Great video, Can I say that your confidence in front of the camera has changed so much over the past years as your channel has developed . The quality of your videos has gone up exponentially over time and so has the talking. It's cool that your channel has been getting bigger and better! (it wasn't bad before lol I realized that's how the comment sounded).
The way to combat buyers remorse is to use it. I had the same thing when I got the Canon 135 f2, but I forced myself to get used to using it because it takes the most amazing photos. I would never get rid of it now
I bought my 135 GM a few months ago; love it!! And, I don’t use it for weddings as much as I would love, BUT do not have buyer’s remorse at all. When I use it for portrait work I fall love with it all over again.
My first experience with 135mm was when my dad lent me his old (1976) f-mount ais 135 f/2.8 manual lens. I put it on my D810 and took some shots of my kids playing at the playground. I was instantly hooked. The feel and look of it was such an experience. My dad had to literally beg for me to give it back. I did but went to a then modern equivalent, the then much praised, Samyang 135 f/2. They were comparing this lens in reviews to Zeiss! As you said, there’s something special to this lens. Not only does it render the background so smoothly but also the transition from what is in focus to what isn’t is so beautiful, almost painterly. It’s so sharp even wide open and has no chromatic aberration. I’m still in love. Having jumped to Nikon Z9 the lens can still be used via the ftz2 adapter but I blocked the contacts with a piece of insulation tape as otherwise the viewfinder kind of flashes. It’s a manual lens so you’re not loosing much, it’s not like you’re loosing AF because you don’t get it with the f/2. Now Samyang have gotten out the Second version of this lens, it’s an f/1.8 but still not available for Nikon Z mount. Seeing that Nikon have given the go ahead for 3rd party manufacturers to produce Z mount lenses I’m anxiously waiting for this lens to come out. As you said, I don’t use it that much, in my case more because of the lack of AF not lack of space. My portrait shoots are mostly outside and so my go to lens is the 70-200 f/2.8 @ 200mm for that compression and limited dof. So maybe, when this becomes available to me it would replace the zoom, just for that special look it gives.
I own both, the 85mm GM and the 135mm GM and I also reach for the 85mm GM more because I sometimes want more of the background and with the 135mm focal length power you’ll have to step up to a narrower F stop meaning less light and that could lead to a higher ISO. Great video, Manny!
The 135mm has been my most used lens since I purchased it. I shoot a bit of everything (portraiture, street, architecture, landscape, etc.) and I just find any excuse to slap it on. It’s tack sharp with amazingly reliable autofocus. Perfect for me. It’s basically supplanted my 85mm outside of situations where space is truly limited. I know you mentioned hating manual focus lenses, but the Zeiss 135mm f2 APO ZF.2 is another stunning lens. Used to be my favorite before the Sony GM came along.
Yeah, absolutely. I start using the Sony 135mm 1.8 for...street photography recently. It gives my images a very special look now, maybe that's also because I had to change the way I am taking images with the 135mm. It's really a beautiful lens worth every cent.
The 135mm 1.8 is an absolute dream. Something about the way it renders colors, space, and the relationship between the subject and environment - they nailed it. And hey, the model is not too bad himself! 🤩
135 made a billionaire couply cry last week and they gave me 200k for 50 portraits of them. I said to them can i please sit with you guys for 2 hr and show you how easy it is to use a pro camera rig in manual and proper lighting with ease. I did. they then bought 20k setups for all there younger siblings haha so they can then learn and do future portraiture for the family etc. Then offered me 1million usd for my humility and humbleness towards them and could not accept. I said i am waiting for my crypto to go 100x even and that is enough money for me . as my crypto sits at 2.8M . Realise this even if Photography is your literal job.
I have the Sony 135mm gm and it’s so sharp and sexy, compression is unbelievable leaving a creamy background. I use it for wildlife, wrestling matches, dog 🐕 photography and video. Superb lens
I recently purchased the Samyang 135 1.8. This lens is superb. I got it for a wedding video shoot coming up. I purchased for 2 main reasons. Firstly, the extra reach. I am shooting solo, and It enables me to get those intimate shots at a longer range and still get incredible background separation. And secondly, it gives me all the benefits of a prime, ie. it is faster, lighter, and smaller than a zoom. It is the first lens where I have actually had to dial down the bokeh in some situations:-) Like with everything, it will be difficult to use and niche if you use it when you do not need it.
I own this lens like other comments I totally agree, it is fabulous lens and the colour rendition from it is something else. I used it a soccer game the other day, and what a sports lens it is!
I use my Sigma 135 1.8 on almost every Shoot. I actually decided against an 85mm 1.4 (bought the canon 85mm2.0 instead) because I wanted the nice background blur but still have sharpness everywhere in the face. The background blur looks almost identical between the two at 1.4 and 1.8, but the face with the 135 ist sharp from ears to the tip of the nose. Anyway, I love to use the 135 especially for full-body-shots and dance photography. Such a dreamy kind of surreal look!
Totally agree on 135GM. I find the 135mm focal length to be magical for pet portraits, and I actually use it a lot more than my 70-200GM2, its sharper (for heavy cropping), better for faster SS/low light, focuses faster and smaller in size (easier to fit in a camera cube).
My 135mm GM is by far my favourite lens, I love it. It’s also the least used lens I have. I use my Sony 85mm 1.8 far more in general. I’m waiting for that 85mm 1.2 tho 👀👀👀👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼
I use the Sigma 105 1.4 in the studio for headshots and love it. For me the best studio lens for that. I use the RF 85 1.2 on location and for weddings with also the RF 70-200 2.8 I have the older Canon 135 2.0 Its an excellent lens as well. With so many good lens today its hard to bring everything with you. I know Canon will replace the 135. I've heard rumors of it it being a 135 1.4 which would be an incredible lens. Time will tell on that, but worth the wait. If so would definitely jump on that. We are living in exciting times today with so many new cameras and glass getting better every year.
