Korean optical manufacturer Samyang Optics have announced its first autofocus, super-wide-angle prime lens: The AF 12mm F2 E. This awesome new autofocus, prime lens is specially designed for APS-C sized sensors and has an angle-of-view equivalent to an 18mm lens on 35mm full-frame format. This lens looks to suit many types of photographers from cityscape to landscape shooters.

The AF 12mm F2 E offers a bright F2.0 aperture, which enables faster shutter speeds while capturing astrophotography and interior shots. It features 12 elements in 10 groups, with 5 special lenses [1 H-ASP, 1 ASP, and 3 ED]. The three Extra-low Dispersion elements and the two Aspherical [H-ASP & ASP] elements have been incorporated into the optical design to minimise chromatic aberration and distortion, in order to deliver pinsharp images. Additionally, 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 

‘Capture every moment, day and night’. This compact and lightweight lens has a short minimum focusing distance, weather sealing and a quiet, smooth AF system for stills and video.

APS-C Super-Wide-Angle AF Prime Lens, Prefect for Astrophotography The existing Samyang manual focus 12mm F2 is a benchmark lens that has been loved by astrophotography enthusiasts for years. The new AF 12mm F2 E adopts the Autofocus system and a new modern design that goes beyond the frame of the existing manual focus model; it is even more optimised for astrophotography, adding convenience and functionality

AF 12mm F2 E Main Features 

Exceptional Resolution 

AF 12mm F2.0 delivers outstanding image quality; you can capture the starry night with stunning clarity and far better than with a smartphone. Incorporating 5 special elements (1 H-ASP, 1 ASP, and 3 ED) plus Ultra Multi-Coating, it achieves exceptional image resolution from the centre to the edges of the frame, even at its F2.0 maximum aperture. With the advanced optical design, Minimum Focusing Distance is just 19cm, so you can easily capture close-ups and indoor images with a reduced backlight haze. 

Bright F2.0 Aperture with Impressive Shallow Depth of Field and Bokeh 

The AF 12mm F2 E lens offers a bright F2.0 aperture which guarantees faster shutter speeds in low light conditions and helps improve astrophotography. Furthermore, during the daytime, the F2 aperture adds depth to your wide-angle images by blurring the background. The subject and background are effectively separated, creating an impressive sense of depth. The large, round bokeh presents calm background blurring and high contrast, to achieve the optimal balance. 

Fast and Quiet Autofocus System 

Autofocus is now expected to capture images accurately and quickly, but it also needs to be quiet and smooth. Thanks to the newly researched and developed STM (Stepping Motor), a larger focus-lens group can be controlled more quietly and precisely, providing superb image quality in both photo and video use. 

Compact Size & Lightweight with New Design 

Weighing in at just 213g and measuring only 59.2mm in length, this new 12mm strikes the perfect balance of portability and outstanding performance. It is the lightest and smallest AF 12mm lens currently in the market. This lens includes useful new design features such as a durable, all-metal housing, an ergonomically designed grip with a micro pattern rubber ring and a new modern design with a ‘hidden’ red ring. The AF 12mm F2 E features weather-sealing and rear glass protection, to prevent dust, light rain, and snow from penetrating. This allows you to capture stunning images in less than perfect conditions.