You got some deep pockets if you consider the 55mm Zeiss to be inexpensive and “budget friendly”. Can’t go wrong with either one in my opinion. Great work!
generally Sony offering in 50mm range is poor - we have 50 1.4 which is super expensive and should be replaced by GM 50 1.4, we have 55 1.8 which is ok but still expensive for what it is, and we have the 50 1.8 which is unusable most of the time and should be replaced by a lens that would be as good as 35 1.8 and 85 1.8. Personally I'm waiting for 50 1.4 GM and 50 1.8 that will be usable. I don't care for Sony A1, A7c or even the a7IV, give me some good primes in good prices. A7III is still relevant.
@@mwkoala ah 50mm 1.4 is very good from sony, quite expensive but you can't compare it to anything other than sigma 50mm 1.4, as canon at 50mm 1.4 is nowhere near that good. 55mm 1.8 is class above any 50mm 1.8 from other brands, closest to it is Leica summicron 50mm f2. For a lens that good that you can get around 700 euros brand new on a deal, it's a budget option. Canon rf50mm 1.2 is on another level but prices as well. It's sharp and corrected as Zeiss Otus 55mm 1.4 and renders like Summilux 50mm 1.4. and it's AF so it's a kinda steal too :D
I've been shooting with the 55mm for almost a year now and love it! I've thought about trading up to the planar 50mm, but there's just so much I get out of the 55mm I can't justify the upgrade quite yet.
Agree. Unedited, like at 1:43, it's night and day! The 55 is one of the best lenses ever - for any system. I use Fuji and this is the one lens I wish I had. But yes, the assurance of not missing a shot for clients is why the GM lenses exist. Thank you for the great video!!!
I own the 55 and I love it. It’s tiny and about 90% of the 50 so I really don’t see a need to upgrade. I don’t have autofocus issues but I do think one thing you didn’t touch on is that the chromatic aberration of the 55 is terrible. Literally every photo with bright lighting has blue and purple fringes everywhere that needs to be corrected.
I wouldn’t say the Zeiss 55 is a budget option. For a 1.8 I considerate it on the expensive side. The SONY 50 1.8 is a budget option. Beside that, great video as always 👍
Your videos always make me so happy :) I play them all the time while editing and I also use so many of your presets 😭 Thank you for all the lovely content ♥️📸
I dont shoot Sony anymore, but when I did I had this choice to make. It's absolutely, 100% diminishing returns but those returns really give the professional edge in moments when they matter
Hi Julia, lovely video, as usual! I have never seen the difference of rendition between these two lenses, it got me by suprise. Honestly, I really liked the color and contrast of the 55 much more than the 50. I do understand that the 50 is much better corrected for various aberrations and somewhat sharper as well corner to corner which translates to a rather large form factor, weigth and price point. You put some emphasis on the consistancy difference, would you mind sharing the ballpark keep rate figure for both lenses?
There is no difference in the image quality. If you would not have made a comparision no one would have cared about thouse minute differences. Both lenses are able to deliver good images. In the end the photographer has to do the job, regardless of the equipment that is being employed. Cheap glass can be stunning. The story needs to fit in. btw What I really would love to see from you is taking more portraits of boys!
55mm 1.8 is so light and sharp in “good” in good lighting. I have borrowed the 55 before and I wanted to keep but I’m in love with the 35mms and can’t wait to get hold of the new G Master. 🙏
I’ve owned both of these. 55mm is better value for money and great compact little lens. I ended up selling it for the brighter, sharper 1.4. I kind of wish I still had both, tbh.
Hello, I am writing through Google Translator. please describe in more detail, does it make sense to switch from 55mm to 50mm f1.4? I find 50mm more interesting. Noticeable difference?
Paired with an RIII or an RIV is where the 50mm f1.4 really shines. I own the 55mm f1.8 and while it as very fast AF and is compact its bokeh can be very distracting and busy looking at times.
I really want the 55mm just as a walk around and street photography lens. Right now for portraits I use the Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN, which I'm really happy with and makes me feel like I don't need a 50 1.4. I'm all about the GM 35mm 1.4 though. Gonna drop a pretty penny on that once it's actually readily available. The 55mm will have to wait, haha.
Still hanging with my 55mm Sony/Zeiss. I will, when available again, buy the 50mm 1.2 GM. Nice comparison video. For a budget lens you can't beat the Sony/Zeiss 55mm. It just rocks the town. But I need the GM glass for my Sony A1.
Interesting comparison, this proofs that a expensive lens doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s “that” much better! It’s all about mastering your equipment and work with what you already have in your camera bag and get the most out of it, a expensive lens doesn’t mean a better photo. Gear doesn’t make a photographer but your passion and your own unique point of view do. Lot’s of practice will be your best friend in the end. As a Canon user myself, I do hope you will also make some new content about Canon lenses or body’s, They were always so helpful and useful! Pretty please!🙏🏼
My 55mm lens has that exact same washed-out lens flair in the bottom right corner! Thought I had a bad copy, although I think using a lens hood helps prevent that.
