Join me on Patreon for the best Alpha Support and Guidance. A single $10 Membership fee includes access to my 600-page camera-specific eBooks + Over twenty 1-hour member-only seminars + cameras settings files + access to the Raw files from the lens and camera reviews (there is no contract or commitment beyond the first month). www.patreon.com/markgaler
Thanks Mark, another excellent and comprehensive review. IMO you are one of the best Sony ambassadors when it comes to showcasing and explaining Sony lenses and cameras. You are certainly one of my go-to reference points on YT and I have bought several lenses after reviewing your content along with similar assessments from one or two other stalwarts too.
Wow, thanks! - I am trying to pack a little more contextual education into these reviews to help Alpha users decide if this is a lens to acquire or skip. Every user will have slightly different set of priorities, so comparative size and weight as well as optical and AF performance are important issues to address.
Nice lens and nice review. For the first time, I'm not in the market for a prime. Thanks for your great reviews and knowledge. After many years with canon, I switched to Sony a few years ago and now have the full range of Sony primes for my music concert work. As you state, for in-door low-light work, the primes are invaluable for their quality, size, and weight.
Thank you so much not just for this review, but for all of the content you produce for us! I've gotten into photography this year, and I've just been learning a ton from your videos! Not only about gear, but composition, lighting, and all manner of other things as well, so I've been having a lot of fun trying things out! My one and only lens so far is the 50mm f1.4 GM. I don't really need another lens as I like to use any gear that I have to its fullest potential, but I just have this bug about the 135mm GM. With Black Friday coming around, I'm wondering whether I should pick up the 135mm f1.8 GM and if it will really give me a different look that I cannot achieve with the 50mm. I haven't really seen any content on the topic so I was wondering what you would say, Mark. Can the 50mm somewhat achieve the 135mm look, when it comess to bokeh, if I were to play around with the distance to my subject?
Thanks for the positive feedback. if you run out of videos on RUclips I have many many more on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel. Check out my lens review for the FE 135mm F1.8 Gm lens on my RUclips channel or this album of ultra high-definition images on my Flickr pro account: flic.kr/s/aHsmwt7DN3 Patrons on my support channel can download Raw images that have been captured using this lens. I am more than happy to have long discussion on my Q&A forum (for my premium plus patrons) about appropriate choices of gear.
As always, the best possible info for Sony holders. I must have watched that rV review more times than a Nolan Batman flick. I´m still on the fence about the 1.2 50mm or the 1.4 50 AND 35mm even as the 1.2 is on the way. Thanks for covering all possible angles. J.
Looking at 50mm, I'm still wondering why I would leave my Zeiss 55 /1.8. This lens just brings a lot of questions : why aren't other ones as small, light, excellent and "cheap"?
I normally test lenses at sports events but AF reliability with bicycles, scooters and walking at very close range seems to indicate focus is not an issue. Did you see how many reviewers didn’t shoot anything moving - what’s that about?
If you stop down to F2 you may as well own the FE 55mm F1.8 ZA if you don't need the blazingly fast AF of the 1.2 and 1.4 lenses. Didn't notice a problem with flare using either lens and I would purchase these to shoot primarily wide-open. I provide a link to ultra high-definition images to check sharpness and Raw files to my Patrons on Patreon.com/markgaler.
Your lens review are always helpful for decision making, Mark! Got the 1.2mm after watching your video last year. Now another decision for 16-35mm or if there will be an update soon??
I don’t know what lens I am about to test until I open the box and I only get the box a week or two before the announcement. If I tell anyone what I am testing Sony will remove my ambassador status and sue me for breach of contract.
That depends on your own personal workflows. I can usually get by with a 35 and 85 when working on location, but would want to switch out the 85 to a 50 when working in a confined location.
Hi Mark, I couldn't find a general question area. Have you tested the shotgun Model: ECM-B1M I'm a hummingbird photographer using the Sony A1 and 600mm. Any help would be great
Hi Mark another excellent comprehensive review of a Sony lens. I want one. Your reviews are a superb asset to Sony IMO and have helped me make my mind up about several of their lenses 14mm, 20mm, 35mm, all bought following your reviews (I'd already bought a 24mm GM before I saw that review). I feel the f1.2, although lovely, is a tad too hefty for my everyday real world use. I'm thinking that this lens with my GM 16-35mm f4 PZ and 70-200mm GM mk 2 would make an excellent travel combo. I prefer shooting primes but, especially for travel/convenience, find I pack zooms. Being fortunate to being able to afford both I have done so. I'm def. tempted to buy. It's not been an immediate 'buy now' urge as I already own and use the excellent Zeiss 55mm f1.8 (2nd lens bought after switching to Sony from Nikon 4 years ago) and the 24-70f2.8 GM mk2. When I buy I'll keep for at least 6 months alongside my 55mm to decide if that also remains in my kit locker. I suspect I will end up keeping both, just as I did with 35mm primes (kept my f1.8 G after buying f1.4 GM). Why? Video use and sometimes I want to go minimal heft. Talking minimal heft I'm considering what compact body might suit me best (still a compromise) a6600, FX30, FX3, a7c or wait for a7c replacement? I'm leaning towards a FX3 (as although primarily a stills hobbyist, I'm trying to upskill my video capabilities).
