TECHNICAL
An inexpensive micro 4/3 extreme wide-angle lens Some years ago I wrote an article in Heritage Photography on my experiences with the new Micro Four-thirds MFT (or M4/3) camera systems. ERIC HOULDER LRPS
The lens in place on my Panasonic G7. Photographed with my G1 and 14-42mm lens.
W
ith both Panasonic and Olympus making cameras and lenses for that mount, the number of lenses quickly proliferated, though none could be described as inexpensive. However, the independent maker Samyang began producing quality MFT lenses soon after I wrote, and more recently SLR Magic has joined in. The latter is a strange name, and I first heard about their 8mm f/4 rectilinear wide angle via David Kilpatrick’s 2019 review in Cameracraft 1. This largely positive review cancelled any predjudice I may have had because of the cheap-sounding name.
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As I am sure most readers know, the Kilpatrick’s have been involved with photography since the 1960s, and have produced quality magazines in the Borders with little advertising but beautifully reproduced pictures since that time. Being totally independent, their reviews are stringent and noted for honesty. This particular review prompted me to regularly scan the on-line advertising, and to purchase one when the price dropped substantially below £200. As a number of Group members now use Panasonic or Olympus MFT systems, the writer felt that a brief review of this unusual optic would prove useful.
