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Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens
- Price: $646.95
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # PE154DA
- Mfr# 21800
Product Highlights
- For Pentax Digital Cameras
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A high performance ultra wide lens for their digital SLR cameras, the Pentax smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited provides the very best of optical performance in a little piece of camera jewelry for those demanding both the best images and the tiniest of packages. Like all of the Limited line, it comes in a distinct all-metal lens barrel and takes 49mm filters. Weighing under half a pound, it adds a different perspective to your premium kit.
The smc-DA ED AL's fit and finish is on par with the best in the world, and the optical system combines a 7-bladed aperture diaphragm with a hybrid aspherical lens element, an element of ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass, and Pentax's SP (Super Protect) external water and dirt-repelling lens coating for deliciously snappy results, even at f/4. This isn't a common mid-class zoom lens; it is truly created to be used effectively at its maximum f/4.0 aperture. The 86° field of view is equivalent to a 23mm lens in the old 35mm terms.
Note! Not compatible with "full frame" cameras.
- Sharp, crisp image reproduction, even at the maximum aperture
- Hybrid aspherical lens element & element of ED glass
- Rugged, elegant aluminum lens barrel
- Non-rotating front lens element
- Built-in retracting lens hood
- 49mm Filter thread
- Practical depth of field scale (for all full apertures) engraved right on the body
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length |
15 mm Comparable APS-C Focal Length: 23 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/4 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Pentax K |
| Format Compatibility | Pentax Digital (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 86° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 7.1" (18 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.15x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:6.6 |
| Groups/Elements | 6/8 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 49 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.5 x 1.58" (6.35 x 4.01 cm) |
| Weight | 7.47 oz (212 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 96 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Lightweight (78)
- Strong construction (68)
- Durable (50)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (47)
- Consistent output (38)
Cons
- Poor in low light (15)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (82)
- Night photography (15)
- Weddings (15)
- Low light (14)
- Street photography (7)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (74)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (58), Semi-pro photographer (16), Casual photographer (11)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great compact ultrawide-angle lens
I've been using the DA Limiteds 15mm f/4 and 35mm f/2.8 macro exclusively lately. They make an excellent pair together with the new K-7. Design and build quality are first-rate. Compact...Read complete review
I've been using the DA Limiteds 15mm f/4 and 35mm f/2.8 macro exclusively lately. They make an excellent pair together with the new K-7. Design and build quality are first-rate. Compact in size but both feel very substantial because of the all-metal construction. Auto-focus is very fast on both lenses, even in dim light. They have a very solid feel and noise when auto-focusing. Manual focus override is very easy and smooth on both lenses. One has to experience it to really appreciate it. Uncomparable to the light and flimsy focus ring of most modern AF lenses. The built-in lens hoods are very practical, although the resistance to flare on both lenses are superlative in backlighting situation. I've used the standard-size B+W Kaesemann polarizer (not the slim-thickness) on the DA 15mm and there's no sign of vignetting whatsoever. The ultra wide-angle nature of the DA 15mm can create an unevenness of blue sky when used with a polarizer in certain situation. All current 5 Pentax DA Limited as well as all 3 FA Limited lenses has a uniform 49mm filter-thread. This is truly practical in terms of exchanging expensive polarizer (or any filter) among those lenses.
