Squarefan's reviews

  • Samyang/Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC

    9 out of 10 points and recommended
    Almost all
    -No autofocus (or it `s good?) -Especially at first it's difficult to get sharp images due to the shallow depth of field at large apertures in this type of lens (Especially near subject) -For moving subjects with manual focus you can have a hard time...

    I have samyang version of this 85mm 1.4
    I used nikon version with focus confirmation chip on canon 6d mk1 with an adapter

    Outside the lab, in the real world, it seems to me a fantastic, special and 'magic' lens

    Comparing it to one of its most direct competitors by price range, the Canon 85 1.8, I would say that the Canon could have a little more sharpness (in certain situations, although I'm not entirely sure of this) but samyang has 'the magic'. Probably samyang it has better creaminess in unfocused areas and a more delicate and fine image. I think samyang was looking to create smooth and creamy portraits when they designed this lens. I also think they understood that the extreme sharpness and detail is not always convenient for portraits. Colour produced by this lens is another factor that almost nobody talks about, if you capture the right scene the colors are natural and intense, but at the same time true to reality. Overall, for me, this lens produces fantastic colour.

    As you will know with a 85mm 1.4 lens the depth of field is minimal, with this lens and manual focus and freehand it is difficult to obtain sharp images especially close to the subject from f1.4 - 2. Always remember, at least, to shoot at a sufficient shutter speed

    The lens feels solid and the control rings are smooth and precise. Construction is quite pro. I think it is not sealed. its price - value is, for me, very very good.

    Thank you so much for read this little but honestly review.

    reviewed March 12th, 2020