Samyang has launched the AF 35mm f/1.4 P, the first lens in the Prima Series. Samyang claims that the new Sony E-mount lens sets the bar for its production process as the first in its third generation of products.

In March, the South Korean company Samyang officially changed its name to LK Samyang. According to the organization, it “is committed to setting new standards in the optical industry, promoting innovation, and inspiring creativity and precision in visual storytelling.”

According to Samyang, the name “Prima” was inspired by the Latin term for “first” or “important.” The new 35mm f/1.4 P is the first in this new series, and the firm claims it was deliberately constructed to match high-end performance with practicality – in this case, a compact and lightweight design. Samyang picked three words to develop the lens around: mobility, practicality, and convenience.

“This lens is not only technologically advanced but is also designed to be accessible, aiming to offer top-tier features at a reasonable price,” Samyang tells me. “It is crafted for widespread appeal, ensuring all photography enthusiasts can enjoy professional grade quality without the premium cost.”

The lens has 12 elements, including three aspherical elements, a high refractive element, and an extra-low dispersion element. Its nine-bladed diaphragm allows it to operate at apertures from f/1.4 to f/16.

The business claims that the new AF 35mm f/1.4 P offers unrivaled portability due to its light 470-gram weight and compact design, intended to complement cameras such as the Sony a7C and ZV-E1. Samyang further claims that, despite its small size, the lens performs admirably even wide open. It is especially effective at its minimum focusing distance of 0.30 meters when its sharpness shows brightly.

The lens also offers rapid and precise autofocus, thanks to the use of a linear stepping motor.

According to Samyang, the lens eliminates focus breathing, making it suitable for both photo and video applications. The AF 35mm f/1.4 P is weather-sealed and includes a USB connector for software upgrades.