Been waiting for this! Haven't even watched it yet, but I rented this lens for a week and have been lusting after it ever since. One of the sharpest lenses Ive ever used, including the high end RF L glass and Leica lenses. Unreal how I could shoot wide open at f/1.2 the entire shoot and only had a handful of missed focus portraits out of like 600. One of the best lenses ever IMO. I can't wait for the 85 f/1.2 GM as I prefer 85mm over 50. That will probably be an instant buy for me assuming its not $3k.
A definitive review for a definitive lens! Thanks for the hard, detailed work and very much looking forward to the planar comparison. Any spoiler as to which one will stay in your personal arsenal?
I'm still a bit undecided. I own the Planar already, so I have to decided whether it would be worth something like $700 to upgrade (by the time I sell the Planar and buy the GM)
Interesting, so no focus breathing issues u less your working to close to the minimum focus distance? I have the Planar 50mm 1.4 lens and found it to be exceptionally sharp. For that reason I could not consider purchasing the new 50g master, especially since I picked up a Nikon body (Z7ii) because I like their raw files better. I purchased their 50mm 1.2 Z lens and I love it, minus the size and weight🙄. Works great for video as well.
How does your planar 50 1.4 perform for video as my use case is primarily filming interviews in the studio on my FX6 and I’m torn between this and the 50 1.2 GM?
@@smallbizdigitalmedia it's slow to focus with video in use with my a7r3 therefore I can't recommend it. You may do better with the Sony Zeiss 55mm 1.8 or the new Sony GM. My best advice would be to see if you can test either of those lens out at a local camera store...
Definitely it took you a while to see this gem in your hands to give us the ultimate review which I would say it’s second to none as usual. Had this lens for almost two months and I have to say that I like it and I love it as well 👌 Thanks for the great all around job!
After watching your videos on the 35 and 50, decided on and picked up the 50mm 1.2 today. Upon opening the package, noticed that the aperture ring f-stop markings don’t fully align with the indicative marking on the lens, and are ever so slightly off. Have you come across this? I’d expect a lens with this price tag to be spot on. Thanks for all your work in always providing an objective, thorough and expert advice, I’ve always valued and trusted your opinion.
@@DustinAbbottTWI thanks for getting back to me Dustin, I suspected as such. Spoke with Sony and they replaced the lens. The replacement has the same issue, slightly worse in my case, so I’m rather bummed. I’m told another replacement won’t guarantee properly aligned markings so have to live with it. Perhaps this issue is more widespread than I expected :(
Thank you Dustin for the outstanding review. The detail and comparisons were the best I've seen in a review of this lens. And even though I bought this lens 3 weeks ago, I was glad to get the additional info you provided, and very specifically, that f/2 might be the sweet spot for max sharpness and max shallow DoF and really no reason seemingly to use this lens at any smaller aperture than f/5.6 even for landscapes. For reference, I could not stand how poorly the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 ART lens was at autofocus in even perfect lighting conditions, so far in the few shoots I have used the 50mm, it performed very good at autofocus, though it was still challenged shooting portraits into the late setting sun when allowing for dramatic over the shoulder sunlight. However, overall, in just 3 weeks, I feel no buyer's remorse event at $2k. For a full-time pro photographer, this is a great upgrade, and you know you need the tax write-off anyway so just spring for it!
I think DA it’s now best gear reviewer. Before I thought other famous couple had most accurate, lab sort of analysis of lenses. Now if i ever need any info on gear put Dustin Abbott.
The first time I used this lens, it was one of those rare moments of “oh, okay, I see why this is so expensive”. Even my friends and family who aren’t photography nerds noticed a difference with this one.
Great review as always, looks like a great lens. Just picked up the Samyang 24 1.8 after seeing your review as I wanted something a little wider that didnt break the bank. I’ve still never seen any bokeh as nice as the stf lens which you still haven’t reviewed yet, such an underrated lens.
Great review as always! Thank you very much Dustin. I'm thinking about change my 135mm 1.8 GM to this 50mm 1.2 GM lens, but I'm afraid that the portraits won't be as good as 135mm GM portraits. What do you think about?
Great review, just 1 little detail at 8:21, you say "very detailed calculation of how much torque is required", but the correct term should be "force" instead of "torque", because torque is a rotational force, and the linear motors don't apply rotational forces but normal forces also called linear forces.
