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

Fujifilm X

Review

The Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2, also known as the Rokinon MF 85mm F1.4 II, is an interesting choice of lens for Fujifilm X-series camera users looking to capture stunning portraits and night scenes. This manual focus lens is praised for its optical quality and affordability, making it a popular option among photography enthusiasts who do not mind sacrificing autofocus for better control over their shots.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things you will notice about the MF 85mm is its solid build quality. The lens feels sturdy in the hand, thanks to its all-metal construction. It features a classic design that combines functionality with a sleek appearance. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise control when adjusting focus manually, which is particularly useful when shooting portraits with a shallow depth of field. However, this design may be a drawback for those who are used to the speed of autofocus systems, as manual focusing can be time-consuming in fast-paced situations.

Optical Performance

The optical quality of the Samyang 85mm F1.4 Mk2 is impressive. It utilizes a complex optical formula that includes various elements to minimize chromatic aberrations, distortion, and flare. At wide open f/1.4, the lens produces beautiful bokeh with pleasing out-of-focus areas that make portraits stand out. As you stop down, the sharpness improves significantly, delivering excellent detail across the frame, even at f/2.8. However, like many F1.4 lenses, it’s essential to be careful with depth of field, as the shallow focus can lead to missed focus if not approached with care.

Handling and Usability

Using this lens on a Fujifilm X camera can be a mixed experience. While the lens is relatively lightweight, which is great for handheld shooting, the absence of autofocus may deter some users. The manual focus is best suited for photographers who are comfortable with it, as it requires practice to nail focus, especially at wider apertures. Additionally, since this lens is fully manual, it does not have electronic connections to communicate aperture settings, leading to potential inconvenience for users who rely on camera-exposure automation.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with a classic design
• Excellent optical performance with beautiful bokeh
• Affordable compared to other 85mm f/1.4 lenses
• Great sharpness when stopped down

Cons

• Lacks autofocus, which may not suit all photographers
• Fully manual operation requires a learning curve
• Can be challenging to focus accurately at wide apertures

Verdict

The Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 85mm F1.4 II is a fantastic choice for Fujifilm X users who appreciate the art of manual focusing and are looking for a high-quality portrait lens. While it has its limitations, the lens excels in optical performance and delivers beautiful images at an attractive price point. If you are willing to embrace the manual focus approach, this lens could be a valuable addition to your photographic toolkit.