Yes Sony are killing it with new cameras and lenses. I did end up buying a FX3. I'm shortly going to buy a 50mm f1.4 GM rather than f1.2 (size, heft and same 67mm FT as my 24 and 35 f1.4 GMs). Trouble is Sony are so good at designing new excellent kit (eg new a9iii and 300mm f2.8) that they are securing an ever larger slice of my photo funds. I'm lucky that I can afford to indulge what is becoming an ever more extravagant hobby. If I didn't shoot a lot of pics and enjoy reasonable success in amateur exhibitions etc, then I'd have to diagnose myself as suffering from extreme GAS. Now and then I have a clear out and sell the kit I'm not using so much. But certainly Sony and a couple of other suppliers are keeping me busy.
Brilliant as always. I need to decide how long to wait for the 85mm GM II as I found it slow and cumbersome. If this 50mm GM is that good I can't justify both 85 and 50 GMs when I already have the 35mm GM I think I would prefer the 85mm GM ....whenever.
I am using the 50mm f/1.2 GM and 85mm f/1.8 (a light and fast focusing lens) wile waiting for the 85mm GM update. If Sony choose to update their 85mm GM with a lens that has an f1.2 aperture it may be no lighter than the current f/1.4.
Hello Mr Galer, the 1.4 costs 1699 euro here and the 1.2, due to a promotion, costs 1899 here, so its 200 euro difference, in this case which one should i go for?
Which full-frame Sony lens is equivalent to the Fujifilm 50mm f/1.0 in terms of bokeh? I loved that magical bokeh the Fuji lens had but now I switched to a sony a7C II and own the FE 35mm f1.4 and the FE 70-200mm f2.8 OSS II lense but wanting to add a Portrait lens for better bokeh
If you apply the crop factor if your Fujifilm lens to the focal length and the aperture you would be looking for a 75mm F1.5. 85mm F1.8 and 1.4 for a full-frame camera (although there may be one or two 75mm lenses out there). I have reviewed the 85mm F1.8 and F1.4 Sony lenses.
Mark I have a A7c with kit. If you were to buy just one lens for this camera between the 40G 50G or 35GM or 50GM as a do it all lens for hobby which would you buy? Does the compact give up much to the GM? Or should you just get the GM buy once and cry once
I tend to favour compact lenses with the A7C compact camera. I personally like the smaller 35 GM lens or the compact 50 G but different people bring different criteria to the decision making process. Check out my lens choice video on RUclips and if you are still none the wiser consider joining me in my support channel- Patreon.com/markgaler
I understand your hesitation and desire for clarity, but everyone has a slightly different need set and personal preferences. So your question is best answered by you, after reflection on your own shooting situation and real needs. Personally I'm a big fan of my 35mm GM - Uber Sharp and helps separate people from their background - in short an excellent environmental portrait lens. But I first owned a f1.8 G 35mm and like it's more compact form, so I kept that as well, for when I want to go small and minimalist. But I'm fortunate to be able to afford both. I also plan to buy the 50mm F1.4GM and have yet to decide if I will sell my old (compact) Zeiss 55mm f1.8). But I can't stress enough - don't follow me, try instead to think through your own use cases - that should inform your decision and not what suits someone else.
Maybe watch my 85mm f/1.8 review, lens choice video or join me on Patreon.com/markgaler for a detailed response as I try to achieve a good match between your needs as a photographer and the most appropriate gear to meet these needs.
Since reviewing this lens I have been spending most of my time reviewing and traveling with the new APS-C A6700, APS-C lenses and FE 70-200 F4 Macro G. While traveling internationally, with zero checked luggage, I don’t tend to travel with the larger and heavier GM primes.
I didn't notice any fringing when testing this lens. I have posted ultra high definition images to my Flickr Pro account (link in info below video) if you want to zoom in and I make Raw files available for my Patrons on Patreon.com/markgaler
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM is one of Sony's older lenses and does not have the fast AF Linear XD focus motors found in the 24, 35, 50 and 135 GM lenses. It is hotly tipped to be replaced with a MK II version this year. You will, however, find a short review of this lens on my RUclips channel.
