An Astrophotograher's Dream? A Review of the new AF 12mm f/2 from Samyang for Sony APS-C Cameras

Samyang/Rokinon recently unveiled its new AF 12mm f/2 lens for Sony mirrorless APS-C cameras, a prime that will delight keen astrophotographers. Just how good is this new lens?

Christopher Frost puts the AF 12mm f/2 through its paces and is largely impressed with the results, especially given the price point of $399. Astrophotographers will be particularly keen to check for the presence of any coma smearing and color fringing so be sure to watch to the end to see how well it performs. Weighing a mere 7.5 oz (213 g), this is an incredibly light lens and it’s great to see that Samyang/Rokinon now seems to be including some sealing as standard on all of its recent lenses despite a clear desire to keep weight down. The other update that the company has made recently is to its lens coatings — now UMC Ultra Multi-Coating — which Frost touches upon when discussing flaring.

Samyang/Rokinon has been busy of late, releasing the AF 24mm f/1.8 which full frame Sony shooters keen on capturing the night sky will be particularly interested. You can explore an online tour of each lens via the Samyang website by clicking here.

Will you be placing an order? Let us know in the comments below.

Andy Day's picture

Andy Day is a British photographer and writer living in France. He began photographing parkour in 2003 and has been doing weird things in the city and elsewhere ever since. He's addicted to climbing and owns a fairly useless dog. He has an MA in Sociology & Photography which often makes him ponder what all of this really means.

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