I purchased the 135gm for street photography. Even driving back from the camera store I was thinking I had made a costly mistake. But apart from its heft, I have been blown away by the amazing candid moments I’ve been able to capture with it
I bought the 135mm f/1.8 for wildlife so I had no excuse not to go out in low light situations. I have the 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 which is limiting in low light, and the 400 f/2.8 is way out of my price range, so I went for the 135mm. It's great for environmental shots of wildlife, subjects you can get close to, and it gets me thinking outside the box in terms of compositions. I have It paired with the a7r iv and you can see that the 61mp of the a7r iv are held back by the 200-600mm when comparing to the 135mm which reveals the detail the a7r iv can truly capture. I think the Sony fe 135mm f/1.8 is a legendary lens, it's got unbeatable sharpness/rendering and autofocus, and it can be used for many different styles of photography.
Your final point is such a huge one. It's the combination of the absurdly good autofocus and optics that make this lens usable in far more situations than the typical 135mm.
I agree with this. I borrowed the 200-600 from an uncle for a while after he upgraded to the 600mm f/4 and yeah I just was never happy with the results on my RIV. That was the best way to explain it: held back. Honestly, I prefer the 100-400mm GM cropped, or with the 1.4x TC on it over the 200-600, even though it's slower with the TC. The 135 blows them all away, IMO.
The Sony 135 mm GM is the best Lens I ever owned. It does a phenomenal job for portraits and for fast action sports. I go to a lot of cross country ATV races and dirt bikes and people cannot believe what amazing shot I can get with it on my Sony a9. And then when I put it on my Sony a7riv The details it produces is truly mind boggling on how sharp it is. Between it and the Sigma 105 mm F one. Four art lens They are the two lenses I bring out to all my senior portraits or couples portraits.
@@LMActionsports what do u say to all the woke tards who think camera phones and their max of 12mp sensors provide in comparison to a professional rig .
@@Matt-xy6cf i already had 2 people on Facebook try disputing with me that their iPhone 13 & 14 pro max takes just as good photos as my cameras. That i was just wasting my money on all these fancy cameras and lenses. Well i have the iPhone 13 pro max and gave them a couple comparisons of the same portrait using both my a7iv with the Samyang 85mm f1.4 and the iPhone 13 pro max and it was night and day comparisons. Dont get me wrong you can’t take good pictures with the new camera phones but compared to a real camera. It’s all about the details. And zooming in on those pictures the iPhone didn’t even come close. Hell I took some photos a good 30 feet away and showed a comparison and, the details from the real camera showed how these new camera phones what they lack in. But the one person said i rigged it and I told him anytime he wants to come over and see it first hand. I’ll gladly show him. I told him, Nobody is going to pay me to take their portraits if I show up with a iPhone or Samsung phone to do the portrait. But some people don’t wanna be proven wrong, and this person was a stubborn ass. But I got no problem taking the cell phone challenge with anyone. Lol.
Hi Dustin...After watching this video, I have subscribed to your channel; not entirely because of the content, presentation and insights, which are all exceptional, but because you take the time to respond to comments and questions, no small task given your large viewer and subscriber base. Well done! BTW...your thoughts on the 135 GM has convinced me to purchase this lens. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
I say it a lot, but the 135 is one of those "pry it out of my cold dead hands" lenses. Pure magic. I love it on my a7RIV and it almost is always in my camera bag. I'm shy and non-confrontational, so it is my goto lens for street photography so I can keep some distance, but still get relatively tight in on a subject, and the added bonus is that since my presence isn't usually noticed, the images I get can be quite candid. I love it for compressed landscapes, and when I'm sitting on my porch shooting the birds. Lately, I've been gravitating towards primes, so my usual kit has been the 135 GM, the 50 2.5 G and the 24 GM with the Sigma 14-24 and 100-400GM on the wide and long ends respectively if I need either. My only complaint, is I wish Sony would have designed it to be used with teleconverters. I think, like the 70-200 GM II, it's sharp enough to overcome the loss of quality you get when you use them, especially the 2x. That would've have turned an already great lens into a game changer.
Thanks for your input. I travel to south east Asia where street photography is at it's finest. I have the Sony F-1.8 85 and the F-1.4 GM 24. Neither are idea. I seldom use the 24mm and might trade it for the 185.
This lens more than any other in my kit makes everyone say “oh my god” when they look at a photo right out of camera taken with it. The way it renders is just flawless. I’ve never once regretted spending the money on this. Worth every penny. I just worked a concert last night and even in low light it gave me some incredible shots. This and the 50GM were responsible for the bulk of my shots last night. I’d love to try an A1 but that is a little too much for me at the moment. I haven’t run into much that my a7riv can’t handle just yet.
I bought this lens a year ago for an incredible and never before and after seen price of around 1200 US$ when converted (together with tax) brand new, as part of some Amazon discount. I bought it to flip it, had already buyers for 500$ more. But I couldn’t help myself but open it and try it out. Just couple of hours later, I removed my ad and a year later, I still have it and enjoy it as really the best lens I have ever owned. Like Dustin says in his review, the only drawback being the focal length itself, as not being so versatile in everyday life. But when 135mm suits the situation, oh boy, I can’t imagine anything better!
I’ve been a Stills Photographer on TV/Film sets for 20+ years; was primarily a Canon DSLR shooter before mirrorless became advanced enough to replace high res dslr’s. Switched to Sony about 6 years ago…this 135 1.8 GM has become my absolute go to lens on set, far outperforming all my L series Canon lenses. Incredibly bright, tack sharp images…so much so that Directors of Photography on set always comment on and want to shoot a couple of images. Best lens I’ve ever had the privilege to shoot with and own.
This lens was a big commitment for me (as a student). I bit the bullet and bought it about 1 1/2 years ago. I've loved it since. I do admit that I hate having to backup alot, but every time I look at a picture from it, I am in awe! I love the creamy background. Truly a great lens (so glad I opted to pay more than the Sigma 135).
As a photo journalist who uses this lens almost daily, I can tell you this review is spot on. If you need the 135mm focal length on an ongoing basis, I'd suggest springing for the GM.
I often use the 135GM instead if a macro for close-up. It pairs well with the 35GM on longer nature-oriented trips. Same 1:4 reproduction ratio with the 35 but more background context. They render *very* similarly too. Top glass! Enjoyed the video. Thanks.
What I like about Dustin's reviews is a combination of detailed analysis and the amazing artistic talent. Pretty special in the field of lens/cameras reviews!!!
As a photographer, the quality of images from this lens really makes me want it. But from the perspective of the wedding client or other client, do they really notice the difference between this and say, the new 70-200 GM II? On another note, I think you're right about the 50mm GM. That's my go-to prime.
That's an interesting question, and I would say that depends on both the client and the photographer. A photographer than knows how to use the 135GM to its strengths can produce special images that will wow even a discerning client. The 70-200 GM II is going to be the more flexible instrument, though, and is hard to argue against.
The 135 GM is a remarkable lens that offers next level (from what we have previously considered excellent) performance. It will be interesting to see if Sony or anyone else can improve on this focal length of fast prime lens and what the cost would be.
I use the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM on mine Sony A7rIV and A7RIVA, from 61 megapixels you can do crops from a small part of the image that still are very sharp !
I'm using it too! I even see in some cases, that a 100 400 zoom lens is not the same quality like a crop of the 135 GM image, except when the object is far away.
@@akhilthomas356 when you want only photos, then maybe a7riva with 60 megapixels. A7iv is better for video and photos 33 megapixels. Autofocus is almost the same i think, a7riva is fast and it depends more on a lens. Linear motors drive GM lenses are the fastest.
I fully agree with your views, it is a truly amazing lens, even though is a niche focal length. I have also had great results using this lens for panoramas, whereby it feels like you can endlessly zoom into a scene and see ever more detail. One of those lenses I will not part with anytime soon!
Not a day goes by when I don’t wish I still have my 135gm. However, in the end, that extra versatility of the 70-200 MK2 helps it edge out the 135gm for that precious cargo space for a single large lens in my camera bag.
Yeah if it were 250 1.8 than it would be another talk. But now 70-200 really covers it well. Not saying its bad or anything but you really have to love focal length. Being perfect and always in bag does not help
The one point eight is more valuable to me then the four is seven steps either way.... But the wide side and tc option for peak my interest. If they make an exotic zoom at f1.8/2 I probably would be all in.