I do not think that would happen anytime soon. Currently the best affordable F1.8 from Sony is the Zeiss 55mm F1.8 (I have it and it is excellent). The Sony 50mm F1.8 is not good by any means. GM is usually the sony line for bigger F stop lens with premium features. It would be nice for sony to remake a 50mm F1.8 G lens (The G line up is a little step up). Of course theres always third party options for Sony E mount. Or if you prefer vintage lenses! I hope this answer your question
@@gundamaction1201 Thanks for taking the time to reply. Highly appreciated. I still find it interesting we now have different versions of the same lens within the GM lineup. A faster, more expensive, and a “budget” (slower) version of the same lens. I wonder if it will be the same for more lenses in the future - that we will get two tiers within the GM lineup. A “GM Fast” and a “GM Budget”. That would give us four tiers of lenses. Maybe the faster will be rebranded “GM+”, who knows :) Agree the FE50/1.8 is quite terrible but I would have expected a G version (maybe 1.4 as all brands are making cheaper 1.4s now) to replace it, not a GM. I suppose the worst of the standard lenses will be discontinued and replaced - both the 50 and 85. The latter I dislike even more than the 50 due to the absurd color fringing which destroys all contrast when “fixed in post”. :)
I am guessing but think Sony will move its attention to other focal lenses now that they have a choice of 7 lenses in this range. Sony still need to update they ageing 85mm f/1.4 to one with silent and fast focusing linear XD focus motors. Personally I would like to see some lighter weight telephoto primes now, e.g. f/2.8 135mm and f/4 200mm and 300mm GM primes. I think however we will see the 300mm f/2.8 GM before these latter two lenses appear.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Interesting, thanks for the reply. As all producers are expanding their lineup so much I am sure we will see an avalanche of new focal points and apertures to stay competitive. And thanks for the video, also. Of the 8,000 Sony review youtube videos being released at the same instant, yours are always among the better. In your opinion, having experience with both 50mm lenses, are there any noticeable optical differences between the 1.4 and the 1.2? If shooting both at say 2.0, would you be able to tell the difference between them? I am a happy owner of the 1.2 albeit slightly annoyed it just lost $500 in resell value. So I am wondering if I should replace it with the 1.4, which I am sure will be much more liquid in the 2nd hand market than the 1.2.
@@realthoprivate I was gonna suggest the 85mm F1.8, yes the fringing is an issue. I do love the 35mm F1.8 and 85mm F1.8 for their price, quality, weight, and size. I did switch to the 35mm GM and love it even more. A new 85mm GM would be very welcome addition to replace the aging 85mm GM as Mark mentioned. Right now I am saving up for the 20-70 F4 G lens. I can’t wait to just travel with it. This focal length is an excellent travel lens.
I have hung on to my 55 ZA even after adding some of the GM lenses to my lens lineup. I have now owned the 55 ZA lens for 11 years - it owes me nothing.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Yes me too! I wanted an a1 when it first launched 2+ YAG. It's gone from 'serious' interest to not so sure, given Sony's apparent reticence to upgrade the firmware with things like focus breathing. Now new firmware announced, so I may yet buy an a1 - but oddly not arriving until next Spring!!? Why? I was tempted to buy an a1 after selling my a7riv. I also had an a9 I planned to sell. That was time of a7iv launch - looked pretty good as a hybrid option, so bought one (back ordered on launch). Pretty good, so I then sold my a9, pending future releases and tried to decide what to buy, whilst learning to live with the strengths and some weaknesses of a7iv (eg rolling shutter). Missed the focus speed of my a9, once sold. Not so much the 62Mp of a7riv and poor AF with my 200-600. So still potentially in the market for an a1. Briefly got excited by new a9iii hype, but suspect it's not quite all I want it to be (weird ISO range IMO). With a7rV launch (plus option to shoot smaller res raw files) I was tempted. New rear screen and dedicated AF chip seem great hardware additions that I felt an a1 successor (a1+?) would probably have, but so sign of that anytime soon. After much reflection I bought an FX3 3 months ago(for an evolving video interest) but pretty poor for stills (too low res for much, if any, crop options). So still torn for another body I can use for stills and ideally video. Also wanting, ideally, new rear screen and Uber fast AF with low 'rolling shutter' options. A kind of son of a1/a9iii - now that might really be interesting. But meantime, I'm back wondering if I might yet buy an a1, despite no firmware upgrade for months and missing the rear screen of a7rV/a9iii.
No - I currently only produce eBooks for the Hybrid and Stills orientated Alpha cameras - so no eBooks for the A7SIII, FX3, FX30, ZV-E10 and ZV-E1 - although I have made a 100 page setup guide for the ZV-E1 available to my Patrons.
