When it comes to photography, having the right lens for the job is crucial for capturing stunning images. Ultra wide angle lenses are a specialized type of lens that allow photographers to photograph a wide field of view. But what exactly makes a lens “ultra wide”? Let’s take a closer look at what defines an ultra wide lens and some of the top options on the market.
What is an Ultra Wide Angle Lens?
An ultra wide angle lens refers to any lens that has a focal length that is shorter than the length of the camera’s sensor or film frame. More specifically, a lens typically needs to have a focal length of around 24mm or less on a full frame camera to be considered an ultra wide angle.
These lenses are wider than wide angle lenses and capture an extremely broad field of view between 100 and 120 degrees. This allows photographers to include a vast amount of a scene in the frame from a relatively close vantage point.
Some key features of ultra wide angle lenses include:
- Short focal lengths – usually 24mm or less
- Extremely wide angles of view – between 100 and 120 degrees
- Allow close-up, immersive images
- Creative perspectives and distortion
- Increased depth of field
The wide perspectives provided by these lenses make them ideal for landscape, architecture, and interior photography. They can capture sweeping vistas and exaggerate perspective in creative ways. The enhanced depth of field also helps maintain focus across the entire scene.
Best Ultra Wide Angle Lenses
There are many excellent ultra wide angle lenses available from leading camera brands. Here are some top options:
Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM
The Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM lens is currently the widest full frame rectilinear lens on the market. With a zoom range from 11-24mm, it provides an incredible field of view starting at 126 degrees and going down to 84 degrees on the long end. With an f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range, it maintains great light gathering capabilities. The L-series designation means it boasts Canon’s highest quality optics and construction.
Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art
For photographers wanting an ultra wide prime lens, the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art is a top choice. As a prime, it has a fixed 14mm focal length. Combined with the wide f/1.8 aperture, this Sigma lens is great for astrophotography and low light situations in addition to sweeping landscape images. The Art series indicates excellent sharpness and resolution.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED
Nikon shooters will want to consider the AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED ultra wide angle zoom lens. With professional grade sharpness and a fast f/2.8 constant aperture, this lens captures stunning images across its entire focal range. Nanocrystal coat helps reduce flare and ghosting while two ED elements provide superb contrast and color accuracy.
Sony FE 12-24mm f/4 G
For Sony mirrorless camera users, the FE 12-24mm f/4 G lens provides an extremely wide 12-24mm range in a compact, lightweight package. The fast, quiet autofocus and optical image stabilization make this lens ideal for landscapes, travel, and action shots. As a G Master lens, it delivers outstanding resolution and bokeh.
Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f2.8 PRO
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f2.8 PRO lens offers a 35mm equivalent focal length of 14-28mm, making it an excellent choice as an ultra wide zoom for Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras. This pro-level lens provides exceptional sharpness and speed across its entire focal range.
Best Lenses for Different Situations
While all ultra wide angle lenses capture expansive perspectives, some work better than others depending on your photography goals. Here are some top recommendations for different situations:
Best for Landscape – Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8
The Nikon 14-24mm is an ideal landscape lens with its ultra wide angle zoom range and razor sharp optics. The fast aperture ensures clarity even in low light scenes like sunrises and sunsets.
Best for Real Estate – Canon 11-24mm f/4
Real estate and architectural photographers will love the Canon 11-24mm with its incredibly wide 126 degree angle of view for capturing cramped indoor spaces. The f/4 aperture provides great sunstar effects.
Best for Astrophotography – Sigma 14mm f/1.8
For milky way shots, it’s hard to beat the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 and its super fast aperture and 14mm focal length that maximizes stars in the frame.
Best for Vlogging/Video – Sony 12-24mm f/4
The autofocus and optical stabilization of the Sony 12-24mm f/4 make it a stellar choice for vlogging, video, and even action shooting while traveling.
What to Look for in an Ultra Wide Lens
When comparing ultra wide angle lenses, keep the following qualities in mind:
- Focal length – Look for 14mm or wider on full frame cameras or 7mm on APS-C and Micro Four Thirds.
- Aperture – Faster apertures (f/2.8, f/4) provide more light and bokeh.
- Image stabilization – Helps reduce shake and blur in handheld shots.
- Weather sealing – Important for outdoor shooting in rough conditions.
- Filter threads – Allows you to add filters like circular polarizers.
Consider what you’ll mainly use the lens for to determine the ideal balance of these features.
Creative Uses of Ultra Wide Angle Lenses
Once you get an ultra wide angle lens, here are some creative ways to make the most of its unique capabilities:
Exaggerate Perspective
Get super close to foreground elements like rocks or trees to make them appear much larger relative to the background.
Increase Depth of Field
The increased depth of field at wide angles means more of your landscape will look sharp from front to back.
Shoot Unique Portraits
Get very close to your subject for a distinctive stretched perspective.
Capture Immersive Environments
The wide view encapsulates more of a tight space, making the viewer feel like they’re there.
Emphasize Leading Lines
Pointing the camera along strong perspective lines adds drama.
Common Mistakes When Using Ultra Wide Lenses
While ultra wide lenses open up new creative possibilities, there are some pitfalls to be aware of:
- Distortion – Straight lines can appear curved and stretched around the edges.
- Vignetting – Corners of images may be unnaturally darkened.
- Soft corners – Edges may lose sharpness, especially at wider apertures.
- Busyness – Clutter, distracting elements near edges.
- Ineffective composition – Filling the frame with unimportant elements.
Being mindful of these issues and getting close while keeping your composition tight will help avoid problems.
Ultra Wide Angle Lens Techniques
Here are some key techniques for taking great photos with an ultra wide lens:
Shoot from a low angle
Getting low with a wide lens exaggerates the scene’s depth and dimensions.
Move in close to subjects
Fill the frame with foreground elements for maximum immersion.
Keep horizons straight
Watch out for tilted horizons, which can be very distracting with wide views.
Watch your exposure
Bright skies and dark foregrounds are common. Use grad ND filters or bracket exposures.
Include interesting foreground
Wide angles allow you to emphasize appealing foregrounds that complement the rest of the scene.
Framing and Composing Ultra Wide Angle Shots
Follow these composition tips for fantastic ultra wide angle photos:
- Lead the eye – Use leading lines or the flow of elements to direct the viewer’s gaze.
- Rule of thirds – Position key points of interest at the intersection of this grid.
- Layer the scene – Include foreground, midground, and background layers for visual interest.
- Balance the composition – Spread elements evenly across the frame.
- Watch the edges – Avoid clutter or distractions around the outer area of the image.
Conclusion
Ultra wide angle lenses open up a new world of creative possibilities with their extreme angles of view. They excel at capturing sprawling landscapes, exaggerated perspectives, and immersive interior scenes. Leading options from top brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, and others provide excellent sharpness and fast apertures for stunning clarity. Consider what you want to shoot most when deciding which ultra wide lens is right for you. With practice mastering composition and exposure techniques, an ultra wide lens will take your photography to the next level.