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New Samyang primes target hybrid creators

Posted on Jul 15, 2025 by Adam Duckworth

With the new 16mm f/2.8 and 85mm f/1.8, Samyang delivers lightweight, affordable primes with premium optics for Sony users

Samyang has expanded its popular Prima Series with two new autofocus lenses for Sony FE: the AF 16mm f/2.8 P FE and the AF 85mm f/1.8 P FE. These lightweight, high-quality optics are designed for hybrid shooters, offering strong performance in a compact and affordable package.

The launch completes the Prima trio, joining the previously released 35mm f/1.4 to form a versatile set covering ultra-wide, standard and portrait focal lengths. Both new lenses are aimed at content creators, vloggers and photography enthusiasts who value portability without compromising image quality.

The AF 16mm is a super-lightweight wide-angle prime at just 207g. It features a close minimum focus of 0.12m and semi-macro capabilities (0.33x), making it ideal for landscapes, street, travel and everyday vlogging. On APS-C cameras, it delivers a 24mm equivalent field of view with 0.5x macro.

The AF 85mm is targeted at portrait shooters, delivering smooth, shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh. At 272g, it’s the lightest in its class, with premium optics including three ED elements and a nine-blade aperture.

Both lenses feature a new compact industrial design using Samyang’s high-strength engineering plastic, updated grip texture, and USB-C ports for firmware updates – no docking station required.

Available to pre-order from July 15, both lenses are expected to ship from August 2025 via major UK and Ireland retailers. Visit holdan.co.uk for details.

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