For filmmakers and photography enthusiasts alike, having the right tools is crucial for capturing stunning visuals. The Rokinon 85mm T1.5 Cine DS Lens for Canon EF rises to the occasion as a standout option in the cinematic lens market. With its robust design, exceptional color reproduction, and sharp image quality, this lens is designed to elevate your cinematic storytelling. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, strengths, weaknesses, and determine who should consider adding this lens to their camera bag.
Key Features
The Rokinon 85mm T1.5 Cine DS lens boasts three primary advantages that set it apart from other lenses in its class:
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Unified Gear Design: This lens is part of Rokinon’s cine DS lineup, which features a unified gear design. This means both the focus and aperture gears are harmonized across all cine DS lenses, eliminating the need for re-adjustment of your follow focus when you switch lenses. This design feature enhances workflow and usability, especially during demanding shoots where time is of the essence.
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Dual Focusing Scales: The dual focusing scales are positioned on either side of the lens, making it more user-friendly for both filmmakers and photographers. This feature is particularly beneficial for collaborative settings, as it allows for easy access and visibility from different angles, facilitating a smooth production process.
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Color Matching: Rokinon has placed a premium on color consistency in their cine DS range, ensuring that all lenses are tested for color matching. This is a significant advantage for video production, where maintaining uniform color and contrast is vital for a professional finish.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Excellent Color Reproduction: Users have noted the Rokinon 85mm T1.5 Cine DS delivers vibrant colors and accurate skin tones, making it an excellent choice for portrait and narrative work.
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Solid Build Quality: The lens construction is robust, which instills confidence for regular use in various filming environments. Many customers have praised its durability.
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Impressive Low Light Performance: With a T1.5 aperture, the lens excels in low-light conditions, allowing for creative shooting without compromising on quality. One reviewer particularly highlighted this strength during evening shoots.
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Bokeh Effect: The lens provides a buttery smooth bokeh that enhances the aesthetic appeal of images, a favored trait among videographers and photographers alike.
Cons
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Lack of Autofocus: While some users appreciate the manual focus control, the absence of autofocus has garnered mixed reviews. Some users found it challenging to achieve precise focus, which can be more demanding for fast-paced environments.
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Focus Accuracy: While the focus ring operates smoothly, several reviews pointed out that achieving exact focus can require practice, especially for beginners who may be accustomed to autofocus features.
Who Is It For?
The Rokinon 85mm T1.5 Cine DS Lens is ideally suited for independent filmmakers, aspiring cinematographers, and professionals looking for an affordable lens that does not compromise on quality. It caters especially well to those who shoot in low light environments or who want a lens capable of producing artistic bokeh effects. However, users should be comfortable working with manual focus, as this lens does not offer autofocus capabilities, making it less suited for fast action or dynamic shooting situations.
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Final Thoughts
In summary, the Rokinon 85mm T1.5 Cine DS Lens for Canon EF is a compelling choice for anyone serious about filmmaking or photography. With its unique features, such as unified gear design, dual focusing scales, and proven color matching, it strikes an excellent balance between quality and price. Rated average 4.6 out of 5 stars across 266 reviews, it’s clear that many users find significant value in this lens.
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While it does face some criticism regarding autofocus capabilities, the lens’s strengths in color reproduction, low-light performance, and sharpness, especially at 4K resolution, make it a worthy investment. For those ready to master the art of manual focusing and looking for a reliable tool to enhance their cinematic creations, the Rokinon 85mm T1.5 Cine DS is a purchase you won’t regret.
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