I use the Samyang 45 in my professional work a lot more than I’d like to admit, especially having a kit with multiple $1200+ lenses lol love that little thing, the character of rendering is gorgeous in sunlight
samyang 45 goes very well . Rendering is not only a question of creamy backgrounds but also textures ' micro contrast ' .and samyang 45mm are also compact and light . i just wait for 45 mk2 version .
I can assure you that it was taken wide open. Not sure what you're looking at but everything is not in focus in that image. Yes, there is a slightly larger area of sharp focus, that's due to its slightly wider focal length, but the edges of the image are very much out of focus. Also, bear in mind, you're looking at an image that's 1/6th of whatever screen you're viewing it on. However, the evaluation I give is based on me analysing the full res images full screen and magnified to 200% on a 4k monitor. Why is there always someone spouting some grand conspiracy in the comments? I think you might have trust issues brother 🤣
No AF or weather-sealing, but the optics on the Voigtländer 50mm f2 APO are way ahead of any of these options, at a cost similar to the Zeiss, albeit with no really cheap second hand options. It's a really nice lens if you don't mind manual focus and use 50mm a lot.
I've made a mistake once from a video like this. I purchased a viltrox 85mm after seeing its comparison to all the others. Upon using the lens I come to find out the minimum focus was so terrible I couldn't even get close enough to my full grown cat to get the perfect shot. Now I go and one by one google all the minimum focus distances if I'm serious about buying a lens
The amount of work that’s gone into this video is really nice! Thanks for this breakdown. I was scrolling through your channel and realized that most of your videos are lens reviews. I get it if that’s your thing, but do you have plans to make videos more about your creative process (directing and posing models? planning shoots? lighting? etc)
Hey, thanks bud, appreciate it. In short, yes, I absolutely do plan on making those types of videos very soon! In fact, this was the last big test I plan on doing for a while. Like you correctly said, they're a lot of work to make and sadly, they often attract a lot of negativity. It seems people care way too much if their lens doesn't get a flawless review 🙄🤣 So, I want to switch to more creative videos that are more lighthearted, fun but also educational. If there's anything specific you'd like me cover, let me know 👍🏻
@@TomCalton I wasn't expecting that'd be most of the responses you get, but that makes sense. As someone who is just transitioning from I guess an amateur to novice, it's been disappointing how many photographers are so focused on technical knowledge that they completely ignore creative process and people skills... and it shows in their work and in the way they interact online. It's exciting to hear you'll be focusing on more creative things because I love your work and I am looking to learn. Really I'm curious about the side of things: communicating with clients, pricing, finding and talking to models, directing and posing people while making them comfortable, how to get things shot in an hour, working with hair and makeup. As someone just starting out, and someone focusing on glamour and boudoir, it's really difficult to find reliable resources on those things like that. Normally it's more technical tutorials on lighting (which are helpful), a behind the scenes video that explains little and is more of a studio tour, or just cinematic portrait b-roll. Lighting and posing videos would be great, but at the same time you can learn that by looking at good work. Things talking about the other side of photography--the connections and professionalism that goes into it--that would be uniquely helpful! I'd watch!
@@TomCalton Oh no sell, I have several 50’s, vintage, VM mount . There is not such a thing as , I have “a”50 mm. Actually I also own the 1.2 gm too … 😬🤷🏻♂️
For me the Samyang seems like the clear winner: It performs best in hard to correct fields like flare and Loca and only worse than others in fields that don´t really matter that much like CA and distortion. Sigma and Zeiss are too expensive (new) IMHO, I´d rather get a 1.4 instead. So either the Samyang new or the Zeiss used.
The Sony lens is garbage, IMO... Even for $250. You can even do better for optics in some old manual focus glass options. The sigma and Zeiss are just too expensive for letting in so little light. I think the Samyang is the best option, bang for buck here. Is sharp, light had nice rendering and it's very reasonably priced. I've seen a lot of images produced with the letters. Most flies are easily correctable. The real world images just look good. The onion ring Bokeh takes pixel peeping to become distracting. This isn't really a strong Bokeh demographic anyway.... I wouldn't be getting any of these for Bokeh. Something with F1.4 Or better....
