Smaller, Lighter, Faster | The second-generation Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 FE II

By Jayce Clarke | Wedding, Portrait and Studio Photographer, www.jayceclarkephotography.com

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.

About Jayce Clarke

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.

How does the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 FE second generation compare with the first?

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.

Enhanced Operability and Reliability

The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II features some important customisation features accessed via the focus hold button and custom switch:

1. Pressing down the focus hold button on the lens will keep the lens locked to that focusing distance. You can also assign functions such as Eye AF through settings on the camera body.
2. The custom switch can be set to allow adjustment of the aperture silently by rotating the focus ring. Using the optional lens station, you can set up the mode to suit your preference.

How did you find these features?

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).

Image Quality

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).

What did you think of the image quality when using the new lens?

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.

What about the Bokeh?

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 subject pop from the distraction of the background.

Did the lens perform well in low-light conditions?

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.

Would you recommend this lens to other photographers/videographers?

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!

What advice and thoughts about portrait photography would you offer to those thinking about using Samyang?

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

Summary

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.