The current ULTRA WIDE-HELIAR 12mm F5.6 ASPHERICAL is the second generation. The first generation was smaller L mount lens without rangefinder coupling, but this second M-mount generation is rangefinder coupled. The first generation was so-called a "blue lens" (takes bluish pictures), but this second generation became more neutral. It's an extravagant 12mm at the full-size, it becomes a 18mm at the APS-C size which is suitable for dynamic capturing of urban scenes and shooting landscapes. This lens is valuable just because it's wider than the widest Leica 16mm and this also makes the widest lens for the GXR. Despite the extreme angle of view, the performance is excellent to the corners even on the full-size and it's perfect on the APS-C size. This lens makes the smallest system with a 18mm lens. This angle of view is difficult to handle, but the reasonable price makes me want to try it...
( Photo & Text : K )
The lens is sharp by default, it looks super sharp thanks to the lowpass-less sensor. And, this is a JPG. For more sharpness, shoot RAW. This lens matches very well with the GXR.
Using an ultra wide angle lens on a rangefinder is very difficult because you need to use an external viewfinder. But it's easy to compose precisely on the GXR thanks to the LCD. I don't shoot something like this with a rangefinder, but interestingly, my pictures change once I take the GXR in my hand.
Despite the extreme angle of view, this 12mm has minimal distortion and this amazes me. I shot very under, but there's a tonality in the shadow. This is very digital, and it's impossible for a color slide film.
I shot through the car window. I wonder why I always look up when I use an ultra wide angle lens.