Glad it’s finally coming out. I wanted that 1.2 GM but it’s just too much money for what I do. Plus it’s a bit heavier than I would like, and the Sigma 1.4 dg dn has pretty bad focus breathing. It’s the right lens but can’t use focus breathing compensation. So this 1.4 GM is perfect.
Now Sony has demonstrated its happy to have multiple GM lenses of the same focal length, I’m hoping an 85 f1.8 GM is fractionally less of a pipe dream.
The people you photograph do you get permission before hand or do you take the photo? I always feel funny bout taking photos of anyone without their consent even in public space. Thanks!
I photograph portraits of people who have noticed the camera with their consent but many of the street images are photographed before they notice the camera or just as they notice the camera - this is the way it has always been done and there is no right to privacy in a public space. Most people think they have just got in the way of my photo of the bridge.
Usually no longer than a couple of minutes per image in Lightroom - I have Lightroom editing seminars on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel where patrons can download the raw files I am editing.
Hi, Comparisons for F1.2 vs F1.4 were done on the same lens, F1.2 GM...It's bokeh at F1.4 will be superior to F1.4 GM at F1.4 due to its bigger glasses etc. therefore F1.2 vs F1.4 comparison doesn't represent actual results between two lenses.
There are always Samyang and Sigma choices for photographers who can't afford the premium quality Sony G Master lenses. They just may not be as fast focusing and, in most cases, as small or as lightweight unless they reduce the number of features.
I bought this lens to “replace” my 85mm 1.4GM. I was never happy with the fringe and feel of the photos. I find the 50mm 1.4 GM to be way better from what I’m seeing so far
@@AlphaCreativeSkills yea i am sure they will. Though for me, I have my basis covered now with the 12-24GM, 35GM, 50GM and the 70-200GM. I have noticed the trend is shooting portraits with wider lenses though i never really liked that ultra wide feeling in a portrait shot - i guess we all have our own preferences.
Join me on Patreon for the best Alpha Support and Guidance. A single $10 Membership fee includes access to my 600-page camera-specific eBooks + Over twenty 1-hour member-only seminars + cameras settings files + access to the Raw files from the lens and camera reviews (there is no contract or commitment beyond the first month). www.patreon.com/markgaler
Do you have this lens in your arsenal Mark?
Thanks for the answer and merry Christmas 😊
Thanks Mark, another excellent and comprehensive review. IMO you are one of the best Sony ambassadors when it comes to showcasing and explaining Sony lenses and cameras. You are certainly one of my go-to reference points on YT and I have bought several lenses after reviewing your content along with similar assessments from one or two other stalwarts too.
Wow, thanks! - I am trying to pack a little more contextual education into these reviews to help Alpha users decide if this is a lens to acquire or skip. Every user will have slightly different set of priorities, so comparative size and weight as well as optical and AF performance are important issues to address.
Nice lens and nice review. For the first time, I'm not in the market for a prime. Thanks for your great reviews and knowledge. After many years with canon, I switched to Sony a few years ago and now have the full range of Sony primes for my music concert work. As you state, for in-door low-light work, the primes are invaluable for their quality, size, and weight.
Thanks for the positive feedback
Very nice review Mark as always.
Glad you liked it!
Thank you very much. This is actually on sale right now!
Glad you enjoyed the video
Never disappoints. Grear Video!
Thank’s for the positive feedback
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Sure! Thank You for your invested time in this! 🙌🏼
Thank you so much not just for this review, but for all of the content you produce for us! I've gotten into photography this year, and I've just been learning a ton from your videos! Not only about gear, but composition, lighting, and all manner of other things as well, so I've been having a lot of fun trying things out!
My one and only lens so far is the 50mm f1.4 GM. I don't really need another lens as I like to use any gear that I have to its fullest potential, but I just have this bug about the 135mm GM. With Black Friday coming around, I'm wondering whether I should pick up the 135mm f1.8 GM and if it will really give me a different look that I cannot achieve with the 50mm. I haven't really seen any content on the topic so I was wondering what you would say, Mark. Can the 50mm somewhat achieve the 135mm look, when it comess to bokeh, if I were to play around with the distance to my subject?
Thanks for the positive feedback. if you run out of videos on RUclips I have many many more on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel.
Check out my lens review for the FE 135mm F1.8 Gm lens on my RUclips channel or this album of ultra high-definition images on my Flickr pro account: flic.kr/s/aHsmwt7DN3
Patrons on my support channel can download Raw images that have been captured using this lens.
I am more than happy to have long discussion on my Q&A forum (for my premium plus patrons) about appropriate choices of gear.
