At a time when older cameras and lenses are getting new updates, one of the best things to look at is when the device takes on a whole new purpose. This is definitely something that no one expected from Sony’s new f/4 telephoto lens.
It’s been almost a decade since Sony first launched 70-200mm f/4, an important and much-anticipated foundation of the brand’s previous line of lenses. Although the latter was the first version of the 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master, these two lenses have very clear uses, which is why even the f/4 version is still a prime lens. A favorite for many photographers, especially those who like it as a lightweight option and who don’t use it for any low-light photography. This new version of the 70-200mm f/4 now arrives with some surprising new features that are sure to expand the functionality of the lens to a wide range of photographers and videographers of different genres.
This long-awaited second version comes in a much more compact and lightweight form, which in itself gives travel and outdoor photographers an edge. Compared to the old version, the new 70-200mm f/4 is 46 grams lighter (from 840 g to 794 g) and 15% shorter (175 mm to 149 mm). However, this shorter barrel length is made possible by the externally extended zoom mechanism, which elongates the barrel as you zoom in. It has a 72 mm filter thread diameter, comes with the same white lens hood to match the lens housing, and a similar but slightly different rotating tripod collar.
Similar to 70-200mm f/2.8 GM II, this new f/4 version also features three customizable focus-hold buttons at the far end of the lens. On the left side (when holding the camera) is a row of five function switches, starting with the standard autofocus switch. The second is a full-time DMF operating switch that serves as a shortcut on the lens for said function, often with deep menu access. Full-time DMF allows users to override or assist autofocus by making micro-adjustments in complex focus situations or when recording video.
The third switch governs one of the most notable improvements in this new lens, which is the focus range. This three-way switch allows the user to select the entire focus range, focus far away, or selectively close the macro. The other two switches are for OSS operation and switching between the three modes respectively.
Optics and focus
This new 70-200mm f/4 G lens is made up of 19 glass elements divided into 13 groups, with the floating focus mechanism seen in recent Sony G lenses. In addition to an expected improvement in optics to work better with the higher resolution a7R series cameras, the lens is also equipped with four XD (extremely dynamic) linear motors to allow the The glasses keep up with the fast and adaptive focusing capabilities of newer Sony cameras for even high resolutions. -speed still and video.
Also, the most undeniable upgrade this lens has is the ability to focus very close to the new subject, achieving 0.5x magnification throughout the entire zoom range. At the focal length of 70mm, the lens can focus on subjects as close as 0.26 m from the sensor and as far as 0.42 m from the sensor when shooting at 200 mm. This is a huge leap over the old version, which had a minimum focusing distance of 1.0 to 1.5 m, respectively.
Compatibility and Extended Range
While the focal length range may be the same as the old focal length range, this new version is capable of extending the focal length range more. 70-200mm f/4 G Macro OSS II . Lens Now compatible with two Sony teleconverter options, the 1.4x and 2x teleconverter attachments. With the 2x teleconverter on the full-frame body, the range becomes 140-400mm without cropping. In addition, when Super 35 or APS-C mode is enabled, it is extended by 1.5x, helping it to reach 210-600mm by simply pressing a designated shortcut button.
Of course, the trade-off of using a teleconverter will result in a stopped aperture. With the 2x teleconverter, the lens becomes one with a maximum aperture of f/8 throughout the range. This can be an additional limitation for low-light situations, but if the general purpose is to shoot outdoors during the day, a range up to 600mm can be significantly effective, especially is when using a higher resolution sensor camera.
Application
The 70-200mm focal length range is a widely used range across many genres and this new version takes that even further at both ends of the spectrum. This new lens will be a great telephoto option for any landscape, travel and nature photographer, especially those looking to switch between capturing distant scenes and capturing fine details. in nature without having to switch lenses.
Compatibility with teleconverter options makes it even more versatile, especially if the photographer wants to avoid having to carry heavier lenses inside the bag. Perhaps the only consideration is the possibility of having to deal with unwanted dust entering the lens as the barrel extends outward.
This lens will also be a very useful tool for outdoor portraiture, events and even sports. Anything that can be photographed outdoors with sufficient daylight can be easily done with 70-200mm f/4 G II with the added benefit of being able to virtually extend the range to 600mm. Of course, the same applies indoors if there is a lot of additional light or when shooting in a studio.
With (half) added macro capabilities, although not a top priority option, this lens can also be used for product and food photography. Considering that this lens can zoom in and focus up close on small insects and other small details in nature, it can also be very useful when photographing still lifes, food, and other products. Also, when used with Sony a7R DRAW or any future camera with auto focus compensation, this lens can help produce some superbly detailed focus stacked images.
Conclusion
A decade in the making, this new version of the 70-200mm f/4 lens certainly exceeds expectations and goes beyond conventional focus and glass upgrades. The new capabilities of this lens make it an even more popular lens for anyone who needs a tight focal length. It can be useful for a variety of shooting styles and hardly adds to the majority of a photographer’s equipment.
What I like
- Light weight and portable
- Close minimum focus distance
- Compatibility with remote adapter
What I don’t like
- External zoom and expansion bin