I've never used any protector or UV filter for any of my DA & FA Limited lenses, and no one should either. Pentax lens coating is really tough, it can withstand rough treatment. It seems impossible to make a scratch to the front element. The screw-in metal lens cap of the DA 15mm is unpractical for a frequent use, therefore I immediately replaced it with a B+W snap-on lens cap which is also finely-built. Both the DA 15mm & 35mm Limiteds have an ideal size, not too thin (like the other DA's 21, 40 and 70), but also not too big. They really feel solid and nice to handle. All of this would be meaningless if the image quality is just so-so. Fortunately, the imaging quality is also first-rate, very well-behaved with such a beautiful and subtle colour transmission and tonality. Having and using these great Pentax prime limited lenses should be an experience most photographer will treasure, even if he/she's not into Pentax platform. Just try it, for me there's no turning back to lesser lenses anymore. Very highly recommended.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Disappointed
I was very excited to receive this lens after reading many glowing reviews from various equipment sites. After receiving was a different story. I found the lens sharpnes horrible except in the center. I...Read complete review
I was very excited to receive this lens after reading many glowing reviews from various equipment sites. After receiving was a different story. I found the lens sharpnes horrible except in the center. I had to stop down to f/11 to get any sharpnes around the center. I also had to fine tune the lens in my Pentax K7 to get sharpness but even then the adjustment numbers varied widely from day to day. I might have had a bad copy but at this price there should not be any.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 96 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Compact
- Huge Dof
- Lightweight
- Sharp
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Crowds
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens on the K01 which it suits admirably. It is sharp, light and compact (though not as compact as the 21/3.2 Limited). It performs well at f4 and brilliantly at f5.6. DOF is so large that for most purposes at f5.6 or f8 you can manually set it just short of infinity and fire away. And because the image is so sharp you can drastically crop a general view down to one or more useable images with impact. Finally, the built in hood is great for those of us who can't normally be bothered using one.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Wish It Were A Bit Faster
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Having been a serious photo enthusiast for over 50 years, and a Pentax owner for over 45, purchasing this compact well made performer was a "no brainer". It is small, light and produces the high contrast brilliant color all my Pentax optics offer. It's the best unobtrusive street lens I own even rivaling the 35mm screw mount I used most
Often on my Spotmatics.....GREAT lens!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sharp
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Expensive but worth it
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
A true one-of-a-kind lens. Small, ultrawide FOV, unbelievable flare resistance. This lens is one of the classicas. An instant hit with me for sure!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Great lens to shoot landscapes and scenery. very sharp at f8. Recommended.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
One of the best prime lenses !!!
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Pentax Limited lenses have always been reknown for their build and image quality and this lens is no different. The aluminum body feels solid and focussing is fast. The screw on cap is a pain but I replaced it with a pinch-type 49mm cap and have no complaints after that.
Center sharpness is excellent through all apertures. Corner sharpness suffers a little but that's to be expected. Great FOV and it pushes you to try a variety of shots other than just landscapes and interiors. EXTREMELY resistant to flare, you could point it into the sun all day! Like most Pentax lenses, it renders colors beautifully and vibrantly.
All in all, a great UWA and I'm glad I went with it over the Pentax 12-24mm, or the Sigma 10-20mm.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Austin Iron
Circuit of the Americas
Images shared by Austin Iron
Alonso at speed
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Bit Pricey
- F4 5
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I needed a small and wide angle lens for trips... and I wanted at the same time image quality. I really don´t thing there is a better compromise than this.
The good:
Construction is excellent and manual focus is really smooth. Both things make this lens a joy to use.
For me size (for discretion) and weight are important as it means I can always take it with me. The result is that you end up using it more, and I´ve been very happy with the results from indoor shots to landscapes.
The bad:
I like the lens hood, but it makes it a pain to use with filters (you have to use either). Image quality is good, but I´m aware is not as good as the 12-24mm... anyway this was not an option for me (price and size). I guess it could be cheaper also..
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
When I took it out from the package, this lens looks really small. And I feel very confortable and would not be tired when I go out to taking photoes with this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I have many other lenses including limiteds but this one stays head of them. Very nice top IQ. My favorite lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Salacak
With Pentax K-30
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens primarily for landscape work, but it's usefulness in other areas of photography continue to amaze! I'm not going to write a super long and detailed report since so many others have taken the time to already do so. This is the best lens I've ever owned!!! It lives on my camera body and if I broke it or it got stolen I would by it again without a single hesitation!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by SMcGuire45
Gold and Silver Ore Crusher Plumas County, CA
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
When hiking I like to travel light. The range of Pentax primes are perfect for this. My latest acquisition, the 15mm F4 complements the 35mm and 70mm I already own. Quality is wonderful and just right for those panoramic views.
