Rokinon 8mm f/3.5 Fisheye Lens for Canon EF

The Rokinon 8mm f/3.5 Fisheye Lens for Canon EF is a popular choice among photographers looking for an affordable ultra-wide-angle lens with a unique fisheye perspective. Here are some key features and details about this lens:

Key Features:

1. Focal Length: 8mm (ultra-wide-angle fisheye).
2. Aperture: f/3.5 (fixed maximum aperture).
3. Mount: Canon EF mount (compatible with Canon DSLR cameras).
4. Angle of View: 180° (diagonal), providing a dramatic, circular fisheye effect.
5. Manual Focus: The lens is manual focus-only, which means it does not have autofocus capabilities.
6. Manual Aperture Control: The aperture is also manually controlled, with a de-clicked aperture ring for smooth adjustments.
7. Optical Construction: 10 elements in 7 groups, including 1 aspherical lens.
8. Minimum Focus Distance: 0.3m (approximately 11.8 inches).
9. Filter Thread: None (due to the protruding front element).
10. Build Quality: Solid metal construction with a durable finish.

Pros:

• Affordable: Compared to other fisheye lenses, the Rokinon 8mm is relatively inexpensive.
• Wide Perspective: The 180° angle of view allows for creative and dramatic shots.
• Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry around, making it great for travel and outdoor photography.
• Sharp Images: Known for producing sharp images with minimal distortion (for a fisheye lens).
• Great for Astrophotography: The wide aperture and focal length make it suitable for capturing the night sky.

Cons:

• Manual Focus and Aperture: Requires some practice to master, especially for fast-moving subjects.
• No Autofocus: Not ideal for situations where quick focusing is necessary.
• No Electronic Communication: The lens does not communicate with the camera, so EXIF data (like aperture) will not be recorded.
• Circular Fisheye Effect: While creative, it may not be suitable for all types of photography.

Ideal Use Cases:

• Landscape Photography: Capturing vast scenes with a unique perspective.
• Architectural Photography: Emphasizing the curvature and lines of buildings.
• Creative Photography: Experimenting with the fisheye effect for artistic shots.
• Astrophotography: Capturing wide-field views of the night sky.
• Action Sports: Capturing dynamic shots in skateboarding, snowboarding, etc.

Conclusion:

The Rokinon 8mm f/3.5 Fisheye Lens is an excellent choice for photographers looking to explore the creative possibilities of a fisheye lens without breaking the bank. While it requires manual control, its sharpness, build quality, and unique perspective make it a valuable addition to any Canon EF shooter’s kit.