It’s been a busy time for Samyang recently as soon after releasing the AF24 F1.8 FE (an impressive wide-angle lens for full-frame Sony cameras), the brand has quickly followed up with a release for APS-C shooters, too.
The AF 12mm F2 E is designed for Sony’s range of crop sensor cameras such as the excellent a6600 or a6000 and is in fact Samyang’s first autofocus wide-angle prime lens for crop sensor Sony mirrorless cameras. Of course, thanks to that crop factor, photographers actually get an equivalent focal length of 18mm, making this lens suitable for landscapes and architecture photography as well as astrophotography.
Along with offering a bright f/2 maximum aperture that will not only create shallow depths of field but will also help keep shutter speeds rapid when light levels start to fall, the AF 12mm F2 E features a ‘12 elements in 10 groups’ design that includes two Aspherical and three Extra-Low Dispersion elements to keep image quality at a premium level.
What’s more, Samyang explains that; ‘improved Ultra Multi Coating (UMC) has been applied to the lens elements in order to reduce surface reflection and prevent lens flare and ghosting for improved light transmission and more contrast-rich imagery’.
With a closest focusing distance of just 19cm, photographers will be able to use the wide focal length to make more of foreground interest in their scenes and the STM (Stepping Motor) will mean the autofocus system will speed up operation with photographers not needing to rely on manual focus.
What’s really incredible about the Samyang AF 12mm F2 E is its dimensions and by measuring only 59.2mm in length and tipping the scales at only 213g, this is a portable, go-anywhere lens. What’s more, its lightweight properties will be of interest to videographers using cameras like the a6600 on gimbals who are seeking a feather-like lens to pair with their set-up.
Other features include a durable, all-metal housing, an ergonomically designed grip with a micro pattern rubber ring and the Samyang AF12mm is built to last with weather-sealing and rear glass protection, to prevent dust, light rain, and snow from penetrating. Expected to ship from early May, the AF12mm F2 E will carry a price-tag of around £360.