So as an amateur photographer, I love my 85 (1.8- saved a ton of money) but love the 135GM as it gets me sooo close but I’m shy and don’t want to be in people’s faces. For close portraits I love my 35gm. Thanks for the video
I have a 70-200 GM II, sigma 85 1.4 and Sony 35 1.4 GM II ....now my eyes is this Sony 135...sigma, Samyang blah blah...I want Sony 🔥 ( sigma is old & heavy, Samyang is fantastic but this auto AF button that needs to be programmed is a turn off ) I'll test it soon 😜
Manny, I just bought the Sigma 135 f/1.8 a couple months ago, and already have the Sigma 85 f/1.4 and the native Z mount 70-200mm f/2.8 that use on my Z9. I use it ALL THE TIME! I’m in love. I might still be in my honeymoon phase but all my clients LOVE the pictures and videos I send the with the 135. They don’t know why, but they love that 135mm look. No buyers remorse here. :)
Manny, you are one of my inspirations in jumping into photography and photojournalism 4 years, bro! Keep up the great work. Personally, while I’ve owned the Sigma 85, 105 1.4/macro and the 135mm, my go to portrait lens is the 135mm. It has that special and amazing look that sets it apart, Plus as someone who shoots on location and does some street photography/photojournalism, it gives you that documentary look. Reference that great video by Dan Watson and his wife on the Sony 135 1.4
135 Gm also great sports lens, I have used it at Rodeos and also Australian Open tennis, with A7rv. Great results and with the Rv or Riv you can crop if you have to, results a1.8 and 2.8 are great providing you get you focus right, normally expandable spot or Zone.
I have owned Sigma 135mm and did liked it, but since I bought Sigma 105mm 1.4 my 135 was spending all time in the bag unused. I did sold it eventually, the look of 105mm 1.4 just hits me differently and I'm happy being closer to my subjects. However I do agree 135mm is a beautiful lens. Kind regards
There was this skateboarder coming around the corner into our street and I had the 135/1.8 on my camera. Two perfect shoots bursts with 56 frames in in two seconds and all sharp. Yes, it is an outstanding lens outside. Inside you need a lot of space as Manny said..For skateboarding this is perfect. Manny, thanks for the cooling twisting comments about this lens.
I do portraits for a school yearbook. When I take most student portraits I use the 85 1.4. When I take staff and administration pictures I exclusively use the 135 1.8. Why switch lenses? Because I know that the sharpness and background separation of the 135 has and creates a wow factor. The staff always asks me for copies of their portraits to use for themselves (personally).
I have had this for a year or so and it has become indispensable! It takes some getting used to but, once you do, you can do some amazing stuff with depth of field. Great for street photography (catch people more natural since they haven't seen you yet like they would with a 50mm).
I LOVE the Sony 135mm GM lens for portraits. I also love the 85mm GM for half length shots. But, the 135mm GM is a newer design and more fun to use. I also use the 135mm GM when I would normally use a 200mm focal length. Great lens.
I bring 3 lenses to do outdoor portraits: #1= Sony 135 f1.8 GM- HANDS DOWN THE BEST in my opinion #2= Sigma 105 f1.4 Art- when I can’t use the 135mm I put this baby on and that whimsical look is present #3= Sigma 85 f1.4 DG DN- Best all around portrait lens in tighter spaces, great for weddings, couples and just best 85mm for sony
For portraits I use the 85 f1.2 DS. Which is probably currently the best lens on the market when it comes to image quality, rendering, bokeh. The 135 would be nice to try out, but my main problem would be not having enough space. Even on weddings there is often not enough room for something over 70mm. But for dedicated outdoor portraits it would be nice to try
I have a 135 1.8 GM, and i choose that lens over an 85 cause of the look that you're talking about. If i have to use an 85 1.4, i prefer the 50 1.2 (probably my favourite focal length) I do also street with the 135, it's not just portraits. By the way, the perfect triad: 35 1.4 - 50 1.2 - 135 1.8 🤣🤣
I've gotten back into weddings and rented the 135 after seeing your video and fell in love with it!! my only dilemma is the distance but the images are sooo unique. I'm renting the 85 1.4 to see if its a similar look I really hope it is.
Sony 135 GM is and quickly became my favorite lens. I loved my 85 but the look with the 135 is unmatched, but you’re right it’s a time and place to use that lens
Hi Manny, I own the Sony 135mm 1.8. I am a wildlife passion photographer! The 135mm and the 600mm is my favorite and most used lens. The 135mm plus a kenko tube is so special at times…the special images I get….wow! My number one wish for that lens is…being able to add a teleconverter. I really miss that particular ability. I will never let it go….water fowl close and low…can’t beat the 135mm. Btw- I find the focus to be insanely quick. I love that lens….thank you for all your inspiring you tube videos. I watch frequently Best TerryBartick
I got the 70-200 2.8 ii from this video alone. I felt it was a close as I could get without dropping a lot of cash for such a niche lens. I appreciate this channel.
The Nikon 85 1.8 S is my bread and butter lens. If I have room to back up, it almost never comes off of my camera just because I love the images created with it. I bought the 105 macro lens, but I still barely used it and sold it. Now I'm tempted to get the megadap adapter to use Sony on Nikon Z mount and rent this lens.
I have the Sony 135mm 1.8 and LOVE it for portraits! My runner up is the Sigma 105mm monster lens. :) I carry a Sony 85mm for those occasions when I am in cramped spaces and don't have enough room to use the 135mm or 105mm.
My first GM lens was the 135 (it was a big risk, splurge for a staving student). I don't regret it it a bit and still own it today. Every time I use it I'm back in love with it (but yes - I don't use it much). TBH, I keeps me on the system.
Agree, my Sigma 135 does deliver a unique look and I prefer it to my Sig 85. At the same time the 85 gets way more use as it serves a wider array of situations. As great as the 135 is it does not get much use.
You’re absolutely correct,it give’s YOU/US a unique look,a look that a client would never see between that and the 85mm.I love the 85 and as I really enjoy street photography with the odd wedding too I opted for that focal length.
Love the lighting on that old video. It gives me hope. Also I love my Canon RF 85mm but I still think the Nifty Fifty is the best way to go for people just getting started. So much versatility, low price and easy to carry around.
