My casual observation of new lens announcements from time to time indicates that it is probably a different lens that is intended for video use. Manufacturers are now occasionally producing specialty lenses for videography...I don't know how they differ from those intended for photography or whether they are well suited for both tasks, but I suspect not.
Take that with a grain of salt...I haven't researched this issue, but thought I'd at least share my impressions as a means of indicating that your skepticism is well-founded.
Posted by Bill Woolf on August 29, 2013 at 12:41 PM
This is basically the same lens. The T3.1 is for use with video vs the f2.8 for photography. It is clickless so can move aperture without clicking into each aperture change. The T stop is for video is the "true f-stop" 2.8 is 3.1. Also markings are on side for cine lens vs on top for normal. Optics are the same. You can use for photography just fine as long as you realize the differences.
Posted by John Mumaw on August 29, 2013 at 8:30 PM
When using this lens, be sure to focus in LiveView as the focal numbers on the lens may be misleading.
Posted by Howard Cihak on August 29, 2013 at 8:37 PM
Well, the intended use is to shoot the Northern Lights in Norway. So, using Live View may not be all the feasible.
Sigma has a 14mm, too. I wonder if it's any better.
Posted by David Bostedo on August 30, 2013 at 3:40 PM
I wonder if it's any better.
Well know one said the Rokinon was actually bad... just different because of it's focus on being a cine lens. Those lenses are typically good, and in the more expensive cases, cinema lenses are some of the best.
If you have the chance, you might want to call the rental company and ask them about it - they may be able to steer you the right way.
If you're looking at Canon on Lens Rentals, I'd guess they can help steer you... the Zeiss 15mm f/2.8 is also available, as well as the Canon 14mm 2.8II, either of which would be a great choice, quality-wise; Though they are somewhat more expensive.
Discussion
5 repliesTake that with a grain of salt...I haven't researched this issue, but thought I'd at least share my impressions as a means of indicating that your skepticism is well-founded.
Sigma has a 14mm, too. I wonder if it's any better.
Well know one said the Rokinon was actually bad... just different because of it's focus on being a cine lens. Those lenses are typically good, and in the more expensive cases, cinema lenses are some of the best.
If you have the chance, you might want to call the rental company and ask them about it - they may be able to steer you the right way.
If you're looking at Canon on Lens Rentals, I'd guess they can help steer you... the Zeiss 15mm f/2.8 is also available, as well as the Canon 14mm 2.8II, either of which would be a great choice, quality-wise; Though they are somewhat more expensive.