As always, the best possible info for Sony holders. I must have watched that rV review more times than a Nolan Batman flick. I´m still on the fence about the 1.2 50mm or the 1.4 50 AND 35mm even as the 1.2 is on the way. Thanks for covering all possible angles. J.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Looking at 50mm, I'm still wondering why I would leave my Zeiss 55 /1.8.
This lens just brings a lot of questions : why aren't other ones as small, light, excellent and "cheap"?
Fantastic as always, Mark! It sounds like the focus speed and accuracy are similar between the new 1.4 and the 1.2 lens?
I think so!
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Yay! That will save me $700 :-)
I normally test lenses at sports events but AF reliability with bicycles, scooters and walking at very close range seems to indicate focus is not an issue. Did you see how many reviewers didn’t shoot anything moving - what’s that about?
@@AlphaCreativeSkills I know, laziness! Your reviews are always so in-depth. That is very much appreciated!
Thanks for your positive feedback
I have seen in other test the 1.4 being sharper especially from F2 . Is that your experience? Flare control seems to be better on the 1.2 though.
If you stop down to F2 you may as well own the FE 55mm F1.8 ZA if you don't need the blazingly fast AF of the 1.2 and 1.4 lenses. Didn't notice a problem with flare using either lens and I would purchase these to shoot primarily wide-open. I provide a link to ultra high-definition images to check sharpness and Raw files to my Patrons on Patreon.com/markgaler.
My go to Sony ambassador 🙂👍 as god as always. Thanx for sharing and comparing
Thanks for watching
Great in-depth coverage. You made want one even though I have the f/1.2 for my second kit. Used to also own the ZA f/1.4.
Thanks! 👍
You are the best Mark ! Thank you for all that you do !
I appreciate that!
Great comments. Can’t
Wait for the 85mm update.
You and me both!
Your lens review are always helpful for decision making, Mark! Got the 1.2mm after watching your video last year. Now another decision for 16-35mm or if there will be an update soon??
I don’t know what lens I am about to test until I open the box and I only get the box a week or two before the announcement. If I tell anyone what I am testing Sony will remove my ambassador status and sue me for breach of contract.
It's totally understandable.
Awesome review, Mark! You are the best! Do you recommend it, if we already have the excellent 35mm 1/4 lens?
That depends on your own personal workflows. I can usually get by with a 35 and 85 when working on location, but would want to switch out the 85 to a 50 when working in a confined location.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thank you for your advice! I am sold! I will pre-order one!
Hi Mark, I couldn't find a general question area. Have you tested the shotgun Model: ECM-B1M I'm a hummingbird photographer using the Sony A1 and 600mm. Any help would be great
Mark's general question area is on his Patreon support channel: Patreon.com/markgaler
Best Wishes
Admin Team
for Mark Galer
The best dissertation extant! Thank you for this and all your reviews! I, also appreciated the Sony FE 20-70/4 review.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hi Mark another excellent comprehensive review of a Sony lens. I want one. Your reviews are a superb asset to Sony IMO and have helped me make my mind up about several of their lenses 14mm, 20mm, 35mm, all bought following your reviews (I'd already bought a 24mm GM before I saw that review). I feel the f1.2, although lovely, is a tad too hefty for my everyday real world use. I'm thinking that this lens with my GM 16-35mm f4 PZ and 70-200mm GM mk 2 would make an excellent travel combo. I prefer shooting primes but, especially for travel/convenience, find I pack zooms. Being fortunate to being able to afford both I have done so.
I'm def. tempted to buy. It's not been an immediate 'buy now' urge as I already own and use the excellent Zeiss 55mm f1.8 (2nd lens bought after switching to Sony from Nikon 4 years ago) and the 24-70f2.8 GM mk2. When I buy I'll keep for at least 6 months alongside my 55mm to decide if that also remains in my kit locker. I suspect I will end up keeping both, just as I did with 35mm primes (kept my f1.8 G after buying f1.4 GM). Why? Video use and sometimes
I want to go minimal heft.
Talking minimal heft I'm considering what compact body might suit me best (still a compromise) a6600, FX30, FX3, a7c or wait for a7c replacement? I'm leaning towards a FX3 (as although primarily a stills hobbyist, I'm trying to upskill my video capabilities).
There a rumours of a new APS-C body featuring the 26 megapixel backlit illuminated sensor we saw in the FX30 camera.
Yes Sony are killing it with new cameras and lenses. I did end up buying a FX3. I'm shortly going to buy a 50mm f1.4 GM rather than f1.2 (size, heft and same 67mm FT as my 24 and 35 f1.4 GMs).
