UPDATE: Sony has just announced the release of its highly anticipated 100mm macro lens, marking a significant upgrade after more than a decade. Photographers worldwide are buzzing about what makes this lens a major leap in macro photography.
This new lens features a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and offers impressive 1:1 magnification, dramatically enhancing corner-to-corner sharpness. Users can expect a new level of detail in their images, even when utilizing a 61 MP camera. The lens promises to deliver “seemingly endless resolution,” a necessity for professionals seeking top-tier image quality.
One of the most notable advancements is the lens’s direct manual focus (DMF) capability, allowing users to fine-tune focus without disengaging autofocus. This resolves a longstanding issue in macro shooting, streamlining workflows and minimizing disruptions.
In his recent video review, renowned photographer Alex Cooke dives deep into the lens’s features. He emphasizes its improved usability, especially for those transitioning from Sony’s older macro lens. With 17 elements in 13 groups, its optical design minimizes aberrations, ensuring crisp images even at maximum magnification.
The new lens also supports full-time autofocus while allowing manual adjustments, a game-changer for macro photographers tackling dynamic subjects. Cooke’s real-world tests showcase the lens’s impressive performance, illustrating its ability to resolve details even with a 2x teleconverter attached.
Additionally, this lens is equipped with image stabilization and features a 67 mm front filter size. With a weight of 1.4 lb (646 g) and dimensions of ø 3.2 in x 5.8 in, it strikes a balance between portability and performance.
Photographers eager to upgrade will find that this lens embodies Sony’s commitment to quality, as it had to represent a significant advancement to earn the G Master branding. Cooke’s insights into why Sony waited over a decade for this release provide valuable context for understanding the brand’s standards for innovation.
As this lens becomes available, professionals are already discussing its potential impact on macro photography. The combination of enhanced sharpness, usability, and performance makes it a must-have for serious photographers.
Watch Cooke’s full review for an in-depth analysis and firsthand impressions of the 100mm macro lens. This development is set to change the landscape of macro photography, making it an exciting time for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Stay tuned for more updates as photographers begin to test and share their experiences with this groundbreaking lens.
