Sony will launch the new full-frame lens FE 85mm F1.4 GM II in September 2024. It is the successor to the lens of the same name from 2016 and, according to the manufacturer, it aims to combine high resolution, attractive bokeh and fast autofocus in a compact housing.
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The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II belongs to the high-quality G-Master series and is designed for mirrorless E-mount cameras. As Sony reports, it is particularly suitable for portrait, wedding and travel photography, as well as video recording.
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Optics and Image Quality
The lens uses an optical structure of 14 lenses in eleven groups and uses two XA lenses (extremely aspherical) and two ED glass elements (extra-low dispersion) to correct errors. According to Sony, this configuration minimizes aberrations and enables high resolution across the entire image. AR Nanocoating II is intended to suppress reflections and ghosting effects.
A circular aperture made up of eleven blades and low spherical aberration are intended to ensure soft bokeh. Sony talks of a “smoother transition from sharp focus to deep bokeh at f/1.4” compared to the previous model.
Autofocus and tracking
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is smaller than its predecessor and is said to be noticeably sharper.
(Image: Sony)
The manufacturer also says that the autofocus of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is three times faster than its predecessor. Autofocus should easily keep up with the Alpha 9 III when shooting continuously at 120 frames per second. Tracking performance is also seven times better than the previous model.
The optics have two XD linear motors for fast autofocus. These are intended to enable smooth focus changes even when shooting movies with an open aperture. Sony usually highlights video capabilities. Focus breathing is minimal and camera breathing compensation is supported. The aperture ring can be operated quietly.
Operations and Design
The lens has two customizable focus hold buttons, an AF/MF focus adjustment switch, and an aperture ring. The design should also be dust and moisture resistant. The front lens element has a fluorine coating that makes it easy to clean.
The lens weighs 642 grams, making it about 20 percent lighter than the previous model. The dimensions have also been reduced by 13 percent: the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is 85 millimeters in diameter and 107 millimeters long, with a filter diameter of 77 millimeters.
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II should be available from September 2024. The recommended retail price is 2,100 euros.
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