Trouble is Sony are so good at designing new excellent kit (eg new a9iii and 300mm f2.8) that they are securing an ever larger slice of my photo funds. I'm lucky that I can afford to indulge what is becoming an ever more extravagant hobby. If I didn't shoot a lot of pics and enjoy reasonable success in amateur exhibitions etc, then I'd have to diagnose myself as suffering from extreme GAS. Now and then I have a clear out and sell the kit I'm not using so much. But certainly Sony and a couple of other suppliers are keeping me busy.
Great review, is the 50gm 1.4 a slightly wider field of view than f1.2?
I was not able to bench test the actual focal length of each lens and there is currently no profile available for the new 1.4
Brilliant as always. I need to decide how long to wait for the 85mm GM II as I found it slow and cumbersome. If this 50mm GM is that good I can't justify both 85 and 50 GMs when I already have the 35mm GM I think I would prefer the 85mm GM ....whenever.
I am using the 50mm f/1.2 GM and 85mm f/1.8 (a light and fast focusing lens) wile waiting for the 85mm GM update. If Sony choose to update their 85mm GM with a lens that has an f1.2 aperture it may be no lighter than the current f/1.4.
Hello Mr Galer, the 1.4 costs 1699 euro here and the 1.2, due to a promotion, costs 1899 here, so its 200 euro difference, in this case which one should i go for?
Size & Weight should also be a consideration (not just the price). The final decision should be yours, and yours alone.
Which full-frame Sony lens is equivalent to the Fujifilm 50mm f/1.0 in terms of bokeh? I loved that magical bokeh the Fuji lens had but now I switched to a sony a7C II and own the FE 35mm f1.4 and the FE 70-200mm f2.8 OSS II lense but wanting to add a Portrait lens for better bokeh
If you apply the crop factor if your Fujifilm lens to the focal length and the aperture you would be looking for a 75mm F1.5. 85mm F1.8 and 1.4 for a full-frame camera (although there may be one or two 75mm lenses out there). I have reviewed the 85mm F1.8 and F1.4 Sony lenses.
Mark I have a A7c with kit. If you were to buy just one lens for this camera between the 40G 50G or 35GM or 50GM as a do it all lens for hobby which would you buy? Does the compact give up much to the GM? Or should you just get the GM buy once and cry once
I tend to favour compact lenses with the A7C compact camera. I personally like the smaller 35 GM lens or the compact 50 G but different people bring different criteria to the decision making process. Check out my lens choice video on RUclips and if you are still none the wiser consider joining me in my support channel- Patreon.com/markgaler
I understand your hesitation and desire for clarity, but everyone has a slightly different need set and personal preferences. So your question is best answered by you, after reflection on your own shooting situation and real needs.
Personally I'm a big fan of my 35mm GM - Uber Sharp and helps separate people from their background - in short an excellent environmental portrait lens. But I first owned a f1.8 G 35mm and like it's more compact form, so I kept that as well, for when I want to go small and minimalist. But I'm fortunate to be able to afford both. I also plan to buy the 50mm F1.4GM and have yet to decide if I will sell my old (compact) Zeiss 55mm f1.8). But I can't stress enough - don't follow me, try instead to think through your own use cases - that should inform your decision and not what suits someone else.
I just watched your Zeiss 55/1.8 review and then now this GM 1.4, now which is the better value for a fast 50? Looking to get my first prime.
I may look at f/1.8 primes first and start with the FE 85mm f/1.8
@@AlphaCreativeSkills care to give a short explanation why the 85? Because it is better? or easy to pair with the 35/1.8? Thank u for your reply.
Maybe watch my 85mm f/1.8 review, lens choice video or join me on Patreon.com/markgaler for a detailed response as I try to achieve a good match between your needs as a photographer and the most appropriate gear to meet these needs.
Between the 50mm 1.2 and 1.4, which do you now find your yourself using most of the time?
Since reviewing this lens I have been spending most of my time reviewing and traveling with the new APS-C A6700, APS-C lenses and FE 70-200 F4 Macro G. While traveling internationally, with zero checked luggage, I don’t tend to travel with the larger and heavier GM primes.
I should also add that as I already owned the 50mm F1.2 I didn’t add the 1.4 to my own personal gear.
How's the color fringing compared to the Zeiss 55mm?
I didn't notice any fringing when testing this lens. I have posted ultra high definition images to my Flickr Pro account (link in info below video) if you want to zoom in and I make Raw files available for my Patrons on Patreon.com/markgaler
Hi Mark thanks for the video, what brand of magnetic filter is it that you mentioned and where can you get them?.
I use Freewell Quick-Swap magnetic filters - they are available form B&H:
67mm ND 64: bhpho.to/3YQkxJF
67mm ND 8: bhpho.to/3EuVzr3
Hi
What do you think about the same lens but 85mm f/1.4 ?
