The FUJIFILM instax mini 41 instant camera is in for review and as big fans of the brand we look forward to testing the latest on offer.
This one is on the more compact side for taking out on your trips away or night out and looks really well with the two tone finish and has plenty of features on board to keep you entertained and get snapping.
The mini 41 is battery powered and you do get batteries in the box which is good to see and you are good to go once inserted and turned on with the correct film of course.
We will be testing this out over the next few weeks so if you have any questions feel free to ask any questions on our socials and our YouTube channel and we will gladly answer as always.
Stay tuned for more and check out more instax reviews below and the walkthrough of the all new mini 41
Key mini 41 features include:
Automatic Exposure functionality
The Automatic Exposure function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, optimizing the shutter speed and flash output according to the scene. It allows users to produce high-quality photo prints on-the-spot in a variety of interior or exterior environments.
Close-up Mode with Parallax Correction
The mini 41’s close-up mode features Parallax Correction, which helps center close-up images (including selfies) by adjusting the position of the ‘focus’ mark to the lower left of the frame.
Updated, easily portable design
Building off the classic design elements of its predecessor, the textured, tactile body of mini 41 provides secure, ergonomic grip, and the subtle metallic-like finish and orange color accents add unique design elements to the camera body.
Pricing and Availability:
The instax mini 41™ joins a fun and versatile lineup of instax™ instant cameras and smartphone printers. Fujifilm’s instax mini 41™ instant camera will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of €110.00 (inc, VAT). It will be expected to be available for purchase from 17th April 2025 at FUJIFILM retailers nationwide.
As most are aware Google have launched a new range of home security products and the latest to hit the shelf is their new outdoor camera with floodlights thrown in for good measure and this time it is wired, some might not like the idea of a wired product however if it suits and you have an outdoor connection box this saves you having to drill through a wall and is also one less camera to charge.
By no means is this a small unit you can see the full unboxing here and from that point of view it is a deterrent alone, the camera that mounts onto the floodlight is the same as the other one we reviewed which is the outdoor cam for those wondering, it is the same unit and will match your existing set-up. I have this placed out my back garden pointing towards the office and my neighbours have noticed how bright it is which is a good sign and it also helps them when they are out late at night and from my point of view it is excellent should you need to be out the back garden late say putting out the bins etc.
Set-Up is simple enough however this time around it might not suit all due to the wiring required, I have an existing outside socket which worked for me but you can go through a wall if required with a verified electrician of course, but you do need to get up on a ladder and drill 4 holes to mount the mounting plate, we have done a different video review with this one and is a vlog style and you can watch that below and also get a look at what you get and what is in the app as there is the floodlight to think about here which has a simple intuitive control to brighten and dim it or just turn it on or off.
This camera is for someone who wants a decent light and especially with the dark evenings and mornings with us now it ideal to have this as part of your setup and besides that keeping your property secure, this is also something that has invested in Google Products like myself and with that you get an entire ecosystem which is better than having several types and then everything is at your fingertips on your smartphone in one app which for me is the right route to go.
The bonus of having the wired camera is that you do not have to keep charging it where as the wireless versions do require charging every now and then and that is one major benefit here, even though wired may seem like trouble having to set up it can be done quite simply so do not let that get in the way of a solid purchase if you are already invested in Google hardwear and want to get this floodlight
Specs
Camera – 1/2.8″, 2-megapixel sensor · 130° diagonal field of view · 6x digital zoom · 16:9 aspect…
Video – Up to 1080p at 30 FPS, HDR · Night Vision with HDR · H.264 encoding
Audio – High quality speaker and microphone…
Motion detection – Camera: · Single motion sensor…
Night vision – Up to 6.10 m (20 ft) illumination · Six high-power 850 nm infrared LEDs
Lighting – Two lights with adjustable brightness · 2,400 lumens · 4,000K colour temperature
Sony today announced the first Alpha series interchangeable lens vlog camera, the new ZV-E10. Designed from the ground up for vlogging and vloggers, the new camera combines Sony’s advanced imaging technology with extensive usability and a custom-built feature set that is optimised for video creators.
