Introduction
The Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC telephoto lens has garnered significant attention in the photography community for its exceptional optical performance, solid build quality, and affordability. Known for producing high-quality lenses that deliver remarkable results without breaking the bank, Rokinon has once again struck a chord with both amateur and professional photographers with this prime lens. This article delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC telephoto lens.
Key Features
Optical Design
The Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC features a sophisticated optical design that includes 11 elements in 7 groups. Among these elements is an Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) element, which helps to minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in sharper images with accurate color reproduction. The lens also employs Ultra Multi-Coating (UMC) to reduce ghosting and flare, enhancing contrast and clarity even when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
Aperture and Depth of Field
One of the standout features of this lens is its wide f/2.0 maximum aperture. This large aperture allows for impressive low-light performance, enabling photographers to shoot in dimly lit environments without compromising on shutter speed or ISO settings. Additionally, the f/2.0 aperture provides a shallow depth of field, which is ideal for creating stunning portraits with beautifully blurred backgrounds (bokeh).
Build Quality
Constructed with durability in mind, the Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC boasts a solid, all-metal body. The lens feels robust and well-balanced, making it a reliable choice for outdoor and travel photography. Despite its sturdy construction, the lens remains relatively lightweight, ensuring ease of use during extended shooting sessions.
Manual Focus
The lens is manual focus only, which may be a consideration for some photographers. However, the manual focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for fine adjustments. This manual focus design encourages photographers to engage more deeply with their craft, often leading to a greater appreciation of the photographic process.
Performance
Image Quality
The Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC excels in delivering exceptional image quality. Sharpness is outstanding across the frame, even when shooting wide open at f/2.0. The lens produces vivid colors and maintains excellent contrast, resulting in images with a three-dimensional quality. The bokeh is smooth and creamy, adding an artistic touch to portraits and other subjects where background separation is desired.
Versatility
While the 135mm focal length is traditionally favored for portrait photography, this lens is versatile enough to be used in various genres, including landscape, wildlife, and astrophotography. Its ability to isolate subjects and compress perspectives makes it a valuable tool for creative expression. The wide aperture also makes it an excellent choice for night sky photography, capturing stars and other celestial objects with impressive clarity.
Handling and Usability
Despite its manual focus nature, the lens is user-friendly. The focus ring is generously sized and well-damped, providing a tactile and responsive feel. Photographers who are accustomed to autofocus lenses might need a brief adjustment period, but many find the manual focus experience to be rewarding and enjoyable.
Value for Money
The Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC offers outstanding value for its price. Compared to other lenses with similar focal lengths and apertures, it is significantly more affordable without compromising on optical quality. This makes it an attractive option for photographers seeking high-performance glass on a budget.
Conclusion
The Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC telephoto lens stands out as a remarkable piece of equipment that delivers excellent image quality, robust construction, and exceptional value. Its wide aperture, sharp optics, and versatile focal length make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s kit. Whether you’re a portrait enthusiast, a landscape lover, or an astrophotography aficionado, this lens is sure to impress with its performance and capabilities.
