Samyang unveils new 85mm f1.4 auto focus prime lens for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras

Korean manufacturer Samyang Optics, a global optical brand distributed exclusively by Holdan in the UK and Ireland, announces the new AF 85mm F1.4 FE II lens, designed for Sony E-Mount full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras and priced at £639 (€749) plus VAT.

The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II lens is a second-generation evolution of its full-frame telephoto lens that is optimised for portraits, headshots and full-body images. It incorporates two recent Samyang innovations: the Focus Hold button and Custom Switch. This announcement means that the 35mm, 50mm and now 85mm lenses in Samyang’s F1.4 FE line-up have all been updated.  

David Fidler, Divisional Director, Holdan, commented: “We’re very excited about the new AF 85mm F1.4 FE II lens. It is smaller, lighter and faster than its predecessor and features a Custom Switch for silent aperture control and Focus Hold Button for enhanced user control. It’s a combination of innovative technology, stunning contrast, amazing sharpness and refined bokeh.”

AF 85mm F1.4 FE II Key Features 

• Autofocus, full-frame, fast aperture, telephoto lens for Sony FE Mount 
• Delivers precise, fast, quiet and accurate autofocus 
• Compact and lightweight 
• Clean and beautiful bokeh 
• Weather-sealed 

The 4 HR (High Refractive) and 1 ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass elements of the new AF 85mm F1.4 FE II provide a stunning contrast and resolution, and its centre resolution is superior to other telephoto lenses. Samyang’s advanced coating technology not only maintains excellent image sharpness even in poor lighting conditions it also provides a clearer image with an improved Colour Contribution Index (CCI). 

Samyang’s Linear Stepping Motor (STM) provides the high-thrust efficiency needed for fast, precise, quiet AF and tracking, thus maximizing the advantages of Sony E-Mount cameras. Compared to the previous AF 85mm F1.4 FE, the new AF 85mm F1.4 FE II is optimised not only for photo shooting, but also video shooting by minimising vibration and noise. Samyang’s Linear STM satisfies both photographers and videographers with quieter and more accurate control of the focusing lens groups. 

The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II is the only FE mount lens that does not feature even a single aspherical glass. If an 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 has no aspherical glass in its elements, it has clear and beautiful bokeh. 

Enhanced Operability and Reliability

Important customisation features of the AF 85mm F1.4 FE II include the Focus Hold Button and Custom Switch:  

Focus Hold Button

Pressing this button on the lens will keep the lens locked to that focusing distance. Can be used to assign functions such as Eye AF via the settings on the camera body. 

Custom Switch

Can be set to allow silent adjustment of the aperture by rotating the focus ring. Using the optional Lens Station, the mode can be set to suit user preference. More functions will be added with future firmware updates. 

Short Minimum Focal Distance 0.85m (2.79ft)

The minimum focal distance is just 85cm (2.79ft), making the lens perfect for all types of portraiture, from close up headshots to full body images, while isolating the subject from background with the wide F1.4 aperture. 

Modern Design & Weather-Sealing

The AF 85mm F1.4 FE II has been developed and enhanced taking into consideration not only the design but also 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.