Mark Ellington
SIRUI Aurora 85mm F1.4 Auto Focus Lens
Introduction
The SIRUI Aurora 85mm F1.4 Auto Focus Lens is a prime telephoto lens designed specifically for Sony E Mount cameras. Manufactured by SIRUI, a brand known for its high-quality photographic equipment, this lens is ideal for photographers looking to capture stunning portraits and close-up shots with impeccable detail and beautiful bokeh. With its fast aperture and advanced optical design, the Aurora 85mm is geared towards both professionals and enthusiasts seeking versatility and performance in their photography.
Appearance and Design
The SIRUI Aurora 85mm F1.4 lens boasts a sleek, modern aesthetic with a matte black finish that exudes professionalism. Constructed using high-quality materials, it feels robust yet surprisingly lightweight at just 540g (1.2 lbs), which is approximately 17% lighter than comparable lenses in its category. The lens features a smooth manual focus ring and an aperture ring that offers switchable click stops, giving photographers precise control over their settings. Its elegant design is complemented by a functional layout, including an AF/MF focus mode switch and an AFL button that enhance usability during shoots.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 85mm
- Aperture: F1.4 (15-blade diaphragm for beautiful bokeh)
- Lens Construction: Includes aspherical, ED, and HRI glass to minimize chromatic aberration
- Auto Focus: Fast, smooth, and precise autofocus with eye AF support
- Weight: 540g (1.2 lbs)
- Warranty: 3 Year Manufacturer
- Compatibility: For Sony E mount cameras (FX3, FX6, A7 Series, A7R Series, A7S Series, A9, ZV-E1)
- Firmware: Upgradable via email instructions available from SIRUI
Experience Using the Product
Using the SIRUI Aurora 85mm F1.4 lens has been a delightful experience. In portrait photography, the lens excels at creating stunning images with sharp details and a pleasing background blur, thanks to its ultra-fast aperture. The autofocus performance is commendable; the step motor ensures quick and accurate focusing, making it suitable for capturing dynamic subjects. I found the eye AF feature particularly useful for portrait shots, enabling me to confidently focus on my subject’s eyes with precision.
In low-light conditions, the lens performs admirably, allowing me to shoot without compromising on image quality. The bokeh produced is creamy and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall feel of my images. I also appreciated the lens’s lightweight design, which made it easy to handle for extended periods without fatigue, whether I was shooting handheld or using a gimbal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness maintained at F1.4
- Beautiful bokeh that enhances portraits and creative shots
- Lightweight and compact design for better portability
- Fast and accurate autofocus performance
- Great value for the price ($440)
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a fully weather-sealed lens for outdoor shooting
- Minor chromatic aberration can be visible in extreme conditions, though largely suppressed
Conclusion
Overall, the SIRUI Aurora 85mm F1.4 Auto Focus Lens is an outstanding choice for photographers looking to enhance their portrait and close-up photography. Its combination of exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and lightweight design makes it a valuable addition to any camera bag. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, the advantages far outweigh them, especially considering its competitive price point. I highly recommend the SIRUI Aurora 85mm F1.4 lens for anyone using Sony E Mount cameras, as it truly delivers on both performance and creativity.
