Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II Lens (Sony E)

Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II Lens for Sony E

Overview: The Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II Lens for Sony E-mount is a second-generation prime lens designed specifically for full-frame Sony mirrorless cameras. It combines fast and quiet autofocus performance with outstanding optical quality, making it an ideal choice for portraiture, weddings, and low-light photography. Known for its smooth bokeh and high resolution, this lens is favored by photographers who seek both artistic flexibility and professional-level image results.

Key Features:

• Bright f/1.4 Aperture: With a large f/1.4 maximum aperture, this lens excels in low-light situations and provides exceptional control over depth of field, making it perfect for isolating subjects and creating beautiful, creamy bokeh. The wide aperture also helps to maintain excellent image quality even in dimly lit environments.

• Advanced Autofocus System: The linear STM (Stepping Motor) provides fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus performance, making the lens suitable for both stills and video work. The autofocus system is optimized for tracking subjects with precision, delivering sharp results, especially in high-speed shooting or when using continuous AF modes.

• Optical Design for High Resolution: The lens features a sophisticated optical design consisting of 11 elements in 8 groups, including 1 extra-low dispersion (ED) element and 4 high-refractive index (HR) elements. These specialized elements work together to minimize chromatic aberrations, distortion, and optical imperfections, ensuring crisp and clear image quality from edge to edge.

• Smooth and Pleasing Bokeh: Thanks to the lens’s rounded 9-blade diaphragm, out-of-focus highlights are rendered smoothly, creating a pleasing and natural bokeh effect. This feature enhances portrait photography, emphasizing the subject while providing a dreamy, aesthetic background blur.

• Lightweight and Compact Design: Weighing only 509g (1.12 lbs), the AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II is a highly portable lens for an f/1.4 prime. Despite its large aperture, the lens maintains a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and handle during extended shoots or while traveling.

• Weather-Sealed Construction: The lens is designed to withstand challenging shooting conditions, featuring weather-sealing in key areas to protect against dust, light rain, and moisture. This makes the lens suitable for outdoor photography in various environments.

• Enhanced Build and Ergonomics: The lens incorporates a custom switch that allows users to easily toggle between different modes (e.g., aperture control, focus hold). The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for manual focus adjustments with precision and ease, particularly beneficial for video shooters or those preferring manual control.

Specifications:

• Focal Length: 85mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Lens Mount: Sony E
• Format Compatibility: Full-frame
• Optical Construction: 11 elements in 8 groups
• Special Elements: 1 ED, 4 HR elements
• Angle of View: 28.9° (full-frame), 19.1° (APS-C)
• Minimum Focus Distance: 85 cm (2.79 ft)
• Filter Size: 72mm
• Dimensions: 99.5mm (3.91 in) length
• Weight: 509g (1.12 lbs)
• Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded)
• Autofocus Motor: Linear STM
• Weather Sealing: Yes

Applications:

• Portrait Photography: With its flattering 85mm focal length and wide f/1.4 aperture, this lens excels in portraiture by offering sharp subjects and soft, creamy backgrounds.
• Event and Wedding Photography: The quick and accurate autofocus, combined with weather sealing and excellent low-light performance, makes this lens a reliable choice for wedding and event photographers.
• Videography: Thanks to the smooth autofocus, lightweight design, and customizable control options, the lens is also well-suited for video recording, allowing videographers to create cinematic, shallow depth-of-field footage.

The Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II Lens offers a fantastic balance of affordability, performance, and portability for Sony mirrorless users. Its wide aperture, fast autofocus, and high-quality optics make it a versatile choice for any photographer or videographer looking to capture stunning portraits, events, or artistic imagery.