What is Leitz 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R Lens?
The Leitz 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R Lens is a wide-angle lens designed for Leica R-mount cameras. Launched in 1974 by Ernst Leitz GmbH, this lens offers a unique perspective with its fisheye effect, capturing an extremely wide field of view and producing visually captivating images.
Features and Specifications
– Fisheye Perspective: The lens provides a 180-degree diagonal angle of view, allowing photographers to capture a wide, distorted image with a circular frame.
– Aperture: With a maximum aperture of f/2.8, this lens performs well in low-light conditions and offers excellent control over depth of field.
– Optics: The lens consists of 8 elements in 7 groups, designed to minimize distortion and maintain sharpness throughout the image.
– Manual Focus: The lens requires manual focus, allowing photographers to have precise control over their compositions.
– Filter Compatibility: A built-in 80mm filter holder accepts gelatin filters for creative effects.
Price and Availability
Upon its release, the Leitz 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R Lens had a price tag of around $400, which was considered quite high at that time. However, its unique characteristics and the reputation of Leica lenses attracted many photographers willing to explore creative possibilities.
Today, the lens can be found in the used market or through specialized camera equipment retailers. The price may vary depending on the lens’s condition and availability, but it is considered a sought-after collector’s item among photography enthusiasts.
Impressions and Usage
Photographers who have used the Leitz 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R Lens often praise its exceptional build quality and optical performance. The lens produces images with a distinct fisheye look, delivering a sense of depth and immersion that is hard to replicate with other lenses.
Many photographers enjoy experimenting with this lens to capture unique perspectives in architectural, landscape, and creative photography. Its wide-angle and distortion attributes enable photographers to create imaginative and dramatic images, allowing them to stand out from the crowd.
While the Leitz 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R Lens may not be an everyday lens for most photographers, it serves as a valuable addition to their collection, expanding creative possibilities and pushing boundaries in visual storytelling.
In conclusion, the Leitz 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R Lens is a legendary piece of camera equipment that offers a distinctive fisheye perspective. Its wide-angle capability and exceptional optics have made it a favorite among photographers seeking creative expression. So, if you ever get a chance to try out this lens, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the amazing world of fisheye photography.
