Sony has officially announced the much-anticipated 85mm f/1.4 GM II lens, marking a significant leap forward from its predecessor in terms of design, performance, and overall user experience. The new lens is a testament to Sony's commitment to pushing the boundaries of optical innovation, offering professional photographers and enthusiasts a more refined and versatile tool for portraiture and other creative applications.
A Sleeker and Lighter Design
The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM II lens features a notable weight reduction, now weighing just 642g, compared to its predecessor's 820g. This 178g decrease enhances handling during extended shooting sessions and improves overall balance when mounted on Sony’s mirrorless cameras.
The lens has also undergone a redesign, becoming narrower and slightly longer than the previous generation. This streamlined form factor not only enhances portability but also contributes to the lens's overall aesthetic, making it a more appealing choice for photographers who value both performance and design.
Enhanced Autofocus Performance
Sony has made substantial improvements to the autofocus (AF) system in the 85mm f/1.4 GM II. The new lens boasts faster and quieter autofocus, a feature that will be particularly appreciated by both still photographers and videographers. The upgraded AF system ensures that subjects are tracked with greater precision and speed, even in challenging lighting conditions, making it an ideal lens for capturing fast-moving subjects or working in low-light environments.
The silent autofocus operation is another critical enhancement, especially for videographers who require smooth and noise-free focus transitions. This improvement will undoubtedly make the 85mm f/1.4 GM II a go-to lens for professionals working in video production.
Superior Image Quality
Sony has also focused on elevating the image quality with the 85mm f/1.4 GM II. The new lens delivers exceptional sharpness across the frame, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. The improved optical design minimizes aberrations and distortions, ensuring that images are rendered with stunning clarity and contrast.
The 85mm f/1.4 GM II continues the legacy of the GM series by delivering exceptional bokeh. Enhanced optics make the bokeh even smoother and more visually appealing, offering impressive separation between the subject and the background. This improvement is particularly beneficial for portrait photography, where achieving a beautiful background blur and strong subject isolation is essential.
Refined Handling and Ergonomics
In addition to the optical and performance upgrades, Sony has made several changes to the lens's handling and ergonomics. The aperture ring has been repositioned above the scale, providing a more intuitive control layout for photographers who prefer manual aperture adjustments. The focus ring has also been narrowed, which, combined with the overall reduction in lens size, contributes to a more comfortable and efficient shooting experience.
The 77mm filter size remains unchanged, allowing photographers to use their existing filters without needing to purchase new ones. This continuity in filter size is a thoughtful touch, considering the investment many photographers make in high-quality filters.
Conclusion
The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM II lens is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering a lighter, more compact design, faster and quieter autofocus, and superior image quality. These enhancements make it an essential tool for professional photographers and videographers who demand the highest level of performance from their gear. Whether you're capturing stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh or shooting dynamic video scenes, the 85mm f/1.4 GM II is poised to become a new favorite in the world of high-end optics.