I used the Godox V860III flash I just reviewed (ua-cam.com/video/l2Mn9fIhkIU/v-deo.html), the Godox XProS flash trigger, and the Lite Genius Super Scoop III (bit.ly/scoop3DA)
Dear Dustin Without having a lock (that would be incredibly useful), I am very pleased to hear the aperture ring has much stronger held stops - I find, with my unbelievably good Sony 135mm, that the aperture ring is a real pain in use - If one sets it to auto, it continually moves (lightly touched) to the tiny, hopeless end (as next to the auto- in camera adjustment) & if set to, say 2.8, it is continually at stops either side of 2.8 or worse! Optically absolutely amazing, but with no lock, almost impossible to use for any fast work, having to keep looking at the ring or in camera, rather than concentrating quickly with composition, focus & taking shots! As stated, I love the output, but hate the over free moving ring- it so, so needs a ring lock or firmer rotation- this regarding the 50mm, sounds so,so welcome- two friends also purchased the 135mm after using mine, also found the aperture ring a real pain, with continual, uncontrolled movement from a tiny, accidental touch - keep up the great work :) watched for a number of years :) & always recall you photographing your much younger daughter by some railings or bridge railings as you demonstrated aperture changes - from blurred background through to a clear background - such an early excelent lens review Take good care - God bless :)
Actually 2 of those 3 things are covered (flare and focus breathing) in both this review and my text review. I did not test coma; I don't always test it in non wide angle lenses.
@@DustinAbbottTWI That's good news. I brought the 1.4 after yours and others reviews of that lens so I'm interested to see the review. Thanks for all your hard work.
I've been waiting for your review of this lens for months! What a beautiful lens. I recently picked up the 135 GM and am SO happy with the results. I'm looking to upgrade my 55mm f1.8 zeiss and am dancing between the 35mm GM and 50mm GM. My current lineup is 20mm G, 55mm zeiss, 135mm GM. I haven't gotten my hands on the 50 GM yet. Is this the 50 to rule them all? or does the versatility of the 35 rival the rendering of this 50? Thanks and great video as always Dustin!
I own both the 50 GM and 55mm ZA, at wider apertures is where the GM really really shines and far better than the 55. Stopped down the GM is still sharper overall but they are close in performance at f5.6-f8.
Thanks for doing this review and I'm looking forward to the full caparison to the Sony-Zeiss 50mm 1.4! I shoot with the Sony A7III and don't have a AF 50 yet so I'm really interested in what your thoughts between the two lenses. I've looked on Flickr at portraits and other shots on the %0mm 1.4 and they do seem to have that Zeiss pop! I was wondering how you think the 50mm 1.2 compares. Also, what was the flash reflector set up in the outdoor model shots toward the end of the video? looked to do a very nice job. Thanks again!
First of all, the flash review came out today, so check that out (I do mention the "reflector", which you can find here: bit.ly/abbottlite). That comparison video you are looking for comes out a week from today to the public (my Patrons can access it already). Both lenses are fantastic, though I do think the GM has a slight edge.
Hi Dustin, I wish Sony would refresh their 85GM. I own the Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8. When I bought the Batis85 I had to choose between the Sony 85GM and the Batis85. I have never liked the Sony 85GM, because it's autofocus was so slow and clunky; so I bought the Batis85. But now I think it is time for Sony to refresh their 85mm as either a f/1.4 or a f/1.2, and use their XD Linear focus motors. If Sony does refresh their 85mm then I am going upgrade to it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with my Batis85; it is a very excellent lens, but it's not a modern Sony G Master. Thanks for your time. Mathew
Dustin i have a question. Got shipment of this lens tonite. When I took it of the box it feels like entire group of glass inside is moving about 3-4mm. forward & backward. When attached to body it remain fixed. I was surprised to see this. my 85mm GM and 24mm GM nor 24-70 GM i often rent do not have this movement inside. Just. wondering if i should return this lens?? have you felt same movement with your 50mm 1.2???
@@DustinAbbottTWI thank you for your reply. I was not sure 100% if this will cause further problems. So happy to see your channel grow. BWT i loved your daughter pic you took with this lens. Thank you 🙏 all the best. :)
It looks like there are not a lot of lenses getting made without good to near perfect quality. I wonder what they do after they‘ve finished the whole lens lineup? Either inventing a new category or doings things similar to Zeiss with their new Radiance Primes
@@DustinAbbottTWI also I really wonder how strong internal lens corrections are applied nowadays. Have you ever tried shooting lenses taped contacts? Might be impossible to focus probably, but wouldn’t it be an indicator for real lens performance and not lens+correction performance?
Portraits were stunning! Yep…ugh…I really wanted to try the godox r1200 but I don’t think I can pass this one up. I’m guessing my sigma 40 isnt quite on par🤦🏻♂️
By any chance, do you or anyone know what the crop is when using breathing compensation? Looks a bit like 1.1x but figured someone who owns or has used it might have a better metric.
Funny thing is that the whole concave front element thing... was totally unique on the Zeiss Ultron and not repeated for 50 years. Then suddenly it's popping up everywhere like mushrooms after a rainy day. The Otus 85/1.4 used a concave front. The Sony-Zeiss 55/1.8 ZA used one. The Sony 50/1.2 GM used one. And, even the Nikon 50/1.8S is using one!?!!
