Sony’s ‘nifty fifty’ FE 50mm f/1.2 GM lens coming in May

Angled view of the new Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM lens. (Source: Sony.)

Designed for Alpha System mirrorless cameras, the new lens claims excellent resolution and dramatic bokeh as well as industry-leading AF capabilities, professional control and reliability in a compact and lightweight design. The optical design of the new lens contains 14 elements in 10 groups and includes three XA (extreme aspherical) elements that contribute to high resolution across the image frame, including at the widest aperture. A new 11-blade iris diaphragm closes to produce a circular aperture, which utilises the optical design to minimise spherical aberration, while producing smooth, deep bokeh in both the foreground and background. Sony’s Nano AR Coating II suppresses internal reflections to minimise ghosting and flare.

Four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors which provide high thrust efficiency ensure fast and precise autofocusing plus accurate and responsive tracking, including when shooting 4K video with human eye tracking.  The floating focus mechanism, controlled by its dedicated lens drive algorithm, achieves high resolution over the entire focus range, with a minimum focus distance of 0.4m. Linear Response MF (Manual Focus) is also available and the lens boasts an aperture ring with a click on/off switch, focus mode switch, and two customisable focus hold buttons. The FE 50mm f/1.2 GM also features a dust and moisture resistant design, and a fluorine front element coating that protects the lens from fingerprints, dust, water, oil and other contaminants.

Developed using Sony’s latest simulation technologies and the latest optical design, the lens comes in a surprisingly compact and lightweight form factor (87 mm diameter x 108 mm length, 778 grams), providing high mobility and easy handling for a 50mm f/1.2 lens. It will be available in Australia from May 2021 for SRP $3,399. Click here for more information.