I'm shooting on the A7Riva and I have the GM 24mm 1.4, GM 85mm 1.4, and my favorite lens to shoot with us my cheapest lens the Sony Zeiss 55mm 1.8. I feel 85mm or higher make Models look chunky in the face. Yes Photoshop has lens Correction. But that doesn't change it much. Plus having to be so far away to get a full body photo sucks.
I use the 135mm GM to shoot my kid’s basketball and volleyball games. I shoot it at 1.8 and the images it makes are top notch. I eventually want to get a 70-200mm GM II when I can afford it but in the meantime. The 135 GM gets the job done. I also add the 50mm GM. Works perfect for me.
I lust after the Sony 135mm 1.8 as currently using a Canon 135mm f2 with a Sigma MC11. It's fine in the studio but the autofocus sometimes craps out for live work. Also, totally agree with other 135mm users that it doesn't get as much use as it deserves.
Got the 85mm 1.8 and the 135mm 1.8, they are both in my bag on the regular but more often then not I’ll have the 135 on the camera as it has that different and special feel that is difficult to replicate
I had the FE 135/1.8 and loved it any time that I used it. I also had the Sony FE90 2.8 macro which I also thought really sharp. As I wasn't using them enough I put them and my Sony A9 towards the purchase of the Sony A1 which I am now delighted with.
You and Matt Granger are nuts for your chonkappotamus 200mm f/2 lenses. You said -EXACTLY- what I've been kinda feeling here lately. I have Sigma's 85mm DG DN and the 70-200mm GM II. The 70-200 is -INCREDIBLE-, and were it not for that lens, I would have already re-bought the 135mm GM. I had one for a short while and, as you said, I didn't use it enough because I only had certain use cases for it. Now, I'd love to have one back because of the possibility of shooting concerts and the like. I DO miss that lens and regret selling it. I can say, though, with -ZERO- hesitation, that my most favorite lens... my Goldilocks lens... was Nikon's 105mm f/1.4E. I ran two D850s before I switched to Sony, and that lens was permanently attached to one of them. It was the last Nikon product I sold; I wanted so badly to buy one of the horrific E to F adapters and run it despite the AF failures. So, I suppose, until Sony puts out something similar, or Sigma produces a DG DN variant of their "Bokeh Master," I'll simply continue making do with the 85mm DG DN.
I had the 135GM and even tho i admit it's very sharp, sometimes i felt like it's over sharpening a lot and I don't like that look. It sounds odd but then I picked up the Carl Zeiss 135 1.8 from Sony A mount and I just love it. The sharpness is just right, the colors and contrast from Zeiss is amzing. It has a better rendering than the GM to my opinion. But you have to have a A7R4, A74, A6600, and probably the A1 + the LE-EA5 to have the fast AF, almost like a native glass.
I actually love 135 so much that I bought canon EF sigma lens and adapted it to my R5. I ended up getting rid of it recently, but only because I picked up the fuji GF 110mm f/2 and that lens is amazing and the only portrait lens I use now.
i Abosulutly LOVE my 135mm f1.8! I 100% agree, with you on that it has a very unique look. I feel like a can create an image with the 135mm that i cant with the 85 mm. In my opinion, its a tie between the two. I even took the 135 mm with me to Paris last year, and just walked around, taking pictures. I tell you what, the images i got from that, was magic!
Best lens I’ve ever used but rarely use it. I put it up for sale three times and every time I took it off the market before it sold bc I love it. It’s the weirdest “relationship” I’ve ever had with a lens.
over the weekend I rented the sony 70-200 2.8 II, and to be honest I found my self reaching more for my 135 mm 1.8 , there is something about that 135 focal length that makes you wanna use it more and more once you see the results you get. I don't care if I have to move around to get the right composition.
Manny I'm loving this new vibe! And the plants you added for your esthetic. Can't wait to see them in your next videos :D Also...now I know why you told me not to get the 85 mm whoops should have seen your video first Lol. Of course you're the GOAT!
I used the the canon 135 2.0 for weddings for 7 years. It was my favorite lens to shoot, but I was the second photographer. if I was the main shooter I don’t think I would have been able to use it as much. 85 is a much safer lens to shoot. I’ve switched to Sony now and no longer shoot weddings. I own the 85 1.4 and love it. 135 would be great to have but don’t think I would use it much.
I have the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM, i use it for portrait, street, nature, landscape and close-up, it is outstanding ! I just wish Sony will make a 1.4x GM Tele Converter for the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM, are you reading this Sony !?
I loved that lens but just did not like being back that far. After getting my 50mm 1.2 I never used it so sold it. Going to pick up Tamron 35-150. Just not sure I can give up the 50mm tho.
Just happened to find this video, Manny. I'm a music photographer and I love the 135 with the A1 or the A7RV, particularly with the option to switch into crop mode. That 200 you were holding is and will always be a special lens!! I've heard Sony are working on a 300 f/2.8 which I would love to see. The 400 is a bit to long for indoor concerts but 300 would be great. Thanks for all the great content
The Canon 135mm f2 is a sweet small and light lens which I use quite regularly. However my Canon 200mm f1.8 is my favorite lens and produces beautiful unique shots which are very hard to beat. For closer portrait work the Sigma 105mm f1.4 is a dream.
I had the 105 1.4 sigma and this 135gm. Both are amazing. If you're doing stills not much movements sigma is great. But if you're doing more fast pace or events like weddings and dances the 135 is amazing. The focus is a lot faster and not clunky like the sigma. But both are great. If you're in tighter spaces do the sigma and save money. Just know it's a big boy lens lol
I shoot fashion and beauty and I'm by no means a super professional, big name photographer but I have been using a 24-70 and 70-200 for about 2 years now and I've started to move to primes. I use my 55mm 1.4 Zeiss for probably 70% of my compositions, my 24mm GM for those rare occasions where I need to compose wide and I just recently started looking at 85, 100 and 135 lenses to replace my 70-200 but I've quickly found out that since my main lens is a 55mm, the 85mm focal length doesn't really offer anything special compared to the 55mm and I'm not really getting that much closer with it either so for me it was a fight between either the 105mm Sigma or the 135mm GM! I have just decided I will order the 135mm GM because I really don't like how Sigma makes things in the image look... It's hard to explain, it's like I would focus on the model but then everything around the model would be one dimensional and flat, like you couldn't tell how far stuff was from each other, like for example, if you had two cars one behind another, they would literally just look like you glued two car stickers on top of each other, whereas when I tried the 135mm GM, it would make everything look 3D, just like my 55mm Zeiss Otus does and I LOVE THAT kind of look because it reminds me of those old film and cinema lenses! Plus it looks more realistic because it's not just a flat image and for fashion and beauty shots that's SUUUPER useful and makes the model stand out from the environment even at f8, f11 or f16! And the 135mm focal length is MUCH BETTER for head, head n shoulder, waist up, close up and detail beauty shots, since I use 55mm for basically everything else!