Optically the Sigma is very nice, but it is not actually designed for Sony originally. It's autofocus cannot be compared in any way, shape, or form. It also doesn't have the same degree of weather sealing, of features, etc...
May want to take a look at the Samyang 135mm f/1.8. Christopher Frost did a review of it the other day and its very comparable in almost all areas, except maybe a little less responsive for autofocus, but at a $1,000 cheaper pricepoint. I already have the GM, or I would have strongly looked at the Samyang as well when i was looking to buy.
Yeah, I have the 135Gm and its the best! IQ wise. The 50GM is a stunning work horse as well. The 24-70 gm v2 and the 70-200gm2 are just like a prime as well. I love them for weddings and thats coming from an all prime shooter. Sony is doing great with their new Gen. of lenses. I'm hoping for a 85 GM2 1.2 , and would love to see a not too heavy 35 GM 1.2. or a not too heavy 105GM 1.4 Just me :) love your channel Dustin keep up the great work.
This is one of the best lens at any price point. Love mine I have had it about 3 months , after watching your review on it then I pulled the trigger. glade I can trust your opinion God bless you and yours!
This lens pulled me away from zooms as I was initially a huge zoom advocate. Now 2.8 sound terrible for all the events I shoot. 135 is my go to 70-200 the 35gm is my 24-70 and that 14mm is shocking the things I can get away with.
I agree this lens is crazy and should be considered even by event photographers in cases, where you can zoom with your feet, because the results are amazing. It's also amazing for sports!
I've bought this lens after seeing your definitive review. Also, it's a great review! This is the lens that I bought after the kit lens, and I can confirm every single word you said! It's awesome for everything when you can make a good composition with 135 mm.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Tested the lens today. Insane. One more reason for me to believe that switching from Nikon to Sony was the right decision. It's like my all time favourite 105 - but on steroids.
For me though, even if this is a prime lens, I shoot very little portraits with it. I use this for when the day's about to turn in to night when I could still travel and shoot landscapes back. And I find this to be the best companion for a wide angle prime in those situations. I'm just not a 50mm person. I find that whenever I spotted something, stood there and lift the camera to my eyes, usually 50mm just gave a me a way too narrow view for that "image in my head" or I have to back off a bit. And the same type of problem goes to 85mm for me. I find that it usually just has a little more width than I needed and is a lot of time, not very different looking to a 50mm prime. So, 24/35 and a 135 prime are my best companion to keep on shooting when the day turned dark instead of your typical 2.8/F4 zooms at both end. I would go as far as to say, I prefer 135 primes over a 70-200 2.8 since my meta data says I'm shooting a lot of 135mm images and mostly at 200mm on the other end, which means I'm probably in need of a bit longer lens
Your feedback reminds of one limitation of this lens - no compatibility with TCs. Throwing a 1.4x on and getting a near 200mm (190mm) F2.8 prime is a nice addition.
@@DustinAbbottTWI I wouldn't deny the possibility maybe sony would come out with a 150 or 200mm prime one day. If that happens, 200mm prime should allow us to use it with an adapter. Sony as a company gave me this impression they seems very "on-the-ball" trying to catch up to Canon and beat them with anything they produce, while at the same time has a quite keen ear for users' requests. And can always suprise us with some new unthinkable techs.
Great review Dustin! Since I shoot birds and wildlife and nature having that longer narrower field of view is a plus for me. It's the best lens I've ever shot with!
Great update Dustin. Yes the reason I sold my Zeiss 135mm ZE was because I found the 135mm was just to long most of the time. Loved the Zeiss rendering though. Also the longer I go in focal length I start to miss AF/eye detect etc.
Hello Mr. Abbott, thank you for talking about your experiences with that lens and your detailed video. I own that lens and I can fully agree. It’s absolutely fantastic, heavy, expensive and a little too long for an everyday use. But it’s effect is outstanding! Greetings from Germany Dimi | Pistolas Photo
So. I have nailed a few very detailed shots with my sony A7RIV (with shattered rear screen so it was quarter price)and an older sony zeiss 135mm f1.8 A-mount via LA-EA5 adapter. But I just reserved the 135 G Master used for a third of new so i am hopeful that my photography of bird wildlife in the park may just get a new lease of life for more action scenes since it took some moments for the adapted lens to reach focus before exposure. I had considered the new samyang fe 135mm f1.8, but I didn't want to risk the focus lock speed not keeping up with this, "the best" native version.
Although very respectable at x0.25, I wish this went all the way to 1:1, so that I could replace my 90mm macro. The rumors of an upcoming GM macro (at around 100mm) didn't prove very reliable in the end As I often do some video work - mostly for things I can't get too close - would the 135mm resolve more detail compared to my 90mm? I am talking in the range of 3 to 5 yards and my scope is to be able to capture as much as fine detail as possible (e.g. reptiles, animal eye shots, insects), whilst shooting in super 35 (4K, 25fps). I am already impressed with my 90mm in such shooting situations, but if this 135mm can do even better, I would be astounded! I mean, how much more detail a lens could possibly resolve from such distance? As you can probably tell from my question, my understanding of the focal length difference vs the reproduction ratio is not entirely clear. Because although 135mm offers 'more reach' than 90mm, the 90mm does 1:1, whilst the 135mm 'only' x0.25... So what I am trying to figure here is, assuming that you mount both lenses, on the same body and shoot a subject 5 yards away, which of the two will get closer *and* resolve more detail. Its hard for me to realise whats the equivalence here. Obviously the 135mm will 'get closer', but isn't it that the reproduction size (x0.25 vs 1:1) play a role here in the detail resolved? I am confused!
The 135mm at 3-5 yards will look closer. And having such high resolution probably be sharper and a closer to you look . As say a 200mm at the same range will look even closer and a 20mm will look very far away
@@smallbatchsessions6892 Thank you! I ll probably need to obtain sample shots of both, in order to gain the actual perspective. In theory, yes, for this scenario, the 135mm probably wins...
Great review once again Dustin! I also love my 135GM and consider it to be the best lens I ever owned. I mainly use it for outside portraits. I have to mention one other lens (besides the f1.2-50GM) of superb quality: the f1.8/14GM. This one I consider to - probably - be the second best lens I ever owned.
An interesting apples to apples comparison would be against the Samyang 135 mm f1.8, not sure what one would take out of this comparison to a MF lens. Some are saying that it's even a hair sharper than the GM. Samyang is also an FE lens, pretty much identical specs and costs 2 times less. That would be a really interesting and useful at the same time comparison. Just a thought. Thank you for the long term review.
I got Samyang 135mm, haven't tested fast moving object yet, but regarding bokeh seems that for FE Sigma is the best, then Sony then Samyang. Generally Samyang is very good for it's price, I'm planning to post a review soon (although on APSC camera).
What do you think about the distance it took to capture the photos? Isn't it a little too far from the subject to be able to communicate effectively? I have 90mm macro that I double it as a portrait lens and sometimes I had to back out farther than I want to get the framing that I want and had to speak louder and comes off a little shouty as the result. I hesitant to pick >90mm lens as a portrait lens because of that...
Dustin, thanks for what you are doing! I do not miss a single video. All lens purchases for my Sony camera are done only after viewing your videos! I would like to see how Samyang/Rokinon 135 1.8 compares to this gorgeous G-Master. Its less than half the price! Does it offer comparable performance? What is your expertise on it? I would really like to know your opinion. A review would be great! A head to head shootout with G-Master would be stellar! Thanks!
I had the Samyang and I was totally disappointed. Had a lot of CAs despite all the glorious reviews (reviews from people that get lenses from samyang). AF was as expected, ok but not very fast. Sharpness was disappointing wide open. I would have wished they would have taken the Samyang 135mm mf optics, they were nearly apochromatic. but maybe I had just ja bad copy. it’s a very light lens for its size, so built was ok but long term reliability is always in question with those. I‘ll save my money for the Sony so I get Sharpness on a level of the Sigma with a great autofocus
@@DustinAbbottTWI 3 times I've had the plastic that holds it break out. And it wasn't from major impact, just small bumps. Just my first hand experience.
Dustin, so... I own this lens... and love it... BUT, recently discovered that it renders different colors from the GM 35mm F1.4 and the GM 50mm F1.2, and those are my go-to lenses for outdoor (family) portraits... I won't give it up, but it's a lot of work trying to color match my photos to look exactly the same... Do you have any advice on what I can do to ease up post-processing?