I guess, ultimately, that's the point of me making this video - to showcase the abilities of these lenses so that you can make an informed decision as to which lens is best for you. For the record, I actually like all of the lenses - they all have their strengths and weaknesses. It's pretty awesome we have such a good selection to pick from! Thanks for your input as always Ram ☺️
I ordered the Viltrox when it released and made a video about the autofocus pulsing exactly like you found in your tests. It's my highest disliked video and I got somewhat flamed in the comments for it. Also there were people claiming there was a firmware update for it that fixed the issues but I would assume since it was over a year ago your copy would have the latest firmware. Either way good to know you got similar results as I did. I primarily shoot in AF-C so the lens was basically unusable to me.
I’d probably go for the Zeiss. But already had it and sold it once…. So I’ll continue to wait for a G lens like to Sony 20mm, which I imagine would be perfect.
There is a good deal of variation with the Zeiss Sonnar despite its price. I did manage to find a good used copy, though my copy of the Yongnuo seems a bit sharper. My favorite normal prime is the Sigma 45mm F2.8.
Copy variation is an issue with any lens, in my experience. That said, I actually have a real soft spot for the Yongnuo. it's by far the best quality lens they've ever released, and for the price, the features and build are amazing! It's just the MF and AF performance that really let's it down. Such a shame!
I've yet to test a Voigtlander lens, but I only ever hear good things. Shame they're MF only. I personally don't mind MF lenses (depending on what I'm shooting) but sadly whenever I test MF lenses on the channel, the interest just doesn't seem to be there. Thanks for the comment!
I have the Samyang but haven't used it much. Would it make sense for me to go for the Zeiss (used one ofc)? I generally use either 35/85 for my Portraits but would to use a 50 in future.
Good question, though it's a tough one to answer. Why don't you use the Samyang much? Whatever the answer is, ask yourself, would buying a 55mm make you use that focal length more? If not, don't buy anything - maybe even sell the 45mm and invest in something else you will actually use. But, if the answer is, you just want a nice, small, 50mm(ish) f/1.8 to use on occation, then the Zeiss IMO is the best option available at the moment. I hope that kinda helps! 😅
I have the Sony 35mm 1.8 and 55mm 1.8, and find them far enough apart that they both see plenty of use, for different types of photos. I can see maybe that 45mm is too close to 35mm to feel useful. That 5 extra mm of the 55 just pushes it apart from a 35mm a little more compared to a true 50mm, too.
Hello. I am a professional photographer from Kyiv Ukraine shooting models and building portfolios. I have 3 lenses in this focal range. The first that is not on your list (because it is a 1.4) is the Sony Zeiss Plannar 50mm F1.4. Large but an excellent lens. I also have the Sony Zeiss Sonnar 50mm F1.8 a very good lens but a little clinical. Then my favourite is the Samyang 45mm F1.8. This lens gives a slightly vintage rendering and good colours. It is not as clinical as the Zeiss. In reality we can look at charts and test all day but it is what the lens produces in the real world that matters. I would recommend my 3 lenses to anyone. By the way. If a lens does not have a rubber gasket at the mount then buy wide thick black rubber bands that are slightly smaller in diameter than the lens mount. This prevents dust and moisture getting in. Works for me.
I think this test shows the importance of lighting, location and model more than the lenses. I didn’t like the testing results of any of these lenses and was wondering why it’s so hard to make a nifty 50 these days. The truth is we pixel peep way too much now. All of them took excellent photos.
I followed exactly your advice, but already back in 2021, and got a second hand Zeiss from MPB, for around £450 (and only £250 after trading in two lenses). Its rendering is fantastic.
Great overall review. Even though I own the GM versions at 50mm I need a small version for light travel. Own The “Zeiss” version that I rebought used but also picked up the Sigma because I have several other small DG DN Contemporary at 35, 65, and 90. Love to have an aperture control for use and on the A7C, which is one of the several Sony Alpha bodies I own. So very interested in your review. Would be nice to include a GM or other 50mm you love for IQ comparison. Thank you and keep these comparisons coming. Maybe one for 35mm.
Great review, learnt a lot. I would go for the same, Zeiss 55mm. Quality, weather sealing and whilst I prefer the Viltrox rendering I want all my lenses to have full frame capabilities.
Sony branded Zeiss lenses are just Sony FE lenses. Sony has ditched Zeiss branding and Sony G and GM lenses have much better IQ and build quality in comparison. Sony makes 35/1.8 and 85/1.8 that should pair well with your 55/1.8.
