Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II Unveiled – The Next-Level Portrait Lens

Lens News

by Nino LeitnerAugust 28^th, 2024

Sony has announced the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II (SEL85F14GM2), a significant update to their popular portrait lens that’s set to attract both photographers and filmmakers. This second-generation model, scheduled for release in September 2024, brings substantial improvements in size, weight, and performance that could make it a versatile option for Sony E-mount users. Read on to learn more.

After some other “Mark II” versions of their popular G Master lenses in recent years, Sony has moved on to upgrade their popular 85mm portrait lens.

Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II – lighter and smaller

As the 76th (!) E-mount lens in Sony’s lineup, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is designed to leverage the capabilities of Sony’s latest Alpha series full-frame cameras. Weighing approximately 642 grams (22.7 oz) and measuring 84.7mm in diameter and 107.3mm in length, the new lens is about 20% lighter and 13% smaller in volume compared to its predecessor. This reduction in size and weight is a welcome change for filmmakers who often work with multiple lenses in the field or on long shoots.

Less aberrations, supposedly sharper, less flares and ghosting

Optically, Sony has refined the lens design to enhance overall performance. The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II incorporates two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements, which should effectively suppress aberrations and deliver sharp, high-resolution images from corner to corner. The lens also features Sony’s Nano AR Coating II technology, aimed at reducing flare and ghosting – a crucial factor for maintaining image quality in challenging lighting conditions.

The 11-blade circular aperture is designed to produce the smooth bokeh that G Master lenses are known for, which could be particularly appealing for portrait and cinematic work. The lens has a filter diameter of 77mm, maintaining compatibility with common filter systems.

AF claimed to be 3 times faster, quieter, less focus breathing

For video work, one of the most notable improvements is in the autofocus system. Sony claims that the AF speed is up to three times faster than the previous model, with subject tracking performance improved by as much as seven times. This enhancement could enable features like continuous shooting at up to 120fps on the Alpha 9 III, though actual performance may vary depending on the camera body and shooting conditions.

The lens’s cinematic potential is further enhanced by its internal focusing mechanism and the use of an XD (extreme dynamic) linear motor, which Sony claims provides quiet AF operation and linear response manual focus. Focus breathing is said to be minimal, and the lens supports in-body focus breathing compensation on compatible cameras.

Aperture ring, linear response MF focus control

On the exterior, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II offers two customizable focus hold buttons and an AF/MF switch for flexible operation. It also features an independent aperture ring, which is a very useful addition, and linear response MF focus control, which should provide intuitive control during shoots.

Dust and moisture-resistant design

The lens’s durability has been considered, with a dust and moisture-resistant design. The front element features a fluorine coating to repel fingerprints, dust, and other contaminants – a small but potentially time-saving feature for busy shoots.

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is not your average budget prime …

Priced at $1,799.99 USD and $2,499.99 CAD, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II isn’t a budget option. However, for filmmakers invested in the Sony ecosystem dependent on fast AF in a portrait lens, this lens could prove to be a versatile tool capable of delivering high-quality results across a range of shooting scenarios.

As always, we at CineD will have a hands-on with this lens to verify Sony’s claims and see how it performs in real-world filming situations. We’ll be particularly interested in testing its AF performance, bokeh quality, and how well it handles focus breathing in video applications. Stay tuned for more.

What do you think about Sony’s latest addition to their lens lineup? Is this a lens you would consider adding to your arsenal despite the relatively high price point for such a lens?