Samyang AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S

Samyang AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S – Ultra-wide 12mm for Canon APS-C with bright F2 aperture

The Samyang AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S is an ultra wide-angle lens made specifically for Canon APS-C mirrorless cameras with the RF-S mount. It combines a compact, lightweight form with a wide field of view and a bright F2 maximum aperture. As a result, the lens supports a range of creative uses including landscapes, architecture, interiors, street photography and astrophotography.

Compact design and handling

The lens features a compact, lightweight design that makes it easy to carry for on-the-go shooting. It weighs 213g and measures 57.2mm in length, so it fits well with Canon APS-C RF-S camera bodies and keeps overall kit size small. Furthermore, a side AF-MF switch provides quick access to focus mode changes, improving handling when you need to switch between manual and autofocus.

Optical construction and image quality

Samyang designed the AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S with an optical formula that emphasizes sharpness and controlled aberrations. The lens consists of 12 elements arranged in 10 groups. It includes three extra-low dispersion (ED) elements and two aspherical elements—one H-ASP and one ASP. These components work together to reduce chromatic aberration and help deliver strong edge-to-edge sharpness with minimal distortion.

Aperture, close focusing and low-light use

The bright F2 maximum aperture supports low-light shooting and offers greater control over depth of field. In addition, the lens focuses down to a minimum distance of 0.2m, enabling closer compositions and more dynamic foreground subjects while keeping the ultra-wide perspective.

Autofocus and video-friendly operation

The AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S uses Samyang’s Linear STM (stepping motor) for autofocus. This system provides fast and quiet focusing, which benefits both still photography and video recording by minimizing lens noise during capture.

Durability and finish

Samyang built the lens with weather sealing to resist light rain, snow, and dust, making it a reliable choice in a variety of shooting conditions. The lens also features a sleek matte black finish with Samyang’s signature red ring, offering a balance of practical protection and refined aesthetics.

Included items

• Samyang AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S lens
• Lens hood
• Lens cap
• Rear lens cap

Specifications

FAQ

Question: Is this lens compatible with full-frame Canon cameras?
Answer: The Samyang AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S is designed specifically for Canon APS-C mirrorless cameras using the RF-S mount. It is intended for APS-C sensor bodies rather than Canon full-frame models.

Question: How does the lens perform in low light and for shallow depth-of-field effects?
Answer: With a bright F2 maximum aperture, the lens supports low-light shooting and offers control over depth of field. This aperture helps gather more light for night scenes and can create subject separation with softer backgrounds when appropriate.

Question: Is the autofocus suitable for video work?
Answer: Yes. The lens uses Samyang’s Linear STM stepping motor, which delivers fast and quiet autofocus. That makes it well suited to both stills and video where silent focus operation is important.

Question: Can I use this lens outdoors in mixed weather conditions?
Answer: The lens features weather sealing designed to resist light rain, snow, and dust. While it adds protection for outdoor use, you should still take standard precautions in severe conditions.

Question: How close can I focus, and does that allow creative close-up compositions?
Answer: The minimum focus distance is 0.2 m, which enables close-up and more dynamic foreground compositions while maintaining the ultra-wide perspective.

Question: What comes in the box when I buy this lens?
Answer: The package includes the Samyang AF 12mm F/2.0 RF-S lens, a lens hood, a lens cap, and a rear lens cap, so you receive the basic accessories needed to start shooting right away.