This is a well built lens that will last for years and doesn't take up much space in the camera bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I mostly shoot landscapes, and this is one of my favorite lenses for getting a nice close foreground subject and and keeping the whole scene sharp. A very fun lens to use.
Some complain about it being to slow for indoor / low light use, but I find with today's high ISO capable cameras this should rarely be a problem. I use it with a K20 which is not great past ISO 400 and find that is high enough for most indoor shots. This lens is extremely sharp when shooting landscapes at mid to high aperture settings.
As for using a Cokin "P" filter holder, I use an empty filter ring on the lens to allow the adapter to fit past the lens hood and have very little vignetting when stopped down to f11 and none at f16 (fine for landscapes with a tripod).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
This is a great lens for, and only, landscape photography. It is quite slow - f/4 - and max aperture is only good at the center of image and rather soft at edges. But once you are at f/6.3 you will get ultra sharp images. In landscape photography you are going to close it down anyway, but if you are planning to shoot indoor it is probably a limiting factor. A minor annoyance is screw-in cap.
Otherwise there are only positives. It is small and light (compare this to 10-20 mm lenses!), it is rock solid, there is hardly any distortion and it is resistant to flares.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Steet type photos
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
This focal length fits my eye and the very small size of these limited lens is a good enough reason alone to buy a pentax. If you do have a pentax this 15mm is a must. Great for landscapes and street photos. Even though I have the 21mm; I still find the 15mm extremely useful to me.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Must have. Sharp, contrast, great colors,small, light weight, and did I mention its a must have. The only con is this lens will is a gateway to pentax prime addiction. Got to get them all.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I don't have wide angle lens(widest is 21mm le, or the fisheye), with this lens I can shoot something different; ultra-wide with different from or perspective, it's nice.
What I like:
- It's a solid lens in terms of build quality, I love it.
- Super compact lens.
- The center sharpness is incredible even from wide open.
- The starburst is lovely.
- Good for outdoor landscape and indoor party situation(maybe a bit slow sometime in door with only F4).
What I dislike:
- The border sharpness at wide open is not sharp enough. (but I do understand this is a trade off for such a small ultra wide pancake lens)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Lightweight
- Small size
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Adventure Photography
- Closeups
- Landscape/Scenery
- Pets
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
The 15mm focal length is really FUN to use, this lens especially because it doesn't distort like a fish eye, so you can get some really interesting perspectives. For my work it needs to look realistic and this is about as wide as you can go without getting the commical exagerated look of a fish eye.
The small form factor and solid construction of this lens are awesome.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Filter issue
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
This lens stands for the struggle between David an Goliath. It´s so tiny and doesn´t offend people on the street which you´re about to photograph compared to a heavyweight zoom lens. This is why I´ve bought it.
It´s image quality is quite impressive. The only downsides are it´s incompatibility to square filters such as the Cokin A-system. The lenshood does not allow you to screw in the standard Cokin adaptor-ring. In forums there is mentioned you could use an empty filter-ring (no glass) or an UV-Filter to extend the distance between rear edge of the filter and the lenshood. But that might come with some vignetting.
Screw-On-Lens cap: Don´t think about it one minute, get the snap on-cap from B&H. The screw-in is made by means of the limited concept but is absolutely pointless. The only time I´ve used it was when opening the box and replacing it with a snap-on. It´s 5$ and works great. The downside is, it collets all the dust and dirt that lives in your pockets when storing it there while shooting.
The other "issue" about the lens is some color-fringing in high contrast situations. But Aperture, Lightroom as well as Photoshop (not my favorite due to it´s "autoshrink") may shift the yellow/blue channel so that the fringe gets 99% invisible.
This lenses high contrast rendering lets you forget about any "soft-corner"-issue that rumors claim. Sharpness is some very soft defined concept by itself. I´ve used this lens even at wide-open for night-shots in New York and L.A. - where you still have some light left. It´s simply stunning.
