Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.2 ED AS UMC CS

Sony E

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.2 ED AS UMC CS is a fast prime lens that caters to the Sony E-mount cameras, designed primarily for those who crave impressive low-light performance and beautiful bokeh. This lens is particularly well-suited for portrait and street photography, where the separation from the background can make a significant difference.

One of the most striking features of this lens is its wide f/1.2 aperture. This allows for excellent depth of field control and the ability to shoot in challenging lighting situations without resorting to high ISO settings. Photographers can expect sharp images with a pleasing creamy background blur thanks to the lens's 8-blade circular aperture design. This leads to aesthetically appealing out-of-focus areas that complement the sharp subject in the foreground.

The build quality of the Samyang/Rokinon 50mm F1.2 is commendable. The lens is constructed with a sturdy metal body that feels robust in hand, making it a durable option for various shooting conditions. The focus ring operates smoothly and provides a satisfying tactile feedback while manually adjusting focus. This manual focus design is particularly useful for video work, where precise control is paramount.

However, there are some downsides to consider. Being a manual focus lens, it lacks autofocus, which can be limiting for those who rely heavily on fast and accurate focusing, especially in dynamic shooting environments. This characteristic might deter some users, particularly those new to photography or those accustomed to autofocus systems in modern lenses. Additionally, while the lens performs admirably in terms of sharpness, there may be some noticeable chromatic aberration and vignetting at wider apertures, which could require correction in post-processing.

For those who prioritize image quality and creative control over convenience, the Samyang/Rokinon 50mm F1.2 can be a rewarding choice. It excels in bokeh quality and low-light capability, making it a great lens for artistic expression. Still, individuals should be mindful of the manual focus limitations and any optical imperfections that may arise in certain shooting conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional f/1.2 aperture for low-light performance.
• Beautiful bokeh and depth of field control.
• Sturdy metal build quality.
• Smooth manual focus ring, ideal for videography.

Cons

• No autofocus capability, which may deter some users.
• Possible chromatic aberration and vignetting at wider apertures.
• Manual focus may require a learning curve for some photographers.

Verdict

In summary, the Samyang / Rokinon 50mm F1.2 ED AS UMC CS is a fantastic lens for photographers who appreciate artistic freedom and control. While its manual focus design may not suit everyone, those who embrace it will find a lens that delivers stunning results with its wide aperture and pleasing optical characteristics. For anyone looking to elevate their portrait photography or achieve dreamy bokeh, this lens is certainly worth considering, provided they are comfortable working without autofocus.