At its core, the ZV-E10 features a 24.2-megapixel (approx. effective) APS-C Exmor™ CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processing engine to produce high-quality imagery with high-sensitivity, detailed texture depiction and beautiful natural bokeh. Additionally, the ZV-E10 includes the acclaimed vlogging-specific features favored in the popular ZV-1 digital camera including “Background Defocus that can smoothly switch between a blurred (bokeh) and sharp background, as well as the “Product Showcase Setting”mode that allows the camera to automatically shift focus from the subject’s face to an object being highlighted.
“With the introduction of Sony’s first interchangeable lens vlog camera, the ZV-E10, we are excited to meet the growing needs of today’s creators,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. “The new ZV-E10 pairs the versatility and excellent image quality of a large-sensor interchangeable lens camera with user-friendly features that are specifically designed for vlogging, making it an ideal tool for video creators looking to transition to a more advanced set up.”
The ZV-E10 features a video-first design in a lightweight form factor (approx. 12 oz. / 343g and includes the popular side-opening Vari-angle LCD Screen that allows creators to connect external mics on top of the camera. This simplifies setup while still allowing users to see the screen in selfie shooting mode and from high and low angles.
In addition to the screen, the ZV-E10 includes several other easy-to-use functions that are specifically designed for vlogging, including a new mode button located on the top of the camera that allows creators to easily change between Still/Movie/Slow and Quick modes with just one touch.
The new camera also includes advanced video features such as 4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) video shooting and Slow Motion with high picture quality (FHD 120p) Electronic image stabilisation with Active Mode is also available and delivers stable video recording even while walking and shooting hand-held. Further, the ZV-E10’s advanced AF (autofocus) technology provides fast, precise AF with excellent tracking performance, as well as high quality audio for clear sound recording.
Sony Vlog Challenge Contest
Together with this announcement, Sony will host their second Sony Vlog Challenge Contest that encourages entrants to create a vlog that highlights something that they are the most passionate and enthusiastic about. The entry period is July 27 – September 27, 2021 and is open to video creators in Europe. See contest official rules here
Creative Versatility
An Interchangeable Lens Camera for Expanded Creative Expression
The ZV-E10 allows the user to expand their creative expression by utilising the ideal lens for each individual scene they want to shoot. The wide variety of compatible lenses in Sony’s E-mount lens lineup lets the user choose the perfect lens based on their creative vision.
Advanced Autofocus
Sony’s industry-leading AF technology enables the user to leave focusing to the camera so that they can concentrate on composing their shot. The ZV-E10 includes Fast Hybrid AF and Real-time Eye AF for video[vi] with Real-time Tracking[vii] that allows the camera to keep track of the subject’s face and eyes for fast and precise autofocusing even while recording on-the-go and in challenging environments. The user can also customise the camera’s AF settings, such as AF Transition Speed and AF Subject Shift Sensitivity, to choose the rate at which the camera shifts from one point to another according to their creative preferences.
Additionally, the ZV-E10’s Touch Focus function allows the user to intuitively set the focus position by simply touching the screen. With one tap, the user can instantly shift the focus position from one subject to another – almost anywhere in the frame. This is available in both still and video modes.
High Quality Audio
Sony’s leading technology, thanks to its internal Directional 3-Capsule Mic, enables the ZV-E10 to capture crystal clear sound recordings that accurately capture the speaker’s voice and the supplied wind screen to greatly reduce wind noise. For expanded audio options, the ZV-E10 includes a Digital audio interface via Multi Interface (MI) Shoe and a mic jack to connect an external mic. The inclusion of a headphone jack allows the user to connect headphones to accurately monitor sound recordings. Audio output timing can also be set for Live or Lip Sync.