Great video, Julia! Also, for those seemingly bothered by her using the word "budget", she is correct. It is the cheaper, but still quality, alternative to the 50mm lens. Budget-friendly quite literally means the most affordable one when comparing two/more items. If there was a $300 50mm f/2, with much less quality, that would be a different story.
As part of a travel kit the 55 has an advantage in size and weight. I like the pop/contrast of the 55 and it is plenty sharp. The only thing I find annoying is the tiny bits of flaring at night (even with the hood on) that will sneak in un-noticed until you're editing.
Great comparison video. I am considering buying the 55 as there are so many pros for this lens. It seems like flare is the only con. Very pretty model by the way!
Love your tutorials... only just found you and going through them all.... was wondering what the external monitor is that you use as it wasnt plugged into the hotshoe.... I also went to your blog to see your gear list and all it does is take you to something called KIT which seems nothing to do with your camera gear... anyway looking forward to seeing all your videos over time....
Loved this video!! The photos and model are beautiful! I loved all the flowers and color in the background! I am sooo ready for spring here in Washington! I like the hazy flare from the 1.8 lens!
Omg) you photo skills are so good, you are even do not think how to compose a frame, nice to see this metal white box among bamboo grass in this so good location.
Very nice video. I'm checking out reviews at the moment as I've just purchased a mint used 50mm1.4. Slightly in doubt now though but I think the deal breaker is chromatic aberration with the 55mm which isn't explored in this vid.
My favorite focal lengths :). Nice video, but I think your copy of the 55 is kinda not at a 100%. Maybe it is a good idea to check another copy of this lens. Those old sony/zeiss lenses tend to have degradation in time in terms of AF or optical qualities. Keep making those videos :)!
If you paid $3k plus for a Sony Body, $650 bucks for a good used Sony/Zeiss 55mm 1.8 is budget. I'd focus on top quality glass over anything else. I happen to be doing both top camera body and all GM glass for my A1. I will use my 55mm on my A7rIV. My STF 100mm GM lives on my A1 right now. Nothing else will do until the 50mm 1.2 GM is purchased.
@@kevinrodriguez9659 I have the Sony/Zeiss 55 f1.8 and for its price it ranks either some of the best but the 50 f1.2 GM is king of the hill for the 50mm range of lenses. I even have an old top of the line manual Canon 58 1.2 and 55 1.2 and the Sony is the best 1.2 is hands down the best. If you can’t afford one the Sony/Zeiss will not disappoint by any means.
I don't know if I'd call the 55 a budget lens, per say, but when comparing the two, I suppose it is heh. That said, I own the 55 and it is absolutely marvelous. Very high hit rate with Eye AF and is super quick to focus. The size and weight is also a big selling point, especially for longer sessions. I'd say I split time 50/50 with my 24GM on portrait/engagement sessions. I can confirm the inconsistent focus issues in super high contrast situations with the 55, but it can oftentimes correct itself with a fresh press of the focus button, although it happens more in situations where it's a wider shot and your subject is moving and the camera isn't quite sure what to focus on. In addition, the Chromatic Aberration can be a bit prominent in high contrast situations as well but that's a simple fix in LR. Definitely not a deal breaker by any means. For reference, I shoot on the A7R III, so it doesn't have the newest AF features. But man, I'm telling you, there's a real reason it's a popular lens. The images it produces are absolutely sharp and beautiful, and it's smaller and lighter than a lot of the competition. It's a bit of an engineering marvel.
Yeah I was debating whether to title it like this, but with the 50 being more than double the price I think in comparison the 55 is budget/more affordable :) And yep I completely agree with everything you said, I can see why so many people love this lens - it’s a good one!
Really nice video, i'm just not sure if i'm correct - Are you using a filter on your 50mm and none on your 55? And please correct me if i'm wrong :) I would also love to get a recommendation of the filters you use!
Thanks for the review and some lovely portraits as always. I do slightly struggle to understand why you don’t use the lens hood then criticise flaring though. Surely that’s why we have the lens hood?
@@TaraCreel I appreciate that, but given the hood is designed to prevent flare I’m not sure what failing to use it proves. It’s like driving a Convertible and complaining it lets rain in with the hood down.
Thanks! I personally like lens flares in some of my photos, I wasn’t criticising it, just pointing out that it’s there in case that’s important to someone/they didn’t notice in the side by side photos if they were just paying attention to the face in the images. Like I mentioned in the video gear is only as good as the worst conditions you put them through, generally focusing backlit without a lens hood can be a struggle for some lenses, so I wanted to see how they would perform.
55mm for freelance photographer for Portrait the best best budget lens for me that's is a powerful bedget portrait lens... .for sony body. .. but i am a Canon shooter i use old body 70D + 50mm STM 1.8 hehe hope to pick RP + 50mm RF 1.8 hihi
I have the 55mm and will upgrade to the 50mm f1.2 GM (mostly because of better AF speed than the 50ZA) With outdoor slow moving subjects I like to go e-shutter to spare the m-shutter count, unless I need iso50 in very bright scenes that the e-shutter does not allow.
I'm considering getting a FF Sony camera and pairing the 24 GM with the 50mm 1.4. I heard you say in the video that you prefer the 35 GM over the 50. Can you elaborate a little bit about why you feel that way?
