Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 85mm F1.4 II

Canon EF-M

Review

The Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2, also known as the Rokinon MF 85mm F1.4 II, is a beautifully crafted lens aimed at photographers who appreciate the qualities of a manual focus experience. Designed specifically for Canon EF-M mounts, it's targeted at both portrait photographers and those looking to explore the more creative aspects of their craft.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 impresses with its solid metal construction, providing a substantial and premium feel. The lens is equipped with a large focusing ring that is smooth and tactile, allowing for precise manual focusing, which is essential for achieving sharp images at wide apertures. The compact design makes it a great companion for mirrorless setups, ensuring that photographers don't have to compromise on mobility.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, this lens shines in many aspects. The F1.4 maximum aperture produces dreamy bokeh, rendering backgrounds smooth and aesthetically pleasing. The sharpness is remarkably good, even wide open, with details rendered crisply—ideal for portrait sessions or low light environments. Moreover, the lens is proficient in color rendition, providing vibrant and true-to-life tones.

However, there are a couple of things to be mindful of. At wider apertures, you may notice some chromatic aberration and vignetting, particularly in extreme lighting conditions. Stopping down to F2.8 usually resolves these issues, but it is worth noting for those who shoot at wider apertures frequently.

Users and Use Cases

This lens finds its niche among portrait and wedding photographers who appreciate the rich depth of field control that an 85mm focal length provides. The manual focusing may require a learning curve, especially for those accustomed to autofocus systems, but for many, the artistic process of manual focus adds a layer of creativity and connection to each shot. It’s also popular among enthusiasts who wish to improve their skills in focusing and composition.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid, premium build quality with a comfortable focusing ring.
• Excellent sharpness and vibrant color rendition.
• Beautiful bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography.
• Compact and lightweight, perfect for mirrorless camera systems.

Cons

• Manual focus may be challenging for those accustomed to autofocus.
• Some chromatic aberration and vignetting at wide apertures.
• Lacks image stabilization, which could be a drawback for low-light shooters.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 for Canon EF-M is a fantastic lens that provides beautiful image quality and control over depth of field. While it may take some adjustment for those switching from autofocus, the manual focus experience can be immensely rewarding for those willing to embrace it. Ultimately, if you're looking for a well-built lens that excels in portrait photography, this lens should definitely be on your radar.