Samyang XEEN 14mm T3.1 Cine Lens - Canon EF
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Product Information
Full details
This guide is for videographers and filmmakers seeking a high-quality, versatile wide-angle lens. The Samyang XEEN 14mm T3.1 Cine Lens offers superb optical performance and cine-specific features at an accessible price point, making it ideal for 4K production. A minor caveat is its fixed focal length, requiring physical movement for composition changes.
All features
| Brand | SAMYANG |
|---|
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the main advantage of the T-stop over an F-stop?
A T-stop (Transmission stop) measures the actual amount of light transmitted through the lens, offering a more accurate exposure reading for video than an F-stop, which is a theoretical calculation.
Can this lens be used for still photography?
Yes, while designed for video with its cine-gearing and declicked aperture, it can certainly be used for still photography on Canon EF mount cameras. However, the manual focus and declicked aperture may be less convenient for some still photographers.
What is the minimum focusing distance?
The minimum focusing distance for the Samyang XEEN 14mm T3.1 Cine Lens is approximately 0.28 meters (0.92 feet).
Does this lens have image stabilization?
No, this lens does not feature built-in image stabilization. Stabilization would need to be provided by the camera body (if it has in-body stabilization) or through post-production stabilization.
How does the 14mm focal length perform for portraits?
While wide lenses can distort features if too close, the 14mm can be used for environmental portraits where the subject is placed within their surroundings. The T1.5 aperture allows for a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject from the background.
What is the filter size?
This lens does not use standard screw-on filters on the front. It is designed for use with matte boxes that accommodate standard filters (e.g., 4x5.65").
Is this lens suitable for vlogging?
Yes, the wide angle is excellent for vlogging, allowing you to capture yourself and your environment. The manual focus requires practice to keep yourself in focus, but many vloggers prefer this level of control.
Troubleshooting
Lens is not focusing sharply.
Ensure the lens is fully attached to the camera mount. Verify that manual focus is engaged on the lens and the camera's focus mode is set to MF (Manual Focus). Check if the focus ring is set to the desired focus point.
Image appears soft or lacks contrast.
Clean the front and rear lens elements with a microfiber cloth. Check for excessive flare caused by bright light sources and consider using the lens hood or a matte box. Ensure the aperture is not set too wide open (e.g., T1.5) if maximum sharpness is needed, as stopping down slightly often improves edge-to-edge sharpness.
Aperture or focus rings feel stiff or loose.
If the rings feel stiff, ensure no debris is obstructing them. If they feel loose, it might indicate wear. Contact the manufacturer or a professional repair service if the issue persists or is severe.
Lens produces significant internal reflections or flare.
Use the lens hood or a matte box to block direct light sources from hitting the front element. Ensure the X-Coating is intact and not damaged. Shoot with the lens stopped down slightly if flare is problematic.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent optical quality for its price point.
- Wide field of view is ideal for many cinematic applications.
- Smooth, declicked aperture and focus rings offer precise control.
- Good low-light performance due to the T1.5 aperture.
- Durable cine-style build quality.
Cons
- Fixed focal length means no zoom capability.
- Manual focus only, requiring precise operator control.
- Can be heavy for handheld setups without proper support.
- Lens hood is not typically integrated and may require a matte box.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
- Ensure your camera body has a Canon EF mount.
- Align the red dot on the lens with the corresponding red dot on the camera mount.
- Gently insert the lens into the mount and rotate clockwise until it clicks into place.
- To detach, press the lens release button on the camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.
Compatibility:
This lens features a Canon EF mount, making it compatible with a wide range of DSLR and cinema cameras that utilize this mount, including various Canon EOS models, Blackmagic Design cameras with EF mounts, and other cine cameras designed for EF lenses. Always confirm your camera's mount type before purchasing.
Care:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to clean the lens elements. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution sparingly on the cloth, never directly on the lens. Avoid abrasive materials.
- Storage: Store the lens in its protective case or a padded camera bag when not in use. Keep it away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and dust.
- Handling: Always handle the lens by its body, not by the focus or aperture rings. Attach and detach the lens carefully to avoid damaging the mount.
- Protection: Use a lens cap when the lens is not attached to the camera to protect the front element. Consider using a UV or protective filter for added security, though this may slightly affect image quality.