Samyang's fast 24mm manual prime for Sony FE — the wide-angle f/1.4 for astrophotography.
The Samyang 24mm f/1.4 ED AS IF UMC is a fast manual focus wide-angle prime for Sony FE mount. At f/1.4 and 24mm, it provides the speed and wide angle essential for astrophotography and low-light wide-angle shooting. Available under both Samyang and Rokinon branding, it has been one of the most popular budget options for night sky photography since its release.
Optical performance is good for the price. Sharpness is respectable from f/1.4 and very good by f/2.8. Coma control is reasonable for astrophotography — stars remain fairly tight towards the corners. The ED and aspherical elements control aberrations. UMC coatings reduce flare. The fast f/1.4 aperture at 24mm is the key specification for astro shooters.
Sony FE mount in this listing — available in virtually every other mount. Filter thread is 77mm. Weight is approximately 680 grams — substantial. Build quality is solid with a metal barrel. Manual focus only — no AF or electronic communication in most versions. The focus ring is smooth with adequate throw for precise astro focusing.
Very affordable on the used market. Check for smooth focus ring and clean optics. One of the most popular budget astrophotography lenses ever made. The f/1.4 speed at 24mm provides the light gathering needed for Milky Way photography. The Sigma 24mm f/1.4 Art offers better optics at a higher price. An excellent value proposition for night sky work.