Yeah, this was more about the f/1.8(ish) options currently available, otherwise there are just way too many 50mm options to test in one video. I am hoping to test all of the 50mm f/1.4 and f/1.2 options soon enough, though I'm just waiting on Sony's PR team here in the UK to send me some review copies. Fingers crossed. 🤞🏻
The 50mm F1.4 Mark I is weak, very weak. My adapted A-mount Zony 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM performers miles better (had both) and that lens is no competition for modern lens designs
![[TH] FS vs BME - VCT Ascension Pacific - Lower Bracket Final](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wnygqsR2Fig/mqdefault.jpg)
I use the Samyang 45 in my professional work a lot more than I’d like to admit, especially having a kit with multiple $1200+ lenses lol love that little thing, the character of rendering is gorgeous in sunlight
I don't think you can go far wrong in this lens class, to be fair! All of these options have their pros and cons. It's great we have so much choice!
While Zeiss etc are all sharp and nice, I feel Samyang give me that cinematic look for video, feels more filmic, Sony/Zeiss feel more clinical digital
samyang 45 goes very well . Rendering is not only a question of creamy backgrounds but also textures ' micro contrast ' .and samyang 45mm are also compact and light .
i just wait for 45 mk2 version .
awesome job
Thanks, Andrei! Glad you enjoyed it 😊
The Samyang 45mm is my go to. It's an awesome lens and is sharp as a tack. Love it.
Why do I feel like the samyangs loca test was at a smaller aperture? It’s the only one with everything in focus. Something’s fishy..
I can assure you that it was taken wide open. Not sure what you're looking at but everything is not in focus in that image. Yes, there is a slightly larger area of sharp focus, that's due to its slightly wider focal length, but the edges of the image are very much out of focus. Also, bear in mind, you're looking at an image that's 1/6th of whatever screen you're viewing it on. However, the evaluation I give is based on me analysing the full res images full screen and magnified to 200% on a 4k monitor.
Why is there always someone spouting some grand conspiracy in the comments? I think you might have trust issues brother 🤣
No AF or weather-sealing, but the optics on the Voigtländer 50mm f2 APO are way ahead of any of these options, at a cost similar to the Zeiss, albeit with no really cheap second hand options.
It's a really nice lens if you don't mind manual focus and use 50mm a lot.
Should've included the sony 50mm f2.5. Killer lens, and f2.5 is fine.
Could recently buy the Zeiss 55/1.8 new for 550 USD in Hong Kong, for this price it is a no-brainer.
I have the samyang. So far it has character. Not sure about the rest. What do you think?
The color rendering of the Sigma seems noticeable different at 4m:38s. Is this a true effect or an artifact of the test condition?
I've made a mistake once from a video like this. I purchased a viltrox 85mm after seeing its comparison to all the others. Upon using the lens I come to find out the minimum focus was so terrible I couldn't even get close enough to my full grown cat to get the perfect shot. Now I go and one by one google all the minimum focus distances if I'm serious about buying a lens
The amount of work that’s gone into this video is really nice! Thanks for this breakdown. I was scrolling through your channel and realized that most of your videos are lens reviews. I get it if that’s your thing, but do you have plans to make videos more about your creative process (directing and posing models? planning shoots? lighting? etc)
Hey, thanks bud, appreciate it.
In short, yes, I absolutely do plan on making those types of videos very soon! In fact, this was the last big test I plan on doing for a while. Like you correctly said, they're a lot of work to make and sadly, they often attract a lot of negativity. It seems people care way too much if their lens doesn't get a flawless review 🙄🤣
So, I want to switch to more creative videos that are more lighthearted, fun but also educational. If there's anything specific you'd like me cover, let me know 👍🏻
@@TomCalton I wasn't expecting that'd be most of the responses you get, but that makes sense. As someone who is just transitioning from I guess an amateur to novice, it's been disappointing how many photographers are so focused on technical knowledge that they completely ignore creative process and people skills... and it shows in their work and in the way they interact online. It's exciting to hear you'll be focusing on more creative things because I love your work and I am looking to learn. Really I'm curious about the side of things: communicating with clients, pricing, finding and talking to models, directing and posing people while making them comfortable, how to get things shot in an hour, working with hair and makeup. As someone just starting out, and someone focusing on glamour and boudoir, it's really difficult to find reliable resources on those things like that. Normally it's more technical tutorials on lighting (which are helpful), a behind the scenes video that explains little and is more of a studio tour, or just cinematic portrait b-roll. Lighting and posing videos would be great, but at the same time you can learn that by looking at good work. Things talking about the other side of photography--the connections and professionalism that goes into it--that would be uniquely helpful! I'd watch!
