Having made a splash with its full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras, Sony continues to churn out more lenses to use with models like the A7, A7R, and A7S (Sony has a goal of 10 full-frame E-mount lenses by the end of the year). The newest is the FE PZ 28-135mm F4 G OSS, which Sony says it’s the “world’s first 35mm full-frame lens with power zoom.” This particular piece of glass is designed with videographers in mind, like those using the A7S in 4K video production.
According to Sony, the new G lens solves three issues in moviemaking. With what the company calls “Smooth Motion Optics” design, the lens addresses “change in angle of view (‘breathing’) while focusing, focus shifts during zoom, and movement of the optical axis during zoom.”
Sony says the lens is an example of how it’s “advancing what we can with our [mirrorless] Alpha 7 system in regards to video production.” While DSLRs have become a staple in filmmaking, Sony says a big problem is that DSLR lenses were never designed to handle video. This cinema lens for E-mount cameras takes on challenges like changing field of view or plane of focus.
Part of “smooth motion” comes from three control rings and the SSM motor – a first for a cinema lens, Sony says. “Zooming speed can be precisely controlled over a wide range, with the ability to switch zoom rotation direction as desired to suit personal preference. The lens also features a responsive “double linear motor” that helps to minimize focus noise and to achieve accurate and responsive focus control. Users also have the ability to switch from auto to manual focus simply by sliding the focus ring.”
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While it’s a full-frame lens, the 28-135mm is compatible with all E-mount cameras and camcorders, even ones with APS-C cropped sensors (focal length becomes 42-202.5mm, 35mm equivalent). Weighing 2 pounds, 11 ounces, the lens also has Optical SteadyShot image stabilization and is weather sealed.
Look for this lens sometime later this year, for $2,500.
