Brightin Star Launches AF 12mm F2.8 Ultra-Wide Prime for Sony E-Mount
Brightin Star has officially launched the AF 12mm F2.8, a full-frame ultra-wide prime for Sony E-mount that brings autofocus to an ultra-wide angle that has typically been dominated by manual focus options. The lens covers a 120-degree field of view and is designed for landscape, architecture, astro, and interior photography.
Optical design and image quality
The optical construction uses 15 elements in 11 groups, including extra-low dispersion glass and aspherical elements to control chromatic aberration and distortion. Brightin Star states that the lens maintains accurate rectilinear geometry with no fisheye distortion, which is important for architectural work where straight lines matter.
The F2.8 aperture is standard for an ultra-wide prime, providing enough light for handheld interior shots and astrophotography while keeping the lens size manageable. The nine-blade aperture is designed to produce smooth bokeh, though at 12mm, background blur is minimal by design.
Autofocus and handling
This is Brightin Star’s first ultra-wide lens with autofocus, and the company has equipped it with a stepping motor designed for silent and reasonably fast focusing. Manual focus override is available through the focus ring.
The lens includes weather sealing at the mount and key control points, making it usable in dusty or damp conditions. A rear filter slot accepts standard gel filters, which is a practical feature for ultra-wide lenses where front filters would cause vignetting.
Build and dimensions
The barrel is constructed from metal with a textured focus ring. The lens weighs approximately 550g and measures 85mm in length, which is competitive with other 12mm F2.8 primes on the market. The front element uses a multi-layer coating to reduce flare and ghosting when shooting into light sources.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony E-mount |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Focal Length | 12mm |
| Aperture | F2.8-F16 |
| Field of View | 120 degrees |
| Optical Design | 15 elements in 11 groups |
| Autofocus | Stepping motor |
| Weather Sealing | Yes |
| Filter Thread | Rear gel filter slot |
| Weight | ~550g |
| Length | ~85mm |
Price and availability
The Brightin Star AF 12mm F2.8 is available now at $659 through Amazon and BHphoto. That pricing undercuts the Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM by a significant margin and competes directly with Laowa and Samyang ultra-wide options, while adding autofocus that those lenses often lack at this focal length.