@@nogerboher5266 honestly you can't go wrong with both Sony. You are paying more, but you're getting every bit of your money's worth of your title. Money is still kind of want the same look sigma I don't really do her go along with it and you're saving about $800 in that extra money to use for a 35 14. For adding the two. Honestly, the 135 was my favorite versus type of stuff that I shot because they gave me the bleach like the 70 to 1821 but way better. Low light capabilities and the auto focus was nice and smooth, especially compared to the sigma 105 because that is a big lens
Samyang 135mm f/1.8 gives me gorgeous photos. So does Tamron 70-180mm. They both do not autofocus quite as well as a recently designed Sony would when subject moving , but fine for my purposes.
I mainly shoot canon I have the 135/f2L, the 200/f2.8L and the 85/f1.4is. All beautiful lenses, but when I nail one with the 135/f2L, damn! Easily my favorite lens all time. I also have a Sony A7r4 w Sony 85/f1.8. I have a sigma mc11 so I can put the 135/f2 on the Sony and it works well, but still not native. Great video.
The Sony 135 is an absolute dream...yeah it is a luxury that is just awesome...the 135 sits on my Sony a7riv almost always...other lenses go on my Sony a7c and Sony a6400
The 135F18GM has been an absolute dream for me mounted to my A1. Such a capable and extraordinary matchup. My favorite is using the 135 wide open in Crop mode on the A1. Using it this way it still has 21MP, but turns it into a 202F1.8!!! Completely different look than the 85 for me and a lens I will probably never sell. I'm always looking for an excuse to pull it out.
If you put it in crop-mode, it wil give you the look, DoF and noise of a 202mm f/2.7. You can better crop afterwards in post, to make the composition exactly the way you want.
I’m sure there will be an updated version of the 85 1.4 to 85 1.2. I had the 135 i never used it to be honest its a portrait lens and you have to stand far back. I couldn’t fault the lens its fast and accurate.
I agree Manny with your view of 135GM 1.8. My fav lens that gives a unique look. My only issue is you have to be in another zip code for full body. 😂🤣😩
135mm is one of my favorite focal lengths, and must have dozens of manual focus 135mm primes. The great one render a look that's sublime, where other focal lengths don't have. A 180 and 200mm f/2.8 or 2.0 respectively is in this club. It depends on what you like to shoot, the distance, and light. It excels in natural light, street photography, and landscapes for me. It provides some reach to subjects at a distance. Yet also has bokeh that's beautiful when desired, and exploited at MFD. I concur that the Sony GM 135 f/1.8 is their best performing lens.
This is a tough one, I have owned the Sony 135 1.8, Sigma 135 1.8, and the Sony 85 1.4 all paired with the A1. I always keep coming back to the Sony 85 because I use my Sony 70-200 for the compressed look when taking portraits. Those two lenses are my go to lenses every time.
I keep my PM PolarPro filter on my 135 GM and rarely take it off cause it's the perfect setup when shooting for a bit of distance. My Sigma 85 gets used with more of the unique filters (pro mist, warm, etc) because I'm able to work closer to subjects. Buy a 135 GM and save money and get the 85 Sigma.
I didnt try the 135 but i have a Tarmron 70-200 2.8 G2 and i use it in my Nikon D7200 and is awesome :3 Some day I'll get a Sony Full frame camera and a 135. Love your videos! Best wishes from Argentina! Sorry about my bad english.
Great video, Can I say that your confidence in front of the camera has changed so much over the past years as your channel has developed . The quality of your videos has gone up exponentially over time and so has the talking. It's cool that your channel has been getting bigger and better! (it wasn't bad before lol I realized that's how the comment sounded).
The way to combat buyers remorse is to use it. I had the same thing when I got the Canon 135 f2, but I forced myself to get used to using it because it takes the most amazing photos. I would never get rid of it now
I bought my 135 GM a few months ago; love it!! And, I don’t use it for weddings as much as I would love, BUT do not have buyer’s remorse at all. When I use it for portrait work I fall love with it all over again.
My first experience with 135mm was when my dad lent me his old (1976) f-mount ais 135 f/2.8 manual lens. I put it on my D810 and took some shots of my kids playing at the playground. I was instantly hooked. The feel and look of it was such an experience. My dad had to literally beg for me to give it back. I did but went to a then modern equivalent, the then much praised, Samyang 135 f/2. They were comparing this lens in reviews to Zeiss! As you said, there’s something special to this lens. Not only does it render the background so smoothly but also the transition from what is in focus to what isn’t is so beautiful, almost painterly. It’s so sharp even wide open and has no chromatic aberration. I’m still in love. Having jumped to Nikon Z9 the lens can still be used via the ftz2 adapter but I blocked the contacts with a piece of insulation tape as otherwise the viewfinder kind of flashes. It’s a manual lens so you’re not loosing much, it’s not like you’re loosing AF because you don’t get it with the f/2. Now Samyang have gotten out the Second version of this lens, it’s an f/1.8 but still not available for Nikon Z mount. Seeing that Nikon have given the go ahead for 3rd party manufacturers to produce Z mount lenses I’m anxiously waiting for this lens to come out. As you said, I don’t use it that much, in my case more because of the lack of AF not lack of space. My portrait shoots are mostly outside and so my go to lens is the 70-200 f/2.8 @ 200mm for that compression and limited dof. So maybe, when this becomes available to me it would replace the zoom, just for that special look it gives.
