The Kraken Sports KRL-01 wet wide-angle lens has established itself as a premium choice for underwater photographers using compact and mirrorless camera systems. It is designed to provide an immersive 145-degree field of view when paired with the recommended focal length, making it ideal for capturing expansive scenes underwater. Built with six optical elements arranged in five groups and an acrylic dome, the KRL-01 delivers sharpness, clarity, and vivid color reproduction. The multi-layer BBAR coating helps minimize reflections, making it particularly effective for shooting directly into the sun or creating over-under split shots.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this lens is its almost zero minimum focusing distance, which allows photographers to get extremely close to their subjects without losing the wide perspective. This makes it perfect for close-focus wide-angle photography where both the subject and the background environment are included in crisp detail. For underwater enthusiasts aiming to capture marine life, reef structures, and dramatic underwater landscapes, the KRL-01 offers professional results while remaining easy to use.
Build Quality and Design
The construction of the Kraken KRL-01 reflects a focus on durability and optical performance. The high-quality glass elements ensure accurate color rendering and edge-to-edge sharpness. The acrylic dome not only keeps the lens lightweight but also allows scratches to be polished out, which is a significant advantage for underwater use where contact with rocks, sand, or marine life is common. This feature extends the lifespan of the lens and ensures that minor abrasions do not affect image quality over time.
The lens’s 67mm thread makes it highly compatible with a wide range of underwater housings and ports. The ability to screw it on and off during a dive offers flexibility, enabling photographers to switch between wide-angle and other lenses without resurfacing. The KRL-01 was designed primarily for Micro Four Thirds sensor cameras, but it has also been successfully tested on full-frame systems such as the Sony A7R III, demonstrating its versatility. Its compact size and robust design make it a practical tool for both recreational divers and professional photographers.
Optical Performance and Field of View
In terms of optical performance, the KRL-01 stands out among wet wide-angle lenses. With a recommended 24mm focal length, the lens achieves a stunning 145-degree field of view, making it possible to capture vast underwater scenes in a single frame. When used at 28mm or 35mm, it still provides impressive coverage with approximately 118.6 and 94.7 degrees, respectively. This zoom-through capability allows photographers to adjust framing without removing the lens, making it suitable for various shooting situations.
The almost zero minimum focusing distance opens creative possibilities for close-focus wide-angle photography. This style of shooting creates dramatic compositions by placing the subject close to the lens while maintaining a wide perspective of the surrounding environment. Combined with the lens’s ability to handle strong light sources without excessive flare due to its BBAR coating, the KRL-01 delivers professional-quality results even in challenging lighting conditions. For photographers who enjoy experimenting with half-above, half-below water shots, the optical design and acrylic dome make it particularly effective for capturing these dynamic images.
Compatibility and Recommended Setups
The KRL-01’s 67mm thread ensures broad compatibility across multiple camera and housing systems. It works exceptionally well with popular compact models such as the Sony RX100 series, Canon G7X, and Panasonic LX10. For mirrorless systems, it is highly recommended for Olympus and Panasonic Micro Four Thirds cameras, including models like the OM-D E-M1 and E-M5 series. Despite being optimized for smaller sensors, the lens has been tested on full-frame systems, where it still produces impressive results, though with slight variations in field of view.
The lens performs best at the recommended 24mm focal length, where it reaches its maximum 145-degree field of view. Photographers can also use it at 28mm or 35mm to achieve different perspectives while maintaining wide coverage. This versatility makes the KRL-01 suitable for a range of underwater photography styles, from expansive reef scenes to intimate portraits of marine life. Its ability to deliver sharp images with minimal distortion across different camera setups makes it a reliable option for divers who use multiple systems or plan to upgrade equipment in the future.
Pros of Using the Kraken Sports KRL-01 Wet Wide Angle Lens
The Kraken Sports KRL-01 wet wide-angle lens has several benefits that make it a preferred option for underwater photographers. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to instantly add a high-quality wide-angle capability to your camera during a dive. By simply screwing the lens onto the port, you can transform your shooting setup without returning to the surface. This convenience is especially valuable when unexpected marine life or dramatic scenes appear suddenly. The glass elements used in the lens ensure excellent optical clarity and color accuracy, while the acrylic dome provides a lightweight design and the ability to buff out scratches that may occur underwater.
