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

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2, also known as the Rokinon MF 85mm F1.4 II, is a manual focus lens that offers a classic focal length perfect for portrait photography. Designed specifically for Nikon F (DX) mount cameras, this lens brings a combination of build quality, optical performance, and affordability to the table, making it a strong contender for both enthusiasts and professional photographers.

Build Quality

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 is its robust build. The lens features a solid metal construction that feels durable in hand. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments, which is crucial when working with a shallow depth of field at F1.4. Despite its sturdy build, the lens is relatively lightweight, making it an ideal option for extended shooting sessions when you might want to minimize fatigue.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Samyang 85mm F1.4 Mk2 does not disappoint. It produces sharp images with excellent contrast, especially when stopped down to F2.8 or F4. Chromatic aberration and distortion are well controlled for an 85mm lens, allowing for beautiful bokeh and creamy backgrounds that enhance the subject's presence. However, at F1.4, there is some noticeable softness at the edges, which may not be ideal for those needing pinpoint sharpness throughout the frame in certain applications.

Usability

As a manual focus lens, it does present some challenges, particularly for those accustomed to autofocus systems. Achieving critical focus can be a bit tricky, especially with moving subjects, but the focus peaking feature available on many Nikon digital cameras can help mitigate this issue. Additionally, the absence of any electronic connections means that this lens does not provide EXIF metadata, which might be a downside for some photographers who prefer to keep track of their shooting settings.

Price Point

One of the standout features of the Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 is its price point. In a market where 85mm F1.4 lenses can quickly reach high price tags, this offering from Samyang provides excellent value for those on a budget. It delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank, making it accessible for newcomers and seasoned photographers alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid metal construction that feels durable
• Excellent optical performance with sharp images
• Beautiful bokeh and creamy backgrounds
• Affordable price compared to competitors
• Lightweight design for easy handling

Cons

• Manual focus might be challenging for some
• Edge softness at F1.4
• No electronic connections for EXIF data

Verdict

The Samyang MF 85mm F1.4 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 85mm F1.4 II is a fantastic option for photographers looking for a manual focus portrait lens. While it does come with some drawbacks, particularly for those who rely heavily on autofocus, the lens’s solid build, good optical performance, and reasonable price make it an attractive choice. If you’re willing to embrace manual focusing and can work within its limitations, this lens can yield stunning results and truly elevate your portrait photography game.