When it comes down to high definition telephoto lenses, the name Opteka is thrown around on a regular basis. If you are not yet familiar with Opteka lenses and their features, let us take you on a journey through the various lenses from the Opteka brand and discover their advantages and disadvantages in this Opteka lens review.
Best Opteka Telephoto lenses
1. Opteka 650-1300mm
The opteka 650-1300mm can be obtained to improve image quality on both Nikon and Canon cameras. It is a telephoto zoom lens with quite a few beneficial features for photography and an opteka lens that is more than worth discovering for beginners.
When you obtain the opteka 650-1300mm, it is interesting to know that most of the models come with a special 2X converter attachment. In other words, you can use this telephoto zoom lens up to a 2600!
The opteka lenses in this range come with an aperture of f/8-f/16. They also have a whopping filter size of 95mm. When you compare this to other filters out there, you will notice that this is quite the dramatic difference. Evidently, it will make a difference for your camera too.
While this may surprise you, this telephoto zoom lens has a manual focus, this means that photographers have to perform a push and pull action on the camera to get their zoom. It may sound a little prehistoric, but it actually proves quite brilliant in its simplicity. Simply twist the ring around the lens to enable the zoom and push or pull the lens to either zoom in or zoom out.
We are not going to lie, manual focus can be a little more difficult to get used to, especially for beginners. On the other hand, it can save you heaps of money on the cost of lenses, as the automated versions are a lot more expensive than the manual focus ones.
When you just start out in photography, and still need to buy all that digital equipment, you will find that you run out of budget quickly. With manual lenses such as these, you could save a couple of hundred easily.
- ADVANCED OPTICS: Featuring an optimized design, this lens uses a series of 6 optical glass elements (one SD super-low dispersion) in 5 groups to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations throughout the aperture range. A high definition anti-reflective coating suppresses lens flare and ghosting for increased contrast and color fidelity.
- SUPER ZOOM: 650-1300mm or 1300-2600mm with the 2x converter, this lens is not only a superb long range choice, but also performs well in a variety of scenes from sports and surveillance to lunar shots.
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION: Full metal body and rear mount allow this lens to withstand wear and tear much better than plastic lenses while commanding a rugged, solid feel when using.
- MANUAL FOCUSING: This lens has preset f-stops that correspond with the focal length at which you are shooting. An index for distance and diaphragm scale is inscribed on the lens barrel to coordinate focal length and aperture.
- COMPATIBILITY: Can be used on all Nikon APS-C and full frame cameras including D7500, D7200, D7100, D5600, D5500, D5300, D5200, D5100, D5000, D3400, D3300, D3200, D3100. D3000, Df, D5, D4, D3, D850, D810, D800, D750, D700, D610, D500, D90, D60 and D40.
2. The Opteka 500mm
When you find yourself on a really tight budget when you start out with photography, you can still obtain quite a few opteka lenses for an affordable price and with a decent aperture. One of these photography lenses we cover in this review is 500mm.
Evidently, the numbers in the product actually refer to the focal length. For this model, the focal length is 500mm, but you can also get models up to 1000mm for your camera. The photography lens also seems to perform well in slightly darker light conditions.
This particular option is compatible with a large number of digital cameras. Common cameras that can easily use this particular lens are the Canon EOS 80D, Rebel T7i, and the Digital SLR cameras range.
Even though this photography lens has a good aperture, you may wonder where the catch is with such a low price. Well, there isn’t one really, aside from the fact this is a manual lens. We would also recommend getting this photography lens from a reputable seller.
Also, this camera lens is mainly suitable for anyone who is not a professional photographer. However, if you are looking for a lens to improve the photographs you take as a hobby, you can buy this camera lens with confidence.
- Newest version achromatic refractor 500mm f/8 lens in T-mount
- 2x Teleconverter doubles the power of your lens to 1000mm.
- High index, low-dispersion multi-coated HD optical glass to reduce flare
- Built-in tripod collar for improved lens balance
- Kit includes 500mm super telephoto preset lens, 2x doubler, t-mount, UV filter, lens hood, heavy-duty ir remote, lens pen, air blower, dust brush, empty spray bottle, 3×5″ lens tissues (50), standard microfiber (2), large microfiber
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3. The 6.5mm f/3.0 Ultra Wide Fisheye
In this review, we wanted to include some unusual camera lenses as well. One of these unusual camera lenses is the 6.5mm f/3.0 Ultra Wide Fisheye. As the name already suggests, this lens provides a rather unusual fisheye effect in photography.
