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Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 Full-Frame Autofocus Lens for E-Mount, Black {67} SEL85F18
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$389.00
Sony's proven 85mm f/1.8 prime built for E-mount portrait work
At 371g and 82mm long, this lens fits in a jacket pocket and disappears on a mirrorless body. The linear autofocus motor is fast and silent, a real advantage during ceremonies or quiet studio sessions where a grinding AF drive would be intrusive. Internal focus means the barrel length never changes during focus pulls, and full-time manual override works without switching modes.
Optically, the 9-element, 8-group design with ED glass elements controls chromatic aberration well enough that lateral color fringing is essentially absent in real-world shooting. The 9-blade circular aperture produces smooth out-of-focus rendering at f/1.8, and the lens shows no measurable distortion at typical portrait distances. Weather sealing adds a layer of reliability for outdoor editorial and event work where conditions shift without warning.
Sony built this lens after releasing the 85mm f/1.4 G Master, positioning the f/1.8 as the working photographer's choice. The optical performance sits at the same level as the heavier, more expensive alternative, and the one-stop aperture difference translates to only a modest change in background separation for most subjects. At 67mm filter thread and compact dimensions, it pairs with Sony's full-frame bodies without throwing off the balance that makes mirrorless systems worth shooting in the first place.
Who It's For
Portrait photographers shooting on Sony full-frame bodies get a fast, distortion-free focal length that flatters subjects without the bulk of the G Master. Wedding and event shooters benefit from the silent linear motor and weather sealing when working in churches, receptions, or outdoor settings with unpredictable light. Travel photographers who want a fast prime without dedicating serious bag space to a heavy telephoto will find the 371g weight and 82mm length easy to justify. Studio photographers working at close range will appreciate that the lens holds contrast well at f/1.8 with no spherical aberration softening fine detail.
Key Features
- Full-frame E-mount prime with f/1.8 maximum aperture
- Linear autofocus motor with full-time manual focus override
- Internal focus with constant 82mm barrel length
- 9 elements in 8 groups with ED glass for chromatic aberration control
- 9-blade circular aperture for smooth bokeh rendering
- Weather-sealed design at 371g and 78mm diameter
- No measurable distortion at typical portrait distances
- 67mm filter thread with supplied ALC-SH150 hood
FAQ
- How does the f/1.8 aperture compare to Sony's 85mm f/1.4 G Master for background separation?
- The f/1.4 throws backgrounds about 25% more out of focus than f/1.8, a marginal difference for most portrait work. You gain one stop of light and a slightly shallower depth of field, but lose compactness and pay three times the price for optical performance that's equivalent or slightly behind this lens.
- Is the autofocus silent enough for wedding ceremonies and quiet events?
- Yes. The linear motor is completely silent across the frame, a significant advantage during ceremonies or studio work where focus noise would be intrusive. The full-time manual override lets you grab focus manually without switching modes.
- Will the barrel extend when focusing?
- No. Internal focus means the barrel length stays constant during focus pulls, maintaining the lens's compact 82mm profile for any shooting distance down to 0.80m minimum focus.
- What's the optical quality like wide-open at f/1.8?
- Sharpness is flawless corner-to-corner, with no measurable distortion at portrait distances and essentially absent lateral chromatic aberration. Spherochromatism (yellow and violet fringes on out-of-focus highlights) appears at f/1.8 but is typical for fast 85mm lenses and disappears when stopped down. Bokeh is clean with no spherical aberration at close range.
- Is this lens weather-sealed for outdoor work?
- Yes. Weather sealing provides reliable protection for outdoor editorial and event work when conditions shift, though the lens isn't rated for submersion or extended exposure to heavy rain.
- How does 371g and 82mm length affect shooting comfort on a full-frame mirrorless body?
- The lens disappears on most Sony full-frame bodies without throwing off the balance that makes mirrorless systems worthwhile. It fits in a jacket pocket, making it practical for editorial work, travel, and situations where compact gear matters.
- What's the filter thread size and does it come with a hood?
- 67mm filter thread. The ALC-SH150 hood is supplied in the box.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Mount | Sony FE |
| Stabilization | No |
| AF System | Yes |
| Min Focus Distance | 0.80 m (31.5") |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| AF Motor Type | Linear Motor |
| Full Time Manual Focus | Yes |
| Focus Method | Internal |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.13x |
| Elements | 9 |
| Groups | 8 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Special Elements Coatings | ED Elements |
| Aperture Ring | No |
| Distance Scale | No |
| DOF Scale | No |
| Focus Distance Limiter | No |
| Filter Thread | 67mm |
| Diameter | 78 mm (3.07") |
| Length | 82 mm (3.23") |
| Weather Sealing | Yes |
| Color | Black |
| Hood Product Code | ALC-SH150 |
| Package Weight | 1.17 lb |
| Box Dimensions | 4.7 x 4.4 x 3.8" |
| Weight | 371 g (0.82 lb) |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Sony |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Sony E Mount |
| Lens Type | Telephoto / Long |
| Max Focal Length | 85mm |
| Min Focal Length | 85mm |