Oh that opinion of mine is hugely subjective - 35mm is my favourite focal length. While I really like the current Zeiss 35mm f1.4, the AF was not as strong as this 50 1.4, so I tend to use the 50 more when it comes to client work as I know I can rely on it. The new GM 35mm f1.4 is super sharp, fast and great AF accuracy - paired with it being my favourite focal length, it’ll now be my first choice in lens for client work (as soon as it arrives lol)
@@lauriewahlig2819 I ended up buying the sigma 50 1.4 last night. I was able to purchase a nice used one for $525 luckily. If I had to buy new, it probably still get it considering it’s a couple hundred less than the 55 and $800 less than the Sony 50mm. I also think the corner to corner sharpness is better than the 55.
@@shawnshannon5058 hey thanks! I’ve been looking for used and can’t find many. So have you worked with the sigma before? I love my other sigma lenses so definitely looking at that!
My first FF lens was the nifty 50 from Sony, the 200€ one. I then upgraded to the Zeiss 55 because the regular 50 is horrible for anything remotely professional for a billion reasons that would probably match any other brand's cheapest 50. The Zeiss is probably one of the most "magical" lenses I ever used, it has a character to it that no other 50 for Sony has, plus it's small - Really small. I eventually sold it and bought the Zeiss 50 1.4 but it never really felt like an upgrade, it felt like a "why did I spend more than double the price of the 55 on this". After all of those, I bought the Sigma 50 f.14 and that, for me, is the sweet spot for this focal range on Sony. The Sigma feels the Sharpest, the smoothest, the best focusing, and I feel like I can be blindfolded and have a great shot regardless. TLDR: Sony 50 1.8 if it's all you can afford; Zeiss 55 for premium quality, magical look and onion bokeh; Zeiss 50 was the only lens I ever bought that I have literally no feelings for... can't explain; And the Sigma is the workhorse that makes you ask why you ever had any other 50 =)
Yesterday I was thinking which of these two I should get and today you have a video. But my uses would be mainly indoor with lower light. I know there's a big price gap, but I think as a technical instrument for getting the job done the higher price would be justifiable in the long run...
That extra 5mm sure gave the 50mm F1.4 a run for it's money. I have the 55mm Zeiss and I must say it's a compact lens.. makes it good to carry inside malls and security woudn't mine using with the compact A7C.. Who would have thought you are using a professional grade camera.. it's so small.. one would think it's a cheap prime lens.. but it's a Zeiss. No reason to upgrade to 50mm F1.4.. Maybe 1.2 GM? But it's true.. the 50mm 1.4F is flatter.. which make it a good lens for moody shoots..
I think Julia Trotti is the best female photographer in the world. And, Julia, You are my favorite photographer in the world. Keep doing this channel. I learned a lot of knowledge about photography by watching your awesome videos. I have a little request, Please do some photography video using Sony A7 II if you can. ❤
I really like your videos julia especially where you take portrait photos. I would watch a demo of the new camera on the Sony FX3 where you take photos and videos with it. Thanks for this amazing good video. 🙏😀
At this level i dont think its the cameras features are important, for me its the model and skills plus creativity of the team. Besides i cant tell whats expensive and “cheap” gear here in youtube. Im just looking at the model and shoots saying wow
Both lenses are like $1000... there isn’t really a “cheap” lens used lol. If she used the Samyang 50mm f1.4 or Sony 50mm f1.8 those are more budget options
Were you using identical bodies with each lens? If not, maybe some of the straight out of a camera differences were attributable to camera differences?
I have 24-55-135. I chose a lot of lenses (20g, 24GM, Sigma, 50 1.2, 45 samyang, 105 and 135 Sigma, 135GM) and the final choice is 24 1.8 Samyang - 55 1.8 Sonnar - 135 2 Samyang. these were simply the best regardless of the price (135GM was as good as the samyang but I don't need AF at this focal length ) the whole set was $1128 and it was also the best. I have a7R4.
Yes I have been waiting for this video, I'm still happy with owning the 55 when I don't see that much of a difference, Well the 50 Is a 1.4 and I love bokeh, but at the right distance from My subject the 55 1.8 Is great even at 2.8, If I find a 50 1.4 used for a very good price then I will have It a go 👍😊
Thank you Julia for your great videos. I own both these lenses myself and have for a long time been considering to sell one. However the 55mm is so close in performance to the 50mm and works so well on the A7C body so think I will keep both after watching your video. You confirm my own experience with these two superb lenses.
Thank you! Oh I would love to try the 55 on the A7C, even with the A7III’s older AF system it still did a great job. It would be interesting to see if the AF accuracy improves on newer Sony cameras.
It’s only me or is the 55 mm the most of time of the video sharper than the 50? I think the sharpness of both is identical or rather the 55 mm is usually sharper. Above all, I would have liked to see if you could see the difference between 1.4 and 1.8 at 50 mm. Above all, the 55 has, in my opinion, an integrated background softener so that the background looks softer and dreamy, but it has an aperture of 1.8 Btw very nice video 😇
Yeah it’s really interesting, I would say when the photos are in focus both of them have very similar sharpness. The main difference I found was the accuracy, the 50 had more photos in focus whereas the 55 had more out of focus photos.. as a wedding photographer I personally prefer better accuracy, as a portrait photographer either lens would work for me!
