Sony Electronics has officially announced the launch of 28-70mm F2 G Master, which happens to be the first ever Sony zoom lens with a constant F2 aperture.
According to certain reports, the stated full-frame lens offers a versatile focal range from 28mm to 70mm, all while delivering prime-like bokeh, thanks to its constant F2 aperture. More on that aperture would reveal how, despite a markedly wide design, the device arrives on the scene as compact lightweight, and well-balanced, making the device ideal for both photography and video applications. Not just that, the whole package consisting of zoom range, large aperture, and compact design, all in all, enables the lens to efficiently serve portrait, sports, wedding, event, and video professionals.
Talk about the whole value proposition on a slightly deeper level, we begin from its promise to deliver sharp imagery and beautiful bokeh. You see, the 28-70mm F2 G Master can produce extremely crisp corner-to-corner results throughout the entire zoom range, even while shooting wide open at F2. It achieves such a high resolution on the back of three XA (extreme aspherical) elements and three aspherical elements built within the lens that minimize aberrations.
Furthermore, the lens features a floating focusing system that helps maintain internal stability, thus powering an impressive minimum focusing distance of up to 14.8 inches (0.38m) throughout the entire zoom range.
The lens’ aperture up to F2 is also capable of producing extraordinary bokeh. Here, the device effectively amplifies the G Master bokeh standards through a newly designed 11-blade circular aperture unit. It also eliminates chromatic aberrations, which cause color fringing within photos using three Super ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and one ED element built within the lens.
Alongside that, Sony’s Nano AR Coating II intelligently reduces flare and internal reflections so to ensure clear images, even when strong light sources are present in the frame.
Next up, we must expand upon its design, which includes one of the most advanced mirrorless camera lenses manufactured with a total 20 different lens elements that, on their part, are arranged within 14 internal groups.
“Our goal with the 28-70mm F2 G Master was to create a high-performing zoom lens that could be a strong single lens alternative to multiple primes,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We prioritized a lightweight design during the engineering process as we knew that was a critical factor for real-life, practical use. And in a manner that only Sony can do, we were able to deliver a small, standard F2 zoom lens that does not sacrifice image quality. We’re proud to add this to our G Master series.”
Then, there is available a precise autofocus tracking facility with instant response. In essence, the technology delivers at your disposal reliable and responsive autofocus through four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors powered by advanced control algorithms. Providing you with accurate and quick focus tracking, this particular facility becomes all the more important in many professional use cases like weddings and sports. The lens is also fully compatible with Sony’s Alpha 9 III’s high-speed continuous shooting capabilities of up to 120 frames per second boasting AF/AE (autofocus/autoexposure) tracking.
On the other hand, though, its high autofocus performance ensures reliable focus even when recording in high frame rates up to 4K 120p / FHD 240p
Another detail worth a mention stems from the device’s ability to provide versatile video option that can cover standard field-of-view shots and tighter compositions up to 70mm. On top of that, the lens also minimizes focus breathing through its build and compatibility with the Breathing Compensation feature on various Alpha bodies.
Joining that would be the lens’ core operability and reliability. To achieve both, it enables access of Linear Response MF for intuitive manual focusing, adjustable zoom ring torque, and an aperture ring with a click ON/OFF switch. It also two customizable focus hold buttons, an iris lock switch, and an AF/MF switch.
In case that wasn’t enough, for durability, all buttons and switches are sealed with silicone gaskets, whereas critical areas are designed to resist dust and moisture.
