The recently announced second generation of Samyang’s AF 85mm F1.4 FE II is an upgrade of the AF 85mm F1.4 FE a lens loved by many since Samyang began its AF series back in 2016. Released in their 50th Anniversary year, the AF 85mm F1.4 FE II showcases how far they've come with superior optical performance in a small and lightweight lens with enhanced AF technology and user convenience. Containing 4HR and 1 ED glass elements alongside a linear STM motor, optical performance is maximised whilst AF is faster, quieter and more accurate!
As part of the launch campaign, Holdan Ambassador Jayce Clarke tested the full-frame telephoto lens, which is optimised for portraits, headshots and full-body images. We catch up with Jayce to get his review of this new second-generation mirrorless camera lens.
As a photographic trainer and speaker specialising in lighting on location (off-camera flash), Jayce has worked alongside some of the industry-leading companies and brands across the UK to deliver his knowledge and experience to thousands of fellow photographers.
Travelling light does not suit my style of photography and the ‘right tool for the job’ approach of compact and lightweight is always a consideration.
Jayce’s style is heavily influenced by George Hurrell’s layers of shadow and lights, which can be seen throughout his portfolio, both in his location portraits and in the studio.
The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II has been developed and enhanced, considering the design and the user’s shooting environment. It has a micro-patterned rubber focus ring, which feels great to operate and the weather sealing (in 7 areas) protects the lens from light rain, snow, and dust.
The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II features some important customisation features accessed via the focus hold button and custom switch:
I have found this to be the most useful feature that I did not think I would need or use. Being able to assign a function (can be almost anything from the menu) in whatever mode you are using (such as photo, video and even playback) is such a useful thing for a tactile experience.
One of my favourite additions over the first generation is the ability to use the focus wheel as an aperture ring, making the Sony A7c work closer to my workflow (by signing the thumb wheel as shutter control).
The 4 HR (High Reactive) and 1 ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass elements of this new AF 85mm F1.4 FE II provide stunning contrast and resolution, and its centre resolution is superior to other comparable more expensive short telephoto lenses. Samyang’s advanced coating technology not only maintains excellent image sharpness even in poor lighting conditions but also provides a clearer image with an improved Colour Contribution Index (CCI).
Coming from the first gen of the 85mm 1.4, the second generation has not disappointed me in image quality when used at the studio and on projects. For this reason, I am planning to use it in my camera kit for future shoots.
The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II is the only Samyang FE mount lens that does not feature an aspherical element. If aspherical glass is used to improve optical performance, it will typically cause an onion ring effect in the bokeh. Since the AF 85mm F1.4 FE II features no aspherical glass it has a clear and beautiful bokeh.
Shooting at a wider aperture is the reason I chose the Samyang prime range of lenses and the new 85mm 1.4 certainly lives up to it. I love how it makes the subjectpopfrom the distraction of the background.
The first assignment I tested the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 FE II was a lowlight/UV studio shoot, the lens had no problem picking up the beautiful highlights producing a beautiful image every time. I can say it is now in my camera bag for those low light shots.
As a wedding photographer/cinematographer hybrid shooter, (shooting up to 12 hours or longer) the AF 85mm F1.4 FE has and will improve my workflow. The lens is smaller and lighter than my first-generation lens, is weather sealed and the addition of the switch and button combo allows me to configure the controls to suit my preferred shooting style.
For the price point and build quality, I think this should be in the gear bag of all wedding, street, and portrait photographers!
Wow, there’s a question…I think that what I personally like and try to go for in portraiture is something beyond having a model stand there for a picture. Something with expression, personality, and energy. I usually go for more complex lighting in the studio, with perhaps 3 to 5 lights for an image, although sometimes just one light. I like themed shoots and I have a futuristic event planned – I am just about to start sewing together sheets of foil for a metallic background.
https://www.ephotozine.com/article/a-golden-anniversary---50-years-of-samyang-36151
For portrait photography, the new 85mm F1.4 FE II fits perfectly into the second-generation line-up, sitting between the 50mm and 135mm focal ranges, photographers and videographers will welcome the new changes and it is good to see that Samyang is listening to its users and has fixed issues that some consumers had with the MKI. The new autofocus and body redesign particularly stand out and make this a very worthy upgrade.
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Autofocus, full frame, fast aperture, telephoto lens - Sony FE Mount