Zeiss Distagon T* 15mm f/2.8 ZF.2 (FX) - Review / Test Report - Sample Images & Verdict
Lens Reviews - Nikon / Nikkor (full format)

Sample Shots

The following sample shots were taken with a D3x and RAW-converted via CaptureOne.

Click on a thumbnail to view the original file (opens in a separate window).

Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/9.0
Exposure 1/200s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/8.0
Exposure 1/250s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/8.0
Exposure 1/250s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/8.0
Exposure 1/500s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/2.8
Exposure 1/4000s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/7.1
Exposure 1/400s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/7.1
Exposure 1/640s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/2.8
Exposure 1/3200s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/4.0
Exposure 1/2000s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 100
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/2.8
Exposure 1/1250s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 160
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/8.0
Exposure 1/125s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 160
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/8.0
Exposure 1/125s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 160
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/2.8
Exposure 1/800s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 160
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/8.0
Exposure 1/125s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 125
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/7.1
Exposure 1/400s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 125
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/7.1
Exposure 1/200s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 125
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/4.5
Exposure 1/50s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 125
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/5.6
Exposure 1/40s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 125
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/5.6
Exposure 1/125s
Make NIKON CORPORATION
Model NIKON D3X
ISO Speed 125
Focal Length 15.0mm
Aperture: f/3.5
Exposure 1/400s

Verdict

So, is it worth it? That's not easy to answer. But performance-wise, the lens delivers great results, both in terms of sharpness and image contrast. For such a wide lens, CAs and distortion are well controlled. And, so far unmentioned in this review: the lens handles backlight exceptionally well. The only real drawback is the whopping amount of vignetting.

Mechanically, there is nothing to complain about. It's a perfectly executed piece of engineering that is simply a joy to use. Just one issue, maybe: the tested ZF version of the Distagon has no weather sealing, but the upcoming Milvus variant will take care of this.

The filter thread is a welcome feature that is missing on many similarly wide lenses. Those who prefer to use filter holders will find the fixed hood annoying (or actually a no-go criterion).

In summary, it is no doubt an impressive lens. If you are looking for an ultra wide angle, don't mind the lack of AF and the high price, we definitely highly recommend it.

Optical Quality:    
★★★★★
Mechanical Quality:
★★★★★
Price/Performance:
★★★★★

Click here for an explanation of our star ratings


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