Top-Notch Wide-Angle Lenses for Mirrorless Cameras in Astrophotography
Catching Stunning Night Skies: A Guide to Wide-Angle Astrophotography Lenses
Getting that perfect shot of the night sky is not just about a dark sky and a steady tripod. It's all about the lens. Whether you're an aspiring astrophotographer or a seasoned pro, choosing the right lens can make a world of difference. This guide will help you find the perfect wide-angle lens for capturing breathtaking images of the night sky.
What's Important in a Wide-Angle Astrophotography Lens?
When selecting a lens for astrophotography, there are a few key features to keep in mind:
Field of View
For wide-angle astrophotography, the wider, the better. In astrophotography, the 500-divided-by-focal-length rule comes into play. This means that the lower the focal length, the longer the shutter speed, allowing more light to reach the sensor, resulting in less noise and more detail.
Aperture
A lens with a wide maximum aperture like f/2.8 or even wider will help you capture more light. Wider apertures also mean that you can shoot at higher ISOs, which can reduce noise in your images.
Distortion
Minimal distortion is crucial for capturing clear, star-filled images. Common distortion problems like coma can make stars appear elongated or comet-like, especially at the edges of the frame and when shot with a wide-open aperture.
Top Picks for Wide-Angle Astrophotography Lenses
Sigma 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens
Featuring a 14mm focal length and an f/1.4 aperture, this lens is renowned as one of the best astrophotography lenses ever made. It's specifically fine-tuned for astrophotography and boasts minimal distortion.
Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens
With a wide focal range and an f/2.8 maximum aperture, this lens is more versatile than some of the other options on this list. Its great quality glass results in minimal distortions, making it a good choice for a variety of photography needs.
Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 S Lens
This lens offers an excellent 14-24mm focal range, providing versatility for both astrophotography and other types of photography. Its minimal distortions make it suitable for capturing stunning night sky images.
Sony FE 16mm f/1.8 Lens
Affordable, compact, and lightweight at just 10.8oz, this lens offers an f/1.8 aperture perfect for astrophotography. Although corner-to-corner sharpness is not as good as other lenses, it's a great option for beginner astrophotographers.
Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 Lens
Considered one of the best "starter" lenses for astrophotography, the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 offers a 14mm focal length and an f/2.8 aperture at an excellent price point. Although it doesn't provide the same image quality as some of the other lenses on this list, it's a solid choice for those new to astrophotography.
Once you've found the perfect wide-angle astrophotography lens, you'll be on your way to capturing stunning images of the night sky. With a wide focal length and a fast aperture, you'll be able to capture more light, resulting in less noise and more detail in your night sky images. For new astrophotographers, be sure to check out our guide on the best camera settings for astrophotography to help you get started!
Austin James Jackson
Plan to use these gadgets, such as the Sigma 14mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens, Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens, Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 S Lens, Sony FE 16mm f/1.8 Lens, or Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 Lens, for capturing breathtaking images of the night sky. When selecting a lens for astrophotography, following the 500-divided-by-focal-length rule can help ensure a wider field of view, allowing for more light to reach the sensor. Technology in photography, including the rule of maximal apertures and minimal distortion, plays a crucial role in capturing clear, star-filled images. With the right lens and camera settings, following this guide will lead to stunning night sky photography.
