Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 Sony FE II

Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 Sony FE II – F/1.4 aperture for smooth, creamy bokeh

The Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 Sony FE II delivers a classic 85mm focal length paired with a bright F/1.4 aperture for subject separation and attractive background rendering on Sony full-frame cameras. The lens uses an advanced optical formula and is designed to produce consistent image quality across the frame when used with Sony's full-frame image sensors.

Optical design and image quality

The lens features an optical construction of 11 elements arranged in 8 groups, including 4 HR (High Refractive) elements and 1 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) element. This optical arrangement aims to control aberrations and maintain image quality across the image area. Furthermore, the F/1.4 aperture works with the nine diaphragm blades to produce a smooth, creamy, and natural-looking bokeh, making it well-suited for portraits, close-ups, and product shots.

Autofocus, video use and vibration control

Samyang equips the lens with its Linear STM (Stepping Motor), which provides quieter and more accurate control of the larger and heavier focusing lens groups. As a result, the AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II is optimized for both stills and video work by minimizing vibration and reducing noise during focusing. This makes it a practical option for photographers and videographers who require silent and stable AF performance.

Controls and handling

The lens offers a custom switch on the side that you can set to manual focus or to allow aperture adjustment by rotating the focus ring. Below that switch sits a focus hold button. Pressing the focus hold button locks the lens at the current focusing distance. Additionally, you can assign other desired functions to that focus hold button through the camera body menu, giving you flexible control tailored to your workflow.

The focus ring has a micro-patterned rubber surface that provides a secure feel and easier operation when wearing gloves. The lens also includes weather-sealing so you can continue shooting in challenging environmental conditions.

Key specifications and benefits

• Lightweight, only 509g
• Great for stunning portraits
• Custom switch and focus hold button
• Equipped with Samyang's Linear STM (Stepping Motor)
• 9 diaphragm blades that creates a smooth, creamy, and natural looking bokeh
• Impressive optical design

Technical specifications

FAQ

Question: Is this lens suitable for portrait photography?
Answer: Yes. The 85mm focal length combined with the F/1.4 aperture and nine-blade diaphragm produces subject separation and smooth, creamy bokeh that highlight subjects against the background, making it a strong choice for portraits.

Question: How does the autofocus perform for video work?
Answer: The lens uses Samyang's Linear STM stepping motor, which provides quieter and more accurate control of larger focusing groups. Additionally, the AF 85mm F/1.4 FE II is optimized to minimize vibration and noise, so it is suitable for both photographic and video applications.

Question: What controls are available on the lens for quick adjustments?
Answer: You get a custom switch that can be set to manual focus or to enable aperture adjustment via the focus ring, plus a focus hold button that locks the current focus distance. You can also assign other functions to the focus hold button through your camera's menu.

Question: Is the lens durable in adverse weather conditions?
Answer: Yes. The lens includes weather-sealing, and the micro-patterned rubber focus ring offers better handling, including when wearing gloves, so you can keep shooting in harsher conditions.