Julia just few moments ago I was wondering whether in near future you would ever be reviewing Sony's most underrated prime lens 55mm 1.8 and got your notification for this video ! 😂😂
Hello Could you recommend a lens for Sony A7c that has a silent AF? I would like it to be a rather wide angle - say max 28 mm and preferably as bright (1.4 or 1.8) as possible. Something like Sony 24 1.4 G or 20 1.8 but cheaper. You've tested these different Tamrons and others. Unfortunately, the Sigma ART is audible, and it is supposed to be a typical lens for recording, with a condenser microphone. I want it to be silent. Please help. Sigma 18-35 is great but af is noisy ;( and Sony G Master expensive ;(
Lovely video. Honestly for the price difference, I think the 55 is still a home run in 2023. :) for $500 I’ll be adding it to the bag. Thanks for the content!
1:42 WTF! Maybe the 7 elements and the T* coating are making this huge difference. I had the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 and I saw better colors than in the 24-70 2.8 GM II
You would only be able to see the difference in the very first comparison images I took where I stood in the same spot for both lenses to shot the subtle difference. For the rest of the shoot I moved around a lot to try and get them to look as similar as possible!
The A7III is my current camera that I use for work so the majority of my videos are with Sony, but I still use Canon on my channel :) Currently working a new Canon video actually!
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How much are both lenses
You got some deep pockets if you consider the 55mm Zeiss to be inexpensive and “budget friendly”. Can’t go wrong with either one in my opinion. Great work!
Well it is budget compared to the 50 which is why I decided to title it like this. But thank you and I agree, both are great lenses
@@juliatrotti It will be really budget friendly once Sony release their 50mm 1.4GM at some point.
generally Sony offering in 50mm range is poor - we have 50 1.4 which is super expensive and should be replaced by GM 50 1.4, we have 55 1.8 which is ok but still expensive for what it is, and we have the 50 1.8 which is unusable most of the time and should be replaced by a lens that would be as good as 35 1.8 and 85 1.8. Personally I'm waiting for 50 1.4 GM and 50 1.8 that will be usable. I don't care for Sony A1, A7c or even the a7IV, give me some good primes in good prices. A7III is still relevant.
@@mwkoala ah 50mm 1.4 is very good from sony, quite expensive but you can't compare it to anything other than sigma 50mm 1.4, as canon at 50mm 1.4 is nowhere near that good. 55mm 1.8 is class above any 50mm 1.8 from other brands, closest to it is Leica summicron 50mm f2. For a lens that good that you can get around 700 euros brand new on a deal, it's a budget option. Canon rf50mm 1.2 is on another level but prices as well. It's sharp and corrected as Zeiss Otus 55mm 1.4 and renders like Summilux 50mm 1.4. and it's AF so it's a kinda steal too :D
The 55mm has noticeable CA, it’s only flaw in my opinion.
I've been shooting with the 55mm for almost a year now and love it! I've thought about trading up to the planar 50mm, but there's just so much I get out of the 55mm I can't justify the upgrade quite yet.
The 1.4 may well be exceptional but the 55 remains one of the best lenses they ever did
Agree. Unedited, like at 1:43, it's night and day! The 55 is one of the best lenses ever - for any system. I use Fuji and this is the one lens I wish I had. But yes, the assurance of not missing a shot for clients is why the GM lenses exist. Thank you for the great video!!!
I own the 55 and I love it. It’s tiny and about 90% of the 50 so I really don’t see a need to upgrade. I don’t have autofocus issues but I do think one thing you didn’t touch on is that the chromatic aberration of the 55 is terrible. Literally every photo with bright lighting has blue and purple fringes everywhere that needs to be corrected.
The 55mm was the first lens I bought for Sony. It is amazing! I pair it with the 24 gm now and yeah buddy 👍. Highly recommend it
wow- just started the first location and the 55 unedited is GORGEOUS!!
I wouldn’t say the Zeiss 55 is a budget option. For a 1.8 I considerate it on the expensive side. The SONY 50 1.8 is a budget option. Beside that, great video as always 👍
the 55 is my go to prime and I love it for portraits 👌
The 3D pop on the 55 is crazy. How is the GM unable to beat it?
Thanks Julia!✨ How are you liking the lightness of the setup? A7c + 55 would make an amazing on the go camera.
I do own both A7C and Zeiss 55mm. It's really a match made in heaven.
Your videos always make me so happy :) I play them all the time while editing and I also use so many of your presets 😭 Thank you for all the lovely content ♥️📸
I dont shoot Sony anymore, but when I did I had this choice to make. It's absolutely, 100% diminishing returns but those returns really give the professional edge in moments when they matter
Hi Julia, lovely video, as usual! I have never seen the difference of rendition between these two lenses, it got me by suprise. Honestly, I really liked the color and contrast of the 55 much more than the 50. I do understand that the 50 is much better corrected for various aberrations and somewhat sharper as well corner to corner which translates to a rather large form factor, weigth and price point.
You put some emphasis on the consistancy difference, would you mind sharing the ballpark keep rate figure for both lenses?