I've spent time with a number of 135mm vintage lenses (probably a half dozen). They do have certain strengths, but a modern high resolution camera does expose a LOT of vulnerabilities.
I heard great things about the newly released Samyang 135mm 1.8 lens. It’s so well corrected that it may as well be an APO lens. My testing shows that it’s sharper and brighter than my 135 1.8 GM. Under the exact same condition the Samyang user a lower ISO (1000) than the GM (1600) at the same shutter speed (1/160). This has been pretty consistent. The Samyang is also smaller and lighter. The only negative I have is that only once the lens hesitated to achieve focus. Shutting of the camera and switching it resolved it. This happened only one in the 3 days that I have had the lens. I am seriously considering selling my Sony 135mm 1.8 GM lens. I was wondering if you will be reviewing the Samyang in the near future?
The big issue with this lens is the lens hood lock. I twisted mine one time without unlocking it and caused the plastic front ring that the lens cap and lens hood use to be secured. Cost of replacing it was...USD200!?! In the end I stuck it on with some glue. Absolutely ridiculous that a $3-5 piece of plastic would cost so much. The reason is that Sony do not sell it separately. I would have had to replace a whole slew of other components. A real price gouge. BTW the lens is otherwise fantastic.
That's a very tough call. Both lenses are excellent (and very different). I would lean towards the 50GM, however, as I just think it would get used more often.
I had an opportunity to use both on a recent vacation to the beach. They were both excellent! The 50mm was more versatile but I found the autofocus with my A9 to be more accurate in choosing to focus on what I wanted it to focus on when the 135mm was mounted.
Hi Dustin, Do you print your own work? I am interested in printing my photos on a Canon printer, and I was wondering if you had any advice. Thanks, Mathew
I love the 135mm focal length have owned Nikon 135mm f2 ais, 135mm f2 dc, 135mm 2.8 respectively. Also the sigma 135mm 1.8 nikon and sony versions. Canon 135mm f2 and even the pentax k 135m f2.5 LOL! I'm sure the Sony 135mm 1.8 is brilliant but a little out of my reach. Yesterday I had my new Samyang 135mm 1.8 delivered for my Sony A7rii. Incredible! Better than all the aforementioned lenses. Will you be comparing the Sony 1.8 and Samyang 1.8 soon? Now that would be interesting. Take care Dustin :)
@@DustinAbbottTWI The Samyang is really good - the lighter weight and the fact that you can change fstop with focus ring is great. Sharpness is superb, same as Sigma, no CAs at all. from your review of the Sony I'm sure focus is better though. All the best Dustin, hope you and your family are well :)
I absolutely agree that the newer G/GM lenses provide the best of optics-build-AF tracking that is in line with the newer faster sony cameras. I love the 135 fl & the combination of a very fast aperture with closer mfd can give amazing compositions. One is lucky with sony FE to have a few lenses in this range - both AF & MF - at different price points. I opted for the newer samyang cine MF lens as I felt that most of my work with the a7r4 was compositional rather than AF tracking of movement. And as my first camera was my father's medium format twin reflex rolleichord, MF comes naturally & I prefer it sometimes for the extra fine tuning for still photography & even for certain kinds of cine work. The optics is excellent and at 1/5th or 1/6th the cost. And the newer samyang AF version is lighter - smaller - slightly better MFD and at less than half the price of the GM. This is not to question the value of the GM which has better build - AF motors but much more to understand what makes for the value of a lens & what one requires.
It is all about your needs, to be sure. The 135GM doubles as an amazing action lens in a way like I've not seen with any other 135mm lens, so that does give it a unique application.
Optically it is very nice, but it is not actually designed for Sony. It's autofocus cannot be compared in any way, shape, or form. It also doesn't have the same degree of weather sealing, of features, etc...
Little doubt this is a superb lens. As have previously stated, I really do wonder how many non pro shooters are able to afford this and many other GM products. Same applies to Canon RF glass. Watched a YT review by Christopher Frost of the Samyang 3rd party offering. He ,and many who commented on his review, were fulsome in their praise. Must be a great lens to dethrone your beloved Zeiss. Btw, are Zeiss still releasing new lens?
I recently sold this lens, and I feel like I sold an arm. Absolutely gutted, in my moment of madness, in doing so. Now, the conundrum - to repurchase OR see if the new MKII 70-200 G master fills the void?? Anyone with experience of the two have any thoughts? Thanks
I've used both but now own only the Sony. they can't really be compared more than the focal length. 😉 The Sony has MUCH better and faster focus. The lens formula is 20 years younger/newer and that is noticable in almost every way. it is like comparing a modestly expensive 20 year old car with a luxury car from today...
I don't know if I had a bad copy, but the the flare on this lens was awful. I also noticed a small light dot in a image of my dog, and the sun was behind clouds at the time. So regrettably I will be returning it. Apart from that, everything else was very impressive.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Hi Dustin, same you can't see my examples. I am returning it with examples and I'll see what the shop say...Thanks for the reply though.👍
For myself.. Instead of 50 GM.. everytime instead of 135.. I always reach for the 85GM or 70-200 GM. The 135GM is really great but I am not very confident using it. I am more confident with 85 and 70-200.
I love this lens. I purchased based on your original review and I don't regret it at all. I'm now trying to decide between the Sony FE 24mm F/1.4 GM or the Sony FE 35mm f/1.4 GM If you have an opinion I would love to hear from you.
Loving the long term review Dustin, I too have been using the 135mm Zeiss Milvus on my 5d mk4 and now on my R5 and it is so so good, however, if Canon brought out an equivalent to this GM lens I would do as you have and upgrade.
The Milvus 135 is such a special lens, but I found as a practical matter that I could use the 135GM in so many more situations and get so many more usable end results that I had to make the switch.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yeah a 100% and totally get it why you made the switch! I would have done the same, looking at your test results, the autofocus of the GM over manual focus is a no brainer!
As usual, a great video! How would you compare the 135mm f1.8 GM to the 50mm f1.2 GM? I know the 135GM is about 2 years older than the 50GM, and apart from the focal length, how does the auto focus of the 135 hold up against the 50? Is the 135 better overall compared to the 50?
AF is practically just as good on the 50mm. Both use the same dual motor system making them equal but 135 feels more impressive in terms of af because longer lenses have to move more glass. You can feel the weight shift when going from close to far. From my copies, the 135 is a hair sharper than the 50 but the 50 is my go to. 50 and 135 are my favorite focal lengths but find the look is a bit more magical on the 50 at 1.2 IMO.
Read the specs... the 135 paved the way for the 50 (using the extra same linear motors). I own the 135 GM and have rented the 50. Personally, I saw no difference in focus speed. BTW, the 50 & 135 would make a special portrait combo in the bag!
@@andrespascal8825 I fully agree, and I own both. Sony has a few older GM lenses like the 18-35mm f2.8, 24-70mm f2.8 and the 85mm f1.4 which are a bit slower in performance. I think Sony will update these to the current lens design standards in due course. Sony got it fully right as from the 24mm f1.4 GM, 100mm STF and 400mm GM in 2018. All GM releases thereafter have just been incredible in terms of autofocus and I think these were already designed with the 30 frames per second of the current A1 in mind. The 14mm, 35mm, 50mm, 135mm and 600mm GM primes have all been introduced after these initial 3 lenses which had the new design standard.
Hi Jansen, some great responses here already. I would just add that I think both of these lenses are perhaps the best of their kind. I would buy more based on focal length need than any performance variation.
I've found my A9, for some reason I'm not aware of, able to grab focus on what I want to focus on with my 135 while my 50, although mounted on the same camera, tends to jump around the frame more. This sometimes slows me down because I have to focus then recompose.
Great long term review. I’ve been looking at this lens for some time now . Most likely I will get it as it has been on my short list for a while now . It’s price has heals me back . I’m looking at purchasing the Sony a7iv first . I have been looking at the Sigma Art 135mm f/1.8 also . It has a different image rendering and I like it in many situations better. Like back lit and lens flare. The Sigma flares worse but it’s an optical flaw I like . But the Sonys autofocus smokes the Sigma and the Sigma focuses very close the Sony beats it here . The Sonys close up resolution is uncanny for a long prime . I shoot live music video, photography and closeup nature . The Sony is truly a Ferrari even off the line . Even though I like the Sigmas overall image rendering better there is more to a lens than rendering. I do buy most lenses for that quality over af many times. Sony has this lens with phenomenal af speed and the 12-24 f/2.8 that’s its speedy sibling. Another lens that most companies don’t give that af speed to. In my line of work those two lenses I want the fastest af especially in low light I can get .