Putting the Subject First
When shooting in different settings with dramatic changes in light, the user can rest assured that the ZV-E10 will automatically correct the exposure, using an original Face Priority AE (autoexposure) algorithm capable of rapid AE transitions, so that the subject’s face is not over or under exposed. This allows the camera to detect the subject’s face and adjusts the exposure to ensure that the face is depicted at optimal brightness, even when selfie-shooting in scenes with extreme changes in lighting, and even if the subject’s face turns away momentarily from the camera. In addition, the camera features the same advanced colour science from the popular ZV-1 to optimise skin tones for any subject in both still and video modes.
Cutting-Edge Video Features:
Internal 4K movie recording through full pixel readout without pixel binning
High bit rate XAVC S™ codec at 100Mbps when recording 4K
Users can comfortably operate the new ZV-E10 thanks to its easy-to-hold body grip and large MOVIE button that is conveniently located on top of the camera. When paired with the optional Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander (GP-VPT2BT, sold separately), one-handed shooting is simplified with easy to access zoom, record and a customisable button. A recording lamp (tally light) is also provided on the front face of the body for an at-a-glance indication of recording status.
The ZV-E10 features long battery performance with enough power to capture up to 125 minutes or 440 images on a full charge so the user can record for long periods without worry. When shooting indoors, AC power supplies like the optional AC-PW20AM can supply power, so the user can continue to record without worrying about battery consumption. Power can also be supplied through a USB Type-C® connector, allowing external batteries to power the camera for extended battery life when shooting on the go. To conserve the camera’s battery, the ZV-E10’s Vari-angle LCD Screen allows the user to put the camera into Power save mode by closing it and instantly turn the camera on by opening the panel.
Stay Connected
Livestreaming
The ZV-E10 can also be used as a high-quality webcam or live streaming camera by simply connecting it to a PC or smartphone for increased mobility while streaming with no additional software needed. The feature allows the user to take advantage of the ZV-E10’s outstanding image quality and crystal-clear audio as well Face Priority AE and Soft Skin Effect while livestreaming or on video calls. The ZV-E10 supports standards used for USB cameras like UVC (USB Video Class) / UAC (USB Audio Class). The ZV-E10 also allows users to connect to a power supply via USB cable while livestreaming for longer usage. For added convenience, the user can assign this function to a custom button to start streaming instantly.
Easy File Data and Transfers
Using Sony’s Imaging Edge Mobile app, users can transfer selected images and video files to a mobile device via Wi-Fi. This also allows the user to transfer RAW image files. After the camera has been paired to the Imaging Edge Mobile app, the files’ location data can be acquired from the mobile device and recorded. Users can transfer files from an SD card in the camera to a smartphone (mobile device) via Bluetooth even if the camera is powered OFF.
Pricing and Availability
The new ZV-E10 will be available later in August 2021 at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers, for an estimated retail price of £680/€750
A new kit featuring the ZV-E10 camera and E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS power zoom lens will also be available later in August 2021 and will be sold for an estimated retail price of £770/€850 at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers throughout Europe.
For detailed product information on the ZV-E10 can be found here.
More information on the Sony Vlog Challenge Contest can be found here.
I am not a huge camera fan and I hardly use a proper camera if you will I have always been one to use my mobile phone and this was due to Nokia devices such as the Lumia 1020 for example and it pretty much has been the same since until Nokia/ Microsoft left the scene then I moved onto other devices and back to Nokia branded devices when HMD took the helm. I hold a huge collection of these phones and other brands and they have been pretty much the staple for photography and video for me and I know many others in the same boat and it will always be that was since mobile phones have got so good with their cameras.
I am a retro fan and collector when it comes to many things in life, phones is my main favourite then trainers and watches and I have amassed a huge collection over the years and these still grow today and this is why I like the Instax cameras and this model in particular even more so. These cameras are a niche product but a large niche and I can see why people love them, The INSTAX SQUARE SQ1MINI LINK and MINI LI PLAY are previous models I have tested and have went down really well with 85K views alone on You Tube and over 250K site views combined which shows there is interest in these products and I can understand why and that is from someone who is not a DSLR/Camera fan to begin with but understands the technology behind such but they just never appealed to me but these cameras do.