I own both, the 85mm GM and the 135mm GM and I also reach for the 85mm GM more because I sometimes want more of the background and with the 135mm focal length power you’ll have to step up to a narrower F stop meaning less light and that could lead to a higher ISO.
Great video, Manny!
The 135mm has been my most used lens since I purchased it. I shoot a bit of everything (portraiture, street, architecture, landscape, etc.) and I just find any excuse to slap it on. It’s tack sharp with amazingly reliable autofocus. Perfect for me.
It’s basically supplanted my 85mm outside of situations where space is truly limited.
I know you mentioned hating manual focus lenses, but the Zeiss 135mm f2 APO ZF.2 is another stunning lens. Used to be my favorite before the Sony GM came along.
Yeah, absolutely. I start using the Sony 135mm 1.8 for...street photography recently. It gives my images a very special look now, maybe that's also because I had to change the way I am taking images with the 135mm. It's really a beautiful lens worth every cent.
The 135mm 1.8 is an absolute dream. Something about the way it renders colors, space, and the relationship between the subject and environment - they nailed it. And hey, the model is not too bad himself! 🤩
That model being photographed is is a Guy?...OMG...I feel confused now!!!
Sus
135 made a billionaire couply cry last week and they gave me 200k for 50 portraits of them. I said to them can i please sit with you guys for 2 hr and show you how easy it is to use a pro camera rig in manual and proper lighting with ease. I did. they then bought 20k setups for all there younger siblings haha so they can then learn and do future portraiture for the family etc. Then offered me 1million usd for my humility and humbleness towards them and could not accept. I said i am waiting for my crypto to go 100x even and that is enough money for me . as my crypto sits at 2.8M . Realise this even if Photography is your literal job.
@@Matt-xy6cf cool story bro
@@Matt-xy6cfthis is crazy
I have never shot a 135 1.8 but I have a Nikon 105 1.4 and it feels like magic every time I use it!
After renting this I immediately bought my own copy. SO good
I just picked up a Leica Elmarit-R 135mm 2.8. It’s manual but the few shots I’ve done so far are soooo nice. Looks good on a Sony A7Rii
I have the Sony 135mm gm and it’s so sharp and sexy, compression is unbelievable leaving a creamy background. I use it for wildlife, wrestling matches, dog 🐕 photography and video. Superb lens
I recently purchased the Samyang 135 1.8. This lens is superb. I got it for a wedding video shoot coming up. I purchased for 2 main reasons. Firstly, the extra reach. I am shooting solo, and It enables me to get those intimate shots at a longer range and still get incredible background separation. And secondly, it gives me all the benefits of a prime, ie. it is faster, lighter, and smaller than a zoom. It is the first lens where I have actually had to dial down the bokeh in some situations:-) Like with everything, it will be difficult to use and niche if you use it when you do not need it.
I own this lens like other comments I totally agree, it is fabulous lens and the colour rendition from it is something else. I used it a soccer game the other day, and what a sports lens it is!
I use my Sigma 135 1.8 on almost every Shoot. I actually decided against an 85mm 1.4 (bought the canon 85mm2.0 instead) because I wanted the nice background blur but still have sharpness everywhere in the face. The background blur looks almost identical between the two at 1.4 and 1.8, but the face with the 135 ist sharp from ears to the tip of the nose.
Anyway, I love to use the 135 especially for full-body-shots and dance photography. Such a dreamy kind of surreal look!
Totally agree on 135GM. I find the 135mm focal length to be magical for pet portraits, and I actually use it a lot more than my 70-200GM2, its sharper (for heavy cropping), better for faster SS/low light, focuses faster and smaller in size (easier to fit in a camera cube).
My 135mm GM is by far my favourite lens, I love it. It’s also the least used lens I have. I use my Sony 85mm 1.8 far more in general. I’m waiting for that 85mm 1.2 tho 👀👀👀👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼
Man, I own the 135 and totally agree. Still waiting for the 85mm F1.2 GM to see where I’m gonna stand. But so far it’s my favorite lens.
I use the Sigma 105 1.4 in the studio for headshots and love it. For me the best studio lens for that. I use the RF 85 1.2 on location and for weddings with also the RF 70-200 2.8 I have the older Canon 135 2.0 Its an excellent lens as well. With so many good lens today its hard to bring everything with you. I know Canon will replace the 135. I've heard rumors of it it being a 135 1.4 which would be an incredible lens. Time will tell on that, but worth the wait. If so would definitely jump on that. We are living in exciting times today with so many new cameras and glass getting better every year.
great text I own also the 105mm Bokehmaster f mount I do hope Sigma is thinking bringing it as a f1.2 in Z mounted version some day.
So as an amateur photographer, I love my 85 (1.8- saved a ton of money) but love the 135GM as it gets me sooo close but I’m shy and don’t want to be in people’s faces. For close portraits I love my 35gm. Thanks for the video
I have a 70-200 GM II, sigma 85 1.4 and Sony 35 1.4 GM II ....now my eyes is this Sony 135...sigma, Samyang blah blah...I want Sony 🔥 ( sigma is old & heavy, Samyang is fantastic but this auto AF button that needs to be programmed is a turn off ) I'll test it soon 😜
I love shooting with the Sony 135 1.8 GM. It does give a unique look. Yes you need a lot of space, but if you have it, the lens is amazing!
Manny, I just bought the Sigma 135 f/1.8 a couple months ago, and already have the Sigma 85 f/1.4 and the native Z mount 70-200mm f/2.8 that use on my Z9. I use it ALL THE TIME! I’m in love. I might still be in my honeymoon phase but all my clients LOVE the pictures and videos I send the with the 135. They don’t know why, but they love that 135mm look. No buyers remorse here. :)
I just wanted to thank you for the hard work you put in to those videos. Thanks to you I am able to nail lighting.