The aperture range of the Ultra Wide Fisheye is f/3-200 and as expected it has an 180 degree view angle. Evidently, this particular camera lens can be used for various purposes; this ranges from creating distorted photographs to taking amazing shots of the sky.
When you choose the Ultra Wide Fisheye for your camera, you can count on some additional good features. Firstly, the entire lens has a metal body for additional durability, and includes an aspherical element to provide sharper images. It has a manual focus and aperture control too, which are useful features for better camera control. While they are not automatic like the aperture and focus in other cameras, this is a much more affordable alternative for your camera.
There is a specific option for Nikon and Canon Cameras, so be sure to check the version you have if you want to use this camera lens in photography. The Ultra Wide Fisheye from this review is compatible with all Nikon DX APS-C cameras and all Canon EF-mount APS-C cameras.
- 2019 UPDATED MODEL: The newest 2019 version now with 9 rounded aperture blades, improved optics and heavy-duty metal build quality.
- EXPANSIVE 180 DEGREE VIEW: The Opteka 6.5mm f/3.5 Circular Fisheye Lens offers an incredibly exciting perspective and takes photography to a range that exceeds the ability of the human eye. Bend the typical view of your photographs and video to the extreme with the ability to capture a full 180 degree panoramic frame. That fishbowl angle, combined with the impressive 11.8-inch focusing distance, allows an incredible depth of field making the 6.5mm the perfect addition to your bag of tricks.
- HD SUPER MULTI-COATED OPTICS: In order to assist with the common and annoying problem of flare and ghosting, Opteka’s Fisheye lens has been coated with a special layer above the optics to reduce this harmful effect. Additionally, a removable petal shaped lens hood is included reducing further the amount of light directly on the lens. This provides a valuable shelter from unwanted light rays helping you to capture ultra clear and vivid images.
- CONSISTENT AND SHARP IMAGES: Because a single aspherical element is utilized in the lens, this helps to reduce aberrations while maintaining a consistent illumination for sharpness around the entire image edge. Because there is so much detail in the frame of the fisheye with its wide angle view, this welcome addition is a helpful tool to create high quality and consistent images every time.
- FULLY COMPATIBLE: All Nikon DX-mount APS-C cameras including the D7500, D7200, D7100, D7000, D5600, D5500, D5400, D5300, D5200, D5100, D5000, D3500, D3400, D3300, D3200, D3100, D3000, D500. Is also compatible with FULL FRAME cameras but please keep in mind it will produce a more circular “360” image with black vignette borders.
4. The 12mm f/2.8 HD MC Wide Angle Lens
Even though most lenses in the opteka range are extremely affordable compared to other brands, the brand still offers some more expensive versions with additional features. One of the good, but a little pricier option, is the 12mm f/2.8HD MC Wide Angle Lens.
The 12mm f/2.8HD MC Wide Angle Lens is often recommended for architectural, landscape and interior photography. The reason for that is quite straightforward, as the unique design of this lens enables more of the scene to be included in the frame. In addition to that, the photographer does not have to move any further back to get the entire scene in the frame. For some situations, this can prove incredibly useful, especially for the types of photographs we mentioned earlier.
Photographers will find that the 12mm f/2.8HD MC Wide Angle Lens has a good dramatic effect. When you want to add more drama to your photographs without adjusting your subject, a lens such as this one could certainly contribute to the result you want.
When you get the 12mm f/2.8HD MC Wide Angle Lens, you can still count on excellent durability too. The lens itself has a metal body and a rear mount, which makes them more durable to use than plastic lenses.
Please note that the 12mm f/2.8HD MC Wide Angle Lens can be made especially for a variety of cameras. They are suitable for the Canon EOS M Series, Sony E cameras, and more. If you like this option and decided to get one, please check that the lens you will get matches your camera model.
Opteka 12mm f/2.8 HD MC Manual Focus Wide Angle Lens for Canon EF-M Mount APS-C Digital Cameras
- ADVANCED OPTICS: Featuring an optimized design, this lens uses a series of 12 optical glass elements (one SD super-low dispersion) in 10 groups to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations throughout the aperture range. A high definition anti-reflective coating suppresses lens flare and ghosting for increased contrast and color fidelity.
- WIDE VIEW: 12mm which translates to on 19mm on Canon EOS-M APS-C, this lens allows more of the scene to be included in the photograph, which is useful in architectural, interior and landscape photography where the photographer may not be able to move farther from the scene to photograph it.