Together with the Pentax K-5 and it´s high ISO capability this is a more than great combo. The viewfinder shows you the very outer borders so you can use effectively all of this lens´ angle of view. You can wait for your picture to shoot until some pedestrians virtually tend to fall out of the picture.
You can include the sun into your shots in a creative way no one around you beliefs. "Don´t shoot the sun" That´s what you will be hearing all the time by Zoom-Lens-Photographers. Get prepared to this and imagine your smile as you push the trigger :)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- snap-on lens cap
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I wanna use this lens to replace 16-45, because the lens is tiny and easy to carry, but have no chance to try it, spring is coming.
At home to take some small photo, found that's really sharp lens, great to have it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Jason
sharp lens
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Fun lens with fantastic clarity and color. I love it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 96 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Lightweight (78)
- Strong construction (68)
- Durable (50)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (47)
- Consistent output (38)
Cons
- Poor in low light (15)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (82)
- Night photography (15)
- Weddings (15)
- Low light (14)
- Street photography (7)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (74)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (58), Semi-pro photographer (16), Casual photographer (11)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great compact ultrawide-angle lens
I've been using the DA Limiteds 15mm f/4 and 35mm f/2.8 macro exclusively lately. They make an excellent pair together with the new K-7. Design and build quality are first-rate. Compact...Read complete review
I've been using the DA Limiteds 15mm f/4 and 35mm f/2.8 macro exclusively lately. They make an excellent pair together with the new K-7. Design and build quality are first-rate. Compact in size but both feel very substantial because of the all-metal construction. Auto-focus is very fast on both lenses, even in dim light. They have a very solid feel and noise when auto-focusing. Manual focus override is very easy and smooth on both lenses. One has to experience it to really appreciate it. Uncomparable to the light and flimsy focus ring of most modern AF lenses. The built-in lens hoods are very practical, although the resistance to flare on both lenses are superlative in backlighting situation. I've used the standard-size B+W Kaesemann polarizer (not the slim-thickness) on the DA 15mm and there's no sign of vignetting whatsoever. The ultra wide-angle nature of the DA 15mm can create an unevenness of blue sky when used with a polarizer in certain situation. All current 5 Pentax DA Limited as well as all 3 FA Limited lenses has a uniform 49mm filter-thread. This is truly practical in terms of exchanging expensive polarizer (or any filter) among those lenses.
I've never used any protector or UV filter for any of my DA & FA Limited lenses, and no one should either. Pentax lens coating is really tough, it can withstand rough treatment. It seems impossible to make a scratch to the front element. The screw-in metal lens cap of the DA 15mm is unpractical for a frequent use, therefore I immediately replaced it with a B+W snap-on lens cap which is also finely-built. Both the DA 15mm & 35mm Limiteds have an ideal size, not too thin (like the other DA's 21, 40 and 70), but also not too big. They really feel solid and nice to handle. All of this would be meaningless if the image quality is just so-so. Fortunately, the imaging quality is also first-rate, very well-behaved with such a beautiful and subtle colour transmission and tonality. Having and using these great Pentax prime limited lenses should be an experience most photographer will treasure, even if he/she's not into Pentax platform. Just try it, for me there's no turning back to lesser lenses anymore. Very highly recommended.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Disappointed
I was very excited to receive this lens after reading many glowing reviews from various equipment sites. After receiving was a different story. I found the lens sharpnes horrible except in the center. I...Read complete review
I was very excited to receive this lens after reading many glowing reviews from various equipment sites. After receiving was a different story. I found the lens sharpnes horrible except in the center. I had to stop down to f/11 to get any sharpnes around the center. I also had to fine tune the lens in my Pentax K7 to get sharpness but even then the adjustment numbers varied widely from day to day. I might have had a bad copy but at this price there should not be any.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 96 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Compact
- Huge Dof
- Lightweight
- Sharp
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Crowds
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens on the K01 which it suits admirably. It is sharp, light and compact (though not as compact as the 21/3.2 Limited). It performs well at f4 and brilliantly at f5.6. DOF is so large that for most purposes at f5.6 or f8 you can manually set it just short of infinity and fire away. And because the image is so sharp you can drastically crop a general view down to one or more useable images with impact. Finally, the built in hood is great for those of us who can't normally be bothered using one.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Wish It Were A Bit Faster
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Having been a serious photo enthusiast for over 50 years, and a Pentax owner for over 45, purchasing this compact well made performer was a "no brainer". It is small, light and produces the high contrast brilliant color all my Pentax optics offer. It's the best unobtrusive street lens I own even rivaling the 35mm screw mount I used most
Often on my Spotmatics.....GREAT lens!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sharp
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Expensive but worth it
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
A true one-of-a-kind lens. Small, ultrawide FOV, unbelievable flare resistance. This lens is one of the classicas. An instant hit with me for sure!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Great lens to shoot landscapes and scenery. very sharp at f8. Recommended.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
One of the best prime lenses !!!
