Sony has just unveiled its latest masterpiece in portrait photography—the Sony 85mm f1.4 GM II lens. This lens is a testament to Sony’s G Master technology, promising exceptional resolution, stunning bokeh, and a compact, lightweight design.
Unmatched G Master Performance: Sharper and More Beautiful Bokeh
The Sony 85mm f1.4 GM II brings next-level performance with even sharper image quality and gorgeous bokeh. The lens features two XA (extreme aspherical) elements that deliver remarkable resolution across the entire image, capturing eyes and expressions with incredible clarity. Whether you shoot portraits or cinematic scenes, this lens delivers stunning realism in every detail.
Sony’s Nano AR Coating II further enhances image quality by minimizing flare and ghosting, even in challenging lighting conditions. The minimum focus distance is 2.79 feet (0.85 meters) for autofocus and 2.63 feet (0.8 meters) for manual focus, allowing you to get up close while maintaining sharpness and detail.
Smooth and Natural Bokeh
The FE 85mm f1.4 GM II continues the legacy of its predecessor, the FE 85mm f/1.4 GM, by delivering smooth and natural bokeh. The new optical design effectively controls chromatic aberration, resulting in more lifelike bokeh. An 11-blade circular aperture enhances this effect, while XA elements and controlled spherical aberration minimize onion-ring bokeh. The result is a seamless transition from sharp focus to deep, dreamy bokeh at f/1.4.
Lightning-Fast Autofocus for Precision Shooting
For photographers and videographers using Sony’s advanced Alpha-series bodies, the FE 85mm f1.4 GM II offers unprecedented autofocus speed and precision. Thanks to two XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors, the lens achieves autofocus speeds up to three times faster than the previous model. This upgrade dramatically improves subject tracking, making it seven times more reliable, even when working with the narrow depth of field at f/1.4. The lens fully supports the 120 fps capability of the Sony A9 III with its global shutter, offering extraordinary creative control.
Compact and Lightweight Without Compromise
Despite its advanced capabilities, the Sony 85mm f1.4 GM II remains compact and lightweight. The lens measures just 3-3/8” (84.7mm) x 4-1/4” (107.3 mm) and weighs only 22.7 oz. (642 g), which is about 13% less in volume and 20% lighter than its predecessor. This reduction in size and weight enhances the lens’s agility and ergonomics, making it a perfect companion for long shoots and on-the-go photography.
Ideal for Filmmaking
The FE 85mm f1.4 GM II is not just a portrait lens—it’s also an exceptional tool for filmmakers. It pairs perfectly with Real-time Recognition AF in Sony’s Alpha-series bodies, delivering fast, precise, and quiet subject tracking that maintains sharp focus even at f/1.4. Focus breathing has been minimized, and in-body breathing compensation is supported. The lens also features an aperture ring that can be switched to click-less operation, while Linear Response MF allows for smooth and intuitive manual focus control, making it an ideal choice for professional filmmaking.
Precision Rendering with ED Glass Elements
Two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements in the Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM II significantly reduce axial chromatic aberration. They also minimize chromatic aberration caused by magnification differences. This ensures that resolution and bokeh are maximized. The lens provides precisely rendered edges free from fringing or unnatural coloration, extending all the way to the image edges.
Professional Control and Rugged Reliability
The lens offers professional-grade control with two customizable focus hold buttons and an AF/MF switch for flexible operability. An independent aperture ring and Linear Response MF focus control provide intuitive and precise control for creative shooting. The lens also accepts 77mm threaded filters for added versatility.
The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM II is designed to withstand the elements. It features a dust- and moisture-resistant build, ensuring reliability in challenging outdoor conditions. The front lens element is coated with fluorine. This coating repels fingerprints, dust, water, oil, and other contaminants, keeping your lens clean and ready for action.
Price and release date
Bhphotovideo.com and Adorama.com have listed this highly anticipated release for $1,798, with preorders starting at noon ET on Thursday, August 29.
Sony 85mm f1.4 GM II specifications
- Focal Length: 85mm
- Lens Mount: Sony E
- Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
- Minimum Aperture: f/16
- Angle of View: 29°
- Minimum Focus Distance: 31.5″ / 80 cm
- Maximum Magnification: 0.11x
- Optical Design: 14 Elements in 11 Groups
- Diaphragm Blades: 11, Rounded
- Image Stabilization: No
- Front Filter Size: 77 mm
- Dimensions: 84.7 x 107.3 mm
- Weight: 22.6 oz / 642 g
