BREAKING: The highly anticipated Viltrox 9mm f/2.8 Air FX Lens is set to revolutionize ultra-wide photography with its affordability and impressive performance. Priced at just $175, this lens is designed for Fujifilm, Sony, and Nikon systems and is ideal for photographers looking to capture expansive landscapes without sacrificing quality.
In a recent video demonstration, photographer Fransson showcased the lens in action on a serene beach at sunset, effectively highlighting its capabilities. The lens offers a remarkable 9mm focal length (equivalent to 13.5mm on full-frame), allowing users to capture stunning wide-angle shots even in tight spaces. The results are visually striking, with minimal distortion that keeps verticals and horizon lines in check, making it a strong contender for real estate and architectural photography.
Fransson emphasized how the lens excels in real-world scenarios, focusing on its practical use rather than mere specifications. Demonstrating its autofocus performance, he noted that the lens can focus as close as 5.11 inches (12.98 cm) from the sensor, creating almost macro-style images while still retaining the vastness of the background. This feature allows photographers to push foreground elements into the frame without distortion, enhancing creative possibilities.
The lens is constructed with 13 elements in 11 groups and features a maximum aperture of f/2.8, providing versatility for various lighting conditions. While it lacks image stabilization, this is less of a concern at this wide focal length, especially for video creators using stabilized camera rigs.
Fransson also addressed the lens’s handling, noting its compact design at 2.6 x 2.2 inches and weight of just 6.2 oz (175 g). The simple barrel includes a focus ring and a 58mm front filter thread, along with a USB-C port for firmware updates, ensuring that users can benefit from future performance enhancements.
For videographers, the lens’s control over flare and ghosting was tested, revealing some ghosting but overall acceptable performance, particularly for those shooting into backlight. This makes it an excellent option for handheld vlogging, where capturing both the subject and surroundings is crucial.
With the launch of the Viltrox 9mm f/2.8 Air FX Lens, photographers now have an affordable means to explore extreme focal lengths without investing in bulky zoom lenses. As more users begin to adopt this lens, it is expected to garner significant attention for its unique capabilities and value.
For more insights and to see the lens in action, check out the full video review from Fransson. This lens is poised to be a game-changer for many photographers and videographers, making the world of ultra-wide photography accessible to all.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!
