So I’m pretty sure I want the Tokina 12-24mm f/4.0 ATX Pro DX Zoom Lens in Nikon Digital Mount. I go back down to Georges (LINK) and meet with Patrick. In my research I found several people mention the variation of lens quality in a line. I asked Patrick about this and he said it happens, but not that often. Since they don’t rent the lens I want to test, I bring my camera and laptop down to the store, to test out their two copies of the Tokina lens.
I have to admit that I couldn’t see any difference between the two sets of tests we did with the two lenses (OK, that’s not so surprising – how can a company make money if they have too much variation in the line?). We previewed the test shots in LightRoom and Patrick was looking at all kinds of things I hadn’t thought of (that’s why he’s the pro). He was comparing the histograms and looking to see if the lenses recorded the same level in the highlights and shadows. Patrick wasn’t seeing any difference in the lenses either. We did a second set of tests to be sure — I mean I did drag all my gear down there, might as well use it.
This lens has sharp focus and you wouldn’t think dropping from 18mm (the limit on my other lens) to 12mm would be such a big difference, but it is. There is so much more in the image. Once I got this lens out in the field I was much more aware of having to check for things I didn’t mean to get in the shot, random branches coming in from the top or sides that I hadn’t notice, people that had stepped forward of the line of my tripod. But I like the look of shots taken with this lens.
This diagram shows the viewing angle I have available to me, with the two lenses I own, and the new lens.
You probably noticed I didn’t test the Nikon wide angle lens after I found out how expensive it was. It got some incredible reviews and was rated very high. I decided not to even put it on my camera and look at it unless I was unhappy with the Tokina tests. If there was a difference it wasn’t going to be big enough for the kind of work that I do. And I’m happier knowing I have a great lens at a great price – perfect for my current needs and level of skill.
I am really thrilled with the purchase of this lens. I can’t wait for the Zion workshop and learn some things about using it! Below are my first few test shots using the lens.
Dear Reader: I’m interested in how you do things, please share!
How do you test new camera gear? Do you test or just buy?