Pentax FA* 85mm F1.4 - Pentax KAF2 mount
Pentax FA* 85mm F1.4 - Pentax KAF2 mount
By Steve Graham
Focal Length - 85mm
Aperture - max F2.8, min F22
Close Focus 0.85m
Weight 0.55kg
Build
This is very solidly built, confidence inspiring lens, with a large bayonet mounting hood supplied as standard. The lenses
quite short but wide construction and weighty feel give the impression of a "barrel of glass". It takes 67mm filters and
is supplied complete with a soft case.
Optical
Having a relatively simple 7 element 6 group design, this lens is capable of the highest quality results. While overall
opinions are mixed I personally regard it as the finest lens I've used. Even wide open it gives exceptionally pleasing
sharp results, and stopped down I'd be surprised to see it significantly out-performed by any eqivalent lens. I haven't
used the lens outdoors often, but when I have there has been little sign of flare.
My main reason for purchasing this lens was for available light photography - both portraiture and dance/theatre, and I
also make significant use of it in the studio. It's sharpness and fast maximum aperture cause it to excel for these
purposes.
Handling
Pentax's flagship FA* lenses make use of a "de-clutching" mechanism to switch between manual and auto-focus. This improves
the handling as the focus ring doesn't revolve when in the AF position. When in the manual focus position the lens has a
better feel than most other AF lenses. The lens also has internal focusing so the front element doesn't revolve - helpful
if graduate or polarising filters are being used. The only minor annoyance (shared with many other lenses) is that it is
impossible to take the lens cap on or off while the hood is fitted, and it's also very difficult to use polarisers due to
the lack of access.
Close focusing is marginal - fine for frame filling portraits of adults, but not quite good enough to do the same with
small children.
Compatibility
I've used the FA* 85mm F1.4 on all three of my AF Pentax SLR's (Z1p, MZ5 & Z50p) and as you would expect I've experienced
no compatability problems at all.
Price
I paid around 6000 HK dollars (about 770USD or 475 pounds sterling) for this lens, which is quite a lot for a short
telephoto prime.
Conculsion
Quite simply superb - the best lens I've ever used.
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