Sony recently announced their new beast of a fifty: the 50mm f/1.2 GM, which is getting some glowing reviews. How does it compare to the Zeiss 50mm f/1.4 and is it worth splashing out if you already own the older, slower lens?
Photographer Julia Trotti runs you through a quick comparison of the two lenses, giving you an idea of the creaminess of the bokeh and the speed, accuracy, and overall performance of the autofocus. No doubt, the newer, more expensive lens will give better, more consistent results, and while f/1.4 and f/1.2 are only a third of a stop apart, you will get slightly smoother out-of-focus areas from the faster lens when you shoot under the right circumstances.
Trotti was pondering an upgrade and gives a detailed explanation of her choice, which, in an era when it seems that gear lust has never been stronger, is quite refreshing. Price will no doubt be a consideration for many photographer,s and while Sony could probably have charged more than the $1,998 for the 50mm f/1.2, it’s still a fair chunk of cash, especially when you consider that the Zeiss is $500 cheaper.
Would you upgrade to the Sony if you owned the Zeiss? Have you already switched? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.