Hartblei introduces HCam Master TS 14-24mm tilt/shift optic for Sony E-mount

German manufacturer Hartblei has announced a powerful tilt/shift optic for Sony's E-mount mirrorless cameras, the HCam Master TS 14-24mm. Based on the Nikon G-ED AFS 14-24mm f/2.8 wide angle zoom lens, Hartblei's solution makes use of a custom built tilt/shift adapter mounted to a rail system similar to those of bellows cameras or macro photography setups. This allows not only for tilt and shift action, but also for very precise alignment of the lens.

The Nikon lens sports a shortened sun shade which helps reduce vignetting when the optic is tilted or shifted. The tilt/shift apparatus itself only takes Canon EF-mount lenses, which is why the set comes with a Novoflex Nikon F to Canon EF adapter. This also allows for the aperture of the Nikon lens to be adjusted, which isn't possible on the lens itself since it lacks a manual aperture ring.

The Hartblei HCam Master TS 14-24mm can be used on all E-mount mirrorless cameras, independent of their sensor size. This means it is also suited for use on the Alpha 7 series. On full frame cameras, it can be shifted by up to 10mm at the lens' 18mm setting, and a little less below and beyond that setting due to the smaller image circle at these focal lengths.

The shifting function allows for perspective corrections for example in architectural photography, but also in product photography. Macro photographers will appreciate the possibility to tilt the lens by up to 10° at any focal length, which makes it possible to achieve a large depth of field even at wider aperture settings.

The whole set consisting of the modified Nikon lens, the Novoflex adapter, the tilt/shift apparatus and the rails sells for €3,449, which is equivalent to about $4,670 USD. It can be ordered directly from Hartblei, or via an authorized dealer. (For a list of dealers selling Hartblei products, please refer to the company's website.)

The individual parts that make up the HCam Master TS 14-24mm can also be purchased separately, with the modified Nikon G-ED AFS 14-24mm f/2.8 plus Novoflex F to EF-mount adapter selling for €2,159 ($2,880.) The tilt/shift adapter, which makes it possible to use any Canon EF-mount lens as a tilt/shift optic on Sony E-mount cameras, is available for €425 ($570).

(via Photoscala.de)