Canon EF 8-15mm F4 L USM Fisheye Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Canon and the lens was released 2010.
The lens belongs to the category wide angle zoom lenses, a wide angle lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Worth thinking about is that the lens has a Fisheye-character which give the images an extreme wide but curved 'barrel' look which may require some post processing in your image editing software. Though, the lens offers you as a photographer the widest of wide angle views..

Product description from Canon

At launch 2010 Canon wrote this regarding Canon EF 8-15mm F4 L USM Fisheye :

"For filmmakers and photographers who want the look and feel only possible with extreme wide angle and fisheye photography, the new Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM is a world-class choice. With its unique focal length range, the EF 8-15mm f/4L USM is the world´s widest fisheye zoom lens. It delivers 180° diagonal angle of view images for all EOS SLR cameras with imaging formats ranging from full-frame to APS-C, and provides 180° circular fisheye images for full-frame EOS models. It features UD glass for suppression of chromatic aberration, a Subwavelength coating for reduced ghosting, a newly developed Fluorine coating that keeps soiling, smears and fingerprints to a minimum, has full-time manual focus for instant switching from AF to Manual operation, and is built to the standards of the amazing Canon L-series of lenses. This means the finest optics, the best construction and the best performance available, all in a lens designed to stimulate creativity and deliver stunning images every time. "

Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 8-15 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/4.

The lens is to considered fairly bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 8 mm or at 15 mm the aperture value can be f/4.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. 

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a built-in filter holder which means that you at the rear of the lens (towards the camera) can place a filter, but an opportunity to protect the front lens with a filter does not exist.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "EW-77".

Images of Canon EF 8-15mm F4 L USM Fisheye

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
  • Works on all sensor types
  • A lens hood is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Might have a limited use
  • Heavy (540 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Canon EF 8-15mm F4 L USM Fisheye .

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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