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Pentax Limited lenses have always been reknown for their build and image quality and this lens is no different. The aluminum body feels solid and focussing is fast. The screw on cap is a pain but I replaced it with a pinch-type 49mm cap and have no complaints after that.
Center sharpness is excellent through all apertures. Corner sharpness suffers a little but that's to be expected. Great FOV and it pushes you to try a variety of shots other than just landscapes and interiors. EXTREMELY resistant to flare, you could point it into the sun all day! Like most Pentax lenses, it renders colors beautifully and vibrantly.
All in all, a great UWA and I'm glad I went with it over the Pentax 12-24mm, or the Sigma 10-20mm.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Austin Iron
Circuit of the Americas
Images shared by Austin Iron
Alonso at speed
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Bit Pricey
- F4 5
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I needed a small and wide angle lens for trips... and I wanted at the same time image quality. I really don´t thing there is a better compromise than this.
The good:
Construction is excellent and manual focus is really smooth. Both things make this lens a joy to use.
For me size (for discretion) and weight are important as it means I can always take it with me. The result is that you end up using it more, and I´ve been very happy with the results from indoor shots to landscapes.
The bad:
I like the lens hood, but it makes it a pain to use with filters (you have to use either). Image quality is good, but I´m aware is not as good as the 12-24mm... anyway this was not an option for me (price and size). I guess it could be cheaper also..
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
When I took it out from the package, this lens looks really small. And I feel very confortable and would not be tired when I go out to taking photoes with this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I have many other lenses including limiteds but this one stays head of them. Very nice top IQ. My favorite lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Salacak
With Pentax K-30
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens primarily for landscape work, but it's usefulness in other areas of photography continue to amaze! I'm not going to write a super long and detailed report since so many others have taken the time to already do so. This is the best lens I've ever owned!!! It lives on my camera body and if I broke it or it got stolen I would by it again without a single hesitation!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by SMcGuire45
Gold and Silver Ore Crusher Plumas County, CA
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
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- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
When hiking I like to travel light. The range of Pentax primes are perfect for this. My latest acquisition, the 15mm F4 complements the 35mm and 70mm I already own. Quality is wonderful and just right for those panoramic views.
This is a well built lens that will last for years and doesn't take up much space in the camera bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I mostly shoot landscapes, and this is one of my favorite lenses for getting a nice close foreground subject and and keeping the whole scene sharp. A very fun lens to use.
Some complain about it being to slow for indoor / low light use, but I find with today's high ISO capable cameras this should rarely be a problem. I use it with a K20 which is not great past ISO 400 and find that is high enough for most indoor shots. This lens is extremely sharp when shooting landscapes at mid to high aperture settings.
As for using a Cokin "P" filter holder, I use an empty filter ring on the lens to allow the adapter to fit past the lens hood and have very little vignetting when stopped down to f11 and none at f16 (fine for landscapes with a tripod).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
This is a great lens for, and only, landscape photography. It is quite slow - f/4 - and max aperture is only good at the center of image and rather soft at edges. But once you are at f/6.3 you will get ultra sharp images. In landscape photography you are going to close it down anyway, but if you are planning to shoot indoor it is probably a limiting factor. A minor annoyance is screw-in cap.
