Sony has introduced its latest lens, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II, a next-generation full-frame E-mount portrait lens that promises a perfect blend of high resolution and stunning bokeh. This compact, lightweight lens is designed for professional photographers and videographers, particularly those specialising in portraiture and cinematic video.
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II retains the optical brilliance of its predecessor while integrating advanced technology that enhances both resolution and bokeh. This combination is achieved through an innovative optical design that includes two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements, effectively minimising aberrations and delivering corner-to-corner sharpness. Additionally, Sony’s Nano AR Coating II ensures that flare and ghosting are kept at bay, resulting in clear, crisp images.
Portrait photographers will particularly appreciate the lens’s 11-blade circular aperture, which contributes to its soft, creamy bokeh. This hallmark feature of Sony’s G Master series is further refined by optimising spherical aberration during the design and manufacturing process.
The autofocus capabilities of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II have seen significant improvements, with the lens offering up to three times faster autofocus speeds compared to its predecessor. This makes it an excellent companion for Sony’s Alpha series cameras, particularly in fast-paced environments like weddings or events where capturing fleeting moments is crucial. The lens is also designed to excel in video production, with minimal focus breathing and support for in-body focus breathing compensation.
Despite its powerful features, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is notably lighter and more compact than the previous model, weighing just 642 grams. This 20% reduction in weight, combined with a smaller overall volume, makes it easier to handle during long shoots without compromising on quality.
Sony has also ensured that this lens is built to last. With a fluorine-coated front element that repels fingerprints, dust, and oil, and a dust and moisture-resistant design, it’s ready for challenging outdoor conditions.
The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II will be available in South Africa from September 2024, and it’s set to become a staple in the kit of photographers and videographers who demand the best in both stills and motion.
For more detailed information about the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II, visit Sony’s official product page.
