Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4

Sony E

Review

The Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 lens is an intriguing option for photographers using Sony E mounts, offering a blend of optical performance and build quality that stands out in the portraiture and low-light photography genres. This lens is designed to rival other high-end 85mm optics and caters to enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Build Quality and Design

The Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 showcases excellent build quality, featuring a metal body that feels sturdy and well-constructed. It weighs approximately 1.65 lbs (750 g), which gives it a solid feel without being overly cumbersome. The matte black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also helps reduce unwanted reflections. The lens barrel features a smooth focus ring, allowing for precise adjustments, making it particularly useful for manual focus enthusiasts. The compact size makes it easy to carry around for outdoor shoots, but some might find the weight noticeable during extended use.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 is its optical performance. With a maximum aperture of F1.4, the lens produces a beautiful bokeh, making it ideal for isolating subjects against a blurred background. The sharpness at maximum aperture is impressive, with tack-sharp results in the center and good performance towards the edges. Chromatic aberration is well-controlled; however, some users may notice slight fringing in high-contrast areas, which can typically be corrected in post-processing.

Autofocus and Usability

This lens is a manual focus lens, which may deter some photographers who prefer the convenience of autofocus. However, the precision of the focus ring compensates for this limitation, particularly for portrait photography where careful focus placement is crucial. The lens has a relatively short minimum focusing distance, allowing for some stunning close-up shots. Additionally, the lack of autofocus can encourage a more thoughtful approach to composition and focus, which can enhance the overall shooting experience.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 is designed specifically for Sony E mounts, making it a great choice for users of Sony mirrorless cameras. While primarily aimed at portrait photographers, its versatility allows for use in various situations, including street photography and environmental portraits. It performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, thanks to its fast aperture. The lens also has a 72mm filter thread, providing further options for creative control.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a sturdy metal body.
• Impressive optical performance with sharpness and pleasing bokeh.
• Short minimum focusing distance for close-up shots.
• Ideal for low-light conditions due to its fast F1.4 aperture.

Cons

• Manual focus may not suit everyone, especially those accustomed to autofocus.
• Some users may experience slight chromatic aberration in certain lighting conditions.
• Heavier compared to some other 85mm lenses on the market.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 is a remarkable lens that delivers stunning image quality and a beautiful aesthetic, making it a great choice for Sony E mount users who prioritize manual focus photography. Its strengths lie in its optical performance and build quality, appealing to portrait and low-light photographers. While it may not cater to those who require autofocus, the artistic control and sharpness it offers can be well worth the trade-off. If you're looking for a reliable 85mm lens for your Sony system, the Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 is certainly worth consideration.