Sony G-Master lenses have been specially manufactured to provide high-resolution optics required for the latest highmegapixel cameras. These are still and video compatible and offer superior optics combined with high precision in mechanical and electronic components. The 85mm f/1.4 GM lens caters to portrait specialists who need that uncompromising sharpness combined with pleasing bokeh and fine control.
Design and Build Quality
The 85mm GM lens is constructed with a combination of metal and plastic on the exterior, and provides a sturdy feel. The focus ring has a textured rubber grip. The lens has an aperture ring, allowing you to override the electronic controls. The aperture ring has stops at every 1/3 stop. The clicks at stops can be turned off with a switch at the right hand side. This will allow movie-makers smooth and fine control of depth of field and bokeh in videos. The lens also features an AF/ MF switch and a Focus Hold button, which is essentially a shortcut button that can be customised for various other functions.
Like all GM lenses, this lens also features advanced weather-sealing in the form of a rubber gasket at the lensbody interface for a tight sealing.
Key Features
The 85mm GM lens is designed for Full Frame (35mm) bodies with Sony E-mount. The lens is constructed with 11 elements in 8 groups including the new XA (Extreme Aspherical) element and three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements. These elements help to
improve bokeh and reduce flare. The lens has an angle of view of 29°. The lens further features advanced Nano AR coating technology to eliminate reflections that can cause flare and ghosting.
Sony has added a second sensor to the lens in addition to the rotational focus sensor to detect the position of the focus lens group. This ensures better precision in focussing, enhancing the resolution of the lens. A supersonic wave motor (SSM) drive allows making the focus fast.
The 85mm lens provides aperture ranging from f/1.4 to 16. Sony has incorporated a 11-bladed diaphragm for a circular aperture that produces pleasing bokeh, a requirement in any portrait lens. The lens produces a maximum magnification of 0.12x. It accepts a filter of 77mm diameter. The lens measures 89.5 x 107.5mm and weighs 820g.
Ergonomics
The 85mm GM lens certainly looks over-sized on an Alpha mirrorless body, but is still comfortable to hold and operate. The aperture ring is a great addition and provides excellent damping. The focus ring is smooth and easy to rotate. The De-click switch is positioned conveniently and is easy to use. The front element of the lens does not rotate and the focus ring freely rotates, allowing you ine control over focussing. At 820g, the lens is of optimal weight.
