1. Introduction and Overview
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and maintenance of your Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens. This lens is designed for Sony E Mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, offering a large aperture and autofocus capabilities suitable for various photographic applications, particularly portraiture.
The Meike 85mm F1.8 lens is compatible with Sony E mount full-frame mirrorless cameras such as the Sony a9, a7iii, a7ii, and a7 series. It also functions with APS-C frame cameras like the Sony a6500, a6400, a6300, and a6000.
Figure 1.1: Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens
2. Key Features
- Compatibility: Designed for Sony E mount full-frame mirrorless cameras (e.g., Sony a9, a7iii, a7ii, a7 series) and APS-C cameras (e.g., Sony a6500, a6400, a6300, a6000).
- Large Aperture: Features a wide aperture of f/1.8, enabling excellent low-light performance and smooth background blur (bokeh).
- Autofocus (AF STM): Equipped with a Stepping Motor (STM) for fast, quiet, and precise autofocus, reducing camera shake and noise.
- Optical Construction: Comprises 9 elements in 6 groups, designed to deliver sharp and clear images.
- Firmware Upgradable: Includes a micro-USB port for online firmware updates, accessible via the Meike official website.
Figure 2.1: Overview of Meike 85mm F1.8 Lens features including STM autofocus and multi-layer coating.
3. Product Components
The Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM Lens package typically includes the following items:
- Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM Lens
- Front Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap
- Lens Hood
- User Manual
Figure 3.1: Contents of the Meike 85mm F1.8 Lens package, including the lens, lens hood, and caps.
4. Setup and Installation
- Attaching the Lens:
- Align the red dot on the lens barrel with the corresponding red dot on your camera's lens mount.
- Gently insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.
- Ensure the lens is securely attached before use.
- Removing the Lens:
- Press and hold the lens release button on your camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it detaches from the camera mount.
- Replace the front and rear lens caps to protect the lens elements.
- Attaching the Lens Hood:
- Align the mark on the lens hood with the mark on the front of the lens.
- Twist the lens hood clockwise until it locks into position.
Figure 4.1: Meike 85mm F1.8 Lens mounted on a Sony mirrorless camera.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Focus Modes
The Meike 85mm F1.8 lens supports both autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF).
- Autofocus (AF): For automatic focusing, ensure your camera's focus mode is set to AF. The lens's STM motor will quickly and accurately acquire focus.
- Manual Focus (MF): To manually adjust focus, set your camera's focus mode to MF. Rotate the focus ring on the lens barrel to achieve desired sharpness.
5.2 Aperture Control
The lens features a wide maximum aperture of F1.8, allowing for shallow depth of field and excellent light gathering capabilities. The aperture can be controlled via your camera's settings.
5.3 Micro-USB Port for Firmware Updates
The lens is equipped with a micro-USB port, allowing you to update its firmware. Firmware updates can improve lens performance, compatibility, and address potential issues. Visit the Meike official website to download the latest firmware and follow the provided instructions for updating.
Figure 5.1: Rear view of the Meike 85mm F1.8 lens, highlighting the Micro-USB port for firmware updates.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a specialized lens cleaning solution to clean the front and rear elements. Avoid touching the glass surfaces with your fingers.
- Storage: When not in use, always attach the front and rear lens caps. Store the lens in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in a lens pouch or camera bag.
- Avoid Extreme Conditions: Protect the lens from extreme temperatures, high humidity, direct sunlight for prolonged periods, and strong impacts.
7. Troubleshooting
- Autofocus Not Functioning: If autofocus is not working correctly, ensure the lens firmware is up to date. Check the Meike official website for the latest firmware. Sometimes, a camera restart or reattaching the lens can resolve minor communication issues.
- Slow Focus Motor: The autofocus motor may not be exceptionally fast in all conditions. This is a characteristic of some STM lenses. Ensure sufficient light and contrast in your scene for optimal performance.
- Blurry Images: Check your camera's focus settings (AF/MF), ensure the lens is clean, and verify that your shutter speed is appropriate for the lighting conditions to prevent motion blur.
Video 7.1: Meike Pro Series 85mm F1.8 lens overview. This video demonstrates the lens's features and performance, including its autofocus capabilities and image quality.
8. Specifications
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F1.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | F22 |
| Lens Construction | 9 elements in 6 groups |
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.85m (2.79ft) |
| Focus Mode | Autofocus (AF) / Manual Focus (MF) |
| Weight | 13.6 ounces (approx. 386g) |
| Dimensions | 3.75 x 3.17 x 3.17 inches |
Figure 8.1: Front view of the Meike 85mm F1.8 lens, showing filter size and minimum focus distance markings.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Meike website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.