Samyang / Rokinon AF 85mm F1.4 EF

Canon EF

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon AF 85mm F1.4 EF is a prime lens designed for Canon EF mount cameras, and it brings a compelling mix of versatility, quality, and affordability to portrait photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a classic focal length of 85mm and a wide maximum aperture of f/1.4, this lens is particularly well-regarded for its ability to produce beautiful bokeh and sharp subject isolation.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 EF is impressive, featuring a sturdy construction that feels solid in hand. Its compact and lightweight design ensures it remains portable, making it a great option for on-the-go shooting. The lens includes a weather-sealed design, which provides some protection against dust and moisture, a beneficial feature for outdoor photography. However, some users may find the lack of an internal zoom mechanism makes it more susceptible to front-filter dust if not managed carefully.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, this lens shines brightly. The f/1.4 aperture allows for vibrant images with excellent color rendition, while also delivering strikingly blurred backgrounds that can enhance the subject's prominence in the frame. Sharpness is impressive, particularly when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4. Even at f/1.4, the sharpness remains commendable, making it a great choice for low-light situations without sacrificing image quality.

Autofocus and Usability

The autofocus system of the Samyang AF 85mm is another highlight. It features a fast and precise autofocus motor that enables quick focusing, making it suitable for both posed and candid portraits. Manual focusing is also smooth and well-damped, allowing for fine adjustments when necessary. However, some users have pointed out that in low light conditions, the autofocus can be slightly slower, which might be a point of consideration for those shooting in challenging environments.

Compatibility

As a Canon EF mount lens, the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 is compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLRs, providing versatility across various camera bodies. It’s important to note that this lens may not be the best fit for mirrorless systems without an appropriate adapter, as it was primarily designed for DSLR usage.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical performance with sharp images and pleasant bokeh
• Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture for low-light shooting
• Lightweight and compact design
• Fast and reliable autofocus
• Weather-sealed construction

Cons

• Autofocus can be slower in low-light situations
• Manual focus ring may lack some tactile feedback for critical adjustments
• Not designed for mirrorless cameras without an adapter

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon AF 85mm F1.4 EF lens proves to be an excellent choice for those in the Canon ecosystem looking for a high-quality portrait lens without breaking the bank. Its blend of sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and solid autofocus performance makes it a go-to option for portrait photographers. While it has minor drawbacks, such as autofocus performance in low light and notation for mirrorless compatibility, the positives far outweigh the negatives, making this lens a wise investment for both amateur and professional photographers alike.