TWO NEW SAMYANG OPTICS

Samyang reboots 85mm f/1.4 and 14mm f/2.8 MF lenses to go big on bokeh

Samyang has made major updates to two of its manual-focus prime lenses, adding a range of useful new features to the classic designs. The Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Mk2 portrait lens and Samyang MF 14mm f/1.4 Mk2 ultra wide-angle are a significant update on their predecessors. The optical construction of each remains the same, but the lenses themselves have been rebuilt from the ground up.

Both offerings will be available in six different mirrorless and DSLR lens mounts: Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, Canon EF-M, Micro Four Thirds, and Fujifilm X.

There are four new key features on the lenses, including an increase to nine diaphragm iris blades, which promises improved bokeh characteristics and will be particularly welcome on the 85mm f/1.4. A focus-lock mechanism, meanwhile, enables the photographer to set the focus distance for a series of shots, without having to re-adjust. This is particularly useful when shooting nightscapes with the 14mm. A de-clickable aperture ring removes the usual detent stops when adjusting the iris – a desirable feature when using the lens for shooting video. The final new feature is weather-sealing, with environmental seals around the lens mount.

Both the Samyang MF 14mm f/2.8 Mk2 and MF 85mm f/1.4 Mk2 are on sale now, priced between £359 to £439, depending on the focal length and the mount.

These Samyang lenses are sold under the Rokinon name in North America. The Rokinon Series II 85mm f/1.4 will retail for $499, and the Rokinon Series II 14mm f/2.8 will be $399.

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