There is no difference in the image quality. If you would not have made a comparision no one would have cared about thouse minute differences.
Both lenses are able to deliver good images. In the end the photographer has to do the job, regardless of the equipment that is being employed. Cheap glass can be stunning. The story needs to fit in.
btw What I really would love to see from you is taking more portraits of boys!
I like the look of the 55mm. The 50 is wonderful and consistent but the 55mm just has a 3D pop to it. Thanks for the comparison review Julia.
55mm 1.8 is so light and sharp in “good” in good lighting. I have borrowed the 55 before and I wanted to keep but I’m in love with the 35mms and can’t wait to get hold of the new G Master. 🙏
I’ve owned both of these. 55mm is better value for money and great compact little lens. I ended up selling it for the brighter, sharper 1.4. I kind of wish I still had both, tbh.
Hello, I am writing through Google Translator. please describe in more detail, does it make sense to switch from 55mm to 50mm f1.4? I find 50mm more interesting. Noticeable difference?
Paired with an RIII or an RIV is where the 50mm f1.4 really shines. I own the 55mm f1.8 and while it as very fast AF and is compact its bokeh can be very distracting and busy looking at times.
I really want the 55mm just as a walk around and street photography lens. Right now for portraits I use the Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN, which I'm really happy with and makes me feel like I don't need a 50 1.4.
I'm all about the GM 35mm 1.4 though. Gonna drop a pretty penny on that once it's actually readily available. The 55mm will have to wait, haha.
Still hanging with my 55mm Sony/Zeiss. I will, when available again, buy the 50mm 1.2 GM. Nice comparison video. For a budget lens you can't beat the Sony/Zeiss 55mm. It just rocks the town. But I need the GM glass for my Sony A1.
zeiss 55mm budget?! on what planet?! 😭 though in comparison to the 50 1.4 it actually is a truly budget lens for the comparable results it yields
Why didn't you stand a bit closer with the 50mm lens.
Man good timing on the video, I’ve been wondering about this for awhile
Interesting comparison, this proofs that a expensive lens doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s “that” much better! It’s all about mastering your equipment and work with what you already have in your camera bag and get the most out of it, a expensive lens doesn’t mean a better photo.
Gear doesn’t make a photographer but your passion and your own unique point of view do. Lot’s of practice will be your best friend in the end.
As a Canon user myself, I do hope you will also make some new content about Canon lenses or body’s,
They were always so helpful and useful! Pretty please!🙏🏼
My 55mm lens has that exact same washed-out lens flair in the bottom right corner! Thought I had a bad copy, although I think using a lens hood helps prevent that.
I personally like lens flares in some of my photos, but yes if you don’t want it you can use a lens hood!
Great video, Julia! Also, for those seemingly bothered by her using the word "budget", she is correct. It is the cheaper, but still quality, alternative to the 50mm lens. Budget-friendly quite literally means the most affordable one when comparing two/more items. If there was a $300 50mm f/2, with much less quality, that would be a different story.
As part of a travel kit the 55 has an advantage in size and weight. I like the pop/contrast of the 55 and it is plenty sharp. The only thing I find annoying is the tiny bits of flaring at night (even with the hood on) that will sneak in un-noticed until you're editing.
I really liked how light it was too, would be great for travelling and I looove the colours/contrast from this lens!
Great comparison video. I am considering buying the 55 as there are so many pros for this lens. It seems like flare is the only con. Very pretty model by the way!
Can you suggest that Sony introduce second generation Zeiss lenses?
Yes I bought the 55 yesterday. Thanks for your video...
Love your tutorials... only just found you and going through them all.... was wondering what the external monitor is that you use as it wasnt plugged into the hotshoe.... I also went to your blog to see your gear list and all it does is take you to something called KIT which seems nothing to do with your camera gear... anyway looking forward to seeing all your videos over time....
Aren't they both kind of expensive? Sony 50mm 1.8 oss is budget. Great photos as always.
Loved this video!! The photos and model are beautiful! I loved all the flowers and color in the background! I am sooo ready for spring here in Washington! I like the hazy flare from the 1.8 lens!
Omg) you photo skills are so good, you are even do not think how to compose a frame, nice to see this metal white box among bamboo grass in this so good location.
Very nice video. I'm checking out reviews at the moment as I've just purchased a mint used 50mm1.4. Slightly in doubt now though but I think the deal breaker is chromatic aberration with the 55mm which isn't explored in this vid.
My favorite focal lengths :). Nice video, but I think your copy of the 55 is kinda not at a 100%. Maybe it is a good idea to check another copy of this lens. Those old sony/zeiss lenses tend to have degradation in time in terms of AF or optical qualities.
Keep making those videos :)!
Well, I spent almost all my money on the 85 1.8, so I bought the 50 fe 1.8 lol, still a pretty good lens for the price, and very underrated!
I just picked up the 85mm 1.8. Great lens at imo a great price!
@@tchlin the 85 is a great lens, and has a better focus than the 1.4 g master
@@lucianocasenave2713 oh yes I am finding that out now. And the price is unbeatable!
the expensive and the even more expensive.