Oh and finding/building/renting interesting locations and sets
I have the samyang and 55. Like them both. I may buy the new sigma 🤷🏻♂️
If you did buy the Sigma, would you sell the other two or keep all three?
@@TomCalton Oh no sell, I have several 50’s, vintage, VM mount . There is not such a thing as , I have “a”50 mm. Actually I also own the 1.2 gm too … 😬🤷🏻♂️
For me the Samyang seems like the clear winner: It performs best in hard to correct fields like flare and Loca and only worse than others in fields that don´t really matter that much like CA and distortion. Sigma and Zeiss are too expensive (new) IMHO, I´d rather get a 1.4 instead. So either the Samyang new or the Zeiss used.
The Sony lens is garbage, IMO... Even for $250. You can even do better for optics in some old manual focus glass options. The sigma and Zeiss are just too expensive for letting in so little light. I think the Samyang is the best option, bang for buck here. Is sharp, light had nice rendering and it's very reasonably priced. I've seen a lot of images produced with the letters. Most flies are easily correctable. The real world images just look good. The onion ring Bokeh takes pixel peeping to become distracting. This isn't really a strong Bokeh demographic anyway.... I wouldn't be getting any of these for Bokeh. Something with F1.4 Or better....
I guess, ultimately, that's the point of me making this video - to showcase the abilities of these lenses so that you can make an informed decision as to which lens is best for you. For the record, I actually like all of the lenses - they all have their strengths and weaknesses. It's pretty awesome we have such a good selection to pick from!
Thanks for your input as always Ram ☺️
I ordered the Viltrox when it released and made a video about the autofocus pulsing exactly like you found in your tests. It's my highest disliked video and I got somewhat flamed in the comments for it. Also there were people claiming there was a firmware update for it that fixed the issues but I would assume since it was over a year ago your copy would have the latest firmware. Either way good to know you got similar results as I did. I primarily shoot in AF-C so the lens was basically unusable to me.
As also 85 1.8 comparison - its best video on youtube for chosing lenses, great jobs and many thanks
The camera sound on almost each sentence is very annoying, its just my viewer opinion
I’d probably go for the Zeiss. But already had it and sold it once…. So I’ll continue to wait for a G lens like to Sony 20mm, which I imagine would be perfect.
Thanks for the comment Lee. How come you sold the 55mm, out of interest?
There is a good deal of variation with the Zeiss Sonnar despite its price. I did manage to find a good used copy, though my copy of the Yongnuo seems a bit sharper. My favorite normal prime is the Sigma 45mm F2.8.
Copy variation is an issue with any lens, in my experience. That said, I actually have a real soft spot for the Yongnuo. it's by far the best quality lens they've ever released, and for the price, the features and build are amazing! It's just the MF and AF performance that really let's it down. Such a shame!
Though I get its niche, one more lens you could have included as well was the Voigtlander 50mm F2 Apo Lanthar.
I've yet to test a Voigtlander lens, but I only ever hear good things. Shame they're MF only. I personally don't mind MF lenses (depending on what I'm shooting) but sadly whenever I test MF lenses on the channel, the interest just doesn't seem to be there. Thanks for the comment!
I have the Samyang but haven't used it much. Would it make sense for me to go for the Zeiss (used one ofc)?
I generally use either 35/85 for my Portraits but would to use a 50 in future.
Good question, though it's a tough one to answer. Why don't you use the Samyang much? Whatever the answer is, ask yourself, would buying a 55mm make you use that focal length more? If not, don't buy anything - maybe even sell the 45mm and invest in something else you will actually use.
But, if the answer is, you just want a nice, small, 50mm(ish) f/1.8 to use on occation, then the Zeiss IMO is the best option available at the moment. I hope that kinda helps! 😅
I have the Sony 35mm 1.8 and 55mm 1.8, and find them far enough apart that they both see plenty of use, for different types of photos. I can see maybe that 45mm is too close to 35mm to feel useful. That 5 extra mm of the 55 just pushes it apart from a 35mm a little more compared to a true 50mm, too.