It is a big camera lets not mistake this it is cumbersome you have to carry film with you it will take up room in your bag but the thing is you get your images there and then, when was the last time you actually went and got films developed?? Go on I will wait for that answer.. We are so immersed in our mobile phones today and even before the pandemic struck I really cant remember when I seen someone with an actual proper camera in their hand apart from tourists on O Connell st bridge and they where huge DSLR cameras and they both tie in together here when it comes to size but the outcome is different.
Ok so the deal overall here is this is a retro camera that takes decent images pending the conditions and it is a simple click and go, no messing around with settings like your phone or standard camera and so on, I find that things closer to the lens come out better and sharper and bright conditions the best but for a night out or a trip to the park or sea this is great for getting those family shots etc, the only caveat here is that film is expensive and at times images can get blown out but it is a really nice camera to have at your disposal and is fun to use and most importantly you get a credit card sized photo there and then rather than having to wait for them to be developed.
FUJIFILM Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of its new instax mini 40 instant camera. Alongside today’s debut of instax mini 40, Fujifilm is also launching a new mini film variety, “Contact Sheet”, which mimics the look of a classic film contact sheet and adds a new twist to the popular instax mini film series.
“With its classic, chic styling, the new instax mini 40 is for anyone who loves to take and share photos.” said Toshi lida, President, FUJIFILM Europe. “Designed to be easily portable, instax mini 40 is finished with a high-quality texture that comfortably fits in one hand. The lustrous black camera body is accented with silver touches, resulting in a sophisticated, timeless look, synonymous with Fujifilm’s iconic approach to camera design.”
instax mini 40 key features include:
Automatic Exposure function for better pictures any time of the day
The Automatic Exposure function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, and optimizes the shutter speed and flash output according to the scene. It allows even beginner instax users to take photos that are automatically exposed properly regardless of interior or exterior conditions, producing high-quality photo prints on-the-spot.
Selfie Mode for quicker and easier selfies
Users can activate the Selfie Mode, perfect for taking selfies and close-up shots, by simply pulling out the front-end edge of the lens after powering the camera on. This makes it easier than ever before to take selfies and close-up pictures.
“Contact Sheet” instant mini film
Also accompanying the launch of instax mini 40 is “Contact Sheet” instant mini film. In a homage to classic film photography, “Contact Sheet” simulates the look of a photographer’s contact sheet when processed film strips are ‘contact’ printed. As with all instax film, “Contact Sheet” will be available with 10 exposures per cartridge. instax mini 40 joins a fun and versatile lineup of instax instant cameras and smartphone printers.
Fujifilm’s instax mini 40 instant camera will be available at a SRP of €100.00 and will be available to purchase at FUJIFILM stockists nationwide from 21st April 2021. instax “Contact Sheet” mini film will have a suggested retail price of €11.50 and will also be available at FUJIFLIM stockists nationwide from 21st April 2021. Checkout the first look and unboxing below.
Sony today announced three outstanding G Lenses to its impressive E-mount line-up – the FE 50mm F2.5 G(model SEL50F25G), FE 40mm F2.5 G (model SEL40F25G) and FE 24mm F2.8 G (model SEL24F28G) All three lenses deliver high image quality and beautiful bokeh in a lightweight and compact design, perfect for photographers and videographers alike who strive for standout shots and easy mobility. When paired with a Sony full-frame camera or APS-C, all three lenses boast high resolution, intuitive operability and fast, precise and quiet autofocus capabilities. The lenses have been introduced as the perfect set for photo and video for a wide range of uses including snap shooting, portraiture and landscape shots.
“At Sony we are constantly innovating to produce the tools that creators need to capture the beauty of this world” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. “With superb resolution and mesmerising bokeh, all housedin a compact and sophisticated design, the FE 50mm F2.5 G, FE 40mm F2.5 G and FE 24mm F2.8 G enable users to experience the joy of owning lenses that capture different perspectives of the same scene”.