Hi Dustin, thanks for another great video! I wondered if you ever had plans to review any 400/600 primes? I would love to see how those lenses compared to, say, the 200-600G, thanks again!
maybe a weird request, but i was wondering how this compares to the samyang 45mm 1.8 and samyang 75mm 1.8 in terms of how much worse them cheaper lens are?
Hi John, I didn't compare those lenses as that's not an apples to apples comparison at all. There's no question the G Master is better, obviously, but those lenses are surprisingly good.
@@DustinAbbottTWI thanks so much for the response. i was just wondering in general i guess how much of a vast canyon it is! lol and even though they are so vast you mentioned you still have those Samyang, i myself love the Samyang. kind of wondering with a man of your means so to speak is it worth it to slowly save up for the 1.2 if i love the samyangs?
Although 50mm is of no interest to me, great review as always and pleasure to watch Those few secs of you showing your A1 getting a 'rain test' got my heart beating faster (and not due to joy!) Sony's latest weather sealing is worlds apart from their earlier bodies, but can't help feeling a bit uncomfortable if I had rain pouring over it Especially with that mount cap taken off. I never understood why most people don't put the cap on (unless of course you are frequently mounting things onto it!) Following a short trip to Iceland, the metal mount part of my a6300 was kind of oxydized due to high percentage of salt on the air (and wind). Can't imagine what would have been like if the cap wasn't on!
Oh I think you mean the hot shoe lid not the body cap. Yeah that's so important Matt whoismattjohnson has shown how the lack of that tiny thing under a heavy rain situation died his A7siii for a day.
@@networm64 Yeah, that's the one I meant. There's electronic contacts in there and I guess getting those wet can never be a good thing But I do notice vast majority of photographers (PROs included!) for some reason don't bother having the cap on. Don't know if there's a special case that makes them not to worry about this thing, but I would probably lose my sleep if I realised that my $7K camera body had water going in there Not criticizing Dustin here, just curious!
I watched the definitive review and read the written review for the 50GM (1.2). I was surprised that you didn't explain, (or even mention), it's concave front element.
Frankly most people just aren't interested in that kind of thing. I do remember Sony talking about it to us in a press briefing, but there's only a small number of people who care about that.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Sony should give you the damn lens for such a fantastic review the half hour wizzed by 👏 Fair enough if the follow-up is filmed. My specific use case is filming interviews on the FX6 in controlled studio lighting so I’m particularly interested in whether the AF reliability will hold up on the older lens and if it’s quiet enough (although I’m using a boomed shotgun mike over the talent rather than anything on camera)
… thx for the review! 👍🏻 On of the best lenses on market, even for journalistic work. we now have 12 gm lenses in the editorial department for great photos.
Mine performed like a dream... dreamy sun flares, yet very sharp and very seldom it will miss even with backlight. 50mm f1.2 is a keeper for me. in terms of Planar VS GM I would say almost same size weight but GM is sharper and dreamier. Just my own experience.
Such an incredible lens, but...I do not need this lens....no no no! lol Great review dustin! Always the best on youtube by far. I've been kind of debating getting the sigma 40 1.4 again but for sony this time since it's been on sale $500 off lately....we are so spoiled for choices on the sony system.
We can see a parten with GM lenses now. Pros: edge to edge sharpness wide open; very smooth defocus background; great close up image quality; more compact than competition; not cheap in absolute term, but usually cheaper than competition. Cons: heavy focus breathing; chromatic aberration control isn't perfect. I think instead of chasing optical perfection, Sony knows how to make the right compromise, seek a balance between quality, size and cost, creat a overrall more practical package. Compare to Canon's L series and Nikon S series, I think GM series is the best high end lens line up now. Currently they just need to update some of their early lenses like 24-70 F2.8 GM, 70-200 F2.8 GM, 85 F1.4 GM. There are news that 24-70 GM and 70-200 GM will be updated soon.
I wonder if the focus breathing is attached to the close focus abilities. Floating elements or something similar. But yes, the GM lenses from the past two years are pretty much the best of their kind.
For the fact that I have never seen an outstanding photo where the sharpness in the corners at 1.4 or 1.2 would be important, this is mentioned far too often to me and rated as too important. Maybe I'll see a photo like that.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Ha! Just poking fun. I use that Sony 50mm 1.2 for everything lately. It's my favorite lens -- along with the Sony 135mm 1.8. I like to call that 50mm my "Baby 135". It's sharp as heck, focuses quickly, and at the right distance I can even make it give me that separation I thought I'd only seen with the 135mm. Lately, I've used it for lowlight small concerts and it's terrific. As always -- thanks for the great content!
