Sony announces $6,799 50-150mm f2 GM lens

Hot on the heels of the recently released Sony FE 28-70mm F2 GM lens is Sony's new FE 50-150mm F2 GM.

Weighing in at 1,340g, the lens features a constant aperture of f2.0 and constant barrel length – meaning that it is an internal zoom design. 

The lens is designed to capture fast-moving, low-light subjects, with purportedly ultra-fast autofocus tracking that can keep up with the α9 III’s 120 fps maximum burst speed — even while zooming.

On the negative side – it doesn't have IS and instead relies on your camera's in-body IS – and it also lacks the ability to use teleconverters to extend the focal length.

As for the internal lenses themselves – there are two precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements, which help maintain high resolution across all apertures, including F2.

Additionally, two Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and three ED glass elements reduce chromatic aberration, while Nano AR Coating II helps to minimise flare and ghosting.

Also, focus-breathing is kept to a minimum – which will help when shooting video.

Operability is enhanced by an aperture ring with click ON/OFF and lock switches, three assignable focus hold buttons, and a DMF switch that enables temporary switchover to manual focus while using AF.

And although it is a relatively large lens, ample clearance is provided for the camera grip.

The removable tripod foot has 1/4” and 3/8” screw holes, and a dust/moisture resistant design ensures it will survive rain if shooting outdoor sport, or champagne spills at a wedding.

Don’t expect the lens filters to be cheap – the filter diameter at 95mm is the size of a small pizza.

Is it goodbye to our trusty 24-70mm and 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lenses?

It's great to see camera companies wanting to push the envelope when it comes to lens designs – and it's exciting to see a new focal length that many event photographers will no doubt find incredibly useful.

Most professionals have been seemingly content with the 24-70mm and 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lenses for so long; and have used prime lenses to accompany them if the light is too low, or if they need that extra sweet shallow depth of field and bokeh.

But now with these f/2.0 zooms, many photographers may be thinking – do I still need to own prime lenses?

But the elephant in the room with these new f/2.0 zooms is that, along with the hefty price tag, they also come with substantial increases in weight and size – making these spectacular lenses a bit of a challenge for long shooting days.

If you are thinking of going the f/2.0 route, price-wise, the Sony FE 28-70mm F2 GM is $4,100 - $5,299 (original RRP), while the new FE 50-150mm F2 GM launch price is $6,799.00.

The lens is available for pre-order, and you can find out more about the lens on the Sony AU website.