Focus your votes on Samyang’s lenses

Third-party lens manufacturer Samyang features in four categories when it comes to nominations for 2023’s PN Awards, with five different lenses vying for your vote

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As a fast-rising brand offering high-quality, acclaimed alternatives to the glassware that’s provided by camera manufacturers, it’s no surprise that Samyang has been shortlisted in the PN Awards for 2023. What’s perhaps more revealing is that no fewer than five of its lenses are up for potential wins, spread across four separate categories.

The quintet seeking your votes are the Samyang AF 35-150mm f/2-2.8 FE, in the running for best superzoom lens; the Samyang AF 14mm f/2.8, up for best wide-angle lens; while a possible best standard lens is the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE II. Both the AF 75mm f/1.8 FE and AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II have been nominated for best telephoto lens.

So, why should each get your vote? The advantage of the Samyang AF 35-150mm f/2-2.8 FE is clear; its flexible focal range lets you use just one lens for every eventuality. On top of being an all-rounder, it’s fast, with a maximum aperture of f/2 at its widest setting and f/2.8 at the telephoto end. Perfect for portraiture, events and travel photography, it also delivers a rapid and accurate AF performance. 

This weather-sealed zoom will satisfy both photographers and videographers. A dolly shot mode and Linear MF mode, accessible via a custom switch, allow for professional video results. And with detail sharp from edge to edge, a ‘UMC’ (Ultra Multi-Coating) minimises flare and ghosting for natural, clear imagery.

Also well worth investigating is Samyang’s most popular focal length in its AF 14mm f/2.8. Available for Sony FE, Canon EF and Nikon F mounts, key qualities include superb sharpness from corner to corner with the aperture wide open. In addition to fast and reliable autofocus, the f/2.8 aperture allows for satisfying low-light work. Landscape, architecture and interior photographers will want to put this particular lens high on their wish list. 

The next nominee – the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE II – is a second-generation prime. Promising superb sharpness from corner to corner and excellent all-round performance, the AF is faster than before, with the newly adopted STM motor impressing for photography and video, too. Additionally, a custom switch and focus-hold button have been added to maximise user convenience, while its f/1.4 aperture delivers beautiful bokeh and impressive results in challenging lighting. Autofocus is fast, precise and quiet, which combines to make this one a real winner.

Finally, Samyang has had two nominations for best telephoto lens with the AF 75mm f/1.8 FE and AF 85mm f/1.4 FE II.

The lightweight and portable 75mm is a fantastic option for a portrait and events lens, delivering stunning bokeh thanks to its construction comprising three extra-low dispersion (ED) elements and two high refractive index (HR) elements. A quiet and accurate autofocus ensures that this 75mm lens is also ideal for video use, while a new custom-function switch grants additional creative flexibility. 

The updated 85mm prime also benefits from a small and lightweight build. This latest iteration provides a superior optical performance, enhanced autofocus technology and improved user convenience. With a build comprising four HR and one ED glass element, a linear STM motor, custom-function switch and focus-hold button have all been added for user convenience.

Much like the view through the lenses themselves, it’s crystal clear that Samyang has exactly what it takes to be a worthy PN Awards winner.

Cast your votes now.

Originally published in Issue 111 of Photography News.