Optically it is very nice, but it is not actually designed for Sony initially. It's autofocus cannot be compared in any way, shape, or form. It also doesn't have the same degree of weather sealing, of features, etc...and its bigger than it needs to be. If you don't need demanding autofocus performance, it is a fine alternative. You will have more focus misses, however, just because the AF system is basically the DSLR focus motor routed through an internal adapter.
Still waiting on the RF 135 1.8 or 1.4 equivalent to show up - my money is impatiently waiting to be handed over 😔. This is one of the lenses where it is a bit painful to see being a Canon shooter
Same here, I'm currently using the Zeiss 135mm Milvus which is outstanding on my R5, along with the RF85mm f1.2L, but an autofocus version of my Milvus lens would be great, all being well i'm sure Canon will have one out soon enough.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yup - I’ve reserved $3.5k and hope it will be the last Canon prime I buy at that length for at least a couple of decades, like my trusty EF 135L!
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yeah that's already crossed my mind too, I'm waiting for Canon to release many prime lenses but may have to settle for third party lenses instead, like you say, they ain't gonna be cheap!
I can’t decide between the 135 GM and the 105 Art. Both impractical for their own reasons - but most portraits that I find myself taking at the moment are either indoors, or a short way from my car and on small paths and lanes rather than in larger environments. I worry that the 135 needs such distance that it can’t accommodate the sorts of images I want, and the 105 might be the better fit for me, despite its heft. And despite every UA-camr I’ve seen who thinks the 135 is such a winner!
I totally agree. And my brain says I *should* get the 85, because I have grown up with the 50mm on an APSC and it just reminds me of the 85 on ff, and my heart wants something a bit different. I even think that the 35/85/135 combo is a better set than the 35/50/105 I’m leaning towards. I’ve been trying to decide between which combo for months, and still not dared to pull the trigger!
@@i04pbull I'm getting the Sigma 85/1.4 for weddings, because in aps-c it gives me 130/f2.1 and still plenty of res. I'm not so sure about 105/1.4. Might be too big, heavy and old at this point - I don't trust the AF to keep up.
This might be a somewhat strange input, but having owned the 105mm 1.4 Art for some time now (and having used some 135mm lenses, though not the Sony), the lens I most often find myself thinking back to is Samyangs 85mm 1.4 (Mr. Abbott recently did a video on it on the RF platform, identical optics though) which I sold when I bought the Sigma. I am not sure that this choice was, in hindsight, the right one, even though the Sigma takes some very magical images. I would urge you to rent the Samyang and give it a try, as it quickly became my favorite lens I have ever handled overall - sharp enough on my A7R IV, fast, beautiful, beautiful bokeh and yet easy to handle - and for a ridiculously low price point to boot.
Only better in terms of price. The motor in the Samyang doesn't compare to those in this Sony. That might not matter for portraits but the 135GM is such a versatile lens. Great for indoor sports and due to impressive close focus ability a great lens for photographing small flowers.
I purchased the 135gm for street photography. Even driving back from the camera store I was thinking I had made a costly mistake. But apart from its heft, I have been blown away by the amazing candid moments I’ve been able to capture with it
It's great for people subjects in street photography.
The "costly mistake" perhaps is just that it makes you want to upgrade to A1 for the 135mm :)
This is one of those lenses that does help you forget how much you paid for it!
@@DustinAbbottTWI until you try the new Samyang 135mm F1.8 :P
@@_rhapsodist I am torn between these two.
I bought the 135mm f/1.8 for wildlife so I had no excuse not to go out in low light situations. I have the 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 which is limiting in low light, and the 400 f/2.8 is way out of my price range, so I went for the 135mm. It's great for environmental shots of wildlife, subjects you can get close to, and it gets me thinking outside the box in terms of compositions. I have It paired with the a7r iv and you can see that the 61mp of the a7r iv are held back by the 200-600mm when comparing to the 135mm which reveals the detail the a7r iv can truly capture. I think the Sony fe 135mm f/1.8 is a legendary lens, it's got unbeatable sharpness/rendering and autofocus, and it can be used for many different styles of photography.
Your final point is such a huge one. It's the combination of the absurdly good autofocus and optics that make this lens usable in far more situations than the typical 135mm.
I agree with this. I borrowed the 200-600 from an uncle for a while after he upgraded to the 600mm f/4 and yeah I just was never happy with the results on my RIV. That was the best way to explain it: held back. Honestly, I prefer the 100-400mm GM cropped, or with the 1.4x TC on it over the 200-600, even though it's slower with the TC. The 135 blows them all away, IMO.
The Sony 135 mm GM is the best Lens I ever owned. It does a phenomenal job for portraits and for fast action sports. I go to a lot of cross country ATV races and dirt bikes and people cannot believe what amazing shot I can get with it on my Sony a9. And then when I put it on my Sony a7riv The details it produces is truly mind boggling on how sharp it is. Between it and the Sigma 105 mm F one. Four art lens They are the two lenses I bring out to all my senior portraits or couples portraits.
It is that additional component as a flawless action lens that makes the 135GM unique.
@@DustinAbbottTWI I would use the 135gm before my 70-200 for action shots just for the details it produces and depth of field
Right!
@@LMActionsports what do u say to all the woke tards who think camera phones and their max of 12mp sensors provide in comparison to a professional rig .
@@Matt-xy6cf i already had 2 people on Facebook try disputing with me that their iPhone 13 & 14 pro max takes just as good photos as my cameras. That i was just wasting my money on all these fancy cameras and lenses. Well i have the iPhone 13 pro max and gave them a couple comparisons of the same portrait using both my a7iv with the Samyang 85mm f1.4 and the iPhone 13 pro max and it was night and day comparisons. Dont get me wrong you can’t take good pictures with the new camera phones but compared to a real camera. It’s all about the details. And zooming in on those pictures the iPhone didn’t even come close. Hell I took some photos a good 30 feet away and showed a comparison and, the details from the real camera showed how these new camera phones what they lack in. But the one person said i rigged it and I told him anytime he wants to come over and see it first hand. I’ll gladly show him. I told him, Nobody is going to pay me to take their portraits if I show up with a iPhone or Samsung phone to do the portrait. But some people don’t wanna be proven wrong, and this person was a stubborn ass. But I got no problem taking the cell phone challenge with anyone. Lol.
Hi Dustin...After watching this video, I have subscribed to your channel; not entirely because of the content, presentation and insights, which are all exceptional, but because you take the time to respond to comments and questions, no small task given your large viewer and subscriber base. Well done! BTW...your thoughts on the 135 GM has convinced me to purchase this lens. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
I say it a lot, but the 135 is one of those "pry it out of my cold dead hands" lenses. Pure magic. I love it on my a7RIV and it almost is always in my camera bag. I'm shy and non-confrontational, so it is my goto lens for street photography so I can keep some distance, but still get relatively tight in on a subject, and the added bonus is that since my presence isn't usually noticed, the images I get can be quite candid. I love it for compressed landscapes, and when I'm sitting on my porch shooting the birds. Lately, I've been gravitating towards primes, so my usual kit has been the 135 GM, the 50 2.5 G and the 24 GM with the Sigma 14-24 and 100-400GM on the wide and long ends respectively if I need either.
My only complaint, is I wish Sony would have designed it to be used with teleconverters. I think, like the 70-200 GM II, it's sharp enough to overcome the loss of quality you get when you use them, especially the 2x. That would've have turned an already great lens into a game changer.
Agreed on the teleconverter front. I used a 1.4x quite often with the Canon 135L back in the day.
Thanks for your input. I travel to south east Asia where street photography is at it's finest. I have the Sony F-1.8 85 and the F-1.4 GM 24. Neither are idea. I seldom use the 24mm and might trade it for the 185.
This lens more than any other in my kit makes everyone say “oh my god” when they look at a photo right out of camera taken with it. The way it renders is just flawless. I’ve never once regretted spending the money on this. Worth every penny.
I just worked a concert last night and even in low light it gave me some incredible shots. This and the 50GM were responsible for the bulk of my shots last night. I’d love to try an A1 but that is a little too much for me at the moment. I haven’t run into much that my a7riv can’t handle just yet.