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM is one of Sony's older lenses and does not have the fast AF Linear XD focus motors found in the 24, 35, 50 and 135 GM lenses. It is hotly tipped to be replaced with a MK II version this year. You will, however, find a short review of this lens on my RUclips channel.
Interesting release. Will there also be a 50mm 1.8 GM which is even cheaper?
I do not think that would happen anytime soon. Currently the best affordable F1.8 from Sony is the Zeiss 55mm F1.8 (I have it and it is excellent). The Sony 50mm F1.8 is not good by any means.
GM is usually the sony line for bigger F stop lens with premium features. It would be nice for sony to remake a 50mm F1.8 G lens (The G line up is a little step up).
Of course theres always third party options for Sony E mount. Or if you prefer vintage lenses! I hope this answer your question
@@gundamaction1201 Thanks for taking the time to reply. Highly appreciated. I still find it interesting we now have different versions of the same lens within the GM lineup. A faster, more expensive, and a “budget” (slower) version of the same lens. I wonder if it will be the same for more lenses in the future - that we will get two tiers within the GM lineup. A “GM Fast” and a “GM Budget”. That would give us four tiers of lenses. Maybe the faster will be rebranded “GM+”, who knows :)
Agree the FE50/1.8 is quite terrible but I would have expected a G version (maybe 1.4 as all brands are making cheaper 1.4s now) to replace it, not a GM. I suppose the worst of the standard lenses will be discontinued and replaced - both the 50 and 85. The latter I dislike even more than the 50 due to the absurd color fringing which destroys all contrast when “fixed in post”. :)
I am guessing but think Sony will move its attention to other focal lenses now that they have a choice of 7 lenses in this range. Sony still need to update they ageing 85mm f/1.4 to one with silent and fast focusing linear XD focus motors. Personally I would like to see some lighter weight telephoto primes now, e.g. f/2.8 135mm and f/4 200mm and 300mm GM primes. I think however we will see the 300mm f/2.8 GM before these latter two lenses appear.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Interesting, thanks for the reply. As all producers are expanding their lineup so much I am sure we will see an avalanche of new focal points and apertures to stay competitive. And thanks for the video, also. Of the 8,000 Sony review youtube videos being released at the same instant, yours are always among the better.
In your opinion, having experience with both 50mm lenses, are there any noticeable optical differences between the 1.4 and the 1.2? If shooting both at say 2.0, would you be able to tell the difference between them? I am a happy owner of the 1.2 albeit slightly annoyed it just lost $500 in resell value. So I am wondering if I should replace it with the 1.4, which I am sure will be much more liquid in the 2nd hand market than the 1.2.
@@realthoprivate I was gonna suggest the 85mm F1.8, yes the fringing is an issue. I do love the 35mm F1.8 and 85mm F1.8 for their price, quality, weight, and size.
I did switch to the 35mm GM and love it even more. A new 85mm GM would be very welcome addition to replace the aging 85mm GM as Mark mentioned.
Right now I am saving up for the 20-70 F4 G lens. I can’t wait to just travel with it. This focal length is an excellent travel lens.
Still tossing up if I should replace my 55 1.8 Zeiss for my R7V. I don’t shoot video.
I have hung on to my 55 ZA even after adding some of the GM lenses to my lens lineup. I have now owned the 55 ZA lens for 11 years - it owes me nothing.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks for the feedback.
Which would you pick the f1.2 or this f1.4?
I have a lens choice video that outlines my personal preferences and the reasons why they work for me.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills thank you as always! I have watched that video. Am a big fan of your channel and work.
Dear Mark, do you have any hope for an A1 software update? Been considering jumping ship because of the underwhelming support.
I live in hope but have no information about when this will happen.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Yes me too! I wanted an a1 when it first launched 2+ YAG. It's gone from 'serious' interest to not so sure, given Sony's apparent reticence to upgrade the firmware with things like focus breathing. Now new firmware announced, so I may yet buy an a1 - but oddly not arriving until next Spring!!? Why?
I was tempted to buy an a1 after selling my a7riv. I also had an a9 I planned to sell. That was time of a7iv launch - looked pretty good as a hybrid option, so bought one (back ordered on launch). Pretty good, so I then sold my a9, pending future releases and tried to decide what to buy, whilst learning to live with the strengths and some weaknesses of a7iv (eg rolling shutter).
Missed the focus speed of my a9, once sold. Not so much the 62Mp of a7riv and poor AF with my 200-600. So still potentially in the market for an a1. Briefly got excited by new a9iii hype, but suspect it's not quite all I want it to be (weird ISO range IMO).