@@oscarshen6855 luckily they've released the improved grip version just after I got my A7C, on the downside adding the grip made it as heavy as the A7R4, but much nicer to hold than the A7R4's, just wish Sony could have just made the A7C grip beefier out of the box.
@@kanaheiusagi Yeah, it adds quite some weight to it, the product itself is more targeted towards filmmakers , it offers all the mounting points for accesseries (mic, handel, moniters), which we photographers don't need. However coming from a full frame DSLR, I wouldn't consider it to be heavy even with the grip, it shows how incredibly light the A7c is, it almost feels like a toy, but with pro level performance. I hope they can make a grip without the cage around it.
@@oscarshen6855 Same, something like the L bracket with grip on the XT4 would be really nice. It's definitely not heavy even pairing with lenses up to 500g-ish and feels much more secure to hold with one hand.
I sold my 85 1.8 and 55ZA for this lens and haven’t looked back. Both of those lenses had excellent AF, but this one is on a completely different level. Pairing this with my 135GM has all my portrait needs covered. Wonderful review as always, Dustin!
Who is this “we” you are speaking for? My experience is well over a decade of doing this is that photographers generally like points of references to other lenses as lenses don’t exist in a vacuum.
@@DustinAbbottTWI nope Sony shooters looking at Sony lenses want to hear about that Lense wasting half the video on other lenses is what WE don't like Sony lenses matter! You seem to think that all lenses matter We are watching you
Thanks!
You're welcome!
Been waiting for this! Haven't even watched it yet, but I rented this lens for a week and have been lusting after it ever since. One of the sharpest lenses Ive ever used, including the high end RF L glass and Leica lenses. Unreal how I could shoot wide open at f/1.2 the entire shoot and only had a handful of missed focus portraits out of like 600. One of the best lenses ever IMO. I can't wait for the 85 f/1.2 GM as I prefer 85mm over 50. That will probably be an instant buy for me assuming its not $3k.
It is a lovely lens, but I do agree with you on the 85mm focal length. I tend to be a 35mm and 85mm guy.
A definitive review for a definitive lens! Thanks for the hard, detailed work and very much looking forward to the planar comparison.
Any spoiler as to which one will stay in your personal arsenal?
I'm still a bit undecided. I own the Planar already, so I have to decided whether it would be worth something like $700 to upgrade (by the time I sell the Planar and buy the GM)
Perfect review. Perfect lens. I agree, this lens would make me drop many time the 85mm. And that's something to say. Great as always Dustin
It is
Interesting, so no focus breathing issues u less your working to close to the minimum focus distance? I have the Planar 50mm 1.4 lens and found it to be exceptionally sharp. For that reason I could not consider purchasing the new 50g master, especially since I picked up a Nikon body (Z7ii) because I like their raw files better. I purchased their 50mm 1.2 Z lens and I love it, minus the size and weight🙄. Works great for video as well.
How does your planar 50 1.4 perform for video as my use case is primarily filming interviews in the studio on my FX6 and I’m torn between this and the 50 1.2 GM?
The Nikkor looks good optically, but man, is it ever huge!
@@smallbizdigitalmedia it's slow to focus with video in use with my a7r3 therefore I can't recommend it. You may do better with the Sony Zeiss 55mm 1.8 or the new Sony GM. My best advice would be to see if you can test either of those lens out at a local camera store...
Definitely it took you a while to see this gem in your hands to give us the ultimate review which I would say it’s second to none as usual.
Had this lens for almost two months and I have to say that I like it and I love it as well 👌
Thanks for the great all around job!
My pleasure.
After watching your videos on the 35 and 50, decided on and picked up the 50mm 1.2 today. Upon opening the package, noticed that the aperture ring f-stop markings don’t fully align with the indicative marking on the lens, and are ever so slightly off.
Have you come across this? I’d expect a lens with this price tag to be spot on.
Thanks for all your work in always providing an objective, thorough and expert advice, I’ve always valued and trusted your opinion.
I haven't noticed that before, and I can understand being a little disappointed in such an expensive lens.
@@DustinAbbottTWI thanks for getting back to me Dustin, I suspected as such.
Spoke with Sony and they replaced the lens. The replacement has the same issue, slightly worse in my case, so I’m rather bummed. I’m told another replacement won’t guarantee properly aligned markings so have to live with it. Perhaps this issue is more widespread than I expected :(
@@The_Divine_Mine Brutal
Thank you Dustin for the outstanding review. The detail and comparisons were the best I've seen in a review of this lens. And even though I bought this lens 3 weeks ago, I was glad to get the additional info you provided, and very specifically, that f/2 might be the sweet spot for max sharpness and max shallow DoF and really no reason seemingly to use this lens at any smaller aperture than f/5.6 even for landscapes. For reference, I could not stand how poorly the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 ART lens was at autofocus in even perfect lighting conditions, so far in the few shoots I have used the 50mm, it performed very good at autofocus, though it was still challenged shooting portraits into the late setting sun when allowing for dramatic over the shoulder sunlight. However, overall, in just 3 weeks, I feel no buyer's remorse event at $2k. For a full-time pro photographer, this is a great upgrade, and you know you need the tax write-off anyway so just spring for it!