Not surprised by your comments here. It is that good.
I bought this lens a year ago for an incredible and never before and after seen price of around 1200 US$ when converted (together with tax) brand new, as part of some Amazon discount. I bought it to flip it, had already buyers for 500$ more. But I couldn’t help myself but open it and try it out. Just couple of hours later, I removed my ad and a year later, I still have it and enjoy it as really the best lens I have ever owned. Like Dustin says in his review, the only drawback being the focal length itself, as not being so versatile in everyday life. But when 135mm suits the situation, oh boy, I can’t imagine anything better!
That's a stunningly good price for the lens.
I’ve been a Stills Photographer on TV/Film sets for 20+ years; was primarily a Canon DSLR shooter before mirrorless became advanced enough to replace high res dslr’s. Switched to Sony about 6 years ago…this 135 1.8 GM has become my absolute go to lens on set, far outperforming all my L series Canon lenses. Incredibly bright, tack sharp images…so much so that Directors of Photography on set always comment on and want to shoot a couple of images. Best lens I’ve ever had the privilege to shoot with and own.
It's a stunningly good lens.
This lens was a big commitment for me (as a student). I bit the bullet and bought it about 1 1/2 years ago. I've loved it since. I do admit that I hate having to backup alot, but every time I look at a picture from it, I am in awe! I love the creamy background. Truly a great lens (so glad I opted to pay more than the Sigma 135).
That is a big student purchase, but hopefully this is a lens you can use for many years and reap the benefits of your investment.
As a photo journalist who uses this lens almost daily, I can tell you this review is spot on. If you need the 135mm focal length on an ongoing basis, I'd suggest springing for the GM.
Absolutely.
As always another great video, look forward to your 70-200 f2.8 GM MKII review.
Me too! I'm on a waiting list with Sony...and thus far I've been, err...waiting.
I often use the 135GM instead if a macro for close-up. It pairs well with the 35GM on longer nature-oriented trips. Same 1:4 reproduction ratio with the 35 but more background context. They render *very* similarly too. Top glass! Enjoyed the video. Thanks.
Two great lenses. I've got the long range 35GM review coming shortly.
It's awesome seeing this review after the definitive review. It's a joy to view and listen.
Thanks for the kind feedback.
What I like about Dustin's reviews is a combination of detailed analysis and the amazing artistic talent. Pretty special in the field of lens/cameras reviews!!!
As a photographer, the quality of images from this lens really makes me want it. But from the perspective of the wedding client or other client, do they really notice the difference between this and say, the new 70-200 GM II? On another note, I think you're right about the 50mm GM. That's my go-to prime.
I would say yes, the look of this lens is just magical. It can really take a great photographers work to the next level.
That's an interesting question, and I would say that depends on both the client and the photographer. A photographer than knows how to use the 135GM to its strengths can produce special images that will wow even a discerning client. The 70-200 GM II is going to be the more flexible instrument, though, and is hard to argue against.
The 135 GM is a remarkable lens that offers next level (from what we have previously considered excellent) performance. It will be interesting to see if Sony or anyone else can improve on this focal length of fast prime lens and what the cost would be.
The list of things to further improve would be pretty brief.
I use the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM on mine Sony A7rIV and A7RIVA, from 61 megapixels you can do crops from a small part of the image that still are very sharp !
Definitely. There's a TON of cropping potential there.
I'm using it too! I even see in some cases, that a 100 400 zoom lens is not the same quality like a crop of the 135 GM image, except when the object is far away.
Bro im planning to buy sony a74..im mainfly focusing on portraits…in a doubt which one to buy..a7r4 or a74
@@akhilthomas356 when you want only photos, then maybe a7riva with 60 megapixels. A7iv is better for video and photos 33 megapixels. Autofocus is almost the same i think, a7riva is fast and it depends more on a lens. Linear motors drive GM lenses are the fastest.
I fully agree with your views, it is a truly amazing lens, even though is a niche focal length. I have also had great results using this lens for panoramas, whereby it feels like you can endlessly zoom into a scene and see ever more detail. One of those lenses I will not part with anytime soon!
That's true. You don't seem to run out of resolution on this lens.
Not a day goes by when I don’t wish I still have my 135gm. However, in the end, that extra versatility of the 70-200 MK2 helps it edge out the 135gm for that precious cargo space for a single large lens in my camera bag.
This.
Yeah if it were 250 1.8 than it would be another talk. But now 70-200 really covers it well. Not saying its bad or anything but you really have to love focal length. Being perfect and always in bag does not help
That's always a valid argument. The versatility of a good 70-200 zoom is why it will always be the better seller.
The one point eight is more valuable to me then the four is seven steps either way.... But the wide side and tc option for peak my interest. If they make an exotic zoom at f1.8/2 I probably would be all in.
i was able to snag this lens for $1400 used and it's now one of my favorite lenses for wedding video
That's an amazing price.
I've been torn between this GM and the Sigma 135 Art. I have say you've pushed me towards the GM Dustin. Great review man of God.
Optically the Sigma is very nice, but it is not actually designed for Sony originally. It's autofocus cannot be compared in any way, shape, or form. It also doesn't have the same degree of weather sealing, of features, etc...
May want to take a look at the Samyang 135mm f/1.8. Christopher Frost did a review of it the other day and its very comparable in almost all areas, except maybe a little less responsive for autofocus, but at a $1,000 cheaper pricepoint. I already have the GM, or I would have strongly looked at the Samyang as well when i was looking to buy.
Yeah, I have the 135Gm and its the best! IQ wise. The 50GM is a stunning work horse as well. The 24-70 gm v2 and the 70-200gm2 are just like a prime as well. I love them for weddings and thats coming from an all prime shooter. Sony is doing great with their new Gen. of lenses. I'm hoping for a 85 GM2 1.2 , and would love to see a not too heavy 35 GM 1.2. or a not too heavy 105GM 1.4 Just me :) love your channel Dustin keep up the great work.
They are definitely nailing the recent GM releases.
This is one of the best lens at any price point. Love mine I have had it about 3 months
, after watching your review on it then I pulled the trigger. glade I can trust your opinion God bless you and yours!
It's an amazing lens. Glad you are enjoying yours
This lens pulled me away from zooms as I was initially a huge zoom advocate. Now 2.8 sound terrible for all the events I shoot. 135 is my go to 70-200 the 35gm is my 24-70 and that 14mm is shocking the things I can get away with.
A good prime definitely has its advantages.
I agree this lens is crazy and should be considered even by event photographers in cases, where you can zoom with your feet, because the results are amazing. It's also amazing for sports!
Exactly.
I've bought this lens after seeing your definitive review. Also, it's a great review! This is the lens that I bought after the kit lens, and I can confirm every single word you said! It's awesome for everything when you can make a good composition with 135 mm.
Great to hear!
I absolutely love this lens. Have done a few photoshoots with it and the clients absolutely loved the results. Would never sell this lens
It's a beauty, for sure.
Ordered one to replace my Nikon 105 f/1.4 - my favourite lens. Got it in the mail yesterday. So psyched.
Enjoy!
@@DustinAbbottTWI Tested the lens today. Insane. One more reason for me to believe that switching from Nikon to Sony was the right decision. It's like my all time favourite 105 - but on steroids.
For me though, even if this is a prime lens, I shoot very little portraits with it. I use this for when the day's about to turn in to night when I could still travel and shoot landscapes back. And I find this to be the best companion for a wide angle prime in those situations. I'm just not a 50mm person. I find that whenever I spotted something, stood there and lift the camera to my eyes, usually 50mm just gave a me a way too narrow view for that "image in my head" or I have to back off a bit. And the same type of problem goes to 85mm for me. I find that it usually just has a little more width than I needed and is a lot of time, not very different looking to a 50mm prime. So, 24/35 and a 135 prime are my best companion to keep on shooting when the day turned dark instead of your typical 2.8/F4 zooms at both end. I would go as far as to say, I prefer 135 primes over a 70-200 2.8 since my meta data says I'm shooting a lot of 135mm images and mostly at 200mm on the other end, which means I'm probably in need of a bit longer lens
Your feedback reminds of one limitation of this lens - no compatibility with TCs. Throwing a 1.4x on and getting a near 200mm (190mm) F2.8 prime is a nice addition.
