lightdow EF vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Overview of the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers photographers a fully manual focus experience, which can enhance creative freedom. Priced at $77.59, this lens is about 27% cheaper than the YONGNUO YN35mm F2, making it a budget-friendly option for aspiring photographers. Designed for various Canon EOS models, this lens is ideal for portrait photography, thanks to its ability to produce stunning bokeh and sharp images.

The lens features six rounded aperture blades and a hybrid aspherical lens design that reduces aberrations, ensuring high image quality. With a focus on manual adjustments, it challenges users to refine their photographic skills while delivering artistic results. However, its lack of autofocus may deter some users who prefer more convenience.

Overview of the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens

The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens, priced at $106.00, supports both autofocus and manual focus modes, offering greater versatility compared to the EF 85mm f1.8. This lens shines in various shooting conditions, especially in low light, making it a great choice for dynamic environments. Its wide-angle perspective makes it suitable for landscapes and group shots, giving it an edge in versatility.

Equipped with seven aperture blades, the YN35mm can create unique star effects by narrowing the aperture. Its close minimum focusing distance of 0.25m allows for impressive close-ups, making it a versatile addition to any camera kit. While it is slightly more expensive than the EF 85mm, the additional features may justify the price for certain photographers.

Manual vs. Autofocus Capabilities

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a fully manual focus lens, which means photographers need to take full control over their settings without any autofocus assistance. This can be a significant learning opportunity for those wanting to improve their skills, but it may prove challenging for beginners or those accustomed to the convenience of autofocus.

In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 offers both autofocus and manual focus options. This dual functionality allows photographers to choose the best method for their shooting style and situation. While the manual focus experience can enhance creativity, the option for autofocus provides a level of convenience that may appeal to a wider audience, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios.

Image Quality and Performance

When it comes to image quality, the EF 85mm f1.8 excels in producing sharp, clear images with its advanced optical design. The combination of six rounded aperture blades and hybrid aspherical lenses minimizes aberrations and enhances bokeh, making it perfect for portrait photography. Its internal focus mechanism ensures smooth and quiet focusing, which is a bonus for video work.

The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 also delivers excellent image quality, thanks to its multi-coated lenses that improve transmittance and reduce ghosting and flare. This can be particularly beneficial when shooting in tricky lighting conditions. While both lenses produce high-quality images, the choice between them may come down to the style of photography one prefers—portraits versus wide-angle shots.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLRs, making it a versatile option for those invested in Canon's ecosystem. Its design is tailored specifically for portrait photography, which means it shines in situations where capturing detailed facial features and creating beautiful background blur are essential.

On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is also compatible with Canon EF mount cameras and supports both full-frame and APS-C formats. Its wide-angle perspective makes it ideal for landscapes, street photography, and group shots. Therefore, photographers should consider what type of photography they intend to do when choosing between these two lenses.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, the EF 85mm f1.8 features a robust design that prioritizes durability, making it suitable for regular use. The manual focus ring is smooth, allowing for precise adjustments. However, the absence of electronic contacts can lead to issues with camera compatibility if not set up correctly.

Conversely, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 boasts a metal bayonet that enhances durability and fit with camera bodies. It is designed to withstand wear and corrosion, which can be beneficial for photographers who often shoot in various environments. The lens is also relatively compact, making it easy to carry for extended periods.

Price Comparison

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $77.59, while the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 costs $106.00—an approximate difference of $28.41. This makes the EF 85mm about 27% cheaper, which may appeal to budget-conscious photographers. However, the additional features and autofocus capabilities of the YN35mm could justify the higher price for some users, depending on their specific needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 ultimately depends on your photography style and requirements. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in portrait photography and allows for complete control over focus, the EF 85mm is a solid choice. However, if you desire versatility with both autofocus and manual options, along with a wide-angle perspective suitable for various scenarios, the YONGNUO YN35mm is worth the extra investment. Consider your shooting preferences and budget to make the best decision for your photography journey.