Otherwise there are only positives. It is small and light (compare this to 10-20 mm lenses!), it is rock solid, there is hardly any distortion and it is resistant to flares.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Steet type photos
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
This focal length fits my eye and the very small size of these limited lens is a good enough reason alone to buy a pentax. If you do have a pentax this 15mm is a must. Great for landscapes and street photos. Even though I have the 21mm; I still find the 15mm extremely useful to me.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Must have. Sharp, contrast, great colors,small, light weight, and did I mention its a must have. The only con is this lens will is a gateway to pentax prime addiction. Got to get them all.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I don't have wide angle lens(widest is 21mm le, or the fisheye), with this lens I can shoot something different; ultra-wide with different from or perspective, it's nice.
What I like:
- It's a solid lens in terms of build quality, I love it.
- Super compact lens.
- The center sharpness is incredible even from wide open.
- The starburst is lovely.
- Good for outdoor landscape and indoor party situation(maybe a bit slow sometime in door with only F4).
What I dislike:
- The border sharpness at wide open is not sharp enough. (but I do understand this is a trade off for such a small ultra wide pancake lens)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Lightweight
- Small size
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Adventure Photography
- Closeups
- Landscape/Scenery
- Pets
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
The 15mm focal length is really FUN to use, this lens especially because it doesn't distort like a fish eye, so you can get some really interesting perspectives. For my work it needs to look realistic and this is about as wide as you can go without getting the commical exagerated look of a fish eye.
The small form factor and solid construction of this lens are awesome.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Filter issue
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
This lens stands for the struggle between David an Goliath. It´s so tiny and doesn´t offend people on the street which you´re about to photograph compared to a heavyweight zoom lens. This is why I´ve bought it.
It´s image quality is quite impressive. The only downsides are it´s incompatibility to square filters such as the Cokin A-system. The lenshood does not allow you to screw in the standard Cokin adaptor-ring. In forums there is mentioned you could use an empty filter-ring (no glass) or an UV-Filter to extend the distance between rear edge of the filter and the lenshood. But that might come with some vignetting.
Screw-On-Lens cap: Don´t think about it one minute, get the snap on-cap from B&H. The screw-in is made by means of the limited concept but is absolutely pointless. The only time I´ve used it was when opening the box and replacing it with a snap-on. It´s 5$ and works great. The downside is, it collets all the dust and dirt that lives in your pockets when storing it there while shooting.
The other "issue" about the lens is some color-fringing in high contrast situations. But Aperture, Lightroom as well as Photoshop (not my favorite due to it´s "autoshrink") may shift the yellow/blue channel so that the fringe gets 99% invisible.
This lenses high contrast rendering lets you forget about any "soft-corner"-issue that rumors claim. Sharpness is some very soft defined concept by itself. I´ve used this lens even at wide-open for night-shots in New York and L.A. - where you still have some light left. It´s simply stunning.
Together with the Pentax K-5 and it´s high ISO capability this is a more than great combo. The viewfinder shows you the very outer borders so you can use effectively all of this lens´ angle of view. You can wait for your picture to shoot until some pedestrians virtually tend to fall out of the picture.
You can include the sun into your shots in a creative way no one around you beliefs. "Don´t shoot the sun" That´s what you will be hearing all the time by Zoom-Lens-Photographers. Get prepared to this and imagine your smile as you push the trigger :)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- snap-on lens cap
Pros
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
I wanna use this lens to replace 16-45, because the lens is tiny and easy to carry, but have no chance to try it, spring is coming.
At home to take some small photo, found that's really sharp lens, great to have it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Jason
sharp lens
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Pentax Ultra Wide Angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited Series Autofocus Lens:
Fun lens with fantastic clarity and color. I love it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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