Global optics brand Samyang Optics announces its VDSLR MK2 series, an updated compact cine lens range, enhanced with new features. The MK2 series initially comprises four of the most-used focal lengths: 24mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 50mm T1.5 and 85mm T1.5.

As well as delivering the highly-acclaimed image quality and fast T-stop values of the existing VDSLR series, the new models now have weather sealing, 9 aperture blades and their focal lengths and scales are visible from both sides, for more professional use. The range is highly versatile and available in 7 camera mounts (including Sony FE and Canon RF) all with full-frame coverage.

A further model will also follow; the VDSLR 14mm T3.1 MK2 will be launched by the first quarter of 2021.

First Cine Lens Set

Samyang pioneered the entry-point cine lens lineup when it launched the VDSLR range back in 2014. With Samyang's incredible image quality, this groundbreaking series has helped independent film-makers and low-budget project directors to broaden their horizons of creativity as their first cine lens set. During those 6 years, Samyang has experienced the market and now introduces the updated VDSLR MK2 series, with useful new features.

Second Cine Lens Set for Professional Cinematographers

Samyang's VDSLR range is not only loved by film-making beginners but is widely owned by many professional cinematographers as their second cine lens set, for personal projects or commercial test shoots. The uncompromising image quality, compactness and de-clicked gear rings are able to create the cinematic look anytime, anywhere.

Main Features

Most Popular Focal Lengths - Available in 7 Camera Mounts

The new VDSLR MK2 range launches with 4 focal lengths: 24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm. The 14mm T3.1 will also be ready during the first quarter of 2021. These provide angles which are essential for any creative or commercial projects. All 4 lenses are available and fully compatible with 7 camera mounts: Canon EF, Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon F, Canon M, Fuji X and MFT. They are suitable for both DSLR and mirrorless systems and ready to support all types of filmmakers around the globe.

Compact Professional Cine Lens with Long Focus Throw and De-Clicked Aperture Ring**

The compact size of Samyang's VDSLR lenses makes them perfect for hand-held and gimbal shooting. The VDSLR 50mm T1.5 MK2 is only 7.47cm in length and weighs just 525.8g, but it is fully-featured with de-clicked aperture and focus gear rings. The long focus throw of over 130° enables cinematographers to focus precisely and exactly on their subjects, creating a more professional feel to video footage than with autofocus photo lenses.

Outstanding Image Quality, Covering Full-Frame Sensor Size

In contrast to their compact size, the VDSLR MK2 lenses cover full-frame sensors (36x24mm) and are ready for the high-quality video making environment. This new series inherits the outstanding image quality of the previous series: All 4 lenses have aspherical lens elements to reduce spherical and optical aberration, producing clear and vibrant images. The 50mm model also has a hybrid aspherical lens element to maintain compact size, without compromising performance.

Fast T1.5 for Low-Light Situations

For independent filmmakers, a versatile lens saves time and budget. The Samyang VDSLR MK2 series has fast T1.5 apertures across all 4 models, supporting filmmakers and allowing them to concentrate more on the scene and creativity, without having to concern themselves about image quality, even in low-light situations. Also, the shallow depth of field available blurs out the background and highlights the subject, adding depth to the story.

New: 9 Aperture Blades for Exceptional Bokeh and Starburst Effect

The new VDSLR MK2 series has been updated with 9 aperture blades and is able to deliver the latest image trends. The smooth and circular bokeh adds a three-dimensional quality and pleasing out-of-focus effect. 18-ray starburst highlights can also be created by stopping down to small apertures.

New: Weather Sealing

As requested by many users, the MK2 series now includes a weather-sealing feature. This protects the most vulnerable gap between the lens and camera mount, to prevent dust, light rain and snow from penetrating. It provides the ability to capture stunning images in less than perfect conditions.

New: Updated Design with Side Scales

The Samyang VDSLR MK2 models have a sleek new design; black and matte finish boosts usability and professionalism on the set. They are lightweight but sturdy and fully equipped for numerous projects. The distance scales are readable from both sides, as are the focal lengths. These features support focus pullers and assistant cinematographers to operate more intuitively.

Pricing and Availability

Suggested Retail Prices for individual lenses range from £399.99 to £639.99. They will also be available as multi-lens kits, complete with a robust, waterproof custom case. First stocks will be arriving in the UK and Ireland during early September 2020.