The Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE Lens is the fourth autofocus lens product from Samyang Optics Company Limited, the Korea-based manufacturer of optical equipment, CCTV lenses, and photographic accessories (also sold as Rokinon).
In addition to the new AF 35mm f/1.4 FE, Samyang also produces the AF 14mm f/2.8 FE, AF 35mm f/2.8 FE and AF 50mm f/1.4 FE.
The new lens is marketed towards enthusiasts that want to take the “next step” in their photography, according to EPhotoZine and is perfect for the full-frame mirrorless cameras in Sony E mount such as Sony α7 or α9 series.
Digital Trends calls it a competitive budget option to Sony’s own lens. Samyang boasts that the lens’ focus “is fast, quiet, and precise.”
EPhotoZine cites a Samyang press release that describes this lens as an “excellent companion to create artwork from everyday moments.”
The lens has 11 elements in 9 groups with 2 aspherical lenses, 2 high-refractive lenses, and Ultra Multi Coating for a design that minimizes unwanted light dispersion for excellent resolution. The bright f/1.4 aperture is engineered to be used in tandem with fast shutter speeds or creating a shallow depth of field.
This type of lens would be suited for low-light events and street photography that requires a roughly similar field of view to the human eye. The lens weighs approximately 25 ounces and is roughly 4.5 inches long. The 35mm lens uses 67mm filters.
The Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE should be available on the market globally beginning in November 2017 and will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price of £599.00 including VAT or approximately US$770.
The price gap between the new Samyang lens' pricing and the Sony lens with similar features, the $1,600 Sony Distagon T* FE 35mm f/1.4. (a weather-sealed lens with a physical aperture ring and a switch for swapping from manual to autofocus), should make it appealing to budget-conscious photographers and an option worth considering.
