BREAKING: Viltrox has just announced the release of its new AF 9mm f/2.8 Air FX Lens, a game-changing ultra-wide lens priced at just $299. This lens is designed for photographers seeking stunning wide-angle results without breaking the bank. It is particularly optimized for Fujifilm APS-C bodies, making it an irresistible option for budget-conscious creatives.
Photographer and meteorologist Alex Cooke demonstrates the lens’s capabilities in a practical video shot on an empty beach at sunset. The footage highlights the lens’s ability to capture expansive scenes while maintaining sharpness, showcasing how it fits an impressive amount of the environment into a frame at a remarkable 9mm focal length (equivalent to 13.5mm in full-frame terms).
The urgency of this release comes as many creators are searching for versatile, high-quality lens options that don’t require a hefty investment. The AF 9mm f/2.8 Air FX allows users to experiment with extreme focal lengths without the bulk of traditional zoom lenses.
Fransson’s video review emphasizes the lens’s autofocus performance, which focuses down to 13 cm from the sensor, allowing for near-macro shots that still retain structural integrity. This feature opens up creative possibilities for capturing detailed foreground elements while keeping backgrounds in focus—ideal for both landscapes and vlogging.
The optical design includes 13 elements in 11 groups, ensuring low distortion and making it suitable for various applications such as real estate and architecture photography. The lens’s compact and lightweight design, weighing only 6.2 oz (or 175 g), enhances its portability, making it a practical addition to any photographer’s kit.
Viltrox also addresses potential concerns about flare and ghosting, with Fransson noting acceptable control when shooting into backlight. The lens lacks built-in stabilization, a non-issue at this focal length, particularly if used with stabilized camera bodies or rigs.
With a simple barrel design featuring a focus ring and a 58mm front filter thread, the AF 9mm f/2.8 maintains user-friendly handling while providing options for firmware updates via USB-C.
As the demand for affordable and effective photography gear continues to surge, the release of the Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8 is timely and significant. For aspiring and professional photographers alike, this lens represents a unique opportunity to capture stunning visuals without the financial burden.
Check out the full video review for an in-depth look at the lens’s performance and to see how it can enhance your photography experience.
