The Samyang 14mm f/2.8 is a relatively new lens that has become quite popular because of its price. This lens is manufactured in Korea, and it comes in a variety of different mounts. This specific model is made with an F-mount, so I can use it on my Nikon FM. This lens also has electronic contacts that will enable you to change apertures in camera on more modern cameras. I purchased this lens brand new at B&H for a little over $300 which is an absolute bargain for a focal length like this. Samyang makes a large variety of manual lenses that cost a fraction of their name brand counterparts. For instance Samyang sells this lens for a little over $300 and Nikon's 14mm f/2.8 costs nearly $1900. Obviously, these two lenses are drastically different and the Samyang is only manual focus, but you still can achieve the same focal length and maximum aperture at a substantial discount. The Samyang 14mm f/2.8 is built with 14 elements in 10 groups, which should assist in things like corner sharpness and chromatic aberration; these elements are also multi-coated to help minimize flare. This is an important feature due to the massive front element which creates a large potential for flare. The lens weighs in at about 1lb 2.6oz and is around 87mm wide and 93mm long. This lens provides an astounding 115 degree field of view which literally allows you to look around corners. The Samyang 14mm can focus extremely close at just 27cm. This is certainly a special purpose lens, but it is really great in tight situations, and can certainly create interesting images.
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