Today Cambo announced a new lens for the Actus camera system. The ACTAR-24 is a lens specifically designed to be used with the Cambo Actus, using a Mirrorless camera or DSLR system to capture the image.

So what’s the big deal? Why have Cambo designed a new lens?

When using DSLR’s with the Actus there is a limitation when using wide angle lenses. This limitation is not an issue with the Actus but a physics issue. Cameras using a mirror (mirror box), such as Canon and Nikon, have digital sensors positioned behind the mirror, which restricts the type of lenses you can use. Its not a problem if you wanted to use a Hasselblad V series or Mamiya lenses. As these lenses were designed for use with medium format camera bodies and the capture (film) area is positioned behind a mirror just as the DSLR sensor is. So focussing is not an issue and the image circle is so large that you will be able to take advantage of all the movements the Actus has to offer.

However, not every photographer has access to medium format lenses and they are becoming a bit of a rare find in your local camera store. They also command a high price, which you would expect when using a fine optic such as the Hasselblad 40mm Distagon.

With this in mind, Cambo set out to resolve the issue and bring a new product to market to satisfy the large number of Canon and Nikon photographers. These photographers want to utilise the full functionality of the Actus mini view camera and also be able to repeat the movements easily. The Actar-24 can be used with a wide range of cameras not just Canon and Nikon. You can use the lens with Canon, Nikon, Sony A7, Fuji X, Panasonic, Leica M and Olympus OMD.

And the specifications?

The lens is a 24mm wide angle with a manual aperture ranging from f3.5-22 with half click stops, making it ideal for landscape and architectural photography. The ACTAR-24 is fixed in a lens panel that slots into the front of the Actus making it easy to set up and quickly packaway. Those die-hard landscape photographers that are conscious of carrying a lot of kit in the field will be delighted to know it only weighs-in at 660grams.

The optical design is 16 elements in 11 groups, all lenses are multi-coated to achieve the best contrast range. There is also an 82mm filter thread to add a UV for protection or you can enhance your creative flair by adding a filter kit.