture stunning architectural and landscape images. Manufactured by Rokinon, a company known for its high-quality optics, this lens is a valuable addition to any Sony E-mount camera kit. With its fast aperture and advanced optical design, the Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 aims to deliver exceptional performance in a variety of shooting conditions.
Product Appearance and Design
The Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 CS lens features a sleek and modern aesthetic, with a sturdy black finish that gives it a professional appearance. The lens is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry during long shooting sessions. It boasts a unique design with a wide front element that not only enhances the lens’s ability to capture expansive scenes but also contributes to its overall visual appeal. The focus and aperture rings are well-damped, offering smooth operation and precise control over settings.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 12mm (35mm equivalent: 18mm)
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.0
- Optical Design: Three extra-low dispersion elements and two aspherical elements
- Coating: Nano Coating System for improved light transmission
- Part Number: RK12M-E
- Warranty: 1 year
- Color: Black
- Release Date: August 23, 2018
- Price: $219
Experience Using the Product
Using the Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 lens has been a delightful experience across various scenarios. Whether photographing sprawling landscapes or capturing intricate architectural details, the lens consistently delivers sharp and vibrant images. The fast f/2.0 maximum aperture is particularly beneficial when shooting in low-light conditions, allowing for greater flexibility without compromising image quality.
In landscape photography, the lens’s wide field of view allows for expansive compositions, while the low distortion levels ensure that straight lines remain true to form. During indoor shoots, the lens’s ability to gather light effectively makes it an excellent choice for shooting in dimly lit environments, such as churches or historic buildings. The Nano Coating System also helps to minimize flare and ghosting, resulting in contrast-rich images even when shooting towards the sun.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional image quality with minimal distortion
- Fast f/2.0 aperture for low-light performance
- Compact and lightweight design
- Well-built with a professional appearance
- Affordable price for the quality offered
Cons
- Manual focus may not appeal to all users
- No weather sealing, which may limit outdoor use in adverse conditions
- Limited focal length may not suit all photographic needs
Conclusion
Overall, the Rokinon 12mm f/2.0 CS Lens for Sony E is a remarkable lens that excels in delivering high-quality images in a variety of shooting scenarios. Its fast aperture, thoughtful optical design, and compact form factor make it a valuable tool for photographers looking to expand their creative horizons. While the manual focus may take some getting used to, the lens’s performance in low-light conditions and ability to capture stunning wide-angle shots more than compensates for this. At a price point of $219, it represents excellent value for anyone serious about landscape or architectural photography.