Manny, you are one of my inspirations in jumping into photography and photojournalism 4 years, bro! Keep up the great work. Personally, while I’ve owned the Sigma 85, 105 1.4/macro and the 135mm, my go to portrait lens is the 135mm. It has that special and amazing look that sets it apart, Plus as someone who shoots on location and does some street photography/photojournalism, it gives you that documentary look. Reference that great video by Dan Watson and his wife on the Sony 135 1.4
135 Gm also great sports lens, I have used it at Rodeos and also Australian Open tennis, with A7rv.
Great results and with the Rv or Riv you can crop if you have to, results a1.8 and 2.8 are great providing you get you focus right, normally expandable spot or Zone.
I have owned Sigma 135mm and did liked it, but since I bought Sigma 105mm 1.4 my 135 was spending all time in the bag unused. I did sold it eventually, the look of 105mm 1.4 just hits me differently and I'm happy being closer to my subjects. However I do agree 135mm is a beautiful lens. Kind regards
There was this skateboarder coming around the corner into our street and I had the 135/1.8 on my camera. Two perfect shoots bursts with 56 frames in in two seconds and all sharp. Yes, it is an outstanding lens outside. Inside you need a lot of space as Manny said..For skateboarding this is perfect. Manny, thanks for the cooling twisting comments about this lens.
I do portraits for a school yearbook. When I take most student portraits I use the 85 1.4. When I take staff and administration pictures I exclusively use the 135 1.8. Why switch lenses? Because I know that the sharpness and background separation of the 135 has and creates a wow factor. The staff always asks me for copies of their portraits to use for themselves (personally).
I have had this for a year or so and it has become indispensable! It takes some getting used to but, once you do, you can do some amazing stuff with depth of field. Great for street photography (catch people more natural since they haven't seen you yet like they would with a 50mm).
This is exactly why I got the 135GM to pair with the 50GM on dual bodies
The Sigma 105 1.4 is the portrait lens for me
105mm f/1.4 is the best for me too. I hope Sony makes one.
Add me to this list, wish RF mount one with Nikon 105 size was real.
#3 here
Same. I love that thing. Just wish they make it smaller before I get old 😂
Thinking of getting one for my eos r is it really that good?
I got the Sigma 135 for Nikon and use it on the z6ii. Rarely use it but when I do, ohhh it's such a beautiful lens! Love the look!
I LOVE the Sony 135mm GM lens for portraits. I also love the 85mm GM for half length shots. But, the 135mm GM is a newer design and more fun to use. I also use the 135mm GM when I would normally use a 200mm focal length. Great lens.
I too have Sony 135mm GM and I love it...
It's actually the Best Portrait lens so far.
I bring 3 lenses to do outdoor portraits:
#1= Sony 135 f1.8 GM- HANDS DOWN THE BEST in my opinion
#2= Sigma 105 f1.4 Art- when I can’t use the 135mm I put this baby on and that whimsical look is present
#3= Sigma 85 f1.4 DG DN- Best all around portrait lens in tighter spaces, great for weddings, couples and just best 85mm for sony
For portraits I use the 85 f1.2 DS. Which is probably currently the best lens on the market when it comes to image quality, rendering, bokeh. The 135 would be nice to try out, but my main problem would be not having enough space. Even on weddings there is often not enough room for something over 70mm. But for dedicated outdoor portraits it would be nice to try
I have a 135 1.8 GM, and i choose that lens over an 85 cause of the look that you're talking about. If i have to use an 85 1.4, i prefer the 50 1.2 (probably my favourite focal length) I do also street with the 135, it's not just portraits. By the way, the perfect triad: 35 1.4 - 50 1.2 - 135 1.8 🤣🤣
My 135GM is my go to lens for weddings, I recently got the 70-200GM II also for weddings when in tight venues. But that 135GM on my A1 🤯
It’s great to hear about this since I’m thinking about buying the Fuji 90mm f2 which is around 137mm in 35mm equivalent
It does give a unique look. You aren't crazy Manny.
The Canon 200mm f/2 though is a fav for many outdoor portrait photographers also.
I've gotten back into weddings and rented the 135 after seeing your video and fell in love with it!! my only dilemma is the distance but the images are sooo unique. I'm renting the 85 1.4 to see if its a similar look I really hope it is.
Sony 135 GM is and quickly became my favorite lens. I loved my 85 but the look with the 135 is unmatched, but you’re right it’s a time and place to use that lens
Hi Manny,
I own the Sony 135mm 1.8. I am a wildlife passion photographer! The 135mm and the 600mm is my favorite and most used lens. The 135mm plus a kenko tube is so special at times…the special images I get….wow!
My number one wish for that lens is…being able to add a teleconverter. I really miss that particular ability. I will never let it go….water fowl close and low…can’t beat the 135mm. Btw- I find the focus to be insanely quick.
I love that lens….thank you for all your inspiring you tube videos. I watch frequently
Best
TerryBartick
I got the 70-200 2.8 ii from this video alone. I felt it was a close as I could get without dropping a lot of cash for such a niche lens. I appreciate this channel.
The Nikon 85 1.8 S is my bread and butter lens. If I have room to back up, it almost never comes off of my camera just because I love the images created with it. I bought the 105 macro lens, but I still barely used it and sold it. Now I'm tempted to get the megadap adapter to use Sony on Nikon Z mount and rent this lens.
I have the Sony 135mm 1.8 and LOVE it for portraits! My runner up is the Sigma 105mm monster lens. :) I carry a Sony 85mm for those occasions when I am in cramped spaces and don't have enough room to use the 135mm or 105mm.
My first GM lens was the 135 (it was a big risk, splurge for a staving student). I don't regret it it a bit and still own it today. Every time I use it I'm back in love with it (but yes - I don't use it much). TBH, I keeps me on the system.
Agree, my Sigma 135 does deliver a unique look and I prefer it to my Sig 85. At the same time the 85 gets way more use as it serves a wider array of situations. As great as the 135 is it does not get much use.
You’re absolutely correct,it give’s YOU/US a unique look,a look that a client would never see between that and the 85mm.I love the 85 and as I really enjoy street photography with the odd wedding too I opted for that focal length.
Love the lighting on that old video. It gives me hope.