Hello. I am a professional photographer from Kyiv Ukraine shooting models and building portfolios. I have 3 lenses in this focal range. The first that is not on your list (because it is a 1.4) is the Sony Zeiss Plannar 50mm F1.4. Large but an excellent lens. I also have the Sony Zeiss Sonnar 50mm F1.8 a very good lens but a little clinical. Then my favourite is the Samyang 45mm F1.8. This lens gives a slightly vintage rendering and good colours. It is not as clinical as the Zeiss. In reality we can look at charts and test all day but it is what the lens produces in the real world that matters. I would recommend my 3 lenses to anyone. By the way. If a lens does not have a rubber gasket at the mount then buy wide thick black rubber bands that are slightly smaller in diameter than the lens mount. This prevents dust and moisture getting in. Works for me.
I think this test shows the importance of lighting, location and model more than the lenses. I didn’t like the testing results of any of these lenses and was wondering why it’s so hard to make a nifty 50 these days. The truth is we pixel peep way too much now. All of them took excellent photos.
The sigma ds dn series have a wonderful aperture ring and are very tactile. Love mine.
I followed exactly your advice, but already back in 2021, and got a second hand Zeiss from MPB, for around £450 (and only £250 after trading in two lenses). Its rendering is fantastic.
Nice! Do you use it often?
@@TomCalton Absolutely - I didn't think I'd end up using it more often than the 35mm, but somehow I do!
I just have a vintage Canon FD 50mm f1.8 with my A7 III all manual control and solid metal feel.
Great overall review. Even though I own the GM versions at 50mm I need a small version for light travel. Own The “Zeiss” version that I rebought used but also picked up the Sigma because I have several other small DG DN Contemporary at 35, 65, and 90. Love to have an aperture control for use and on the A7C, which is one of the several Sony Alpha bodies I own. So very interested in your review. Would be nice to include a GM or other 50mm you love for IQ comparison. Thank you and keep these comparisons coming. Maybe one for 35mm.
Would you still recommend the Zeiss 55 in 2024? Seems like a great lens.
bought ZEISS 55mm from mpb for 404 eu in mint condition. Were using it for the first time yesterday and this lens is amazing for the price
canon has 2 lol
Great review, learnt a lot. I would go for the same, Zeiss 55mm. Quality, weather sealing and whilst I prefer the Viltrox rendering I want all my lenses to have full frame capabilities.
The Samyangs the clear all rounder winner I’d go for that cheers much 😊❤
This is another video in this topic, there were a few others and their have different results. I think it is beacuse of poor quality control.
Why isn't the samyang considered a true 50mm?
Zeiss is worth the hype. I waited a yr before getting it and I wish I would have bought it sooner. Great lens.
I wish one of these youtubers would include the Sony 50mm f2.8 macro. I bet it would beat all the other 50mm in image quality
How? The Bokeh balls will be alot smaller
Great long video and review!
Thanks David, much appreciated as always! Hope you're well 😊
Damn 😂😂 the sony af sound is so annoying
Sony really need to update there nifty fifty.
where is canon 50 mm 1.8 stm?
great video!
Thank you!
Nicee
Thanks John, appreciate it ☺️
Indeed, Since I've been using sony system zeiss 55 is first and favourite purchase. Wish they created 35mm 1.8 and 85 1.8
Sony branded Zeiss lenses are just Sony FE lenses. Sony has ditched Zeiss branding and Sony G and GM lenses have much better IQ and build quality in comparison. Sony makes 35/1.8 and 85/1.8 that should pair well with your 55/1.8.
@@talhashah Certainly, they pair very well
I have Samyang 50mm 1.4 mark I, pity that it didn't land in the comparison (and mark II), I wonder about your opinion
oh, it's more about 1.8 than 50mm apparently :D but still, I wonder ;)
Yeah, this was more about the f/1.8(ish) options currently available, otherwise there are just way too many 50mm options to test in one video. I am hoping to test all of the 50mm f/1.4 and f/1.2 options soon enough, though I'm just waiting on Sony's PR team here in the UK to send me some review copies. Fingers crossed. 🤞🏻
@@TomCalton That would be lovely :) Thanks for the great video!
You're welcome! Thanks for the support ☺️
The 50mm F1.4 Mark I is weak, very weak. My adapted A-mount Zony 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM performers miles better (had both) and that lens is no competition for modern lens designs