The year 2014 saw the launch of various lenses. From iconic DSLR zoom options to some exciting prime lenses for both full-frame and APS-C models. While Canon, Sony, and Nikon each launched some great focal ranges, other brands, such as Tamron, Rokinon, and Sigma, attempted to offer something different. If you’re looking for a distinct lens, these offerings can be of help to you. Have a look.
Rokinon 8mm f2.8 Fisheye II
The Rokinon 8mm f2.8 Fisheye II is an exciting offering that is great for any creative shoot. A manual focus lens, the 8mm features 11 elements in 8 groups, and is designed for APS-C cameras. It has a wide open aperture, a close focusing distance of 30cm, and weighs just 275g. Some of the things it excels at include its use in low-light conditions, solid color rendition, and a sturdy build. It is also designed to reduce flair. Since it is a fisheye lens, you get enough detail in your scene, which is quite liberating for landscape and interior photographers. However, the fisheye effect is ideal if you want to create images that are distinct, such as for portraits or concert photography.
Samsung 45mm f1.8 2D/3D
The Samsung 45mm offers both 2D and 3D imaging capabilities. 2D mode allows you to shoot normal images, but when you switch to 3D mode, a secondary dual LCD shutter system will come in front of the optical path. This blocks one of the sensors and creates two slightly different images on the sensor. It is designed for the NX mount, has a minimum focusing distance of 0.5m, and features 7 elements in 6 groups. Some of the things it excels at include a smooth focusing range, a simple lens design, and spectacular bokeh. The colors in the images are great, and the autofocus is fast in most situations. It is an ideal lens for many genres of photography.
Lomography 85mm Petzval Lens
The Lomography Petzval is an 85mm lens designed for DSLR cameras. Some of its features include a 44mm image circle, manual focus, and a close focusing distance of 1m. There is also a 58mm filter thread. Its plus points include swirly bokeh, great color rendition, and superb sharpness. The build is another reason to consider it. As we said in our review, “The Lomography’s Petzval lens has color rendition that can easily rival that one a Canon L lens. It was shocking to see just how good the colors are: especially with skin tones.”