Samyang 50mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 (Canon EF) – 4K Cinema Lens, Manual Focus, Low Light Performance, Full-Frame Coverage
The Samyang 50mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 (Canon EF) is a premier full-frame cine lens engineered for professional filmmakers and video creators demanding uncompromising optical performance, robust build quality, and precise manual control. Positioned at the intersection of affordability and high-end cinematic capability, this lens solves the critical challenge of achieving cinematic depth of field and sharpness in 4K and higher-resolution workflows, especially under low-light conditions. Its advanced optical design, featuring multi-layered coatings and aspherical elements, delivers outstanding image clarity, minimal distortion, and natural color rendering, making it a go-to choice for narrative, commercial, and documentary production.Built upon Samyang’s legacy of manual cine primes, the MK2 series introduces refined ergonomics, enhanced weather sealing, and compatibility with follow focus systems, setting a new standard for independent filmmakers and production studios. The lens’s T1.5 maximum aperture, de-clicked aperture ring, and consistent color matching across the VDSLR MK2 lineup empower professionals to capture visually cohesive footage with smooth focus pulls and precise exposure control. Whether shooting handheld, on gimbals, or in controlled studio environments, the Samyang 50mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 (Canon EF) stands out as a versatile, future-proof investment for cinematic storytelling.
Full-Frame Image Circle Coverage
The Samyang 50mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 is designed for full-frame sensors, offering a 43.3mm image circle that ensures edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal vignetting, even at wide apertures. This allows users to maximize the resolution potential of Canon EF-mount cinema cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless systems with adapters. Full-frame coverage facilitates cinematic depth of field and broad compatibility across camera bodies, making it ideal for both current and future camera upgrades.
Ultra-Bright T1.5 Maximum Aperture
With an impressive T1.5 maximum aperture, this lens excels in low light performance and delivers exceptional background separation for dramatic bokeh effects. The wide aperture enables filmmakers to shoot in challenging lighting conditions without sacrificing image quality or increasing ISO noise. This allows filmmakers to maintain creative control and visual consistency across indoor, night, and available-light scenarios.
Manual Focus with Long Throw
The lens features a precise manual focus ring with a 150° rotation, enabling smooth, accurate focus pulls essential for cinematic productions. The long focus throw provides granular control, critical for achieving sharp focus on high-resolution sensors and for rack focusing techniques. This ensures reliable, repeatable results in professional video workflows and when using follow focus systems.
De-Clicked Aperture Ring
A de-clicked aperture ring allows seamless, silent aperture adjustments during filming, a must-have for professional video production. The ring is marked in T-stops for true transmission values, ensuring exposure consistency across shots and scenes. This allows for smooth exposure transitions without audio interference or visible jumps in brightness.
- De-clicked for silent operation
- T-stop markings for accurate exposure
- Consistent feel across VDSLR MK2 series
11-Blade Rounded Diaphragm
The 11-blade rounded aperture produces smooth, circular bokeh and pleasing out-of-focus highlights, enhancing the cinematic look of your footage. Compared to previous versions with fewer blades, the MK2’s design delivers more natural background blur and improved subject separation. This allows cinematographers to achieve a premium, filmic aesthetic in portraiture and close-up work.
Advanced Optical Construction
The lens employs 9 elements in 6 groups, including one aspherical and one hybrid aspherical element, minimizing chromatic aberration, distortion, and flare. Samyang’s Ultra Multi-Coating (UMC) technology further reduces ghosting and ensures high contrast and color fidelity. This allows for sharp, high-contrast images even in challenging lighting and strong backlight.
- 1 Aspherical Element
- 1 Hybrid Aspherical Element
- Ultra Multi-Coating (UMC)
Consistent Color Matching Across VDSLR MK2 Series
Engineered for color consistency, the 50mm T1.5 MK2 is matched to other Samyang VDSLR MK2 lenses, streamlining multi-lens shoots and post-production color grading. This uniformity is critical for professional workflows, preventing color shifts when switching focal lengths. This allows DPs and editors to maintain a cohesive visual style across entire projects.
Compact, Lightweight Cine Housing
Weighing just 585g (1.29 lbs) and measuring 74.7mm in length, the lens is optimized for handheld, gimbal, and drone use, without compromising build quality. Its aluminum alloy body offers durability while remaining portable for run-and-gun filmmaking. This allows creators to shoot longer and adapt quickly to dynamic shooting environments.
Integrated Gear Rings for Focus and Aperture
Standard 0.8 MOD gear rings on both the focus and aperture rings ensure compatibility with industry-standard follow focus and lens control systems. The gear placement is consistent across the VDSLR MK2 lineup, simplifying rig setup and lens swaps. This allows for efficient, professional-grade focus and iris control on set.
- 0.8 MOD gear pitch
- Consistent gear position across MK2 lenses
Weather-Sealed Lens Mount
The lens mount features a weather-sealed design, protecting against dust, light rain, and moisture ingress—an upgrade over previous models. This enhances reliability for outdoor, documentary, and event shooting in unpredictable conditions. This allows filmmakers to operate with confidence in diverse environments.
Canon EF Mount Versatility
With native Canon EF mount compatibility, the lens supports a wide range of cinema cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless bodies via adapters. Its robust mount ensures secure attachment and reliable communication with EF-compatible accessories. This allows for seamless integration into existing Canon-based workflows and multi-camera setups.
Summary
The Samyang 50mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 (Canon EF) stands out in the competitive cine lens market by delivering full-frame coverage, outstanding low light performance, and professional-grade manual controls at a fraction of the cost of legacy cinema primes. Its advanced optics, weather-sealed construction, and cine-optimized ergonomics make it a compelling choice for filmmakers seeking cinematic image quality, workflow efficiency, and long-term versatility. Compared to both previous Samyang models and higher-priced competitors, the MK2 series offers unmatched value and reliability for independent creators and production teams.Available now at ebphotovideo.com, the Samyang 50mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 (Canon EF) empowers professionals to elevate their visual storytelling across narrative, commercial, and documentary genres. With its blend of technical innovation, robust construction, and user-focused design, this lens is an essential tool for anyone aiming to achieve a cinematic look on Canon EF-mount systems.