Also I love my Canon RF 85mm but I still think the Nifty Fifty is the best way to go for people just getting started. So much versatility, low price and easy to carry around.
I'm shooting on the A7Riva and I have the GM 24mm 1.4, GM 85mm 1.4, and my favorite lens to shoot with us my cheapest lens the Sony Zeiss 55mm 1.8. I feel 85mm or higher make Models look chunky in the face. Yes Photoshop has lens Correction. But that doesn't change it much. Plus having to be so far away to get a full body photo sucks.
I use the 135mm GM to shoot my kid’s basketball and volleyball games. I shoot it at 1.8 and the images it makes are top notch. I eventually want to get a 70-200mm GM II when I can afford it but in the meantime. The 135 GM gets the job done. I also add the 50mm GM. Works perfect for me.
Manny your work keeps getting better and better!!!
I lust after the Sony 135mm 1.8 as currently using a Canon 135mm f2 with a Sigma MC11. It's fine in the studio but the autofocus sometimes craps out for live work. Also, totally agree with other 135mm users that it doesn't get as much use as it deserves.
I agree 100% with you, I own the Sigma 135mm 1.8 and the Nikon 200mm f2 and honestly it's shocking how close they compare.
Got the 85mm 1.8 and the 135mm 1.8, they are both in my bag on the regular but more often then not I’ll have the 135 on the camera as it has that different and special feel that is difficult to replicate
I had the FE 135/1.8 and loved it any time that I used it. I also had the Sony FE90 2.8 macro which I also thought really sharp. As I wasn't using them enough I put them and my Sony A9 towards the purchase of the Sony A1 which I am now delighted with.
You and Matt Granger are nuts for your chonkappotamus 200mm f/2 lenses.
You said -EXACTLY- what I've been kinda feeling here lately. I have Sigma's 85mm DG DN and the 70-200mm GM II. The 70-200 is -INCREDIBLE-, and were it not for that lens, I would have already re-bought the 135mm GM. I had one for a short while and, as you said, I didn't use it enough because I only had certain use cases for it. Now, I'd love to have one back because of the possibility of shooting concerts and the like. I DO miss that lens and regret selling it.
I can say, though, with -ZERO- hesitation, that my most favorite lens... my Goldilocks lens... was Nikon's 105mm f/1.4E. I ran two D850s before I switched to Sony, and that lens was permanently attached to one of them. It was the last Nikon product I sold; I wanted so badly to buy one of the horrific E to F adapters and run it despite the AF failures. So, I suppose, until Sony puts out something similar, or Sigma produces a DG DN variant of their "Bokeh Master," I'll simply continue making do with the 85mm DG DN.
I had the 135GM and even tho i admit it's very sharp, sometimes i felt like it's over sharpening a lot and I don't like that look. It sounds odd but then I picked up the Carl Zeiss 135 1.8 from Sony A mount and I just love it. The sharpness is just right, the colors and contrast from Zeiss is amzing. It has a better rendering than the GM to my opinion. But you have to have a A7R4, A74, A6600, and probably the A1 + the LE-EA5 to have the fast AF, almost like a native glass.
That 135mm is so tight that it forces you to compose correctly, and when you do that image will out shine your library,
I actually love 135 so much that I bought canon EF sigma lens and adapted it to my R5. I ended up getting rid of it recently, but only because I picked up the fuji GF 110mm f/2 and that lens is amazing and the only portrait lens I use now.
i Abosulutly LOVE my 135mm f1.8! I 100% agree, with you on that it has a very unique look. I feel like a can create an image with the 135mm that i cant with the 85 mm. In my opinion, its a tie between the two. I even took the 135 mm with me to Paris last year, and just walked around, taking pictures. I tell you what, the images i got from that, was magic!
Best lens I’ve ever used but rarely use it. I put it up for sale three times and every time I took it off the market before it sold bc I love it. It’s the weirdest “relationship” I’ve ever had with a lens.
over the weekend I rented the sony 70-200 2.8 II, and to be honest I found my self reaching more for my 135 mm 1.8 , there is something about that 135 focal length that makes you wanna use it more and more once you see the results you get. I don't care if I have to move around to get the right composition.
I love my sigma 135, it’s my go to lens for portraits
Manny I'm loving this new vibe! And the plants you added for your esthetic. Can't wait to see them in your next videos :D Also...now I know why you told me not to get the 85 mm whoops should have seen your video first Lol. Of course you're the GOAT!
I used the the canon 135 2.0 for weddings for 7 years. It was my favorite lens to shoot, but I was the second photographer. if I was the main shooter I don’t think I would have been able to use it as much. 85 is a much safer lens to shoot. I’ve switched to Sony now and no longer shoot weddings. I own the 85 1.4 and love it. 135 would be great to have but don’t think I would use it much.
Exactly.
sucks draging around big telescopes, thsts why i sold my sony for fuji ❤️ pure love there, and their 90 f2 has some magic to it
I m using sony 85 f1.8 in A6000 so its equivalent to 135 i love the composition and favorite lens for portraits
I have the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM, i use it for portrait, street, nature, landscape and close-up, it is outstanding ! I just wish Sony will make a 1.4x GM Tele Converter for the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM, are you reading this Sony !?
I loved that lens but just did not like being back that far. After getting my 50mm 1.2 I never used it so sold it. Going to pick up Tamron 35-150. Just not sure I can give up the 50mm tho.
Just happened to find this video, Manny. I'm a music photographer and I love the 135 with the A1 or the A7RV, particularly with the option to switch into crop mode.
That 200 you were holding is and will always be a special lens!! I've heard Sony are working on a 300 f/2.8 which I would love to see. The 400 is a bit to long for indoor concerts but 300 would be great. Thanks for all the great content
The Canon 135mm f2 is a sweet small and light lens which I use quite regularly. However my Canon 200mm f1.8 is my favorite lens and produces beautiful unique shots which are very hard to beat. For closer portrait work the Sigma 105mm f1.4 is a dream.