@@DustinAbbottTWI I wouldn't deny the possibility maybe sony would come out with a 150 or 200mm prime one day. If that happens, 200mm prime should allow us to use it with an adapter. Sony as a company gave me this impression they seems very "on-the-ball" trying to catch up to Canon and beat them with anything they produce, while at the same time has a quite keen ear for users' requests. And can always suprise us with some new unthinkable techs.
I just bought this lens two days ago and did my first ever street photography shoot with it today.
This lens is truly special 😊
It most definitely is!
Great review Dustin! Since I shoot birds and wildlife and nature having that longer narrower field of view is a plus for me. It's the best lens I've ever shot with!
It is one of the best lenses optically, period.
Hello Dustin, great review.
I'm looking forward to your review of the new Samyang 135mm F/1.8.
I'm really excited about reviewing it, too, even though I own the GM
Great update Dustin. Yes the reason I sold my Zeiss 135mm ZE was because I found the 135mm was just to long most of the time. Loved the Zeiss rendering though. Also the longer I go in focal length I start to miss AF/eye detect etc.
That's a fair assessment.
I just got this lens last week. It is absolutely amazing. The most Bokehlicious lens I have. Even more so than the RF 85mm f1.2!
It's a stunning lens for sure.
Hello Mr. Abbott,
thank you for talking about your experiences with that lens and your detailed video.
I own that lens and I can fully agree. It’s absolutely fantastic, heavy, expensive and a little too long for an everyday use. But it’s effect is outstanding!
Greetings from Germany
Dimi | Pistolas Photo
Glad it was helpful!
6:12 The squirrel seems to be a bit camera shy, especially when it saw it's the fast focus 135 1.8 GM.
LOL
I want to give a second like for Ferrari the cat. What a cameo!
He's a fine actor ;)
So. I have nailed a few very detailed shots with my sony A7RIV (with shattered rear screen so it was quarter price)and an older sony zeiss 135mm f1.8 A-mount via LA-EA5 adapter. But I just reserved the 135 G Master used for a third of new so i am hopeful that my photography of bird wildlife in the park may just get a new lease of life for more action scenes since it took some moments for the adapted lens to reach focus before exposure. I had considered the new samyang fe 135mm f1.8, but I didn't want to risk the focus lock speed not keeping up with this, "the best" native version.
You wont be disappointed with this lens.
Although very respectable at x0.25, I wish this went all the way to 1:1, so that I could replace my 90mm macro. The rumors of an upcoming GM macro (at around 100mm) didn't prove very reliable in the end
As I often do some video work - mostly for things I can't get too close - would the 135mm resolve more detail compared to my 90mm? I am talking in the range of 3 to 5 yards and my scope is to be able to capture as much as fine detail as possible (e.g. reptiles, animal eye shots, insects), whilst shooting in super 35 (4K, 25fps). I am already impressed with my 90mm in such shooting situations, but if this 135mm can do even better, I would be astounded! I mean, how much more detail a lens could possibly resolve from such distance?
As you can probably tell from my question, my understanding of the focal length difference vs the reproduction ratio is not entirely clear. Because although 135mm offers 'more reach' than 90mm, the 90mm does 1:1, whilst the 135mm 'only' x0.25...
So what I am trying to figure here is, assuming that you mount both lenses, on the same body and shoot a subject 5 yards away, which of the two will get closer *and* resolve more detail. Its hard for me to realise whats the equivalence here. Obviously the 135mm will 'get closer', but isn't it that the reproduction size (x0.25 vs 1:1) play a role here in the detail resolved? I am confused!
The 135mm at 3-5 yards will look closer. And having such high resolution probably be sharper and a closer to you look .
As say a 200mm at the same range will look even closer and a 20mm will look very far away
@@smallbatchsessions6892 Thank you! I ll probably need to obtain sample shots of both, in order to gain the actual perspective. In theory, yes, for this scenario, the 135mm probably wins...
You can always add an extension tube to increase the magnification.
Great review once again Dustin! I also love my 135GM and consider it to be the best lens I ever owned. I mainly use it for outside portraits. I have to mention one other lens (besides the f1.2-50GM) of superb quality: the f1.8/14GM. This one I consider to - probably - be the second best lens I ever owned.
The last few year's worth of GM lenses have been top notch.
An interesting apples to apples comparison would be against the Samyang 135 mm f1.8, not sure what one would take out of this comparison to a MF lens.
Some are saying that it's even a hair sharper than the GM.
Samyang is also an FE lens, pretty much identical specs and costs 2 times less. That would be a really interesting and useful at the same time comparison.
Just a thought. Thank you for the long term review.
I've got that planned as soon as I can get a tester from Samyang.
I got Samyang 135mm, haven't tested fast moving object yet, but regarding bokeh seems that for FE Sigma is the best, then Sony then Samyang.
Generally Samyang is very good for it's price, I'm planning to post a review soon (although on APSC camera).
@@JoATTech I've never seen a Sigma that beats a GM equivalent on AF speed, precision and noise.
@@Zarabozo What about 85mm? New Sigma DG DN is a killer. Haven't seen GM unfortunately, cause I'm too poor ;)
What do you think about the distance it took to capture the photos? Isn't it a little too far from the subject to be able to communicate effectively? I have 90mm macro that I double it as a portrait lens and sometimes I had to back out farther than I want to get the framing that I want and had to speak louder and comes off a little shouty as the result. I hesitant to pick >90mm lens as a portrait lens because of that...
That's definitely a consideration, and why I say in the wrap-up that the 50GM might be the better choice for many.
Dustin, thanks for what you are doing! I do not miss a single video.
All lens purchases for my Sony camera are done only after viewing your videos!
I would like to see how Samyang/Rokinon 135 1.8 compares to this gorgeous G-Master.
Its less than half the price!
Does it offer comparable performance?
What is your expertise on it?
I would really like to know your opinion.
A review would be great!
A head to head shootout with G-Master would be stellar!
Thanks!
I had the Samyang and I was totally disappointed. Had a lot of CAs despite all the glorious reviews (reviews from people that get lenses from samyang). AF was as expected, ok but not very fast. Sharpness was disappointing wide open. I would have wished they would have taken the Samyang 135mm mf optics, they were nearly apochromatic. but maybe I had just ja bad copy. it’s a very light lens for its size, so built was ok but long term reliability is always in question with those. I‘ll save my money for the Sony so I get Sharpness on a level of the Sigma with a great autofocus
That does sound like a bad copy. CA is not non-existent, but minimal
anxiously waiting for that samyang 135 f1.8 review! its hard to buy it without your "approval"
I’m taking it to Boston to shoot the Marathon on Monday.
That will be fun!
excellent video, as always - thanks a ton! Remains one question: What type of a wild cat is that at 6:50? Beautiful animal
He is a Bengal...and he is definitely a beauty.
which best filter matching in quality, you recommend for this lens, please?
I've reviewed a number of good filter options, but I feel like these ones stand out: ua-cam.com/video/ROwnH1dF_I4/v-deo.html
will you compare this with the new Samyang option?
I plan to as soon as I get a tester from Samyang. I've asked a few times but haven't heard back from them yet.
This is my favorite lens. The only weakness is the lens hood. It breaks off so easily. Aside from that, one of my favorite lenses.
I don't agree. I think the lens hood fits perfectly and is rather sturdy.
Hmmm, that's a strange observation. I don't think I've experienced the same concern.
@@DustinAbbottTWI 3 times I've had the plastic that holds it break out. And it wasn't from major impact, just small bumps. Just my first hand experience.
@@PH61a Different experiences from different people. Had to have the mount for it replaced 3 times. And nothing major, just minor bumps.
I could not agree more. I love my 135gm it's amazing
Definitely is.
Dustin, so... I own this lens... and love it... BUT, recently discovered that it renders different colors from the GM 35mm F1.4 and the GM 50mm F1.2, and those are my go-to lenses for outdoor (family) portraits... I won't give it up, but it's a lot of work trying to color match my photos to look exactly the same... Do you have any advice on what I can do to ease up post-processing?
Interesting. I own those lenses as well and I don't think I've encountered quite the same thing.
I'd have one if I could but the long awaited Tamron 35-150mm arrived last week, at f2.8 it will have to do!
You're not suffering - that is a fabulous lens!
DA, how do you color your video portion talking to the camera? It looks great.
I do very little grading. I set things up mostly in camera - I shoot S-Cinetone and then just add a bit of contrast and sharpness.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Wow, S-Cnetone looks stunning. This is all done in the a1?
This is one of my favorite lens, great video as usual.
