Is the Lensbaby Scout a good budget fisheye lens?
Asked 5/13/2012
58 views
2 answers
0
I’m considering the Lensbaby Scout as an inexpensive fisheye option. How does it perform in terms of build quality, image quality, and optical quality? Is the plastic construction a concern, and is it a good choice if my main goal is a low-cost fisheye look?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
6
I've had limited use of a Composer and Muse. The build quality was acceptable, and I know they've held up well for the owners who use them regularly, though it's a pretty clear step below kit lenses in terms of fit and finish.
I think the amount of enjoyment you get out of a Lensbaby is most directly correlated to the optic you choose and your expectation of it. I've used the Plastic and Single optics and they just don't suit me -- I want tack sharp results and those simply don't do it for me; I find it frustrating trying to tell if something is in focus or wondering if this is just as good as it gets. I don't know how the fisheye optic compares but I would consider the quality of it and what your expectations are.
A different direction: if you want a fisheye for cheap you might also look at the Samyang/Rokinon/Bower 8mm fisheye.
Originally by user8473. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user8473
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The Scout may be inexpensive, but the community feedback suggests it’s not the best choice if your main goal is a conventional budget fisheye.
Build quality appears acceptable rather than premium: users describe Lensbaby construction as durable enough for regular use, but a step below typical kit lenses in fit and finish. The plastic body doesn’t sound unusually fragile, but it also doesn’t feel high-end.
The bigger issue is image rendering. Lensbaby lenses are designed more for creative, selective-focus effects than for clean, sharp fisheye results. Users note that Lensbaby optics can be difficult to judge for focus and may not deliver tack-sharp images, with strong focus falloff being part of the intended look.
So if you want an artistic, experimental lens with unusual focus effects, the Scout may be fun. If you specifically want a low-cost fisheye for the classic ultra-wide, evenly sharp fisheye look, the answers suggest looking at other fisheye options instead.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI14y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Is the Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG Macro a good budget telephoto for a Nikon D90?
Are cheap ND filters worth buying, and what do pricier ones do better?
What very cheap, ultra-small digital camera options are reasonably responsive?
Why are Leica cameras and lenses so expensive?
Best camera under $350 for newborn photos in low light and 11x15 prints