😂😅
If you paid $3k plus for a Sony Body, $650 bucks for a good used Sony/Zeiss 55mm 1.8 is budget. I'd focus on top quality glass over anything else. I happen to be doing both top camera body and all GM glass for my A1. I will use my 55mm on my A7rIV. My STF 100mm GM lives on my A1 right now. Nothing else will do until the 50mm 1.2 GM is purchased.
@@onegreenev you can get it new for 680 right now. That’s a steal. The 50 f1.2 is almost 2000 dollars lol the 35 mm f1.4 is 1400.
@@kevinrodriguez9659 I have the Sony/Zeiss 55 f1.8 and for its price it ranks either some of the best but the 50 f1.2 GM is king of the hill for the 50mm range of lenses. I even have an old top of the line manual Canon 58 1.2 and 55 1.2 and the Sony is the best 1.2 is hands down the best. If you can’t afford one the Sony/Zeiss will not disappoint by any means.
@@onegreenev yeah, obviously. The 50mm is twice the price, it better be better lol
I don't know if I'd call the 55 a budget lens, per say, but when comparing the two, I suppose it is heh. That said, I own the 55 and it is absolutely marvelous. Very high hit rate with Eye AF and is super quick to focus. The size and weight is also a big selling point, especially for longer sessions. I'd say I split time 50/50 with my 24GM on portrait/engagement sessions.
I can confirm the inconsistent focus issues in super high contrast situations with the 55, but it can oftentimes correct itself with a fresh press of the focus button, although it happens more in situations where it's a wider shot and your subject is moving and the camera isn't quite sure what to focus on.
In addition, the Chromatic Aberration can be a bit prominent in high contrast situations as well but that's a simple fix in LR. Definitely not a deal breaker by any means.
For reference, I shoot on the A7R III, so it doesn't have the newest AF features.
But man, I'm telling you, there's a real reason it's a popular lens. The images it produces are absolutely sharp and beautiful, and it's smaller and lighter than a lot of the competition. It's a bit of an engineering marvel.
Yeah I was debating whether to title it like this, but with the 50 being more than double the price I think in comparison the 55 is budget/more affordable :) And yep I completely agree with everything you said, I can see why so many people love this lens - it’s a good one!
Really nice video, i'm just not sure if i'm correct - Are you using a filter on your 50mm and none on your 55? And please correct me if i'm wrong :) I would also love to get a recommendation of the filters you use!
Where did you get your camera strap? It's really nice.
Thanks for the video. Hi from Mexico. I would like to see more videos about the sony a7C, please.
Glad you liked it, I will have more A7c shoots soon :D
I really love your photos and vídeos! Thank you
Thanks for the review and some lovely portraits as always. I do slightly struggle to understand why you don’t use the lens hood then criticise flaring though. Surely that’s why we have the lens hood?
She shares that in the video. She wanted to see the results raw to compare the capability of the two without it.
@@TaraCreel I appreciate that, but given the hood is designed to prevent flare I’m not sure what failing to use it proves. It’s like driving a
Convertible and complaining it lets rain in with the hood down.
Thanks! I personally like lens flares in some of my photos, I wasn’t criticising it, just pointing out that it’s there in case that’s important to someone/they didn’t notice in the side by side photos if they were just paying attention to the face in the images. Like I mentioned in the video gear is only as good as the worst conditions you put them through, generally focusing backlit without a lens hood can be a struggle for some lenses, so I wanted to see how they would perform.
Budget lens the zeiss 55 1.8? Woah!
55mm for freelance photographer for Portrait the best best budget lens for me that's is a powerful bedget portrait lens... .for sony body. .. but i am a Canon shooter i use old body 70D + 50mm STM 1.8 hehe hope to pick RP + 50mm RF 1.8 hihi
I have the 55mm and will upgrade to the 50mm f1.2 GM (mostly because of better AF speed than the 50ZA)
With outdoor slow moving subjects I like to go e-shutter to spare the m-shutter count, unless I need iso50 in very bright scenes that the e-shutter does not allow.
I'm considering getting a FF Sony camera and pairing the 24 GM with the 50mm 1.4. I heard you say in the video that you prefer the 35 GM over the 50. Can you elaborate a little bit about why you feel that way?
Julia loves 35 but it's just too close to 24. Go with the 50.
Oh that opinion of mine is hugely subjective - 35mm is my favourite focal length. While I really like the current Zeiss 35mm f1.4, the AF was not as strong as this 50 1.4, so I tend to use the 50 more when it comes to client work as I know I can rely on it. The new GM 35mm f1.4 is super sharp, fast and great AF accuracy - paired with it being my favourite focal length, it’ll now be my first choice in lens for client work (as soon as it arrives lol)
@@juliatrotti because of the factory fire, it’s going to be a while. B&H says it’s not expecting delivery until April 😭😭
@@hey.steven 😭😭 I’m impatiently waiting!
@@juliatrotti Julia I have been waiting on the 35mm 14. gm. Do you have any information on what is going on and when we can expect it? Thanks!
I see the 55 a little blueish ,but its make the pic look more beautiful
This videos timing is speaking to me! Been deciding to buy either the sigma 50mm, Zeiss 55, or Zeiss 50.
Me too!! Would love to hear what you decide and why!