It is an amazing lens!
Great video, ironically I’ve been recently researching on 135mm but on the vintage m42 side as my budget is a bit light for the Sony …🤔📸👍
I've spent time with a number of 135mm vintage lenses (probably a half dozen). They do have certain strengths, but a modern high resolution camera does expose a LOT of vulnerabilities.
I heard great things about the newly released Samyang 135mm 1.8 lens. It’s so well corrected that it may as well be an APO lens.
My testing shows that it’s sharper and brighter than my 135 1.8 GM. Under the exact same condition the Samyang user a lower ISO (1000) than the GM (1600) at the same shutter speed (1/160).
This has been pretty consistent.
The Samyang is also smaller and lighter.
The only negative I have is that only once the lens hesitated to achieve focus. Shutting of the camera and switching it resolved it.
This happened only one in the 3 days that I have had the lens.
I am seriously considering selling my Sony 135mm 1.8 GM lens.
I was wondering if you will be reviewing the Samyang in the near future?
I've been trying to get a review copy for months. My Samyang contacts have been out of touch with me, so I don't know what's going on.
@@DustinAbbottTWI The AF issues with the Samyang have disappeared with firmware 03. So now it’s perfect.
That's great to hear!
Did you ever review the Samyang 135 1.8?
The big issue with this lens is the lens hood lock. I twisted mine one time without unlocking it and caused the plastic front ring that the lens cap and lens hood use to be secured. Cost of replacing it was...USD200!?! In the end I stuck it on with some glue. Absolutely ridiculous that a $3-5 piece of plastic would cost so much. The reason is that Sony do not sell it separately. I would have had to replace a whole slew of other components. A real price gouge. BTW the lens is otherwise fantastic.
135 GM or 50 GM - choose one Dustin! What's your choice? Thank you!
That's a very tough call. Both lenses are excellent (and very different). I would lean towards the 50GM, however, as I just think it would get used more often.
I had an opportunity to use both on a recent vacation to the beach. They were both excellent! The 50mm was more versatile but I found the autofocus with my A9 to be more accurate in choosing to focus on what I wanted it to focus on when the 135mm was mounted.
Hi Dustin,
Do you print your own work? I am interested in printing my photos on a Canon printer, and I was wondering if you had any advice.
Thanks,
Mathew
I've done a lot in the past (not at the moment). I've used the Canon Pixma Pro 100 a lot.
Would you recommend this lens for sports photography?
I would. It has multiple XD linear focus motors and has some of the fastest focus on a prime I've ever seen.
when is the review for the 70-200GMII?
Good question, but not one that I have an answer for. I was on a waiting list with Sony, but I've never seen one.
I love the 135mm focal length have owned Nikon 135mm f2 ais, 135mm f2 dc, 135mm 2.8 respectively. Also the sigma 135mm 1.8 nikon and sony versions. Canon 135mm f2 and even the pentax k 135m f2.5 LOL! I'm sure the Sony 135mm 1.8 is brilliant but a little out of my reach. Yesterday I had my new Samyang 135mm 1.8 delivered for my Sony A7rii. Incredible! Better than all the aforementioned lenses. Will you be comparing the Sony 1.8 and Samyang 1.8 soon? Now that would be interesting. Take care Dustin :)
I plan to as soon as I get a review copy
@@DustinAbbottTWI The Samyang is really good - the lighter weight and the fact that you can change fstop with focus ring is great. Sharpness is superb, same as Sigma, no CAs at all. from your review of the Sony I'm sure focus is better though. All the best Dustin, hope you and your family are well :)
I just might have to buy this lens before year end. Thanks.
Hard to argue against it. It is exceptionally good.
Top notch review about top notch lens! Beautiful models.
Glad you enjoyed it
I absolutely agree that the newer G/GM lenses provide the best of optics-build-AF tracking that is in line with the newer faster sony cameras. I love the 135 fl & the combination of a very fast aperture with closer mfd can give amazing compositions. One is lucky with sony FE to have a few lenses in this range - both AF & MF - at different price points. I opted for the newer samyang cine MF lens as I felt that most of my work with the a7r4 was compositional rather than AF tracking of movement. And as my first camera was my father's medium format twin reflex rolleichord, MF comes naturally & I prefer it sometimes for the extra fine tuning for still photography & even for certain kinds of cine work. The optics is excellent and at 1/5th or 1/6th the cost. And the newer samyang AF version is lighter - smaller - slightly better MFD and at less than half the price of the GM. This is not to question the value of the GM which has better build - AF motors but much more to understand what makes for the value of a lens & what one requires.
It is all about your needs, to be sure. The 135GM doubles as an amazing action lens in a way like I've not seen with any other 135mm lens, so that does give it a unique application.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Fully agree - it is both a bokeh lens & an action lens & pairs perfectly with the A1
Hi, what do you think about Sigma Art 135 mm F1.8?
Optically it is very nice, but it is not actually designed for Sony. It's autofocus cannot be compared in any way, shape, or form. It also doesn't have the same degree of weather sealing, of features, etc...
Great review, thanks :)
Glad it was helpful!
Never questioned my purchase but the Samyang 1.8 is intriguing now
It is an intriguing lens even though the G Master is still superior in an absolute sense.
14 gm ,50 gm and 135 gm that's it for me.
I’m similar but I think I may go with the 12-24 gm. I’ve got the 50 gm, 85 gm, 135 gm, and 600 gm.
Nice kit that, maybe I'd add the 24GM as the gap between 14 and 50 is huge! I've gone with Tamron 17-28, 35GM, 50GM, and 70-200 GM ii.
My 35 GM is so dang good!
That's a wicked combination!
@@BenLovell80 the 24 GM is a great lens. Loved mine when I had one.
Little doubt this is a superb lens. As have previously stated, I really do wonder how many non pro shooters are able to afford this and many other GM products.
Same applies to Canon RF glass.
Watched a YT review by Christopher Frost of the Samyang 3rd party offering. He ,and many who commented on his review, were fulsome in their praise.
Must be a great lens to dethrone your beloved Zeiss.
Btw, are Zeiss still releasing new lens?
From what I understand, Zeiss is focused on Cine lenses right now. I haven't seen a new mirrorless or DSLR lens from them since the 100mm F1.4 Otus.
I got my SY AF 135 two days ago and I am LOVIN IT. It's nearly unnatural to feel this way about a lens.
Can someone link the Lensrentals article referred in the intro section, please?
www.lensrentals.com/blog/2019/03/sony-fe-135mm-f1-8-gm-early-mtf-results/
I recently sold this lens, and I feel like I sold an arm. Absolutely gutted, in my moment of madness, in doing so. Now, the conundrum - to repurchase OR see if the new MKII 70-200 G master fills the void??
Anyone with experience of the two have any thoughts?
Thanks
That really depends on your shooting needs. The zoom is more versatile, but the 135gm is special
I have a Canon 135/2. Any reason to replace it with the Sony G Master instead of adapting it to my pending A7R4 buy?
I've used both but now own only the Sony. they can't really be compared more than the focal length. 😉 The Sony has MUCH better and faster focus. The lens formula is 20 years younger/newer and that is noticable in almost every way. it is like comparing a modestly expensive 20 year old car with a luxury car from today...
I think Henrik has summed things up pretty accurately.
Brilliant lens, that and my 100-400 are my favourite lenses
Two nice ones, for sure.
I don't know if I had a bad copy, but the the flare on this lens was awful. I also noticed a small light dot in a image of my dog, and the sun was behind clouds at the time. So regrettably I will be returning it. Apart from that, everything else was very impressive.
Hmmm, that does sound odd to me. It could be something defective, as I haven't noticed a major issue there.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Hi Dustin, same you can't see my examples. I am returning it with examples and I'll see what the shop say...Thanks for the reply though.👍
I would like to see this V.S the new offering from Nikon please.
For myself.. Instead of 50 GM.. everytime instead of 135.. I always reach for the 85GM or 70-200 GM. The 135GM is really great but I am not very confident using it. I am more confident with 85 and 70-200.
Interesting. I do agree that the 135mm focal length is not for everyone.
I love this lens. I purchased based on your original review and I don't regret it at all.
I'm now trying to decide between the Sony FE 24mm F/1.4 GM or the Sony FE 35mm f/1.4 GM If you have an opinion I would love to hear from you.
I personally bought the 35GM and love it. I've got a long term review of it coming in the next few weeks.
