Just before the launch of their new a7S III ( we’re supposing that will be the name since it’s succeeding the a7S II), Sony has unveiled the last member of the f/2.8 trinity of lenses; the FE 12-24 f/2.8 G Master lens.
Dubbed by sony as “world’s widest full-frame zoom with a constant f/2.8 aperture”, the lens is a direct competitor to Sigma’s 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN art lens with the surface differences being the extra 2mm and a massive price difference. While the Sigma costs $1,399, the Sony 12-24mm costs $3,000; that’s over double the cost.
With regards to the lens’ make up; the new G Master lens is made up of 17 glass elements in 14 groups, including a slew of specialized lenses and a new coating for addressing aberration, distortion, flare, and ghosting giving it that premium G master sharpness. With regards to autofocus, the lens uses a special “floating focus” design that comprises of two focusing groups that are powered by four of Sony’s “high-speed, high-thrust” Extreme Dynamic (XD) linear motors meaning it delivers a constant minimum focusing distance of just 11 inches (28 cm) without compromising speed or precision.
Also, all of this is packed inside a dust- and moisture-resistant housing with an integrated lens hood, customizable focus-hold button, a focus-mode switch,
Below is a review video by Kai Wong
and Manny Ortiz;
To learn more about this lens, head over to the Sony website, or go ahead and pre-order yours here.