Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 Lens - Telephoto Prime

Introduction

The world of photography is constantly evolving, but some tools remain timeless in their appeal and versatility. One such example is the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 Lens, a compact and lightweight telephoto prime lens tailored for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. This lens is ideal for photographers looking for a fast aperture, shallow depth of field, and telephoto reach in a portable package. Whether you're a portrait shooter, street photographer, or content creator, this lens checks many essential boxes.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8, including its build quality, optical performance, real-world applications, and how it compares to other lenses in its class. You’ll walk away with an in-depth understanding of why this lens is making waves in the photography community.

Key Features of the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 Lens

1. Lightweight and Compact Design

Weighing in at just 230 grams and measuring only 69mm in length, the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 Lens is perfect for travel and daily photography. Its discreet form factor makes it a go-to lens for:

Street and candid photography

Events where mobility matters

Vloggers and content creators using handheld setups

2. Fast f/1.8 Aperture

The wide f/1.8 aperture offers:

Beautiful bokeh: Isolates your subject with a smooth background blur.

Low-light capabilities: Excellent performance in indoor and night scenes.

Creative flexibility: More control over depth of field and exposure settings.

3. Autofocus Performance

Fast and accurate AF: Essential for capturing spontaneous moments.

Quiet operation: Ideal for video shooting without intrusive motor noise.

Manual focus override: Allows photographers more control when needed.

4. Custom Switch for Versatility

Samyang has equipped the lens with a custom switch that allows the photographer to control either the focus or the aperture via the focus ring. This feature enhances creative control and is especially appreciated by advanced users.

5. Optical Construction and Image Quality

The lens comprises 10 elements in 9 groups, including:

3 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements

2 High Refractive (HR) elements

Ultra Multi-Coating (UMC) to minimize flare and ghosting

These features ensure edge-to-edge sharpness, minimal chromatic aberration, and vibrant color reproduction.

Real-World Use Cases

Portrait Photography

With its moderate telephoto reach and fast aperture, this lens is a portrait powerhouse. It flatters facial features while providing excellent subject-background separation. Skin tones appear natural, and the bokeh is pleasingly smooth.

Street and Lifestyle Photography

Its small size and silent operation make it perfect for candid shots. The focal length is also great for capturing subjects from a respectful distance without being intrusive.

Vlogging and Content Creation

Paired with a gimbal or handheld rig, the lens offers cinematic depth and excellent sharpness. Its light weight is a huge advantage for long shooting sessions.

How It Compares: Samyang AF 75mm vs Alternatives

Compared to other lenses in a similar category, the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 delivers excellent value and performance:

Feature	Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8	Sony 85mm f/1.8	Sigma 56mm f/1.4
Weight	230g	371g	280g
Max Aperture	f/1.8	f/1.8	f/1.4
AF Speed	Fast & Quiet	Fast	Fast
Price	Budget-friendly	Mid-range	Budget
Size	Compact	Medium	Compact

This comparison shows that the Samyang 75mm is a lightweight and affordable solution with performance that rivals more expensive lenses.

FAQs: Common Questions About the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 Lens

Q1: Is the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 good for beginners?

Yes, it's user-friendly while offering professional-grade results, making it ideal for both newcomers and seasoned photographers.

Q2: Can this lens be used for video work?

Absolutely. Its fast, quiet autofocus and compact size make it a reliable option for video content creation.

Q3: Does it have weather sealing?

While not fully weather-sealed, the lens does offer some resistance to dust and light splashes, making it suitable for most shooting conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Compact and lightweight

Bright f/1.8 aperture

Excellent image quality

Fast and quiet autofocus

Versatile custom switch

Affordable pricing

Cons:

No full weather sealing

No built-in image stabilization

Limited focal length flexibility due to being a prime lens

Expert Opinions and Reviews

Photographers across various genres have praised the Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 for its balance of price, performance, and portability. Many note how it opens up creative opportunities without requiring a heavy investment.

Notably, several Samyang Lens models, including the AF 75mm, have been commended for offering exceptional optics in a small package—a game-changer for both professionals and enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Samyang AF 75mm f/1.8 Lens proves that premium optical performance can come in a compact, budget-friendly form. It offers photographers and videographers the ability to capture stunning images with clarity, contrast, and beautiful bokeh.

With its fast autofocus, solid construction, and intuitive features, it’s a valuable addition to any camera kit. Whether you're a hobbyist expanding your gear or a pro seeking a lightweight telephoto option, this lens deserves serious consideration.

What are your thoughts on this lens? Have you used it in your photography? Share your experience in the comments and help fellow creatives make an informed choice!