It really is a special lens. No doubt about it!
I think DA it’s now best gear reviewer. Before I thought other famous couple had most accurate, lab sort of analysis of lenses. Now if i ever need any info on gear put Dustin Abbott.
The first time I used this lens, it was one of those rare moments of “oh, okay, I see why this is so expensive”. Even my friends and family who aren’t photography nerds noticed a difference with this one.
That's true. It is a special one.
I can’t wait. I just ordered.
Great review as always, looks like a great lens. Just picked up the Samyang 24 1.8 after seeing your review as I wanted something a little wider that didnt break the bank. I’ve still never seen any bokeh as nice as the stf lens which you still haven’t reviewed yet, such an underrated lens.
That was released before I started doing Sony reviews, and I haven't hit the whole back catalog yet.
Great review as always! Thank you very much Dustin. I'm thinking about change my 135mm 1.8 GM to this 50mm 1.2 GM lens, but I'm afraid that the portraits won't be as good as 135mm GM portraits. What do you think about?
They will be different, for sure. Completely different focal lengths that I view more as complimentary than competitive
Great review, just 1 little detail at 8:21, you say "very detailed calculation of how much torque is required", but the correct term should be "force" instead of "torque", because torque is a rotational force, and the linear motors don't apply rotational forces but normal forces also called linear forces.
Fair enough.
I noticed that you used flash and fill in card. What flush, trigger and fill flash card you used? Thanks
I used the Godox V860III flash I just reviewed (ua-cam.com/video/l2Mn9fIhkIU/v-deo.html), the Godox XProS flash trigger, and the Lite Genius Super Scoop III (bit.ly/scoop3DA)
Dear Dustin
Without having a lock (that would be incredibly useful), I am very pleased to hear the aperture ring has much stronger held stops - I find, with my unbelievably good Sony 135mm, that the aperture ring is a real pain in use - If one sets it to auto, it continually moves (lightly touched) to the tiny, hopeless end (as next to the auto- in camera adjustment) & if set to, say 2.8, it is continually at stops either side of 2.8 or worse! Optically absolutely amazing, but with no lock, almost impossible to use for any fast work, having to keep looking at the ring or in camera, rather than concentrating quickly with composition, focus & taking shots! As stated, I love the output, but hate the over free moving ring- it so, so needs a ring lock or firmer rotation- this regarding the 50mm, sounds so,so welcome- two friends also purchased the 135mm after using mine, also found the aperture ring a real pain, with continual, uncontrolled movement from a tiny, accidental touch - keep up the great work :) watched for a number of years :) & always recall you photographing your much younger daughter by some railings or bridge railings as you demonstrated aperture changes - from blurred background through to a clear background - such an early excelent lens review
Take good care - God bless :)
Thank you for the kind feedback. Your comments are interesting, as I own the 135 GM and don't recall having that issue.
How definitive is it, if there's no coma (pref. for astrophotography), flare tests or focus breathing?
Actually 2 of those 3 things are covered (flare and focus breathing) in both this review and my text review. I did not test coma; I don't always test it in non wide angle lenses.
Interesting review. I was wondering what you thought of this over the 1.4 as you really liked that lens.
I've got a video coming out a week from today that breaks all of that down in detail.
@@DustinAbbottTWI That's good news. I brought the 1.4 after yours and others reviews of that lens so I'm interested to see the review. Thanks for all your hard work.
Same! Can’t wait to see that review. On the fence between the two right now.
I've been waiting for your review of this lens for months! What a beautiful lens. I recently picked up the 135 GM and am SO happy with the results. I'm looking to upgrade my 55mm f1.8 zeiss and am dancing between the 35mm GM and 50mm GM. My current lineup is 20mm G, 55mm zeiss, 135mm GM. I haven't gotten my hands on the 50 GM yet. Is this the 50 to rule them all? or does the versatility of the 35 rival the rendering of this 50? Thanks and great video as always Dustin!
Both the 35mm and the 50mm are excellent. If you sell your 55mm, though, I think the 50mm spaces your kit better.
I own both the 50 GM and 55mm ZA, at wider apertures is where the GM really really shines and far better than the 55. Stopped down the GM is still sharper overall but they are close in performance at f5.6-f8.
Just go 24-50-135 😉
@@charliipresley 5 months later and I’m happy to say I’m shooting with a 24-50-135 GM setup on an A7RIV/A 🤓
Great, a new channel to watch. I'm not going to get anything done when I my time gets sucked up by good content.