- SUPERB PERSPECTIVE: With its 99° picture angle, the ultra-wide-angle Opteka 12mm f/2.8HD MC offers a dramatic angle of view in demanding situations. Find exciting new viewpoints and perspectives within ordinary settings. Expect exceptional results with every shot.
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION: Full metal body, aperture ring and rear mount allow this lens to withstand wear and tear much better than plastic lenses while commanding a rugged, solid feel when using.
- COMPATIBILITY: Can be used on all Canon EOS M series mirrorless digital cameras including M100, M10, M6, M5, M3, M2 and EOS-M.
5. 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom Lens
With a minimum focus distance of 5.25′ and improved glass optics incorporated in its design, the 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom Lens is an interesting option to use. Many photographers like this option because of its lower price and the improved glass optics that can increase image quality dramatically.
As mentioned already, the 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom Lens has advanced optics that many photographers like to use in their work. The lens in question basically uses several mirrors and optical glass elements together; this to reduce aberrations in photographs. In addition to that, there is a special coating on the lens that reduces the chance of flare and ghosting.
Photographers are not the only ones who like this particular lens from opteka. In fact, the lens proves remarkably popular for surveillance as well. So, you may find some law enforcement and private investigators running around with these.
- QUICK SPECS: Push/Pull Zoom, Manual Focus, Minimum Focus Distance: 5.25′ (1.6 m), Aperture -16, Filter Size 62mm, 4 Elements in 2 groups Multi-coated Glass Optics, Rotating Tripod Mount, 5-Year Warranty
- NEW AND IMPROVED: The Newly improved Opteka 420-800mm lens incorporates multi coated glass optics for the sharper images. Its 4 elements in 2 groups have been digitally-optimized to give the best image possible without braking the bank. A built in rotating tripod mount has also been added to help stabilize the lens especially when using the 2x converter which increases the zoom to an incredible 1600mm.
- ADVANCED OPTICS: Featuring an optimized design, this lens uses mirrors and a series of 4 optical glass elements in 2 groups to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations. A anti-reflective coating suppresses lens flare and ghosting for increased contrast and color fidelity.
- SUPER ZOOM: Manual focus 420-800mm or 840-1600mm with the 2x converter, this lens is not only a superb long range choice, but also performs well in a variety of scenes from sports and surveillance to everyday shooting.
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION: An all metal yet light weight body and rear mount allow this lens to withstand wear and tear much better than plastic lenses while commanding a rugged, solid feel when using indoor and outdoor.
6. 50mm f/2.0 HD
When you are searching for versatility and adaptability, then the 50mm f/2.0 HD could be an outstanding option. This compact lens is perfect for travel photograph and general photography, so it will be used by a wide range of photographers.
One of the more interesting features about this lens is its ability to maintain a beautiful natural background, even when a photograph is taken in lower light. Through its fast speeds, you will find this lens a great option for all kinds of light environments.
The 50mm f/2.0 HD comes with 6 optical glass elements. These elements work in five groups to reduce aberrations of a spherical and chromatic nature. In addition to that, the overall design of the lens allows for clickless adjustments during shooting. In other words, this is a solid choice for hobby photographers and could be a starting lens for some professional photographers.
Opteka 50mm f/2.0 HD MC Manual Focus Prime Lens for Sony E Mount APS-C Format Digital Cameras
- ADVANCED OPTICS: Featuring an optimized design, this lens uses a series of 6 optical glass elements (one SD super-low dispersion) in 5 groups to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations throughout the aperture range. A high definition anti-reflective coating suppresses lens flare and ghosting for increased contrast and color fidelity.
- TELEPHOTO VIEW: 50mm which translates to 75mm on Sony E APS-C format, about double the of view of the human eye, this lens is not only a superb snapshot choice, but also performs well in a variety of scenes from portraits and landscapes to architectural shots.
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION: Full metal body, aperture ring and rear mount allow this lens to withstand wear and tear much better than plastic lenses while commanding a rugged, solid feel when using.
- BEAUTIFUL BOKEH: Boke is one of the most popular subjects in photography. A 9-blade aperture diaphragm delivers beautiful, soft backgrounds which makes photographs visually appealing, forcing us to focus our attention on a particular area of the image.
- COMPATIBILITY: Can be used on all Sony E mount APS-C format mirrorless digital cameras including a6500, a6300, a6000, a5100, a5000, a3000, NEX-6, NEX-5N, NEX-5T, NEX-5R, NEX-5, NEX-3N, NEX-3, NEX-F3 and NEX-C3. Can also be used on full frame E-mount cameras that have the option to switch to APS-C mode.
