Samyang has long had a reputation for producing sharp and highly affordable manual focus lenses, but in recent years, they have expanded into autofocus options while still keeping them at highly competitive prices. One of their most impressive lenses is the AF 135mm f/1.8 FE, which combines a useful portrait focal length with a very wide maximum aperture. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.
Coming to you from Dustin Abbott, this great video review takes a look at the Samyang AF 135mm f/1.8 FE lens. At $855 currently, the 135mm f/1.8 is arguably one of the best deals on the market right now. Despite that low price, it comes with a variety of impressive features, including:
- Three extra-low dispersion elements for less chromatic aberrations and improved clarity
- Ultra-precision aspherical element for improved bokeh
- Ultra multicoating for less flares and ghosting and deeper contrast
- Linear STM autofocus for fast and quiet autofocus
- Customizable lens switch and focus hold button
- Focus limiter for quicker autofocus speeds
- Astro-focus mode for astrophotography
- 11-blade diaphragm for smoother bokeh
- Weather-sealing
Altogether, the 135mm f/1.8 looks like quite an impressive lens. Check out the video above for Abbott's full thoughts.
My GAS is itchin'. I don't know why I'm so drawn to this lens. I moved from primarily shooting an 85 to 75 so I don't have to be so far from the subject and leave more room for the surroundings. Last weekend while shooting at Vasquez Rocks, my 75 felt too tight so I might switch up next time and primarily shoot with my 45. And, still I want that 135. :D
I love mine. https://youtu.be/Q2KdzeJA1b8
I'm sorry but mine returned back in two days. Focus was wrong every time with my Sony A7 R IV, one inch front focused even on an hybride camera, something just not understandable ! And also not commonly described by testers. Strange ! I have 10 other lenses working on this camera without any issue.
Not really that strange - every manufacturer, and especially those of electronic wares, has a failure rate (yes even Canon, Nikon, Sony etc.) that the last time I saw an individual review on camera brands was, very roughly as it also depends on the individual product, between 5% and 8%. So unfortunately you are one of the unlucky ones.
Personally I'd have asked for an exchange as this is clearly a proven winning lens worth the effort. But your money your choice !