Samyang / Rokinon Reflex 300mm F6.3 ED UMC CS

Sony E

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon Reflex 300mm F6.3 ED UMC CS is a compact and lightweight super telephoto lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras. This lens is a mirror lens, which means it uses a catadioptric design to achieve its long focal length while maintaining a relatively small size. It’s a great option for wildlife and sports photography where portability and reach are essential.

Build Quality and Design

This lens is well-constructed for the price point, with a solid feel despite its lightweight design. The metal mount provides durability, while the overall compact design makes it easy to carry around for extended periods, which is especially beneficial for outdoor photographers. The mirror design contributes to a unique circular aperture, which yields visually interesting bokeh effects, especially at its maximum aperture.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Samyang / Rokinon Reflex 300mm delivers decent sharpness, especially at the center of the frame. The lens performs admirably in good lighting conditions, rendering crisp images with good contrast. However, the lens does exhibit some softening at the edges, which can be more apparent in scenes with high contrast or when shooting wide open. Chromatic aberration can also rear its head at times, particularly with out-of-focus highlights.

Autofocus and Handling

One notable aspect of this lens is that it does not offer autofocus; it is a manual focus lens. While this could deter some users, many photographers appreciate the level of control this offers, especially when photographic precision is necessary such as at long distances. The focus ring is smooth and allows for fine adjustments. However, achieving critical focus can be a challenge, particularly with moving subjects, as the limited depth of field can make it tricky.

Compatibility and Use Cases

This lens is designed for cropped sensor (APS-C) Sony E mount cameras, which means that it effectively behaves like a 450mm lens due to the crop factor. This makes it an exciting option for wildlife enthusiasts and sports photographers who need that extra reach without carrying bulky gear. However, it is worth noting that it may not be the best choice as a primary lens for low-light situations due to its smaller aperture and the challenges of achieving sufficient focus.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design
• Good center sharpness and contrast
• Unique bokeh due to circular aperture
• Affordable option for super telephoto shooting

Cons

• Manual focus only, which can be challenging for moving subjects
• Soft edges and potential chromatic aberration
• Limited performance in low light conditions

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon Reflex 300mm F6.3 ED UMC CS is a fantastic option for photographers looking for an affordable and portable telephoto lens for their Sony E-mount cameras. While there are trade-offs in terms of focus and optical performance, particularly in challenging lighting conditions, the lens offers excellent value for those who prioritize compactness and reach. It's ideal for capturing distant subjects in a variety of outdoor scenarios, making it a worthy addition to the gear of enthusiasts and serious photographers alike.