7. OPT-SC62FE Titanium Series 62mm 0.3X HD Super Fisheye Lens
Some lenses are made to provide the most unusual effects in photographs. We already mentioned a great option with the fisheye lens we described earlier, but their super fisheye lens should be mentioned too.
The OPT-SC62FE Titanium Series 62mm 0.3X HD Super Fisheye Lens is only used when an extreme level of barrel distortion needs to be achieved. The design of the lens will play with your depth perception by pulling close subjects even closer. Subjects who are further away will disappear further in the background. Evidently, this can provide some really outstanding shots.
There are various applications for the The OPT-SC62FE Titanium Series 62mm 0.3X HD Super Fisheye Lens, but it is most commonly used for dramatic actions shots. In some cases, it can be used for city photography as well, although it may take some time to get used to this lens in that kind of environment. Fortunately, the lens has an easy time with variable lighting conditions, making it easier for you too.
Opteka OPT-SC62FE Titanium Series 0.3X HD Ultra Fisheye Lens for 62mm Digital Video Camcorders
- Direct 62mm mount. Includes spacer ring
- HD super anti-reflective scratch resistant multicoated glass optics for sharper images
- Built tough withstand extreme usage. All-metal body, mount, rings and hood
- Produces an extraordinary degree of barrel distortion resulting in a 180 degree angle of view
- Exaggerates depth, pulling nearby objects closer and causing distant objects to recede into the background
8. 35mm f/1.7 HD MC
Finally, we are getting to review the final lens in this overview, the 35mm f/1.7 HD MC. Even though this lens does not have any funky effects as described with some of these other lenses, it may have the most important effect of all, the ability to take natural photographs.
Even though many photographers always have their own signature and style, there is always time for some natural photographs in a portfolio. As a beginning photographer, you may want to consider adding a natural lens such as the the 35mm f/1.7 HD MC to your collection. Not only does it give you a natural view of your subject, you will be surprised how inspiration can strike you with a simple lens such as this one.
It is worth mentioning that the 35mm f/1.7 HD MC has a 9-blade aperture, which translates into more beautiful and softer backgrounds. In other words, you could see this lens as a staple that each photographer should own.
Opteka 35mm f/1.7 HD MC Manual Focus Prime Lens for Panasonic Micro 4/3 Mount Digital Cameras
- ADVANCED OPTICS: Featuring an optimized design, this lens uses a series of 6 optical glass elements (one SD super-low dispersion) in 5 groups to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations throughout the aperture range. A high definition anti-reflective coating suppresses lens flare and ghosting for increased contrast and color fidelity.
- SHORT TELEPHOTO: 35mm translates to 70mm on Panasonic M43 cameras, making it an ultra-short telephoto for portraits with a bit of space, detailed landscapes and architectural shots.
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION: Full metal body, aperture ring and rear mount allow this lens to withstand wear and tear much better than plastic lenses while commanding a rugged, solid feel when using.
- BEAUTIFUL BOKEH: Boke is one of the most popular subjects in photography. A 9-blade aperture diaphragm delivers beautiful, soft backgrounds which makes photographs visually appealing, forcing us to focus our attention on a particular area of the image.
- COMPATIBILITY: Can be used on all Panasonic M43 series mirrorless digital cameras including GH5, GH4, GH3, GH2, GH1, GX850, GX85, G85, GX8, GX7, GX1, GF8, GF7, GF6, GF5, GF3, GF2, GF1, GM5, GM1, G10, G9, G7, G6, G5, G3, G2, G1, L10 and L1.
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Choosing Lenses For Your Equipment Collection
When you are passionate about photography, you will quickly find that owning a number of different lenses can prove beneficial. While you might think of a million photographs to take with a single lens, you will find that the type of lens you use can capture a subject better or worse. To ensure you get the best results possible, having a collection of lenses at your disposal will ensure you never miss a moment.
Finally, remember to not always choose the most expensive option where lenses are concerned. It is better to choose a lens based on your specific needs than a lens with the larger number of features or the highest price. While it can be daunting to choose equipment without looking at your requirements, it could turn out to be more expensive doing this way.
You could need more lenses to get the effects you need, and they are often less expensive than the one you bought in the first place! Always remember that personalising and customising your equipment is the way to fine tuning your photography and create a portfolio that truly represents your style and signature.
Having a couple of different lenses to start with is not bad either, as it allows you to experiment with different styles and photography signatures. As mentioned before, these do not have to be extremely expensive lenses. As shown in this review, Opteka provides many affordable options for you to start with.
