My early start in photography had me shooting graffiti in alleyways and I could not fit everything in the frame despite standing as far back as I could. This is where my obsession with wide-angle lenses began and it has not stopped since. I have Sony to blame (read: thank) for what happens next… Released today, we have a lens that, to my knowledge, has not been attempted before. Welcome, the Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM lens.
Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 G MASTER Lens ()
Key features:
- 12-24mm F/2.8 G Master
- World’s widest full-frame zoom with constant 2.8 aperture
- 3 extreme aspherical (XA) elements, 3 extra-low dispersion (ED) elements, 2 Super ED elements
- 9-blade circular aperture
- 4 high-speed high-thrust extreme dynamic (XD) linear motors
- Customizable focus-hold button, focus-mode switch, zoom ring, and focusing ring
- New Nano AR Coating II
- 11-inch (28-cm) minimum focusing distance
- Dust- and moisture-resistant, with fluorine coating on front lens element for repelling contaminants
- Rear filter holder, and included cutting template for sheet filters
- Weighs 1.87 lbs (847 g)
This highly-anticipated lens joins Sony’s prestigious G Master lineup. Of course, the existing Sony FE 12-24mm f/4 G E-Mount Lens (not to be confused with the G Master) is still a very likable lens. It’s much smaller and lighter than the third-party equivalent, and comes in at just .
Third-party lenses have previously delivered wide-angle options for the Sony full-frame E-mount line, and today’s new Sony lens stacks up right against the existing lens offerings. A zoom lens’ flexibility when working with ultra-wide focal ranges is amazing. There are times when you are at a high vantage point and walking to zoom is just not feasible, as is the case when taking architectural shots inside buildings. Primes do have their place, but the lack of flexibility can be very limiting.
This new Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM Lens goes further than anything before it in nearly all ways. It covers the widest range going from 12-24mm and is a constant f/2.8. That combination puts it in a class of its own. The flexibility of the zoom gives you many options when shooting the types of shots you’d usually use this lens for.
This is a native lens, so autofocus speed is increased compared to alternatives. It means you can use this for action shots and get some unique perspectives given the extremely wide field of view, especially when you factor in the short minimum focusing distance of 11 inches, or 28 centimeters.
Sony took time to develop a new Nano AR Coating II to prevent ghosting and flaring. For fans of the existing 24mm f/1.4 GM lens, you’ll likely have a great time with this lens too. It feels very familiar in the hands and has a nice balance to it. I’ll admit that I was surprised at how light it was as it weighs only 1.87 pounds (847 g). Despite being lighter and smaller than its closest competitor, you get the usual high-quality build, as one has come to expect from the G Master range, with a dedicated focus hold button and the ability to turn autofocus on and off on the barrel. The front cap clips in place and won’t work its way off like some other lenses which have to account for a permanently attached lens hood.
Sony also took into consideration the fact that people may want to add neutral density filters and added a rear lens filter holder. The lens will ship with a template for making your own filters (though I was unable to try this feature).
Sony gets major kudos for listening to its customers and users. I asked them for more wide-range options two years ago and I was met with a smile. The following day, Sony released the 12-24mm f/4 G, and today they have continued on the promise.
Sony also deserve major kudos for raising the bar with a lens that outclasses the competition.
Finally, I will be swapping this lens in place of my current wide-angle go-to. It is lighter, smaller, faster to focus, and more flexible in terms of range.
The Sony FE 12-24mm F/2.8 GM lens will be available for preorder today at 5PM EST for at Adorama.
Full disclosure: I am a member of the Sony Imaging Collective.
Feature photo by Sal D’Alia
