Sony Alpha Mount for Full-Frame Sensors
Aperture Range: f/1.4-22
Carl Zeiss Optics and Planar Design
Two Glass-Molded Aspherical Elements
Super Sonic Wave Autofocus Motor
ED Glass and Carl Zeiss T* Lens Coating
Dust-Resistant Metal Lens Barrel
Rounded Nine-Blade Aperture
The Sony 50mm f/1.4 Carl Zeiss Planar T* ZA Lens is a normal-length prime lens that is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C-sized image sensors. This lens' construction integrates two glass-molded aspherical elements within its design to provide high image quality while reducing distortions and aberrations. The Carl Zeiss optics work to produce a rich image quality, and its planar design helps to improve overall image sharpness due to its flat reproduction characteristics with minimal field curvature. Additionally, extra-low dispersion (ED) glass is used throughout to further minimize chromatic aberration and aid in producing even sharpness across the image plane. A Carl Zeiss T* coating is applied to lens elements, too, to help reduce lens flare and surface reflections on individual elements.
In regard to focusing and handling performance, this lens utilizes an SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor) to produce quiet and smooth focusing that is ideal when working with video applications. A focus hold button and DMF (Direct Manual Focus) functions aid to this lens' manual focusing abilities, while the rear-focusing design and incorporation of a focus ring that does not rotate while in AF mode are specifically engineered for more efficient AF usage.
The optical design of the lens is housed within a metal lens barrel that offers both durability and rigidity while also providing drip- and dust-resistance for use in inclement conditions.
Carl Zeiss Optics and Design
The inclusion of Carl Zeiss optics contributes to producing richly detailed, high quality imagery with notable overall sharpness. The combination of the planar design, incorporation of aspherical elements, and rear-focusing system all contribute to even edge-to-edge illumination and contrast that can be seen even when working with the fast wide-open f/1.4 aperture. Additionally, two glass-molded aspheric elements and the incorporation of ED glass work to minimize distortions and aberrations while also benefiting image sharpness, contrast, and colour fidelity. A Carl Zeiss T* lens coating is also applied to individual lens elements to help reduce lens flare and improve contrast and clarity.
Super Sonic Wave Motor
The SSM focus system provides quick, quiet focusing abilities that are well suited for both still photography and movie recording. The manual focus ring features a non-rotating design when working in autofocus modes, however when working in manual focus situations, DMF and a focus hold button are available to benefit critical focusing.
Lens Barrel Design
The lens features an aluminium alloy construction that provides increased durability and tactility for use. The metal body also contributes to the dust- and drip-resistant design, which is further enhanced with the inclusion of rubber seals to minimize the ability of dust and moisture to affect the performance of the lens.
E-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
Aperture Range: f/1.4 to f/16
One AA Element & One Aspherical Element
One Extra-Low Dispersion Element
With its normal perspective, fast maximum aperture, and high-end design, the Planar T* FE 50mm f/1.4 ZA Lens from Sony is easy to see as a go-to standard optic for full-frame E-mount shooters. Starting off with the fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, photographers and videographers will enjoy exceptional low-light performance along with the ability to create shallow depth-of field effects. The Zeiss Planar optical design benefits users by providing an almost distortion-free image, while the incorporation of one Advanced Aspherical, one aspherical, and one extra-low dispersion element work to minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations. On top of that, the legendary Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating combats flare and ghosting for crisp, clear imagery.
Performance is top notch as well with speedy autofocus provided by a ring drive Super Sonic Wave Motor (SSM) system. An AF/MF switch is provided for quickly changing between the modes and an internal focus design maintains overall lens length during use. A physical aperture ring is present on the lens which can be de-clicked at the flip of a switch, making this a great option for video in addition to stills. An eleven-blade circular diaphragm further improves image quality by ensuring smooth bokeh at a wide range of aperture settings. Additionally, a dust and moisture-resistant construction will keep you working even in less than ideal environments.