Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM – Build and handling

One of the criticisms levelled at the Sony A7 system is that the lenses are about the size of conventional DSLR optics, if you compare like-for-like. While this is certainly true for the 85mm lens, which measures 89.5 x 107.5 mm and weighs 820g, we also need to remember that different photographers will buy cameras for different reasons, and that size and weight isn’t everything to everyone. In this regard, I had no problem handling and using the 85mm lens with the Sony A7R II. The combination felt comfortable, and I was actually glad I was saving a few grams compared to the extra weight of a DSLR. Did the combination feel unbalanced? No. This is a combination that you would always support with two hands: one is on the camera, while the other is on the controls on the lens, which themselves are placed at points that feel natural and familiar. Again, the size and weight may not be an advantage over a DSLR, but it is certainly not a disadvantage either.

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM is a large optic but feels at home mounted to Alpha 7-series cameras

Overall build quality is excellent, and it feels like you are using a premium product.