I had the 105 1.4 sigma and this 135gm. Both are amazing. If you're doing stills not much movements sigma is great. But if you're doing more fast pace or events like weddings and dances the 135 is amazing. The focus is a lot faster and not clunky like the sigma. But both are great. If you're in tighter spaces do the sigma and save money. Just know it's a big boy lens lol
I shoot fashion and beauty and I'm by no means a super professional, big name photographer but I have been using a 24-70 and 70-200 for about 2 years now and I've started to move to primes. I use my 55mm 1.4 Zeiss for probably 70% of my compositions, my 24mm GM for those rare occasions where I need to compose wide and I just recently started looking at 85, 100 and 135 lenses to replace my 70-200 but I've quickly found out that since my main lens is a 55mm, the 85mm focal length doesn't really offer anything special compared to the 55mm and I'm not really getting that much closer with it either so for me it was a fight between either the 105mm Sigma or the 135mm GM!
I have just decided I will order the 135mm GM because I really don't like how Sigma makes things in the image look... It's hard to explain, it's like I would focus on the model but then everything around the model would be one dimensional and flat, like you couldn't tell how far stuff was from each other, like for example, if you had two cars one behind another, they would literally just look like you glued two car stickers on top of each other, whereas when I tried the 135mm GM, it would make everything look 3D, just like my 55mm Zeiss Otus does and I LOVE THAT kind of look because it reminds me of those old film and cinema lenses! Plus it looks more realistic because it's not just a flat image and for fashion and beauty shots that's SUUUPER useful and makes the model stand out from the environment even at f8, f11 or f16!
And the 135mm focal length is MUCH BETTER for head, head n shoulder, waist up, close up and detail beauty shots, since I use 55mm for basically everything else!
@@nogerboher5266 honestly you can't go wrong with both Sony. You are paying more, but you're getting every bit of your money's worth of your title. Money is still kind of want the same look sigma I don't really do her go along with it and you're saving about $800 in that extra money to use for a 35 14. For adding the two. Honestly, the 135 was my favorite versus type of stuff that I shot because they gave me the bleach like the 70 to 1821 but way better. Low light capabilities and the auto focus was nice and smooth, especially compared to the sigma 105 because that is a big lens
Samyang 135mm f/1.8 gives me gorgeous photos. So does Tamron 70-180mm.
They both do not autofocus quite as well as a recently designed Sony would when subject moving , but fine for my purposes.
Did they have an update to fix the auto focus issue?
@@mysticandroid57 I will check. Good idea.
Manny I hope this pandemic lifts so we can do some photowalks again. You are a magician when it comes portraits and photography. I love your work🔥💙
I mainly shoot canon I have the 135/f2L, the 200/f2.8L and the 85/f1.4is. All beautiful lenses, but when I nail one with the 135/f2L, damn! Easily my favorite lens all time. I also have a Sony A7r4 w Sony 85/f1.8. I have a sigma mc11 so I can put the 135/f2 on the Sony and it works well, but still not native. Great video.
The 135 L from Canon was my first L lens and I LOVED it!
The Sony 135 is an absolute dream...yeah it is a luxury that is just awesome...the 135 sits on my Sony a7riv almost always...other lenses go on my Sony a7c and Sony a6400
The 135F18GM has been an absolute dream for me mounted to my A1. Such a capable and extraordinary matchup. My favorite is using the 135 wide open in Crop mode on the A1. Using it this way it still has 21MP, but turns it into a 202F1.8!!! Completely different look than the 85 for me and a lens I will probably never sell. I'm always looking for an excuse to pull it out.
If you put it in crop-mode, it wil give you the look, DoF and noise of a 202mm f/2.7. You can better crop afterwards in post, to make the composition exactly the way you want.
I love my 135 f2 from canon. It was my first prime when switching over from Sony to canon.
Your videos have improved so much!
Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN the BEST Lens!
I’m sure there will be an updated version of the 85 1.4 to 85 1.2. I had the 135 i never used it to be honest its a portrait lens and you have to stand far back. I couldn’t fault the lens its fast and accurate.
I agree Manny with your view of 135GM 1.8. My fav lens that gives a unique look. My only issue is you have to be in another zip code for full body. 😂🤣😩
Can not imagine ever selling my 135mm 1.8. Sharpness is out of this planet, similar to the 50mm 1.2. Use it whenever it fits.
Gorgeous! Thanks Manny, always an inspiration!
135gm my favorite lens, the look it gives is special.
that bread and butter lens ❤️ i never forget that sir. that 135mm is heavy
I completely agree I have the 135 for my r6 and I barley use it but I love the photos I was able to get out of it.
Still on a 85/1.8. Waiting for a GM 85/1.2
Manny try the new Samyang 135 it's amazing for the money.
Did you forget the 135 Batis on purpose? This lens is so awesome!
135mm is one of my favorite focal lengths, and must have dozens of manual focus 135mm primes. The great one render a look that's sublime, where other focal lengths don't have. A 180 and 200mm f/2.8 or 2.0 respectively is in this club. It depends on what you like to shoot, the distance, and light. It excels in natural light, street photography, and landscapes for me. It provides some reach to subjects at a distance. Yet also has bokeh that's beautiful when desired, and exploited at MFD. I concur that the Sony GM 135 f/1.8 is their best performing lens.
This is a tough one, I have owned the Sony 135 1.8, Sigma 135 1.8, and the Sony 85 1.4 all paired with the A1. I always keep coming back to the Sony 85 because I use my Sony 70-200 for the compressed look when taking portraits. Those two lenses are my go to lenses every time.
I keep my PM PolarPro filter on my 135 GM and rarely take it off cause it's the perfect setup when shooting for a bit of distance. My Sigma 85 gets used with more of the unique filters (pro mist, warm, etc) because I'm able to work closer to subjects. Buy a 135 GM and save money and get the 85 Sigma.
I love 135 f1.8 very much
I didnt try the 135 but i have a Tarmron 70-200 2.8 G2 and i use it in my Nikon D7200 and is awesome :3
Some day I'll get a Sony Full frame camera and a 135.
Love your videos!
Best wishes from Argentina!
Sorry about my bad english.
I would love to see you review the samyang 135 1.8
The 135gm is by far my favorite lens of all time.