Irix 21mm f1.4 Lens for Canon EF, Nikon F, and Pentax K

Earlier this year, Irix introduced the Irix Cine 21mm T1.5 (approx. $1,200 on Adorama) full-frame cinema lens, and now it is the turn of a similar tool for photographers – the Irix 21mm f1.4. The new Irix lens is aimed at demanding professional photographers and is available for Canon EF, Nikon F, and Pentax K mounts. It is also adapted to work with mirrorless systems using appropriate adapters.

The optical design consists of 15 elements in 11 groups, including 4 extra-low dispersion glass elements, 4 high refractive elements, and 2 aspherical elements. The Irix lens has been designed to work with modern high-resolution full-frame cameras.

According to the company, the corrected distortion does not exceed 2%, for this reason, it is perfect for shooting architecture and interiors, where the absence of distortion is essential. With an f/1.4 aperture, the lens is suitable for astrophotography.

The 11-bladed aperture provides a nice background blur effect even at 21mm, which many photographers will appreciate, the company says the lens is good for reportage and street photography.

The lens body is based on a proprietary design, which the company calls Dragonfly, it has metal elements, sealed against dust and water, the lenses are scratch-resistant, and the focus ring has a special anti-slip coating. In addition, the engraving of all inscriptions is filled with UV paint.

The lens does not have autofocus, but for those who are used to autofocus, the lens will help you focus manually – the camera will confirm focus on the display or in the viewfinder. There will also be semi-automatic PASM modes, electronic iris control from the camera, and EXIF ​​data recording so that working with the lens will not differ much from working with autofocus lenses, and it will be easier for beginners to work with manual optics.

There’s also a focus lock feature, which is handy for pinpointing focus at infinity for landscapes or astrophotography, as well as for product and other types of photography.

Price and availability

The Irix 21mm f1.4 lens is finally available to buy on the Bhphotovideo.com store at $699.

Irix 21mm f1.4 specifications

• Focal Length: 21mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Lens Mount: Nikon F, Canon EF, Pentax K
• Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
• Angle of View: 89.7°
• Minimum Focus Distance: 11.8″ / 0.3 m
• Optical Design: 15 Elements in 11 Groups
• Diaphragm Blades: 11, Rounded
• Focus Type: Manual Focus
• Image Stabilization: No
• Filter Size: None
• Dimensions (ø x L): 95 x 99 mm (Nikon F) / 95 x 101 mm (Canon EF) / 95 x 103 mm (Pentax K)
• Weight: 816 g (Nikon F), (Pentax K) / 830 g (Canon EF)