Keep up the great work!
Sorry about that;)
Always a pleasure 🙏
Thank you!
Canon rf50mm f1.2 and Sony 50mm gm，which one do you prefer？
Sony is sharper, size and weighr advantage. I had the rf 50 f1.2 before.
I do slightly prefer the GM. Less size and weight, and I think the AF is better.
Thanks for doing this review and I'm looking forward to the full caparison to the Sony-Zeiss 50mm 1.4! I shoot with the Sony A7III and don't have a AF 50 yet so I'm really interested in what your thoughts between the two lenses. I've looked on Flickr at portraits and other shots on the %0mm 1.4 and they do seem to have that Zeiss pop! I was wondering how you think the 50mm 1.2 compares. Also, what was the flash reflector set up in the outdoor model shots toward the end of the video? looked to do a very nice job. Thanks again!
First of all, the flash review came out today, so check that out (I do mention the "reflector", which you can find here: bit.ly/abbottlite). That comparison video you are looking for comes out a week from today to the public (my Patrons can access it already). Both lenses are fantastic, though I do think the GM has a slight edge.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Thank you!
Thanks for the review. I've been waiting for a while for this one and looking forward to comparison with FE 1.4/50
I'll be releasing that next week.
Hi Dustin,
I wish Sony would refresh their 85GM. I own the Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8. When I bought the Batis85 I had to choose between the Sony 85GM and the Batis85. I have never liked the Sony 85GM, because it's autofocus was so slow and clunky; so I bought the Batis85. But now I think it is time for Sony to refresh their 85mm as either a f/1.4 or a f/1.2, and use their XD Linear focus motors. If Sony does refresh their 85mm then I am going upgrade to it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with my Batis85; it is a very excellent lens, but it's not a modern Sony G Master.
Thanks for your time.
Mathew
I very much suspect that lens is coming soon.
Dustin i have a question. Got shipment of this lens tonite. When I took it of the box it feels like entire group of glass inside is moving about 3-4mm. forward & backward. When attached to body it remain fixed. I was surprised to see this. my 85mm GM and 24mm GM nor 24-70 GM i often rent do not have this movement inside. Just. wondering if i should return this lens?? have you felt same movement with your 50mm 1.2???
That's floating elements to enable better close-up performance. Pretty typical in modern lenses, but it does freak out a lot of people.
@@DustinAbbottTWI thank you for your reply. I was not sure 100% if this will cause further problems. So happy to see your channel grow. BWT i loved your daughter pic you took with this lens. Thank you 🙏 all the best. :)
My favorite lens 😍
Easy to see why
It looks like there are not a lot of lenses getting made without good to near perfect quality.
I wonder what they do after they‘ve finished the whole lens lineup? Either inventing a new category or doings things similar to Zeiss with their new Radiance Primes
That's a valid point, actually.
@@DustinAbbottTWI also I really wonder how strong internal lens corrections are applied nowadays. Have you ever tried shooting lenses taped contacts? Might be impossible to focus probably, but wouldn’t it be an indicator for real lens performance and not lens+correction performance?
Portraits were stunning! Yep…ugh…I really wanted to try the godox r1200 but I don’t think I can pass this one up. I’m guessing my sigma 40 isnt quite on par🤦🏻♂️
Yes, it is a lovely portrait lens.
thanks for the review, great job
My pleasure.
By any chance, do you or anyone know what the crop is when using breathing compensation? Looks a bit like 1.1x but figured someone who owns or has used it might have a better metric.
I don't own it or have access to it at the moment, but running off memory I would say you are pretty close.
@@DustinAbbottTWI thank you! As always, appreciate your feedback.
Funny thing is that the whole concave front element thing... was totally unique on the Zeiss Ultron and not repeated for 50 years. Then suddenly it's popping up everywhere like mushrooms after a rainy day. The Otus 85/1.4 used a concave front. The Sony-Zeiss 55/1.8 ZA used one. The Sony 50/1.2 GM used one. And, even the Nikon 50/1.8S is using one!?!!
Obviously the technology for making the elements have become easier and cheaper.
Great review! Hahaa I just got the lens yesterday😆
Enjoy!
I got the GM 50mm f1,2 early at release but still somehow I wanna see the review.. :D
There's something about affirming your purchase decision that is comforting.
Hi Dustin, thanks for another great video! I wondered if you ever had plans to review any 400/600 primes? I would love to see how those lenses compared to, say, the 200-600G, thanks again!
There are so few in depth reviews of those kinds of lenses, I'm very curious to see how they perform
Those are eye watering expensive lenses but I do like to see the review also, and add to it the apsc 70-350 which is a nice budget option.
I'd have to see if Sony would send me the loaners.
