Samyang / Rokinon AF 85mm F1.4 FE

Sony E

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon AF 85mm F1.4 FE is a standout lens that has gained a solid reputation among Sony E-mount users, especially those who appreciate the art of portrait photography. With its fast maximum aperture of f/1.4, this lens offers tremendous creative potential, providing beautiful background blur (bokeh) alongside outstanding low-light performance.

Build and Design

One of the first things you'll notice about the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 is its solid build quality. The lens feels well-constructed, featuring a metal mount that adds to its durability. Weighing around 570g, it strikes a decent balance between portability and sturdiness, making it a great option for on-the-go portrait shooters. The design is sleek and modern, but it may not have the same premium feel as higher-end alternatives from other manufacturers.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical quality, the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 doesn't disappoint. It is equipped with high-quality glass elements, including special lenses designed to minimize chromatic aberration and enhance contrast. The sharpness is impressive across most of the frame, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. While corner sharpness may take a slight hit, it's nothing that detracts significantly from the lens's overall performance.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system is where this lens really shines. Utilizing a fast and reliable autofocus motor, focusing is quick and generally accurate, making it suitable for both portraits and event photography. While it performs well in bright light, low-light conditions may present a few challenges with tracking, but overall, it's a commendable effort in this category.

Bokeh and Color Rendition

The f/1.4 aperture allows photographers to create stunning, creamy bokeh that effectively isolates subjects. This lens does an excellent job of rendering out-of-focus highlights, enhancing the beauty of portrait backgrounds. Moreover, color rendition is another strong point; images exhibit rich, vibrant colors that pop without appearing unnatural.

Compatibility

As a native E-mount lens, compatibility with Sony's full-frame and APS-C cameras is a significant advantage. On an APS-C camera, the effective focal length will be approximately 127.5mm, offering a nice compression for portraits and flattering perspectives.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical sharpness and detail retention.
• Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture for low light and shallow depth of field.
• Impressive bokeh quality, enhancing portrait photography.
• Reliable and quick autofocus performance.
• Solid build quality, good for everyday use.

Cons

• Slight decrease in corner sharpness at wider apertures.
• Autofocus can struggle in very low-light conditions.
• Lacks some advanced features found in higher-priced competitors.

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon AF 85mm F1.4 FE is an outstanding lens for portrait photographers who want to achieve exceptional image quality without breaking the bank. Its combination of a fast aperture, beautiful bokeh, and solid build quality makes it an excellent choice within the Sony E-mount ecosystem. While it does have minor drawbacks, the lens's overall performance and value make it a highly recommended option for both amateur and professional photographers alike. Whether you're capturing intimate portraits or stunning low-light scenery, this lens is sure to deliver.