Samyang AF 50mm F/1.4 Sony FE II

In celebration of their 50th anniversary Samyang is busy releasing new lenses including this updated 2nd generation AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II Lens for Sony E. It joins recently developed lenses like their first ever zoom – the AF 24-70mm f/2.8 FE, also for Sony E-mount full frame and crop sensor cameras.

The new AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II offers a host of updates to cater for faster focusing and higher resolution sensors found in Sony cameras since 2016 when the first iteration of this popular lens was released. Resolution has been improved with an updated optical design, AF is faster and quieter and there are also improvements for those who shoot video with reduced focus breathing.

 

KEY FEATURES

• High resolution from edge to edge from several special lens elements

• Fast, quiet AF performance

• Smallest and lightest 50mm prime with a bright f/1.4 aperture

• Reduced focus breathing

• Custom switch for greater control

• 40cm minimum focus distance

• Weather sealed

 

With the combination of bright maximum f/1.4 aperture, fast AF and extremely compact design the AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II is an ideal choice for any number of subjects for professional and enthusiast photographers and videographers. These include portraits, street photography, travel, even city and landscapes as well as general day to day shooting or video.

 

SAMYANG AF 50MM F/1.4 FE II LENS FOR SONY E IN MORE DETAIL

Smallest and lightest large aperture 50mm prime lens

The AF 50mm F1.4 FE II is the smallest measuring 88.9mm in length and lightest – weighing just 420g among all large aperture standard 50mm focal length lenses compatible with full frame Sony FE.

 

Excellent resolution across the image

Optimum resolution for high resolution cameras is achieved through an advanced optical design which includes 11 lens elements arranged into 8 groups. Special lenses include 2 ASP, 3 HR and 1 ED element. Combined with Sony's full-frame image sensor this lens delivers superior sharpness and contrast in all areas of the image, satisfying even the most demanding users. The updated lens renders a 45.7º angle of view on full frame and 31.1º for APS-C sensors.

 

Fast and quiet AF performance

The AF operates quietly and smoothly when shooting video and tracks subjects accurately and quickly for photography thanks to Samyang's Linear STM (Stepping Motor). This presents an excellent option for both photographers and videographers, with quieter and more accurate control of the focusing lens groups.

Bright f/1.4 aperture for impressive background blur and bokeh

The AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II uses a large diameter 9-bladed aperture to provide smooth background blur, effectively separating the subject from the background, using a shallow depth of field and adding drama to the scene. In addition, the 9 diaphragm blades create smooth and natural bokeh with light splitting for pleasing bokeh effects.

 

Less focus breathing for video

The updated Samyang AF 50mm F1.4 FE II has minimised focus breathing so there is almost no change in the angle of view when focusing. This is effective when shooting movies with the subject moving forwards and backwards or focusing from front to back.

 

Custom lens barrel switch

Samyang has added a custom switch which can be set for adjustment of the aperture by rotating the focus ring. Using the optional Samyang Lens Station for Sony you can setup the mode to suit your own preference, with more functionality promised through future firmware updates.

 

Short minimum focal distance

The lens even more versatile and able to produce a unique perspective close to the subject with a minimum focus distance of just 40cm. This makes it easier to take dramatic close-up shots of anything from food to portraits and nature.

 

Weather Sealed design

The 50mm prime has a micro-patterned rubber focus ring which feels great to operate as well as weather sealing which helps to protect the lens from light rain, snow and dust.