Quick answer
A pre-owned Samyang 35mm T1.5 VDSLR lens can deliver great cine value if you verify the focus ring smoothness, aperture blade condition, and coating integrity before buying.
Why the T1.5 aperture matters for video
The T1.5 maximum aperture is very fast, letting in a lot of light for low-light scenes and giving you shallow depth of field. On a used lens, check that the iris ring stops down evenly without sticking, since any irregularity will affect exposure consistency during a take.
Manual focus considerations
This is a fully manual lens with geared focus and aperture control rings designed for follow-focus systems. The lack of autofocus is a trade-off: you get precise, repeatable pulls, but it is not ideal for run-and-gun shooting where quick AF is needed. When buying pre-owned, turn the focus ring from end to end—it should be smooth with no gritty spots or excessive play.
Lens mount and compatibility
The Samyang 35mm T1.5 VDSLR is available in several mounts including Canon EF. Make sure you are buying the version that matches your camera body. The bayonet mount should be clean and free of burrs; a damaged mount can cause communication errors or loose fit over time.
Pre-owned Samyang 35mm T1.5 VDSLR decision rules
- Check the aperture blades: Look through the front of the lens while stopping down the aperture ring. Blades should form a clean, symmetrical opening without oil residue or sticking. Oil on blades can cause slow or uneven iris movement.
- Test the focus ring smoothness: Rotate the focus ring from minimum focus (11.8″) to infinity. It should move evenly with consistent damping. Any tight spots or grinding sounds indicate worn helicoid grease or debris.
- Inspect the lens coatings: Hold the lens under a bright light and look at the front and rear elements. Scratches, haze, or peeling coatings reduce image quality. Minor dust inside is normal; large particles or fungus are deal-breakers. If the seller cannot provide a clear photo of the glass under light, ask for one before committing.
- Verify the mount condition: Check the Canon EF bayonet for bent pins, scratches, or loose screws. A damaged mount can cause intermittent electronic contact (for aperture control) and may not mount securely.
- Confirm included accessories: The lens ships with a bayonet mount lens hood. Ask if the hood, front and rear caps, and any original packaging are included. Missing hoods are inexpensive to replace, but missing caps increase risk of element damage during transport.
Key lens specs to verify
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Samyang canon lens 35mm T1.5 VDSLR AS UMC Lens pre-owned: Multi-layer coating to reduce flare and hybrid aspherical lens element Inspect the front and rear elements for scratches or coating wear; damaged coatings increase flare and reduce contrast in backlit scenes.
Samyang canon lens 35mm T1.5 VDSLR AS UMC Lens pre-owned
Who should buy this lens
Best for
- Filmmakers who need a fast, manual cine lens with geared rings for follow-focus rigs
- Budget-conscious videographers who want full-frame coverage and T1.5 light gathering without paying cinema-brand prices
Not for
- Photographers who rely on autofocus for fast-paced shooting or event work
- Anyone who needs a lens with electronic communication for EXIF data or in-camera corrections (this is a fully manual lens)