Another strong advantage is the flexibility of the KRL-01. Unlike fixed wide-angle domes, this wet lens can be removed underwater, allowing you to switch back to standard or macro photography as needed. The almost zero minimum focusing distance also enables unique compositions that bring subjects close to the viewer while maintaining a wide field of view. For photographers who want to capture the grandeur of underwater environments and the fine details of marine life in one shot, the KRL-01 offers the perfect balance of functionality and image quality.
Cons and Considerations
Although the KRL-01 offers outstanding optical performance for a wet wide-angle lens, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Wet lenses are often compared to dedicated wide-angle ports, which are designed specifically for a camera and lens combination. In some cases, a dedicated dome can offer slightly better corner sharpness or reduced distortion. However, the KRL-01 comes remarkably close to matching the performance of a dedicated wide-angle setup, which is impressive considering its versatility and convenience.
Another aspect to consider is that, at very wide apertures, images can appear a little soft around the edges. This is not uncommon for wide-angle wet lenses, and it can be addressed by stopping down the aperture to f/8 or smaller. Some compact camera systems may also experience slight vignetting when the KRL-01 is attached. If vignetting occurs, simply zoom in slightly until it disappears. These minor adjustments are easy to incorporate into your shooting process and do not take away from the overall benefits the lens provides.
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
To maximize the performance of the KRL-01 wet wide-angle lens, there are several tips that can help you capture the best possible images. First, always try to shoot as close to your subject as possible. Wide-angle underwater photography benefits from minimizing the amount of water between the lens and the subject, as water can reduce contrast and sharpness. Shooting close also allows you to take full advantage of the lens’s minimal focusing distance.
Second, use a smaller aperture like f/8 or f/11 to ensure maximum depth of field and edge-to-edge sharpness. While the KRL-01 performs well across different apertures, stopping down improves overall image quality, especially in scenes with complex backgrounds. When shooting into the sun or capturing over-under shots, take advantage of the lens’s multi-layer BBAR coating, which reduces reflections and enhances clarity. Lastly, always make sure to angle your camera upward when photographing marine life or reefs. This technique not only adds drama to your composition but also allows more natural light into the scene, resulting in vibrant colors and better exposure.
Comparison with Other Wide-Angle Lenses
The KRL-01 stands out in the competitive field of wet wide-angle lenses because of its optical performance, versatility, and build quality. Many wet lenses on the market compromise either sharpness or field of view, but the KRL-01 achieves both without being overly bulky. Compared to some popular alternatives, the KRL-01 provides a wider 145-degree field of view at the recommended focal length, making it ideal for capturing large reef structures or schooling fish.
Another factor that sets it apart is its compatibility with both compact and mirrorless systems, including Micro Four Thirds and even some full-frame cameras. This makes it an appealing choice for photographers who use multiple camera systems or are planning to upgrade. The acrylic dome also provides a unique advantage over glass domes because minor scratches can be polished out, extending the life of the lens and maintaining optical quality. While dedicated wide-angle ports can provide exceptional image quality, they lack the flexibility and on-the-dive adaptability that the KRL-01 offers.
Recommended Camera and Lens Pairings
The KRL-01 works exceptionally well with a range of compact and mirrorless cameras. For compact systems, it pairs perfectly with the Sony RX100 series, including versions I through V, as well as the Canon G7X and G7X Mark II. These combinations offer excellent image quality in a small package, making them ideal for travel and casual diving. For mirrorless systems, the lens is highly recommended for Olympus and Panasonic Micro Four Thirds cameras, such as the OM-D E-M1, E-M5, and E-M10 series. These setups provide a good balance of image quality, portability, and affordability.
Even though the KRL-01 was designed for Micro Four Thirds, it has also been tested successfully on full-frame cameras like the Sony A7R III. While the field of view may be slightly different on a full-frame sensor, the image quality remains high, and the lens retains its wide-angle capabilities. When using the KRL-01, it is best to stay close to the recommended focal length of 24mm for the maximum 145-degree field of view. However, the zoom-through capability means that even at 28mm or 35mm, the lens produces pleasing results with wide coverage and minimal distortion.
