Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.4 AS UMC

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.4 AS UMC is a standout lens that has garnered attention for both its optical performance and build quality. Designed specifically for the Nikon F (DX) mount, this lens excels in low-light conditions thanks to its impressive maximum aperture of f/1.4, making it an excellent choice for portraiture, street photography, and any scenario where depth of field control is essential.

The lens features a robust metal construction, giving it a solid and durable feel, which is a plus for photographers who prefer something that feels substantial in hand. The manual focus design allows for precise focusing, although this may require some adjustment for those used to autofocus systems. The focus ring is smooth, allowing for easy adjustments, particularly when shooting in challenging lighting conditions or with wide apertures.

Image quality is another crowning achievement of the Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.4 AS UMC. It delivers sharp images across the frame with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. At f/1.4, the lens produces beautiful bokeh with a pleasing blur that enhances the subject isolation. As you stop down, sharpness improves further, making it versatile for both wide-open and stopping-down shooting.

However, there are some downsides to consider. The lens is purely manual, which means it lacks autofocus capabilities. This could be a drawback for those who rely heavily on autofocus, particularly in fast-paced shooting situations such as weddings or events. Additionally, since it's designed for DX format, users of full-frame cameras need to be aware that they will be subject to a crop factor if they decide to use this lens on those bodies.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a sturdy metal construction.
• Impressive maximum aperture of f/1.4 for low-light performance.
• Produces sharp images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.
• Beautiful bokeh for portraiture and subject isolation.

Cons

• Manual focus only can be challenging for some users.
• Not suitable for full-frame cameras without a crop factor consideration.

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.4 AS UMC for Nikon F (DX) mount is a phenomenal lens that offers stunning optical performance and build quality. While the manual focus may deter some, those who embrace it will appreciate the creative control and beautiful images this lens can deliver. For anyone seeking a fast prime lens at an attractive price point, this one is definitely worth considering, especially for studio and portrait work.