Sony has officially introduced its latest addition to the renowned G Master series—the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II. This new lens comes with a slew of improvements aimed at both professional photographers and videographers. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking portraits or shooting cinematic video, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II promises to deliver top-tier performance. Let’s dive into what makes this lens stand out.
A Refined Optical Experience
One of the hallmark features of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is its superior optical performance. The lens includes two XA (extreme aspherical) elements and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements, designed to minimize chromatic aberrations and deliver edge-to-edge clarity(Sony News Release Archive)
This results in stunningly sharp images, even at wide apertures. The Nano AR Coating II also reduces lens flare and ghosting, making it ideal for high-contrast scenarios such as backlit portraits or nighttime photography.
With its F1.4 aperture, this lens excels at creating a beautiful, soft bokeh, allowing for a dreamy background blur that makes subjects pop out of the frame. The aperture is controlled by an 11-blade circular diaphragm, further enhancing the lens’ bokeh quality
Faster Autofocus for Dynamic Scenes
In terms of autofocus (AF), the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II significantly outperforms its predecessor. Sony claims that the AF is three times faster, and the tracking capabilities are seven times better than the original FE 85mm F1.4. This makes it a prime candidate for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as during sports photography or live events.
The lens also supports 120fps continuous shooting with full AF compatibility on Sony’s latest mirrorless cameras, such as the Alpha 9 III. The XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors ensure quiet and precise focus, making it equally suitable for shooting video content without intrusive focus noise,
Compact Design with No Compromise on Quality
Sony has managed to trim down the size and weight of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II without sacrificing performance. Weighing in at just 642 grams (around 22.7 ounces), the lens is 20% lighter than the previous model and 13% smaller in volume. This reduction in size and weight makes the lens easier to handle, especially during long shoots.
The lens is built with durability in mind, featuring a fluorine-coated front element that helps protect against dust, water, and oil. Its weather-sealed design ensures reliable performance even in challenging outdoor conditions.
Versatile for Photography and Videography
Whether you’re a portrait photographer or a filmmaker, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is versatile enough to meet your needs. The wide aperture, combined with the advanced optical elements, makes it ideal for cinematic videography. The lens supports focus breathing compensation, which minimizes focus shifts while zooming or adjusting focus, ensuring smooth, cinematic shots.
Additionally, the lens is compatible with Sony’s E-mount system, allowing it to be used with a wide range of cameras, from their Alpha series to their Cinema Line.
Pricing and Availability
The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is expected to hit the market in September 2024, with a price tag of approximately $1,799. While it’s not a budget lens, its advanced features and compact design make it a worthy investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts.
FAQs
Q: What are the main improvements in the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II compared to the previous model?
A: The GM II is 20% lighter, 13% smaller, has faster autofocus (three times quicker), and significantly improved subject tracking (seven times better).
Q: Is this lens good for videography?
A: Yes, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is ideal for videography, with features like quiet autofocus, focus breathing compensation, and compatibility with high-end Sony cameras
Q: What is the price of the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II?
A: The lens will be priced at around $1,799 upon its release in September 2024.