These three prime lenses each deliver a focal length for any shoot with the 50mm best for portraits, the 40mm optimal for still or movie snap shooting, and the 24mm ideal for landscapes. With their intuitive operability and superb build quality they are a fantastic set of three.
What’s more, the three lenses are all the same size (68mm diameter x 45mm), all have the same filter diameter (49mm) and are almost all the same weight (FE 50mm F2.5 G 174g, FE 40mm F2.5 G 173g and FE 24mm F2.8 G 162g) and internal focus so lens interchange is easy – even when using a gimbal. They feature the same stylish exterior design, but focal lengths are clearly marked for quick switches.
High resolution in a compact design
The FE 50mm F2.5 G, FE 40mm F2.5 G and FE 24mm F2.8 G deliver the high image quality of a G Lens, whilst being compact and lightweight. The image quality is achieved by state-of-the-art optics using aspherical elements and ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements[i], delivering high resolution and suppressing colour fringing. The aspherical elements ensure high resolution performance in every corner of the image, even from the widest aperture with shallow depth of field. Enjoy shooting in high resolution using a compact design.
The stunning bokeh of the G lens is achieved with the optimisation of a circular aperture and is delivered at the widest point of each lens (F2.5 at 50mm, F2.5 at 40mm and the F2.8 at 24mm).
All three lenses were carefully designed for optimum mobility and are compact and lightweight enough to suit any location. Whether shooting with a full-frame or APS-C body for portraiture, landscape, snap shots or movies with a gimbal and more, the size and weight are balanced perfectly. Experience the benefits of interchanging lenses to suit any scene or subject.
Focus distances
As well as the 50mm angle of view being perfect for portraits and snap shooting stills or movies, the FE 50mm F2.5 G has a minimum focus distance of 0.35m (AF) / 0.31m (MF) and maximum magnification of 0.18x (AF) / 0.21x (MF), meaning it’s ideal for a variety of scenes and objects.
The FE 40mm F2.5 G 40mm angle of view is ideal for snap shooting stills or movies with a minimum focus distance of 0.28m (AF) / 0.25m (MF) and maximum magnification of 0.20x (AF) / 0.23x (MF). Particularly for movie shooting, 40mm is the preferred angle of view as it corresponds to the natural field of vision and for stills, 40mm allows subjects to stand out against backgrounds.
With a wide 24mm angle of view, the FE 24mm F2.8 G lens is perfect in situations where the background is included, such as gimbal or selfie shooting with a grip attached. And with a minimum focus distance of 0.24m (AF) / 0.18m (MF) and maximum magnification of 0.13x (AF) / 0.19x (MF), you can also shoot close-ups with a blurred background.
High operability and reliability
Despite their compact size, the lenses feature a focus hold button, focus mode switch, aperture ring, and Aperture click switch for ideal operability. The focus hold button is customisable from the camera menu and can be assigned a function that the user prefers. The aperture ring provides a more intuitive and direct feel, compared to operating the aperture from the camera body when shooting either stills or movies. The aperture also provides switchable click stops that can be turned off for movie shooting using the aperture click switch. Furthermore, with Linear Response MF, the focus ring responds precisely and linearly when focusing manually so control feels immediate and intuitive, directly reflecting the intent of the photographer and allowing delicate focus adjustments.
The aluminium exterior and engraved Sony logo ensure a premium, sophisticated finish as well as increased strength and durability. Conveniently, the diameter of the filter threads on the hood and the lens barrel are equal[ii] (49mm), allowing the same cap and filter to be attached to both the hood and the lens barrel. The lenses are also designed to be dust and moisture resistant[iii] to ensure usability in any outdoor environment.
Fast, precise and quiet autofocus
The FE 50mm F2.5 G, FE 40mm F2.5 G and FE 24mm F2.8 G feature two linear motors to deliver fast, precise autofocus (AF) with excellent tracking performance which is maintained despite instantaneous changes in subject motion – making the lens ideal snapping moving subjects. The AF is also quiet, so works for both still and movie shooting.
