An affordable ultra-wide angle lens
Whereas brand-name ultra-wide-angle film lenses cost hundreds of euros, this Vivitar 19mm F3.8 manufactured by Cosina is available for €80-100.
The lens is lightweight and compact.
However, one might wonder whether its performance justifies buying it. My answer is yes.
I was able to test the lens and take about twenty photos with it. And although the conditions were not ideal for testing (using slow shutter speeds and most photos at full aperture), I was convinced.
An invisible distortion
Unlike the Arsat 30mm F3.5 medium format ultra-wide angle lens, which exhibits very pronounced distortion, distortion is not noticeable with this lens.
The Vivitar 19mm F3.8 does not significantly distort lines.
Usable images
As mentioned above, I cannot comment specifically on the sharpness of the lens. Anyway, the unique perspective offered by this type of lens is enough to forgive its mediocrity in this area.
For my part, I haven’t rejected any images taken with this lens due to insufficient sharpness.
Limited proxi-photographic capabilities
The minimum focus distance of 20 centimeters does not allow you to get close enough to your subject to photograph flowers (you can photograph an entire A4 sheet, but nothing smaller).
An interesting compromise
If you can’t afford to invest in a high-end brand, you can opt for this Vivitar 19mm F3.8, which gives good results.
Leave a Reply