Samyang / Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC

Canon EF

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC is a standout lens designed for Canon EF mounts, making it an appealing choice for photographers looking to add a quality telephoto prime lens to their toolkit. Known for its sharpness and vibrant color rendition, this lens has garnered a solid reputation among portrait, landscape, and event photographers alike.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Samyang 135mm F2.0 is impressive, featuring a sturdy yet lightweight construction that feels solid in hand. Though primarily manufactured from high-quality plastics, it does not compromise on durability. The lens boasts a sleek black finish and a smooth focus ring, enhancing the overall handling experience. Given its prime lens nature, it is relatively compact, making it easy to transport on shoots.

Optical Performance

One of the most notable features of this lens is its exceptional optical performance. The F2.0 aperture allows for excellent low-light capabilities while providing a creamy bokeh that enhances the beauty of subject isolation. Images come out strikingly sharp even wide open, and stopping down to F2.8 or F4 results in even crisper details. Chromatic aberration and distortion are kept to a minimum, thanks to the premium ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements incorporated into the design.

Usability

While the manual focus design might deter some users, it gradually becomes intuitive with practice. Many photographers who favor manual focusing appreciate the precision and control it offers, particularly in portraiture. The focus throw is generous, allowing for fine adjustments without much backlash. However, it may take some time for those used to autofocus lenses to adjust.

Versatility

The Samyang 135mm offers immense versatility for various photography genres. It excels in portrait photography, where the breathtaking bokeh can render the skin tones beautifully while allowing for excellent background separation. It's also a great option for event and wedding photography. The relatively long focal length can be challenging for some, especially in tighter spaces, but it's manageable with a bit of practice and understanding of composition.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical performance with sharp images across the frame.
• Beautiful bokeh and subject isolation.
• Solid build quality with a lightweight design.
• Good performance in low-light conditions due to wide F2.0 aperture.

Cons

• Manual focus only, which may be challenging for beginners.
• Lack of image stabilization can hinder handheld shooting.
• Some users might find the focal length a bit limiting in confined spaces.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Samyang / Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC for Canon EF mounts is an exceptional lens that balances quality, performance, and affordability. While it does present a learning curve due to its manual focus design, the outcomes—crisp images and stunning bokeh—make it a worthwhile investment for any serious photographer looking to enhance their artistry. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or events, this lens provides a robust option that’s difficult to overlook.