Pricing
The FE 50mm F2.5 G, FE 40mm F2.5 G and FE 24mm F2.8 G lenses will be available in April 2021 at a variety ofSony’s authorised dealers, for an estimated retail price of £630 and €700 each.
For detailed product information on the three lenses, please visit:
A variety of exclusive stories, videos and exciting new content shot with the newest cameras and other Sony products can be found here. Sony’s European photography hub is available in 22 languages and details product news, competitions and an up-to-date list of Sony events in each country.
Lomography has just announced the release of the new Simple Use Reloadable Camera Challenger EditionRemember these cameras folks? This special edition comes to you with an exclusive new look designed by Japanese street brand Challenger founder, designer and professional skateboarder, Satoru Taguchi. Taguchi has transposed his recognizable illustration style and popping color palette onto our Simple Use Reloadable Film Camera, and, with an exclusive Challenger logo sticker shot on LomoChrome Purple film included with every camera, this is our most electric edition to date. Available on their online shop and selected retailers.
Lomography have collaborated with Challenger and hope that this linkup will inspire creative minds across the globe to immortalize their analogue antics. Preloaded with psychedelic LomoChrome Purple film, portable and ready for anything – this easy-to-use number fits in your pocket and best of all, it’s reloadable – so you can shoot, reload and repeat the fun with any 35 mm film on the market! Made for street, action and creative photography this is a striking new edition to a much-loved family of Simple Use cameras.
FUJIFILM Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of its instax SQUARE SQ1 Instant Camera. The latest addition to the instax line-up is an analog, square camera that creates square format instant prints at 1.5 times the size of its instax mini counterparts. instax SQUARE SQ1 introduces a minimalist, user-friendly square camera body design and key features include Automatic Exposure and One-Touch Selfie Mode.
instax SQUARE SQ1 combines everything that instax fans love about the mini’s cool, modern style and functionality with the larger, vibrant output of our square film. instax SQUARE SQ1 is designed for instax’s creative community of fans, as the perfect companion to help them to create compelling new instant prints.
“With the new instax SQUARE SQ1, you bring the romance of film back into the day where the results are instant, and the memories are tangible,” said photographer, skateboarder, and creator Sierra Prescott. “I like that it’s compact enough that I can take it anywhere, durable enough to toss in my backpack. And with the new twisty selfie mode, wide enough to fit more of what I love in the frame. You get a fully developed, larger square print in 90 seconds and a deep vibrant colour that I just love. It’s simple to use and a rad addition to every hang.”
instax SQUARE SQ1 Features:
Automatic Exposure
This function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, and optimizes the shutter speed and flash output according to lighting conditions. It allows even those who are new to instant photography to take photos that are automatically properly exposed regardless of conditions, producing clearer and more vibrant instant prints on the spot.
One-Touch Selfie Mode
Along with its built-in selfie mirror, instax SQUARE SQ1’s One-Touch Selfie mode is designed specifically for selfies and close-up shots, setting the best focus and exposure for the shot by changing the position of the lens when activated. Activation is simple, by rotating the lens from ‘On’ to ‘Selfie’ mode.
New film options
Also accompanying the launch of the instax SQUARE SQ1 are two new instax instant film varieties; instax SQUARE Rainbow film and instax SQUARE Monochrome film, designed so that instax fans can bring even more creativity to their instant photography.
Instax SQUARE SQ1 will be available in Terracotta Orange, Glacier Blue, and Chalk White on 30th September 2020, at an SRP of €130.00 (inc VAT). instax SQUARE Rainbow film will have an SRP of €12.00 (inc VAT) and instax SQUARE Monochrome film will have an SRP of €13.50 (inc VAT) and will also be available from 30th September. Available at FUJIFILM Ireland Stockists nationwide / www.instax.ie
Sony has announced an exciting new addition to its full-frame lens line-up with the introduction of the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM (model SEL1224GM) Large-aperture Ultra-wide Zoom lens. This compact and versatile lens is ideal for shooting landscapes, starry skies and architecture while providing extra mobility for active sports shooters who want to use ultra-wide angles. As part of Sony’s flagship G Master series lenses, users can be completely confident that it delivers outstanding image quality up to an ultra-wide 12mm angle of view with F2.8 constant aperture, combined with beautiful bokeh effects.
