Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 Wide-Angle - Review

If you are a Sony NEX series camera owner looking for a quality wide-angle lens, the Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 lens is definitely worth considering. It is a compact and lightweight lens that offers excellent image quality for its price point. In this review, we will dive deeper into the lens's features and explore its pros and cons.

First and foremost, let's talk about the lens's specifications. The Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 lens is a fixed focal length lens that captures a wide-angle field of view, perfect for landscapes, architecture, and interiors. It is designed for APS-C size sensors and provides a 35mm equivalent focal length of 24mm. With an angle of view of 83 degrees, this lens offers a great perspective for wide shots. The minimum focus distance of 0.8ft allows for decent close-up shots, with a maximum magnification ratio of 0.078x. The lens is not zoomable, meaning you will have to physically move the camera to adjust the framing of your shots.

One of the most significant advantages of this lens is its size and weight. It is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around all day. The diminutive form factor eliminates the need for a bulky camera bag, and it won't weigh you down on hikes or long walks. If you have a small camera body like the Sony NEX series, this lens will complement it perfectly without being too front-heavy.

The Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 lens's build quality is solid, with a metal mount and a plastic body. The plastic may be a concern for some, but it is durable enough to withstand everyday use and minor bumps. The lens does not come with a lens hood, but its design prevents lens flare in most situations, even without a hood.

Now, let's get to the main event – image quality. The lens's aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22 can create some stunning images, particularly with the wider apertures. The fast aperture allows for shooting in challenging lighting conditions, producing sharp images with excellent depth of field. The images are sharp, and the details are crisp, even in the corners. Chromatic aberration is well-controlled, and distortion is minimal. The lens's images are vibrant and punchy, with natural colors that pop without being over the top.

There are a couple of limitations to this lens that may not suit everyone's needs. Firstly, the lens's fixed focal length means you may need to switch lenses if you want a different perspective, something which can be a drawback if you are shooting in mixed environments. Moreover, it is not the best lens for low-light conditions. Although the f/2.8 aperture is fast, there are better lenses with wider apertures at the same price point.

Overall, the Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 lens is a solid wide-angle option for Sony NEX series camera owners. It offers excellent image quality with a compact and lightweight design. The fast aperture and wide field of view are perfect for landscapes and interiors, and the build quality is durable enough for everyday use. The fixed focal length will not suit everyone's needs, but it is an excellent lens for those who love wide-angle photography. With a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars and over 331 customer reviews, it is clear that the lens is loved by many.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a quality wide-angle lens that's easy to carry around and offers fantastic image quality, the Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 lens is a fantastic choice. Its compact form factor and sharp imagery make it an excellent addition to any photographer's arsenal, particularly if they love wide-angle shots. If you have a Sony NEX series camera and enjoy landscape photography, this lens is an affordable and efficient choice.

Sony SEL16F28 16mm f/2.8 Wide-Angle

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