This small, inexpensive prime is perfect for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras, says Andy Westlake
Since mirrorless cameras emerged less than a decade ago, the various systems have had mixed fortunes. For example, Samsung’s NX system – the first to feature an APS-C sensor – stuttered along for a few years before bursting into life with the superb NX1, but was then sadly canned less than a year later. The small-sensor Pentax Q has quietly disappeared, while Nikon’s ill-judged 1 system gives every impression of being in its death throes. On the other hand, Sony’s full-frame E-mount Alpha 7 series has been an almost-unqualified success, and recently joined by the revolutionary Alpha 9.
One of the factors that has influenced the acceptance of these nascent systems has been the availability of matched lenses. But while Sony has a broad range of high-end optics capable of keeping up with the demands of its high-resolution Alpha 7R II, it’s relatively short on more affordable lenses at the lower end of the range. Korean lens maker Samyang has spotted this gap in the market and endeavoured to fill it in. The AF 35mm f/2.8 FE is its third lens specifically designed for full-frame mirrorless, following on from the AF 14mm f/2.8 FE and the AF 50mm f/1.4 FE – a lens I liked a lot when I reviewed it earlier this year.
Like the 50mm, the AF 35mm f/2.8 FE goes head-to-head with one of Sony’s own lenses in terms of core spec, in this case the Zeissbadged Sony FE 35mm f/2.8 ZA. But the Samyang is somewhat smaller, lighter and, crucially, considerably cheaper at just £280 compared to £680. At this price, frankly it’s an absolute steal.
Features
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
140 years of change
AP has become the world’s oldest surviving consumer photo magazine because we have moved with the times, says Nigel Atherton
Preserving history in platinum
A deep dive into the meticulous art of platinum printing, and the collaboration between the Royal Geographical Society and Salto Ulbeek. Mike Crawford explores how they brought historical photographs to life with enduring beauty and precision
Life in the past lane
What was life like for an amateur photographer in 1884? John Wade takes a trip back in time
Choice cuts
How many trillions of photographs must have been taken in the past 140 years? Amy Davies asked some of our regular contributors for their favourites....a difficult task, to say the least
How good a camera can you buy for just £140?
Three members of the AP team see what they can find for the money
Round Five: The Best of the Rest
The APOY judges choose their favourite images that didn’t make the top ten of our Landscapes category
Amateur Photographer of the Year
Here are the top ten images uploaded to Photocrowd from Round Five, Landscapes, with comments by the AP team and our guest judge
FILM STARS A lifetime of landmarks
Cameras that hit the headlines between then and now. John Wade is your guide
140 years of Amateur Photographer
As AP celebrates its 140th birthday next month, Nigel Atherton looks back at its glorious past
John Wade considers...World War II: Home Front 1940, by A.J O'Brien
Say the word 'Wall's' to those of a certain age and two things spring to mind: sausages and ice cream.