Published on August 31, 2024
In the world of professional photography, the release of a new lens is always a significant event, especially when it comes from a reputable manufacturer like Sony. The latest addition to Sony’s esteemed G Master series is the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II, a lens that promises to raise the bar in terms of image quality, focusing speed, and portability.
While Canon and Nikon have both introduced their versions of the 85mm f/1.2 premium portrait lenses, many photography enthusiasts had anticipated Sony to follow suit. However, Sony surprised the community by introducing the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II, a successor that maintains the f/1.4 aperture but boasts significant improvements in various aspects.
Enhanced Resolution and Focusing Speed
One of the primary highlights of the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II is its high resolution. Even when the aperture is fully open, the lens delivers sharp images right to the edge of the frame. This is a significant improvement over its predecessor, where edge performance was sometimes lacking. Additionally, the lens exhibits better bokeh quality, with the second-line bokeh being smoother and devoid of the unsightly green edges that plagued the previous model.
The focusing speed of the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II is another area where it shines. Sony claims that the new lens focuses three times faster than its predecessor. This enhanced speed is crucial for capturing fleeting moments in portrait photography, ensuring that subjects are in sharp focus even when they are moving.
Lightweight Design
One of the most notable features of the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II is its lightweight design. The lens weighs just 642g, making it one of the lighter options in its class. While it may not be the absolute lightest on the market, its reduced weight is a significant step forward in Sony’s ongoing effort to lighten their camera equipment. This makes it an attractive option for photographers who are always on the move and value portability.
Feature-Rich and User-Friendly
The FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II retains the iconic orange G Master branding, signaling its premium status. It also features 11 blades in the aperture mechanism, ensuring that the aperture remains circular even when stopped down. This contributes to the lens’s ability to produce beautiful bokeh effects.
In terms of functionality, the lens includes two customizable function buttons, one on the top and one on the left side, which can be programmed through the camera body. The aperture ring can also be set to either click-stop or smooth rotation, depending on the user’s preference. Additionally, the lens hood features a locking mechanism, adding to the overall build quality.
Competitive Pricing
Despite the numerous enhancements, the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II is priced at HK$13,990, the same as its predecessor. When adjusted for inflation, this actually makes the new lens more affordable than its older counterpart. This competitive pricing, combined with its improved performance and lighter weight, makes it an attractive option for professional photographers looking to upgrade their portrait lens arsenal.
Conclusion
The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II is a testament to Sony’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the world of photography. With its high resolution, fast focusing, and lightweight design, it stands out as a champion in the realm of portrait lenses. While some may still hope for an f/1.2 version, the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II offers a compelling balance of performance and portability that is hard to match. For photographers looking to capture stunning portraits with ease, this lens is a must-consider option.
Views: 0