Practical Use in Underwater Photography
Using the KRL-01 in real underwater environments showcases its strengths as a versatile wide-angle lens. The ability to screw it onto the port underwater allows photographers to adapt to different scenes quickly. For example, you can begin a dive focusing on macro subjects and then switch to wide-angle when encountering a large reef or a passing school of fish. This flexibility makes the KRL-01 particularly useful for divers who want to cover a range of subjects in a single dive without changing camera setups.
The lens excels in capturing close-focus wide-angle images where the subject is brought close to the lens while maintaining the background environment. This style of photography highlights the relationship between marine life and its habitat, creating dynamic and engaging images. The KRL-01 also performs well in over-under shots, thanks to its dome design and anti-reflective coating. Whether you are photographing a coral reef, a shipwreck, or large marine animals, the KRL-01 offers consistent optical quality and ease of use throughout the dive.
Maintenance and Care for the KRL-01 Wet Wide Angle Lens
Proper maintenance is essential to keep the KRL-01 performing at its best. After every dive, rinse the lens thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris. Allow it to soak for a few minutes in a fresh water container to dissolve any salt crystals that may have formed around the threads or dome. When drying, avoid using rough cloths that might scratch the acrylic dome. Instead, use a microfiber or soft lens cloth.
Because the dome is acrylic, minor scratches can be polished out using a plastic polish designed for underwater domes. This is a major advantage compared to glass domes, which are harder to repair if scratched. Always inspect the O-ring on your port and ensure that the mounting threads on both the lens and the housing are clean before attaching the lens. Any sand or debris can cause cross-threading or small leaks during a dive. Storing the lens in a padded case when not in use will protect it from accidental knocks and extend its lifespan.
Traveling with the KRL-01
For traveling divers, the KRL-01 offers several benefits. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry, even alongside other photography gear. When packing, always use a protective case or a neoprene cover to shield the dome from scratches. If you are flying, keep the lens in your carry-on bag to prevent damage from baggage handling.
Since the lens is compatible with multiple camera systems, it can serve as a single wide-angle solution for both compact and mirrorless setups during a trip. This versatility reduces the need to carry multiple dedicated ports, saving space and weight. For divers visiting locations with a variety of subjects, such as coral reefs, wrecks, and large pelagic animals, the KRL-01 provides a flexible and reliable option that adapts to different shooting scenarios without requiring multiple housings or lenses.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While the KRL-01 is designed for durability and ease of use, some common issues can occur if not handled properly. One common problem is vignetting, especially on compact cameras at their widest focal lengths. This can be easily fixed by zooming in slightly until the dark corners disappear. Another potential issue is fogging inside the dome due to rapid temperature changes. To prevent this, keep the lens in a shaded area before a dive and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for long periods. Using silica gel packets inside your camera housing can also help reduce humidity that might cause condensation.
Cross-threading is another concern when attaching the lens underwater. Always ensure the threads are clean and start the attachment slowly to avoid misalignment. If you notice water spots or streaks on your images, it may be due to water droplets on the dome. A quick swipe underwater with a gloved hand or a shake can clear the dome before taking the shot. Regular cleaning and careful handling will minimize these issues and ensure optimal image quality.
Real-World User Experiences
Many underwater photographers have praised the KRL-01 for its ability to deliver professional-quality images while remaining practical for everyday diving. Users appreciate the almost zero minimum focusing distance, which allows for dramatic close-up wide-angle shots of marine life. Others highlight the convenience of being able to switch between macro and wide-angle in a single dive, making the lens a go-to choice for travel and liveaboard trips.
Reviewers also note that the KRL-01 performs well even in challenging lighting conditions, such as low-light wrecks or sunball shots near the surface. The multi-layer BBAR coating minimizes reflections and helps produce vibrant, high-contrast images. Some users have compared it directly with dedicated wide-angle ports and found the difference in sharpness to be minimal, especially when using recommended settings like f/8 or smaller apertures.
Price and Value Proposition
The KRL-01 wet wide-angle lens is priced competitively compared to other high-end underwater lenses. Considering its optical quality, build durability, and versatility across multiple camera systems, it offers strong value for both amateur and professional photographers. A dedicated wide-angle dome and port setup can often cost significantly more and lacks the flexibility to be removed or switched underwater.
