Samyang 50mm F1.4 AS UMC

Canon EF

Review

The Samyang 50mm F1.4 AS UMC is a solid option for Canon EF users seeking a versatile prime lens that combines excellent optical performance with a relatively affordable price point. With a maximum aperture of F1.4, this lens is well-suited for low-light conditions and offers a beautiful shallow depth of field that’s ideal for portraiture and creative photography.

This lens features a robust build quality, which instills confidence when handling it. It has a metal body with a smooth focusing ring that allows for precise control over the focus, making it a pleasure for manual focus photography. The lens construction includes 8 elements in 6 groups, with special coatings that minimize flare and ghosting while enhancing contrast and color saturation. Users will appreciate its sharpness, which is impressive even wide open, and it only gets better when stopped down.

The 50mm focal length is a classic standard in photography because it closely mimics the field of view of the human eye. This makes the Samyang 50mm a versatile option for various types of photography, from street to landscape, and, of course, portraits. The combination of sharpness, excellent color rendition, and smooth bokeh renders beautifully blurred backgrounds, making your subject stand out.

However, the lens does come with a couple of drawbacks. One notable aspect is the lack of autofocus; it is completely manual focus, which may deter some photographers who prefer the convenience of autofocus systems, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios. Additionally, while the lens is relatively lightweight, some users may find it a bit bulky compared to other options in the category.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical performance with sharp images.
• Wide maximum aperture of F1.4 for low-light shooting and shallow depth of field.
• Solid build quality with a metal body.
• Smooth manual focus experience.

Cons

• No autofocus capability may limit usability for some.
• Slightly bulky compared to other standard prime lenses.

Verdict

The Samyang 50mm F1.4 AS UMC is a fantastic choice for Canon EF users looking for a lens that delivers on optical quality, especially at its price point. While the absence of autofocus might be a drawback for some photographers, those who appreciate manual focus and superior image quality will find it to be a worthwhile addition to their kit. Whether for portraits, street photography, or general use, this lens will not disappoint.