@@lauriewahlig2819 I ended up buying the sigma 50 1.4 last night. I was able to purchase a nice used one for $525 luckily. If I had to buy new, it probably still get it considering it’s a couple hundred less than the 55 and $800 less than the Sony 50mm. I also think the corner to corner sharpness is better than the 55.
@@shawnshannon5058 hey thanks! I’ve been looking for used and can’t find many. So have you worked with the sigma before? I love my other sigma lenses so definitely looking at that!
@@lauriewahlig2819 I haven’t. This will be my first and to say I’m excited is an understatement!
Excellent 📷 work by the lovely Julia of the equally lovely Haley. Hope you are enjoying the summer Julia. 😃 🌅
Thank you so much! Even though this was a REALLY hot day, this summer hasn’t been as harsh as others so it’s been a great one 😊
My first FF lens was the nifty 50 from Sony, the 200€ one. I then upgraded to the Zeiss 55 because the regular 50 is horrible for anything remotely professional for a billion reasons that would probably match any other brand's cheapest 50. The Zeiss is probably one of the most "magical" lenses I ever used, it has a character to it that no other 50 for Sony has, plus it's small - Really small. I eventually sold it and bought the Zeiss 50 1.4 but it never really felt like an upgrade, it felt like a "why did I spend more than double the price of the 55 on this". After all of those, I bought the Sigma 50 f.14 and that, for me, is the sweet spot for this focal range on Sony. The Sigma feels the Sharpest, the smoothest, the best focusing, and I feel like I can be blindfolded and have a great shot regardless.
TLDR: Sony 50 1.8 if it's all you can afford; Zeiss 55 for premium quality, magical look and onion bokeh; Zeiss 50 was the only lens I ever bought that I have literally no feelings for... can't explain; And the Sigma is the workhorse that makes you ask why you ever had any other 50 =)
Yesterday I was thinking which of these two I should get and today you have a video. But my uses would be mainly indoor with lower light. I know there's a big price gap, but I think as a technical instrument for getting the job done the higher price would be justifiable in the long run...
Lower light: 50mm f1.2 GM
I have the 50mm f1.4 and love it. Yes, it’s more expensive - but 3 years from now you won’t remember the money you spent.
Thanks you for this video Julia.
You really helping me starting photography.
Hi Julia, love your videos! Where did you get your harness from? I think it looks awesome! :)
That extra 5mm sure gave the 50mm F1.4 a run for it's money. I have the 55mm Zeiss and I must say it's a compact lens.. makes it good to carry inside malls and security woudn't mine using with the compact A7C.. Who would have thought you are using a professional grade camera.. it's so small.. one would think it's a cheap prime lens.. but it's a Zeiss.
No reason to upgrade to 50mm F1.4.. Maybe 1.2 GM?
But it's true.. the 50mm 1.4F is flatter.. which make it a good lens for moody shoots..
Excellent work, thank you sincerely for doing this.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I think Julia Trotti is the best female photographer in the world. And, Julia, You are my favorite photographer in the world. Keep doing this channel. I learned a lot of knowledge about photography by watching your awesome videos.
I have a little request, Please do some photography video using Sony A7 II if you can. ❤
She probably won't do that as it's going back in time for about 6 years or so...
@@PH61a 😥
I really like your videos julia especially where you take portrait photos. I would watch a demo of the new camera on the Sony FX3 where you take photos and videos with it. Thanks for this amazing good video. 🙏😀
great review as always, can I ask what dual camera strap you're using pls?
When is the 50mm 1.4 GM coming out??
I'm so bummed they pushed the 35mm 1.4 back. That fire that happened caused shortages in material. No date in site as of now.
Great video. I use the 55 on a regular basis and I love it. I recently rented the 50 out too.
I think the camera with Zeiss 55 is set to EV +1, while the other with 50mm is set to 0... :-)
Thank you for a very informative video!
At this level i dont think its the cameras features are important, for me its the model and skills plus creativity of the team.
Besides i cant tell whats expensive and “cheap” gear here in youtube. Im just looking at the model and shoots saying wow
The cheap and the expensive model looks like the same ! Hmm 🤓😏
You won't see that much difference in quality. Most of it is nuance. For example, the expensive one will probably have better low light performance
Both lenses are like $1000... there isn’t really a “cheap” lens used lol. If she used the Samyang 50mm f1.4 or Sony 50mm f1.8 those are more budget options
@@kidcut One is under $700 and the other is about $1200. Both are obviously expensive, but one is almost double the price
@@Notyurr Ahh, in Canada both are over $1000 but agreed the f1.4 is more expensive. Comparatively one is cheaper compared to the other
I have 55 and it’s great but I think 50 is better .
The 55 is my go to portrait lens
Were you using identical bodies with each lens? If not, maybe some of the straight out of a camera differences were attributable to camera differences?
Yes A7III with the exact same settings from focusing to white balance on both cameras
@@juliatrotti ok - maybe I just missed that in viewing the video - thanks.
