Sony introduces the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens

Sony has announced the release of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II, a successor to its well-regarded first-generation lens

Designed for full-frame E-mount cameras, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II continues to offer high-resolution imaging with appealing bokeh and adds improved autofocus capabilities, all within a more compact and lightweight design.

It is positioned as an option for photographers and videographers, particularly for portraiture, wedding photography, and cinematic video.

The original FE 85mm F1.4 GM was one of the foundational lenses in Sony’s G Master series, first launched in 2016. According to Yann Salmon Legagneur, Head of IP&S Marketing at Sony Europe, the development of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II builds on this success.

“We know how many photographers and videographers rely on the large aperture 85mm focal length,” says Legagneur. “We are excited to offer an updated version packed with our latest lens technologies, all while maintaining a lightweight lens and extremely compact in size.”

The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is equipped with two aspherical and two extra-low dispersion elements, aimed at reducing aberrations and enhancing sharpness across the frame. Sony’s Nano AR Coating II is included to help reduce flare and ghosting, while an 11-blade circular aperture and optimised spherical aberration contribute to the lens’s bokeh characteristics.

In terms of autofocus, the new lens is claimed to be up to three times faster than its predecessor, with enhanced tracking for moving subjects. The lens is also approximately 20% lighter and 13% smaller in volume compared to the original model.

For video applications, the lens features an linear motor that minimises focus breathing and supports in-body focus breathing compensation. It includes customisable focus hold buttons, an independent de-clickable aperture ring, and Linear Response MF control to offer complete control.

The lens is designed with durability in mind, featuring a fluorine coating on the front element to resist contaminants and a dust and moisture-resistant construction for use in challenging environments.

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is scheduled for release in September 2024, with an estimated price of €2,100 For more information visit the Sony website.