The introduction of the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM means that the F2.8 range of Sony’s G Master series lenses now extends all the way through from 12mm to 200mm and at 12mm, offers the world’s widest zoom at F2.8. At this focal length, it is possible to emphasise distance and create dynamic perspectives that are beyond the scope of the human eye, opening the door to new avenues of creative expression.
“We are tremendously excited about the introduction of the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM as we believe that photographers and videographers using the Sony’s Alpha system will fall in love with this lens”, said Yann Salmon-Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. “It is important for us to continue to push boundaries in the industry and by extending our range of G Master constant F2.8 lenses out to 12mm with such a technology-packed and high performing lens, we are excited to see the results of the new creative opportunities it offers.”
The FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM benefits from a rich and innovative construction that delivers outstanding corner-to-corner image quality throughout the entire zoom range. It features three extremely precise XA (extreme aspherical) elements including the largest XA element ever made for an α™(Alpha™) lens. These XA elements, with the addition of a further aspherical element, effectively suppress astigmatism, coma and field curvature right out to the image edges. Furthermore, three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements plus two Super ED glass elements, powerfully quell chromatic aberration and combine to deliver corner-to-corner clarity whilst minimising colour fringing.
A floating focus mechanism divides the lens’s focus group into two independently controllable groups. It is extremely effective at ensuring both outstanding close-up performance and maximum sharpness at any distance as it divides the lens’s focus group into two independently controllable groups. It also helps realise a constant 0.28-metre minimum focusing distance throughout the zoom and because it is an internal focus lens, its length remains constant and its centre of gravity varies very little, so it is always optimally balanced in the hand.
The signature bokeh effects of Sony’s G Master series lens have been achieved through the fine tuning of the lens’s spherical aberration characteristics during both the design and manufacturing process. At the same time, the extremely high surface precision of the lens’s XA elements effectively suppresses onion-ring effects and, in combination with a 9-blade circular aperture, further enhances its exquisite bokeh.
The FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM employs four original high-speed, high-thrust XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors to ensure that it is compatible with the speed performance of both current and future camera bodies. With two for each of the lens’s focus groups, autofocus is fast and precise and new control algorithms maximise the response of the XD Linear Motor system while achieving flawless synchronisation between the two focus groups. A further benefit is that operation is extremely quiet with minimal vibration.
A brand-new Nano AR Coating II that can be evenly applied to large lens elements or highly curved element surfaces has been used for the first time on the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM. It suppresses internal reflections, minimises flare and ghosting for clear, crisp imagery and despite the lens’s wide angle of view, Nano AR Coating II maintains high clarity and contrast throughout the entire image, even in difficult light.
Moviemaking
The constant F2.8 maximum aperture at all focal lengths ensures that exposure is stable when zooming. In turn, this means that shutter speed and ISO sensitivity can remain consistent whilst shooting movies. The creative opportunities afforded by shooting movies at a 12mm angle of view with F2.8 constant aperture in full-frame are boundless, however, when used on an APS-C camera or with a Super 35 angle of view, the wide end of the zoom range becomes equivalent to 18mm, providing a very useful zoom range for moviemaking.
Professional Control
Weighing only 847 grams, the FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM offers numerous features for full professional control of shots. These include a customisable focus-hold button, focus-mode switch, zooming ring and focusing ring that are positioned for easy operation whilst shooting. The Linear Response MF ensures that the focus ring responds directly to the most subtle adjustments when focusing manually so control feels immediate and precise. It is dust and moisture resistant and the front lens element features a fluorine coating that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, while making it easier to wipe off any fingerprints from the lens surface. The rear filter holder accommodates standard sheet-type ND, colour correction and other filters for expanded expressive capability. A cutting template for sheet filters is supplied.
Pricing and Availability
The FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM is available in Europe from August 2020, priced at approximately £2,900 / €3,300.