With a7rV launch (plus option to shoot smaller res raw files) I was tempted. New rear screen and dedicated AF chip seem great hardware additions that I felt an a1 successor (a1+?) would probably have, but so sign of that anytime soon.
After much reflection I bought an FX3 3 months ago(for an evolving video interest) but pretty poor for stills (too low res for much, if any, crop options).
So still torn for another body I can use for stills and ideally video. Also wanting, ideally, new rear screen and Uber fast AF with low 'rolling shutter' options. A kind of son of a1/a9iii - now that might really be interesting. But meantime, I'm back wondering if I might yet buy an a1, despite no firmware upgrade for months and missing the rear screen of a7rV/a9iii.
Hi Mark
Is there an ebook for zve10 for patreon subscribers?
No - I currently only produce eBooks for the Hybrid and Stills orientated Alpha cameras - so no eBooks for the A7SIII, FX3, FX30, ZV-E10 and ZV-E1 - although I have made a 100 page setup guide for the ZV-E1 available to my Patrons.
Glad it’s finally coming out. I wanted that 1.2 GM but it’s just too much money for what I do. Plus it’s a bit heavier than I would like, and the Sigma 1.4 dg dn has pretty bad focus breathing. It’s the right lens but can’t use focus breathing compensation. So this 1.4 GM is perfect.
I didn't mention it in the review but this lens is also supported by the Focus breathing compensation feature found in the latest Alpha cameras
Lovely pics. Superb
Thanks a lot 😊
Now Sony has demonstrated its happy to have multiple GM lenses of the same focal length, I’m hoping an 85 f1.8 GM is fractionally less of a pipe dream.
It’s just as likely they may make an 85mm f/2.5 G compact prime
Somy 50mm f1.2 GM or Sony 50mm f1.4 GM? If you have one choice to get?
It’s a very personal preference based on size, weight and cost. I was hoping this video would help users make their own decision
Great review thank you, now I understand the raison d'être of that lense.
Glad it was helpful!
The people you photograph do you get permission before hand or do you take the photo? I always feel funny bout taking photos of anyone without their consent even in public space. Thanks!
I photograph portraits of people who have noticed the camera with their consent but many of the street images are photographed before they notice the camera or just as they notice the camera - this is the way it has always been done and there is no right to privacy in a public space. Most people think they have just got in the way of my photo of the bridge.
Thanks Mark!
My pleasure!
If I didn't already have the 1.2 GM, I'd definitely buy the 1.4 GM.
It’s tempting when you love wide aperture primes 🙂
Sold, you’re the best!
Thanks for the positive feedback
Thanks mark 🤘
No worries!
How much editing are you doing to these images because the colors are simply outstanding?
Usually no longer than a couple of minutes per image in Lightroom - I have Lightroom editing seminars on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel where patrons can download the raw files I am editing.
Its crazy how this street shots of random people look so great ❤❤😂😂🔥🔥Top 💯
Thank you 🙌
@@AlphaCreativeSkills iwatxhed cause maybe will purchase the 50mm f1.4 and im socimpressed how good it looks maybe even better than 85 for me 🤪
Chant with me: 85gm2!!!
It’s long overdue
8:05 I hope she's not expecting that floppy helmet to save her noggin. That's more of a fashion statement than a melon saver.
Yes - most users just make the decision to wear the or not wear them. Half-wearing them seems like a decision that could not be made.
Hi,
Comparisons for F1.2 vs F1.4 were done on the same lens, F1.2 GM...It's bokeh at F1.4 will be superior to F1.4 GM at F1.4 due to its bigger glasses etc. therefore F1.2 vs F1.4 comparison doesn't represent actual results between two lenses.
You are mistaken - I used the F1.2 and F1.4 lenses in my comparison
@@AlphaCreativeSkills thanks for clarification.
It seems very good but too expensive, 1700eu is a lot of euros.
There are always Samyang and Sigma choices for photographers who can't afford the premium quality Sony G Master lenses. They just may not be as fast focusing and, in most cases, as small or as lightweight unless they reduce the number of features.
The best is never too expensive, just unaffordable for those that don’t have the budget
Great👍..
Thanks for the visit
👌
Thanks for the positive response
I bought this lens to “replace” my 85mm 1.4GM. I was never happy with the fringe and feel of the photos. I find the 50mm 1.4 GM to be way better from what I’m seeing so far
Hopefully we will see a new 85 GM in 2024
@@AlphaCreativeSkills yea i am sure they will. Though for me, I have my basis covered now with the 12-24GM, 35GM, 50GM and the 70-200GM. I have noticed the trend is shooting portraits with wider lenses though i never really liked that ultra wide feeling in a portrait shot - i guess we all have our own preferences.