Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 G Master II

1 x Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 G Master II

1 x Lens Hood

1 x Lens Cap

1 x Rear Lens Cap

1 x Lens Bag

• Classic 85mm focal length provides flattering perspective and compression ideal for portrait photography and close-ups
• Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture creates stunning shallow depth of field with exceptional subject isolation and bokeh
• Second-generation G Master optics deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and improved bokeh rendering over the original
• Four XD Linear Motors provide significantly faster, near-silent autofocus compared to first-generation G Master
• Lightweight design at 642g - approximately 100g lighter than the original whilst maintaining professional build quality
• Advanced optical design with XA elements minimises chromatic aberration and delivers smooth circular bokeh
• Dust and moisture resistant construction with fluorine coating ensures reliable professional operation
• Native Sony E-mount compatible with FX3, FX6, FX9, and all Sony Alpha series mirrorless cameras

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 G Master II represents the pinnacle of portrait lens design, delivering exceptional image quality across the classic portrait focal length. The 85mm perspective provides flattering compression that minimises facial distortion whilst creating pleasing separation between subject and background - making it the professional standard for headshots, beauty work, and portrait photography. The fast f/1.4 aperture combined with the focal length creates that signature look of razor-sharp subject against beautifully blurred backgrounds that defines professional portrait work. We've supplied this lens extensively for commercial portrait sessions, beauty photography, fashion shoots, narrative work requiring flattering close-ups, and any production where exceptional subject rendering and background separation are essential.

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What sets the G Master II apart is the combination of refined optics and practical improvements. The second-generation optical design delivers exceptional sharpness across the frame even wide open at f/1.4, with improved bokeh rendering that's smoother and more circular than the already excellent original. The 11-blade aperture creates beautifully round bokeh balls and silky background blur that doesn't distract from subjects. The four XD Linear Motors provide significantly faster autofocus than the original, locking onto eyes and faces reliably - essential for portrait work where critical focus on eyes makes or breaks the image. At 642g, the lens is approximately 100g lighter than the original, making extended portrait sessions more comfortable.

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The 85mm focal length is the professional standard for portrait work because it allows comfortable working distance from subjects whilst providing flattering perspective - faces look natural, noses don't appear elongated, and the compression creates pleasing depth. The lens excels at headshots, beauty photography, environmental portraits where you want subject isolation, fashion work, product photography requiring shallow depth of field, close-ups in narrative work, and any application requiring exceptional rendering quality. This lens is also available as part of our G Master prime set alongside the 35mm f/1.4 and 50mm f/1.4 for complete focal length coverage.

Why is 85mm the standard focal length for portraits? The 85mm focal length provides flattering facial perspective with minimal distortion whilst allowing comfortable working distance from subjects - typically 1-3 metres for headshots. The compression makes facial features look their best, and the separation from background creates professional depth. Most professional portrait photographers consider 85mm the ideal focal length for headshots and beauty work.

How is the bokeh quality? The Mark II delivers exceptional bokeh rendering - smooth, circular, and beautifully defocused backgrounds that don't distract from subjects. The combination of f/1.4 aperture, 11-blade circular diaphragm, and advanced optical design creates that signature portrait look of razor-sharp subject against creamy blurred background that defines professional work.

How does the Mark II compare to the original? The Mark II offers significantly faster autofocus (roughly twice as fast), improved bokeh rendering, slightly better corner sharpness, reduced focus breathing for video, approximately 100g lighter weight, and enhanced weather sealing. The original was already optically excellent, but the Mark II refines every aspect whilst being more practical to use.

Is it suitable for video production? Absolutely. The near-silent fast autofocus makes it excellent for professional video where motor noise would be problematic. The reduced focus breathing means the frame doesn't shift noticeably when pulling focus. The 85mm focal length is classic for close-ups and medium shots in narrative work, providing cinematic compression and subject isolation.

Can I hire this with the other G Master primes? Yes, this lens is available individually or as part of our G Master prime set which includes the 35mm f/1.4, 50mm f/1.4, and 85mm f/1.4 Mark II. The set provides comprehensive coverage from environmental wide shots through to flattering telephoto portraits, all with consistent f/1.4 speed and G Master quality.

What's the minimum focusing distance? The lens focuses down to 0.85 metres, allowing tight headshots and detail work. This close-focusing capability is excellent for beauty photography, product work, and tight portrait framing where you need to fill the frame with facial features.

How sharp is it wide open at f/1.4? Exceptionally sharp across the entire frame even wide open - this is what sets G Master lenses apart. You get both the shallow depth of field benefits of f/1.4 and the optical quality needed for professional work simultaneously, without needing to stop down for sharpness.

How far in advance should I book? The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 G Master II is extremely popular for professional portrait and commercial work, so we recommend booking as early as possible. Request a quote with your dates and we'll confirm availability.