@@DustinAbbottTWI I hope they do, that would be awesome to check both teleconvertors on them too!
Thank You!!! A lens review that includes lens noise.
LOL
i've owned the ziess, but prefer the lower contrast of the gm. also matches my 24 1.4
Hmmm, lower contrast? That's not what I saw, actually. The bokeh may be a little softer, if that's what you mean.
maybe a weird request, but i was wondering how this compares to the samyang 45mm 1.8 and samyang 75mm 1.8 in terms of how much worse them cheaper lens are?
Hi John, I didn't compare those lenses as that's not an apples to apples comparison at all. There's no question the G Master is better, obviously, but those lenses are surprisingly good.
@@DustinAbbottTWI
thanks so much for the response. i was just wondering in general i guess how much of a vast canyon it is! lol and even though they are so vast you mentioned you still have those Samyang, i myself love the Samyang. kind of wondering with a man of your means so to speak is it worth it to slowly save up for the 1.2 if i love the samyangs?
Although 50mm is of no interest to me, great review as always and pleasure to watch
Those few secs of you showing your A1 getting a 'rain test' got my heart beating faster (and not due to joy!)
Sony's latest weather sealing is worlds apart from their earlier bodies, but can't help feeling a bit uncomfortable if I had rain pouring over it
Especially with that mount cap taken off. I never understood why most people don't put the cap on (unless of course you are frequently mounting things onto it!)
Following a short trip to Iceland, the metal mount part of my a6300 was kind of oxydized due to high percentage of salt on the air (and wind). Can't imagine what would have been like if the cap wasn't on!
Oh I think you mean the hot shoe lid not the body cap. Yeah that's so important Matt whoismattjohnson has shown how the lack of that tiny thing under a heavy rain situation died his A7siii for a day.
@@networm64 Yeah, that's the one I meant. There's electronic contacts in there and I guess getting those wet can never be a good thing
But I do notice vast majority of photographers (PROs included!) for some reason don't bother having the cap on. Don't know if there's a special case that makes them not to worry about this thing, but I would probably lose my sleep if I realised that my $7K camera body had water going in there
Not criticizing Dustin here, just curious!
It's rare that I'm out in rain that heavy, and I often use the hot shoe so I need it ready to go.
I bought the Sony Zeiss 55mm...should have I spent the extra cash and got the Sony 50mm G Master? Kinda kicking myself.
That's a lot of extra cash, but I will say that the G Master is in a class of its own. It's superb.
I watched the definitive review and read the written review for the 50GM (1.2). I was surprised that you didn't explain, (or even mention), it's concave front element.
Frankly most people just aren't interested in that kind of thing. I do remember Sony talking about it to us in a press briefing, but there's only a small number of people who care about that.
@@DustinAbbottTWI I care about that!
Time zone indicator has some minor mistake, in image quality break down includes some focus action
It was rough approximations. I've been crazy busy.
@@DustinAbbottTWI understood, I am really enjoy your video!
Great Review please make more!
Ummm, I make about three a week!
Great review and superb lens.
It is that.
Great review 👍 Please cover video performance on your planar comparison, particularly AF and that elephant in room called focus breathing
I do deal with the AF in that review, but it is already filmed and the G Master is (sniff) winging its way back to Sony.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Sony should give you the damn lens for such a fantastic review the half hour wizzed by 👏 Fair enough if the follow-up is filmed. My specific use case is filming interviews on the FX6 in controlled studio lighting so I’m particularly interested in whether the AF reliability will hold up on the older lens and if it’s quiet enough (although I’m using a boomed shotgun mike over the talent rather than anything on camera)
… thx for the review! 👍🏻 On of the best lenses on market, even for journalistic work. we now have 12 gm lenses in the editorial department for great photos.
Nice. So many good lenses in the lineup, now.
Superb review. GM 50 is best in class as your reviews are on YT. Keep up the great work!
If I'm getting put in the same class as the 50GM, I'm a happy man.
@@DustinAbbottTWI You should be!
Thank you
Youre welcome!
Mine performed like a dream... dreamy sun flares, yet very sharp and very seldom it will miss even with backlight.
50mm f1.2 is a keeper for me. in terms of Planar VS GM I would say almost same size weight but GM is sharper and dreamier. Just my own experience.
It is an amazing lens, for sure.
Such an incredible lens, but...I do not need this lens....no no no! lol Great review dustin! Always the best on youtube by far. I've been kind of debating getting the sigma 40 1.4 again but for sony this time since it's been on sale $500 off lately....we are so spoiled for choices on the sony system.
It's very true. This is a very tempting lens, for sure.
The moire on your shirt drives my eyes crazy 😳
That effect really varies depending on the resolution of your screen and/or UA-cam compression. The original is fine.
Here we go
Enjoy
In my opinion GM lenses are one of the most beautiful lenses out there, so are Sony-Zeiss lenses. I wonder if it's just me.
