The new Samyang AF 50mm F1.4 FE II is a fast-aperture prime lens designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras with full-frame and APS-C sensors.

This is an updated and improved version of Samyang’s first ever autofocus lens designed for Sony-E mount.

The suggested retail price is £599 including VAT in the UK and initial stock is due to arrive in early December 2021.

Samyang Press Release

Samyang launches updated and improved replacement for its first AF lens

Exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Holdan, the new AF 50mm F1.4 FE II is a fast-aperture prime lens designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras with full-frame and APS-C sensors.

Manchester, United Kingdom – Thursday 4th November, 2021, Holdan, a specialist distributor to the professional video, broadcast and photography sector, has today announced Samyang’s updated and improved version of its first autofocus lens designed for Sony-E mount. It is exclusively distributed by them in the UK and Ireland.

Renewal of Samyang Optics’ first autofocus lens

Samyang Optics is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021 and has been marking the landmark occasion with the launch of several new lenses, including its first-ever Zoom (AF 24-70mm F2.8 FE) and now the new AF 50mm F1.4 FE II. This new lens is the 2nd generation of the original AF 50mm F1.4 FE, which itself was the first autofocus lens that Samyang released, back in 2016.

Originally a manual focus lens specialist, Samyang expanded its line-up to include autofocus models in 2016, with the AF 50mm F1.4 FE and AF 14mm F2.8 FE, whilst celebrating its 45th anniversary. After 5 years of in-depth research and communication with customers, Samyang is now meeting the demands of more photographers by launching the AF 50mm F1.4 FE II (second edition).

With lens standards constantly being updated, the Samyang AF 50mm F1.4 FE II lens is set to be in huge demand. Although there are many similar focal lengths already on the market, Samyang has taken additional steps to innovate: The AF 50mm F1.4 FE II is the smallest and lightest among all the large-aperture standard 50mm focal length lenses compatible with the Sony FE mount.

AF 50mm F1.4 FE II Key Features

Smallest & lightest large-aperture standard lens

The AF 50mm F1.4 FE II is the smallest (88.9mm in length) and lightest (420g in weight) among all the large-aperture standard 50mm focal length lenses compatible with the Sony FE mount.

Excellent resolution in all areas of the image

The AF 50mm F1.4 FE II lens delivers a 45.7˚ angle of view on full-frame and 31.1˚ for APS-C sensors, as well as a bright maximum aperture of F1.4, as preferred by full-frame camera users. Optimum resolution is achieved through the advanced optical design, using 11 lens elements in 8 groups (including 2 ASP, 3 HR, and 1 ED). Combined with Sony’s full-frame image sensor, this lens delivers superior sharpness and contrast in all areas of the image.

Fast and quiet AF performance

Tracking the subject accurately and quickly, the AF also operates quietly and smoothly when shooting video. Samyang’s Linear STM (Stepping Motor) satisfies both photographers and videographers with quieter and more accurate control of the focusing lens groups.

Impressive background blur and bokeh with bright F1.4 aperture

The AF 50mm F1.4 FE II uses a large-diameter 9-bladed aperture to provide smooth background blur. It effectively separates the subject from the background, using a shallow depth of field and adding drama to the scene. The 9 diaphragm blades create smooth and natural bokeh with light splitting.

Less breathing for video shooting

The AF 50mm F1.4 FE II has minimised focus breathing, so there is almost no change in the angle of view when focusing and therefore less screen shake. This is effective when shooting movies with the subject moving forwards and backwards, or focusing from front to back.

Enhanced usability with custom switch

There is a custom switch, which can be set allow adjustment of the aperture by rotating the focus ring. Using the optional Lens Station, you can setup the mode to suit your own preference*.

* More functions will be added through firmware updates in the future

Short minimum focal distance

The minimum focal distance is just 40cm, making the lens even more versatile and able to produce a unique perspective close to the subject. This makes it easier to take close-up and dramatic shots of food, portraits and nature.

Weather-Sealing design

The usability of the AF 50mm F1.4 FE II lens 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, so feels great to operate and weather-sealing also helps to protect the lens from light rain, snow and dust.