Have the 24gm, 50 1.4 and the 135 🔥
I have 24-55-135. I chose a lot of lenses (20g, 24GM, Sigma, 50 1.2, 45 samyang, 105 and 135 Sigma, 135GM) and the final choice is 24 1.8 Samyang - 55 1.8 Sonnar - 135 2 Samyang. these were simply the best regardless of the price (135GM was as good as the samyang but I don't need AF at this focal length ) the whole set was $1128 and it was also the best. I have a7R4.
Just here for the awesome photos.
What was this video about?
Ah yes, lenses. I like lenses.
Haha thank you and same 🤓
I have the 55, and i have to say, the colors sooc are fucking amazing
Yes I have been waiting for this video, I'm still happy with owning the 55 when I don't see that much of a difference, Well the 50 Is a 1.4 and I love bokeh, but at the right distance from My subject the 55 1.8 Is great even at 2.8, If I find a 50 1.4 used for a very good price then I will have It a go 👍😊
Wow exactly what I’m trying to decide right now!!!
Woo I hope this video helps!
I can see the eye shot with 50mm f1.4 is consistently sharper compared to 55mm
Considering nabbing the 50 1.4 for $1000, thoughts?
great comparision julia, thank you very much!
Thank you Julia for your great videos. I own both these lenses myself and have for a long time been considering to sell one. However the 55mm is so close in performance to the 50mm and works so well on the A7C body so think I will keep both after watching your video. You confirm my own experience with these two superb lenses.
Thank you! Oh I would love to try the 55 on the A7C, even with the A7III’s older AF system it still did a great job. It would be interesting to see if the AF accuracy improves on newer Sony cameras.
It’s only me or is the 55 mm the most of time of the video sharper than the 50? I think the sharpness of both is identical or rather the 55 mm is usually sharper. Above all, I would have liked to see if you could see the difference between 1.4 and 1.8 at 50 mm. Above all, the 55 has, in my opinion, an integrated background softener so that the background looks softer and dreamy, but it has an aperture of 1.8
Btw very nice video 😇
55 the way too go its soo good and RIGHT! The 55 is alot sharper
Yeah it’s really interesting, I would say when the photos are in focus both of them have very similar sharpness. The main difference I found was the accuracy, the 50 had more photos in focus whereas the 55 had more out of focus photos.. as a wedding photographer I personally prefer better accuracy, as a portrait photographer either lens would work for me!
the 55mm lens image are more sharper than 50mm, any one agreed also ?
Julia just few moments ago I was wondering whether in near future you would ever be reviewing Sony's most underrated prime lens 55mm 1.8 and got your notification for this video ! 😂😂
Haha we are in sync!
55mm 1.8 has never been underrated.
Hello
Could you recommend a lens for Sony A7c that has a silent AF? I would like it to be a rather wide angle - say max 28 mm and preferably as bright (1.4 or 1.8) as possible. Something like Sony 24 1.4 G or 20 1.8 but cheaper. You've tested these different Tamrons and others. Unfortunately, the Sigma ART is audible, and it is supposed to be a typical lens for recording, with a condenser microphone. I want it to be silent. Please help. Sigma 18-35 is great but af is noisy ;( and Sony G Master expensive ;(
1.8 are the cheapest silent af primes just save up for 20 35 and 85 1.8
There is a whole line of Samyang 1.8 lenses that could work for you, including a 24 that is not yet announced.
Lovely video. Honestly for the price difference, I think the 55 is still a home run in 2023. :) for $500 I’ll be adding it to the bag. Thanks for the content!
Where are you finding it for $500? Everywhere I check is $999
@@josephinevera9966 KEH! They have one right now for $449, like new condition.
@@CactusJack_AWEin Vietnam zeiss 55 f1.8 ii likenew full box 470$ 😂
@@josephinevera9966 Here in Europe during Black Friday with 100€ Cashback only for 549€!
1:42 WTF! Maybe the 7 elements and the T* coating are making this huge difference. I had the Zeiss 35mm 2.8 and I saw better colors than in the 24-70 2.8 GM II
Yes they would be making a difference in this backlit situation, it will causes different flares/colours, etc!
1 lakh mai best camera wedding k liye photography with lens batye
I love my 55mm f1.8 🤍
I give a like for the “hey everyone”
haha, made my day, the zeiss 55 1.8 is a budget lens :D
Well, it kind of is. Its price is closer to zero than it is to e.g. the 50 1.2 GM's price.
The model is really gorgeous...
Can someone explain to me how the 55mm doesnt seem as zoomed as the 50mm?
You would only be able to see the difference in the very first comparison images I took where I stood in the same spot for both lenses to shot the subtle difference. For the rest of the shoot I moved around a lot to try and get them to look as similar as possible!
그래서 뭐가 더 좋음?
55mm win?
50mm win?
I seem to like the 55m better
What is your Florence preset thing in Lightroom?
Do you not use Canon anymore?
The A7III is my current camera that I use for work so the majority of my videos are with Sony, but I still use Canon on my channel :) Currently working a new Canon video actually!
@@juliatrotti if ever hope always see a budget set up it is more interesting than highend set up.. .. 😊
I bet she’s always the first to get picked in gym volleyball
i like you content 💕
50mm1.4 ZA is better)
I love mine... absolute magic comes out of it. Compares to my Leica M lenses.
No noticeable difference go for 55 1.8