Review 2 of 11
Price Paid:
$750.00
from B&H Summary: Decided to upgrade everything after 30 years, so semi retired the F2's and got a F5. Wanted to take advantage of the auto focus. Purchased this lens to replace an older Sigma 16mm fisheye. I was very happy with the Sigma but figured It was time to upgrade that lens too.
This lens was a very big surprise when I got it. The size of it was shocking. I couldn't believe this was the right lens. It's more the size of a 35mm than what I expected. The Sigma is considerably larger and for 180 degrees I expected a big bulbous front lens. This lens is actually 180 corner to corner, I believe about 160 degrees across, I guess like TVs. But for my use, this is fine. I just wanted a super wide without too much edge distortion.
Test shot a roll of film and am very pleased with the lens. All pictures were very very sharp. I seldom worry about color since that may be the labs problem and color can be corrected in the lab if necessary. Want a hint if you only use your cameras meter? Shoot a clearly labeled 16% grey card on the first frame so the lab has a reference point. 90% of the time my pictures are not that critical so I just go with their basic settings.
The pictures were sharp, edge to edge. If you shoot level without a reference object at the edge, the distortion at the edges is not that noticable. Of course if you tilt the lens you will get the exaggerated effect you see in a lot of photos.
Overall I am very pleased with the lens. The size alone makes it a great addition to carry along. I typically use a full frame fish eye for city skylines and a couple of times inside caves. I believe for the cost, this is a fine lens.
Unlike others, I have no problem with the rubberized/plastic slide on lens cover. The Sigma had a metal one that could slip off very easily. Strengths: Size. Unbelieveable for such a super wide.
Sharpness. Very sharp edge to edge.
Price. Unlike other reviewers, I believe for the size/weight of this lens, the coverage provided and the quality of the pictures, this lens is a real value. Weaknesses: The auto focus does seem to wander quite a bit, but it does focus in a less than a second. Not as fast as the other AF Nikkors, but I figure it has a lot more coverage area to focus on. Hasn't really been a problem yet. Similar Products Used: Sigma 16mm Full frame Fisheye Customer Service: Not used on this lens. Past experience is that you better keep the original sales receipt and the warranty slips with the lens model and serial number.
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