LensTip.com

Lens review

Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE

7 November 2016
Arkadiusz Olech

5. Chromatic and spherical aberration

Chromatic aberration

The photos shown below are a clear indication that the Samyang optics specialists failed when it comes to the longitudinal chromatic aberration correction. The level of that aberration is distinct at the maximum relative aperture and it doesn’t disappear even on stopping down the aperture to f/2.0. Such a result is especially surprising because the reflex Samyang 50 mm f/1.4 AS UMC didn’t have any serious problem in this category.

Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE - Chromatic and spherical aberration


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Fortunately when it comes to the lateral chromatic aberration the situation is noticeably better – a graph below shows the levels of that aberration depending on aperture values and the used detector.

Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE - Chromatic and spherical aberration


The aberration keeps almost imperceptible level of 0.04% so the lens fares exceedingly well. In this category the mirrorless lens for a change is better than its reflex camera brother.

A7R II, RAW, f/1.4 A7R II, RAW, f/8.0
Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE - Chromatic and spherical aberration Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE - Chromatic and spherical aberration


Spherical aberration

Fast standard lenses often feature a noticeable level of spherical aberration. Only newer 1.4/50 constructions deal with that aberration better. Unfortunately the Samyang doesn’t perform like those newer models. The first photo from this chapter shows a slight focus shift as the depth of field is moved toward bigger distances. Also defocused light circles feature classic symptoms of that aberration – the circle in front of the focus has soft edges and the one behind the focus features a lighter rim.

A7R II, f/1.4, in fron of A7R II, f/1.4, behind
Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE - Chromatic and spherical aberration Samyang AF 50 mm f/1.4 FE - Chromatic and spherical aberration