The Ultimate Guide to Ultra Wide Angle Lenses for Canon 60D

When you delve into the realm of ultra wide-angle lenses, you are entering a niche market known for its specialized and highly sought-after article will provide a comprehensive guide to the best ultra wide angle lenses for your Canon 60D, discussing their features, pricing, and suitability for various photography needs.

Best Ultra Wide Angle Lens: Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8

One of the standout options in the ultra wide-angle lens category is the Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8. This prime lens is known for its outstanding speed, autofocus capability, and affordability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a price point under $1000, it offers exceptional value and performance.

Canon Wide Zoom Options

Canon offers two wide-angle zoom lenses specifically designed for crop frame cameras like the Canon 60D. Both lenses are renowned for their optical excellence:

EF-S 10–18mm f/4.5–5.6

This lens is an economical choice, known for its affordability and excellent performance in a wide range of scenarios. It works wonders for those who want to capture expansive scenes without breaking the bank.

EF-S 10–22mm f/3.5–4.5

At the higher end of the spectrum, the EF-S 10–22mm f/3.5–4.5 is a stop faster, has a slightly longer focal range, and boasts better build quality. Although it is twice as expensive as its counterpart, the EF-S 10–18mm f/4.5–5.6, it is often considered the superior option for those who prioritize image quality and durability.

Third-Party Lenses: Sigma, Tokina, and Tamron

Several third-party manufacturers also produce ultra wide-angle lenses compatible with the Canon 60D. While these lenses often come with advantages such as larger apertures, they may not necessarily outperform the Canon offerings. Here’s a brief overview:

Sigma 10–20mm f/3.5–4.5

The Sigma 10–20mm f/3.5–4.5 offers a larger aperture and is priced competitively. It is a solid choice for those preferring third-party lenses, but the performance may not outweigh the cost.

Tokina 11–16mm f/2.8

The Tokina 11–16mm f/2.8 is known for its exceptional light-gathering capabilities, making it ideal for astrophotography. However, when shooting in daylight, the lens suffers from significant flare, making it less desirable for daytime use.

Tamron 10–20mm f/2.8

Tamron's 10–20mm f/2.8 is another competitive option, offering a wide aperture and decent build quality. Like the Tokina, it is well-suited for low-light conditions but may not be the best choice for bright daylight scenarios.

My Personal Experience with Different Lenses

Based on personal experience, I have found that the EF-S 10–18mm is a reliable and satisfying lens for a wide range of applications. While it does exhibit some distortion, it delivers impressive results, especially when shooting at night or in low-light conditions.

Samyang/Rokinon 8mm f3.5 Fisheye

For those seeking a fisheye lens, I recommend the Samyang/Rokinon 8mm f3.5 Fisheye. Although it has significant lens distortion, it provides great 180-degree night shots and can be rectified using computer software. The addition of a Skytech CCD clip filter has greatly enhanced its performance, especially when photographing areas with sodium light pollution.

Choosing the Right Lens for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice of the best lens for your Canon 60D depends on your budget and intended usage. Here’s a quick summary of the key points to consider:

Photography of the Night Sky: The Tokina 11–16mm is the best choice due to its superior light-gathering capabilities. However, for daytime use, the flare is a significant drawback. Daytime Photography: The EF-S 10–22mm is a top contender, offering excellent optics and a slightly wider range, making it a solid choice for general use. Overall Best Lens: If money is no object, the Canon EF-S 10–22mm remains the top pick due to its optical quality and build.

Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly solution or a premium lens, there is an ultra wide-angle lens suitable for your Canon 60D and your photography needs. Feel free to experiment with different options to find the one that works best for you!