This lens has higher performance by F8 or F11 ?
That would depend on the resolution of the camera, but for the most part I would say F8
Thanks!
Welcome!
Loving the long term review Dustin, I too have been using the 135mm Zeiss Milvus on my 5d mk4 and now on my R5 and it is so so good, however, if Canon brought out an equivalent to this GM lens I would do as you have and upgrade.
The Milvus 135 is such a special lens, but I found as a practical matter that I could use the 135GM in so many more situations and get so many more usable end results that I had to make the switch.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yeah a 100% and totally get it why you made the switch! I would have done the same, looking at your test results, the autofocus of the GM over manual focus is a no brainer!
Just bought one and it arrived yesterday 😍
Now that is nice timing...
As usual, a great video! How would you compare the 135mm f1.8 GM to the 50mm f1.2 GM? I know the 135GM is about 2 years older than the 50GM, and apart from the focal length, how does the auto focus of the 135 hold up against the 50? Is the 135 better overall compared to the 50?
AF is practically just as good on the 50mm. Both use the same dual motor system making them equal but 135 feels more impressive in terms of af because longer lenses have to move more glass. You can feel the weight shift when going from close to far. From my copies, the 135 is a hair sharper than the 50 but the 50 is my go to. 50 and 135 are my favorite focal lengths but find the look is a bit more magical on the 50 at 1.2 IMO.
Read the specs... the 135 paved the way for the 50 (using the extra same linear motors). I own the 135 GM and have rented the 50. Personally, I saw no difference in focus speed. BTW, the 50 & 135 would make a special portrait combo in the bag!
@@andrespascal8825 I fully agree, and I own both. Sony has a few older GM lenses like the 18-35mm f2.8, 24-70mm f2.8 and the 85mm f1.4 which are a bit slower in performance. I think Sony will update these to the current lens design standards in due course. Sony got it fully right as from the 24mm f1.4 GM, 100mm STF and 400mm GM in 2018. All GM releases thereafter have just been incredible in terms of autofocus and I think these were already designed with the 30 frames per second of the current A1 in mind. The 14mm, 35mm, 50mm, 135mm and 600mm GM primes have all been introduced after these initial 3 lenses which had the new design standard.
Hi Jansen, some great responses here already. I would just add that I think both of these lenses are perhaps the best of their kind. I would buy more based on focal length need than any performance variation.
I've found my A9, for some reason I'm not aware of, able to grab focus on what I want to focus on with my 135 while my 50, although mounted on the same camera, tends to jump around the frame more. This sometimes slows me down because I have to focus then recompose.
How is this for sports?
Amazing. It is right up there with the supertelephotos for tracking perfections.
If Samyang ever delivers their 135mm (preorders in USA started late January), that will be an interesting comparison!
Exactly, based of early reviews and manufacturer MTF charts it looks to beat the Sony optically, although the Sony's AF performance is unrivaled.
I hope to do that comparison but I'm waiting on getting a tester from Samyang.
Can you compare it with the new Samyang 135mm?
I plan to as soon as a I get a tester from Samyang.
Great long term review. I’ve been looking at this lens for some time now .
Most likely I will get it as it has been on my short list for a while now . It’s price has heals me back .
I’m looking at purchasing the Sony a7iv first .
I have been looking at the Sigma Art 135mm f/1.8 also . It has a different image rendering and I like it in many situations better. Like back lit and lens flare. The Sigma flares worse but it’s an optical flaw I like .
But the Sonys autofocus smokes the Sigma and the Sigma focuses very close the Sony beats it here . The Sonys close up resolution is uncanny for a long prime .
I shoot live music video, photography and closeup nature . The Sony is truly a Ferrari even off the line .
Even though I like the Sigmas overall image rendering better there is more to a lens than rendering. I do buy most lenses for that quality over af many times.
Sony has this lens with phenomenal af speed and the 12-24 f/2.8 that’s its speedy sibling. Another lens that most companies don’t give that af speed to. In my line of work those two lenses I want the fastest af especially in low light I can get .
The AF is definitely not in the same class, as the Sigma's AF system was actually designed for DSLRS, not mirrorless.
I am a wedding photographer , o hace one ....incredible , the Best !
Definitely.
I agree. Best lens i've ever used. What a fucking beast
It is a beast.
Proud owner! Can you give a blow for blow 135GM VS 50GM on image quality.
That might be a subject for another video.
that Samyang is whoopin its ass at a fraction of the price
I'm not sure I'd go that far, but the Samyang is a great lens and a great value.
@@DustinAbbottTWI the Sony hasn't won on one technical test yet loses on everything except autofocus and I own all gm lenses
How does Sigma ART 135/1.8 compares?
Thats what im saying
Optically it is very nice, but it is not actually designed for Sony initially. It's autofocus cannot be compared in any way, shape, or form. It also doesn't have the same degree of weather sealing, of features, etc...and its bigger than it needs to be. If you don't need demanding autofocus performance, it is a fine alternative. You will have more focus misses, however, just because the AF system is basically the DSLR focus motor routed through an internal adapter.
@@DustinAbbottTWI yeah but Sigma is the closest comparison for it i think, not GF110.
Are you reading my mind? I have been shopping for a lens like this lol.
LOL - apparently I am!
@@DustinAbbottTWI Will you be reviewing the Samyang 135 f 1.8?
Love the Content!
Thank you very much.
Still waiting on the RF 135 1.8 or 1.4 equivalent to show up - my money is impatiently waiting to be handed over 😔. This is one of the lenses where it is a bit painful to see being a Canon shooter
Same here, I'm currently using the Zeiss 135mm Milvus which is outstanding on my R5, along with the RF85mm f1.2L, but an autofocus version of my Milvus lens would be great, all being well i'm sure Canon will have one out soon enough.
I shudder to think of what Canon will charge for such a lens. I'm getting in the 3 grand range.
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yup - I’ve reserved $3.5k and hope it will be the last Canon prime I buy at that length for at least a couple of decades, like my trusty EF 135L!
@@DustinAbbottTWI Yeah that's already crossed my mind too, I'm waiting for Canon to release many prime lenses but may have to settle for third party lenses instead, like you say, they ain't gonna be cheap!
I’m sure the Sony 135mm GM is great, but I just can’t justify the cost compared to the Samyang 135mm.
Fair enough.
I can’t decide between the 135 GM and the 105 Art. Both impractical for their own reasons - but most portraits that I find myself taking at the moment are either indoors, or a short way from my car and on small paths and lanes rather than in larger environments. I worry that the 135 needs such distance that it can’t accommodate the sorts of images I want, and the 105 might be the better fit for me, despite its heft. And despite every UA-camr I’ve seen who thinks the 135 is such a winner!
85/1.4?
I totally agree. And my brain says I *should* get the 85, because I have grown up with the 50mm on an APSC and it just reminds me of the 85 on ff, and my heart wants something a bit different. I even think that the 35/85/135 combo is a better set than the 35/50/105 I’m leaning towards. I’ve been trying to decide between which combo for months, and still not dared to pull the trigger!
@@i04pbull I'm getting the Sigma 85/1.4 for weddings, because in aps-c it gives me 130/f2.1 and still plenty of res. I'm not so sure about 105/1.4. Might be too big, heavy and old at this point - I don't trust the AF to keep up.
@@sulev111 The Sigma 85 is just awesome, you won't regret that.
This might be a somewhat strange input, but having owned the 105mm 1.4 Art for some time now (and having used some 135mm lenses, though not the Sony), the lens I most often find myself thinking back to is Samyangs 85mm 1.4 (Mr. Abbott recently did a video on it on the RF platform, identical optics though) which I sold when I bought the Sigma.
I am not sure that this choice was, in hindsight, the right one, even though the Sigma takes some very magical images.
I would urge you to rent the Samyang and give it a try, as it quickly became my favorite lens I have ever handled overall - sharp enough on my A7R IV, fast, beautiful, beautiful bokeh and yet easy to handle - and for a ridiculously low price point to boot.
I’m sorry if this question has been answered before, but what kind of cat is Ferrari?
He's a Bengal.
Samyang's version is looking even better, if fast AF is not a priority.
I hope to do a direct comparison once Samyang decides to send me a tester.
Only better in terms of price. The motor in the Samyang doesn't compare to those in this Sony. That might not matter for portraits but the 135GM is such a versatile lens. Great for indoor sports and due to impressive close focus ability a great lens for photographing small flowers.