M42 Fisheye Camera Lenses

Basic Information About Fisheye M42 Camera Lenses

The mainstream use of fisheye lenses for photography began in the 1960s. Prior to that, this type of lens was used by meteorologists to observe and capture cloud formations. The term “fisheye” was coined to describe the photographic effect produced by the wide and expanded optical camera lens.

A fisheye lens captures a wide, hemispherically angled view of the photographic subject. The effect results in a curved and distorted image. You can use these lenses for creative purposes when taking photographs. Below are the specific features of these lenses:

• Field View - While the perspective may look distorted, the fisheye lens captures anywhere from 100 to 180 degrees. There are camera models that even exceed the 180 degrees panoramic view.
• Focal Length - This element depends on the type of camera. The focal length of a 35mm camera could range from 8-10mm or even 4-16mm. The focal length of devices with full frames start at around 15mm. Focusing distance also varies with the device model.
• Aperture - The fisheye lens aperture also varies. There are lens model with an aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22.
• Mapping - This function creates the curved effect seen in fisheye lens photography. Depending on the camera, the angle projection may be categorized as stereographic, equidistant, or orthographic.

An M42 is a screw-type mount that is used to attach the fisheye lens to the camera. It is typically used with 35mm photographic devices. With adapters, some fisheye M42 camera lenses can be used with other photographic devices.

There are several features that differentiate the fisheye camera lens from other types of lenses. Effects is one of them. Using this lens, the device that is angled at 180 degrees with the right sensor size can either produce a circular or diagonal image effect. The zoom element focuses on one area of the subject. There are also miniature types which are suitable for smaller formats. In this mode, the focal length could start at 1mm.

A fisheye lens camera may be used for marine and landscape photography. With its wide-angle lens, the device can capture sweeping panoramic views of the subject scenery. This wide-angle lens is also used for a number of research and scientific purposes.