You're talking about physical appearance?
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yes. I don't even need to mention the IQ, the build quality etc.. they are simply exceptional.
We can see a parten with GM lenses now.
Pros: edge to edge sharpness wide open; very smooth defocus background; great close up image quality; more compact than competition; not cheap in absolute term, but usually cheaper than competition.
Cons: heavy focus breathing; chromatic aberration control isn't perfect.
I think instead of chasing optical perfection, Sony knows how to make the right compromise, seek a balance between quality, size and cost, creat a overrall more practical package. Compare to Canon's L series and Nikon S series, I think GM series is the best high end lens line up now. Currently they just need to update some of their early lenses like 24-70 F2.8 GM, 70-200 F2.8 GM, 85 F1.4 GM. There are news that 24-70 GM and 70-200 GM will be updated soon.
I wonder if the focus breathing is attached to the close focus abilities. Floating elements or something similar. But yes, the GM lenses from the past two years are pretty much the best of their kind.
For the fact that I have never seen an outstanding photo where the sharpness in the corners at 1.4 or 1.2 would be important, this is mentioned far too often to me and rated as too important. Maybe I'll see a photo like that.
waiting so long I already purchased it
haha‘
Hope you enjoy it!
Oops. 2:16 mark Dustin nearly drops $2,000 lens on the ground. ;)
I don't know if it was in too much risk, but I have dropped stuff before!
@@DustinAbbottTWI Ha! Just poking fun. I use that Sony 50mm 1.2 for everything lately. It's my favorite lens -- along with the Sony 135mm 1.8. I like to call that 50mm my "Baby 135". It's sharp as heck, focuses quickly, and at the right distance I can even make it give me that separation I thought I'd only seen with the 135mm. Lately, I've used it for lowlight small concerts and it's terrific. As always -- thanks for the great content!
Based on the comparison shots from this video I would say Planar is actually sharper on every image
To be honest, the GM looked slightly but noticeably sharper than the excellent Planar on my 4K monitor under close examination.
Hmmm, that's perception, as that's not what I saw on my 4K monitors with the original
nearly dropped this baby in the intro 😂 it definitely looks quite ridiculous on a bare A7C, its much better when paired with the new smallrig grip
The Smallrig grip is a godsend for A7c, A7c is a fantastic camera, but it's really uncomfertable to grip for people with big hands like me.
@@oscarshen6855 luckily they've released the improved grip version just after I got my A7C, on the downside adding the grip made it as heavy as the A7R4, but much nicer to hold than the A7R4's, just wish Sony could have just made the A7C grip beefier out of the box.
@@kanaheiusagi Yeah, it adds quite some weight to it, the product itself is more targeted towards filmmakers , it offers all the mounting points for accesseries (mic, handel, moniters), which we photographers don't need. However coming from a full frame DSLR, I wouldn't consider it to be heavy even with the grip, it shows how incredibly light the A7c is, it almost feels like a toy, but with pro level performance. I hope they can make a grip without the cage around it.
That was actually on an a6400. I actually used it on my Alpha 1
@@oscarshen6855 Same, something like the L bracket with grip on the XT4 would be really nice. It's definitely not heavy even pairing with lenses up to 500g-ish and feels much more secure to hold with one hand.
if it just had the weight and dimensions of the CV 50 1.2 for sony e.... ;)
Sure, but that lens doesn't have AF, weather sealing, etc...
I sold my 85 1.8 and 55ZA for this lens and haven’t looked back. Both of those lenses had excellent AF, but this one is on a completely different level. Pairing this with my 135GM has all my portrait needs covered.
Wonderful review as always, Dustin!
That is an amazing peering.
1st! Been waiting for this review!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I found the Sony 50mm f1.2 to be sharper than canons 50mm f1.2.
I think that's probably true.
Ugh.....really wish I had not watched this. I was perfectly happy with the 55f1.8.
Oops!
@@DustinAbbottTWI Affiliate link? B&H preferred.
paper tiger😂
Not this one!
To be honest the GM is noticeably sharper than the Planar, at 100% is very very evident
At F1.2, vs F1.4 in a few spots, but if you start comparing at F2 and F2.8, it is hard to spot any difference.
why spend time talking about and comparing it to lenes we don't care about?
Who is this “we” you are speaking for? My experience is well over a decade of doing this is that photographers generally like points of references to other lenses as lenses don’t exist in a vacuum.
@@DustinAbbottTWI nope Sony shooters looking at Sony lenses want to hear about that Lense wasting half the video on other lenses is what WE don't like Sony lenses matter! You seem to think that all lenses matter We are watching you
The LOCA is unacceptable on this lens. Tons of purple on that sample
It's less than I saw on the RF 50mm F1.2L