We've been asking, and Sony is delivering! Sony has announced the highly anticipated FE 85mm F1.4 GM II! The second generation of the beloved FE 85mm F1.4 GM, this new lens builds off its predecessor with high resolution, smooth bokeh, and fast AF in a superbly lightweight and compact body. As a large-aperture, telephoto prime, this lens is perfect for portraiture, weddings, travel, and cinematic video, but of course, our TCSTV Team has to test it out! Check out all the amazing features and what Dave thinks of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II's improved optics and autofocus.
Starting with the refined optical design and advanced elements of the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II, it boasts two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements, which provide corner-to-corner resolution and rendering, resulting in outstanding image quality, while suppressing aberrations effectively. Improving from its predecessor, the 11-blade circular aperture of this lens produces the beautiful, soft bokeh that G Master lenses are known for with enhanced high resolution, making it ideal for portrait photography. As well, Sony’s original Nano AR Coating II effectively subdues flare and ghosting for clear, crisp images.
Another feature the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II has drastically improved on is its AF capabilities. Maximizing performance for situations like portrait photography and cinematic video, the lens is up to three times faster compared to the previous model and subject tracking has improved by as much as seven times. The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is proudly 20% lighter and 13% smaller in volume (approx. 642 grams, or 22.7 oz), than the original thanks to the latest mechanical technology and its updated optical design. It has a filter diameter of φ77 mm, a diameter of 84.7mm (about 3 3/8 in) and a length of 107.3mm (about 4 1/4 in).
Cinematographers will thoroughly enjoy the lens's large F1.4 aperture, compact size and minimal focus breathing. The lens has an XD (extreme dynamic) linear motor with internal focusing, quiet AF and linear response MF (manual focus). Due to the flexibility offered through Sony’s one-mount E-Mount system, this lens can be used across Sony’s latest mirrorless Alpha cameras, as well as cameras in the Sony Cinema Line, including the Sony BURANO.
Externally, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II has two customizable focus hold buttons and an AF/MF switch to offer flexible operability. There is also an independent aperture ring and Linear Response MF focus control button to provide intuitive control and streamline the creative shooting process. The front lens element features a fluorine coating, which makes it easy to remove fingerprints, dust, oil, and other contaminants from the lens surface. The dust- and moisture-resistant design provides additional reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditions.
Pre-orders go live on Thursday, August 29th, 2024! Click here for more info!
Now we have to see how this sharp and fast lens performs in the real world! Check out Dave's Hands-On TCSTV Review below!
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Sony FE 85mm f1.4 GM II
