This new lens was overshadowed last week by the Sigma Art 50mm f/1.4, but is worth re-highlighting: we are now tracking the new Lensbaby 5.8mm f/3.5 Circular Fisheye. It’s available for pre-order for $299.95 at B&H, Amazon or Adorama. Availability is mid-May.
We think this will be popular, as up until now the only true circular fisheye option available for crop bodies was the Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8 DC, at whopping $900 price tag. This new Lensbaby lens provides a true circular frame of view on a crop-sensor body (sample below) and is one third of the price. It’s a good alternative to the similarly priced Rokinon 8mm fisheye which doesn’t provide a circular view on crop-bodies.
I guess I just don’t understand the appeal of circular fisheyes. I would rather have the Rokinon.
I do have the Samyang or Rokinon, nice lens, but I am also interested in the Lensbaby 5.8. To me the appeal is the surreal landscapes, they are eyecandy producers if used right, but I understand this type of photography is not for everybody… Here is a shot from my Bower (same as Rokinon 8mm) with the fisheye perspective corrected…
Looks like $300 worth of junk. For $25 I (might) buy it.