For divers who want a single wide-angle solution that works on different camera systems and provides professional results, the KRL-01 stands out as a cost-effective investment. It is especially valuable for those who travel frequently or dive in locations where a mix of macro and wide-angle subjects is encountered. The ability to capture both without changing equipment mid-dive can result in more opportunities and better storytelling in underwater photography.
Final Thoughts on the KRL-01
The Kraken Sports KRL-01 wet wide-angle lens combines exceptional optical performance with unmatched versatility. Its ability to transform a compact or mirrorless camera into a wide-angle powerhouse makes it an essential tool for underwater photographers of all levels. From vibrant coral reefs to dramatic wrecks and fast-moving marine animals, the KRL-01 handles a wide range of subjects with ease.
While no lens is perfect, the KRL-01’s minor limitations are far outweighed by its benefits. With proper handling and maintenance, it can deliver years of outstanding performance. Whether you are a beginner looking to expand your underwater photography capabilities or a professional seeking a flexible wide-angle solution, the KRL-01 is a reliable and valuable addition to any underwater camera kit.
Advanced Shooting Techniques with the KRL-01
Maximizing the potential of the KRL-01 requires understanding both its strengths and the environment you are shooting in. One of the most effective techniques is getting extremely close to your subject. Because of the lens’s almost zero minimum focusing distance, you can achieve dramatic perspectives by placing the dome just inches from marine life or reef structures. This close-focus wide-angle approach creates an immersive image that combines sharp details in the foreground with expansive backgrounds, giving a sense of scale and depth to underwater scenes.
Another key technique is shooting upward towards the surface. The KRL-01 excels at capturing sunbursts and over-under shots due to its wide 145-degree field of view and anti-reflective coating. When attempting over-under compositions, make sure the dome is half-submerged and the waterline is clean. Using natural light combined with strobes can enhance the dynamic range of these shots. For wreck photography or cavern scenes, use side lighting to emphasize textures and create a three-dimensional feel.
Experimenting with different focal lengths can also yield unique results. While the lens is optimized for 24mm, using it at 28mm or 35mm allows you to frame subjects more tightly while retaining a wide perspective. This flexibility is especially useful when photographing larger animals like sharks or manta rays that may not allow close approaches.
Combining the KRL-01 with Strobes and Video Lights
Lighting is critical in underwater photography, and the KRL-01 works well with both strobes and continuous video lights. Because of the wide field of view, it is important to angle your strobes outward to avoid backscatter and evenly illuminate the frame. For close-focus wide-angle shots, position the strobes close to the dome and angle them slightly inward to light the foreground subject without washing out the background.
When using video lights, the KRL-01’s optical clarity allows for natural color rendering, especially when paired with high-CRI lights. Continuous lighting is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects where strobe recycle time could cause missed shots. The lens’s ability to work well in low-light conditions makes it suitable for twilight dives or documenting marine behavior without disturbing animals with flash bursts.
Creative Applications for the KRL-01
Beyond traditional reef and wreck photography, the KRL-01 can be used for artistic underwater imagery. Over-under shots at sunrise or sunset create dramatic compositions with contrasting colors between the sky and the underwater scene. In macro-rich environments, the lens can capture a small subject in the foreground while still including its habitat in the background, telling a more complete story of marine life.
The wide-angle perspective also works well for diver portraits and modeling shots. Placing a diver close to the lens while capturing the surrounding environment creates a sense of scale and adventure. For freediving photography, the compact size of the KRL-01 makes it easy to handle while following divers or marine animals without heavy equipment slowing you down.
Conclusion
The Kraken Sports KRL-01 wet wide-angle lens stands out as a versatile, high-performance option for underwater photographers seeking professional-quality results without the complexity and cost of dedicated dome ports. Its 145-degree field of view, minimal focusing distance, and optical clarity make it ideal for capturing vibrant, detailed images of reefs, wrecks, and marine life. The ability to screw it on and off during a dive offers unmatched flexibility, especially for photographers who switch between macro and wide-angle subjects.
With proper care and the application of advanced shooting techniques, the KRL-01 can deliver stunning images in a variety of underwater conditions. It strikes an impressive balance between portability, image quality, and ease of use, making it a valuable tool for both beginners and professionals. Whether used for travel photography, creative over-under shots, or documenting marine ecosystems, the KRL-01 provides a reliable and cost-effective way to expand the creative possibilities of underwater imaging.