Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM Full-Frame Autofocus Lens for E-Mount, Black {72} SEL50F12GM

Sony's proven 50mm f/1.2 GM sets the standard for E-mount primes.

The FE 50mm f/1.2 GM is built around three Extreme Aspherical (XA) elements manufactured to 0.01-micron surface precision, which addresses the coma, field curvature, and astigmatism that plague most large-aperture 50mm designs. Nano AR II coating keeps flare and ghosting in check even in backlit conditions. The 11-blade aperture stays nearly circular through two stops of closure, which means specular highlights in out-of-focus areas render as discs than polygons. At f/1.2 with a minimum focus distance of 40cm and 0.17x maximum magnification, subject separation at close range is considerable.

Four XD Linear Motors drive two focus groups internally, keeping the overall length fixed at 108mm regardless of focus position. That internal design matters for gimbal work and for anyone using circular polarizers, since the front element doesn't rotate. The aperture ring includes a de-click switch, going from tactile stops for stills to silent continuous rotation for video in seconds. Two customizable focus hold buttons reposition logically between horizontal and vertical shooting orientations. At 778g with a 72mm filter thread and weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction, this lens earns daily carry status on any E-mount full-frame body.

Who It's For

Portrait photographers working in available light get the depth-of-field control of f/1.2 with AF tracking precise enough to stay on an eye during movement. Video shooters and documentary filmmakers benefit from the de-clicked aperture ring and silent linear motor AF, which keep audio tracks clean during continuous shooting. Wedding photographers moving between candlelit receptions and outdoor ceremonies will lean on the light-gathering capability and weather sealing. Street and travel shooters who want a fast 50mm without substantial weight will find the 778g build reasonable for a f/1.2 prime.

Key Features

• f/1.2 to f/16 aperture with de-click aperture ring for stills and video
• Three Extreme Aspherical elements manufactured to 0.01-micron precision
• Nano AR II coating controls flare and ghosting in backlit conditions
• 11-blade circular aperture stays nearly round through two stops
• Four XD Linear Motors for silent, precise autofocus tracking
• 40cm minimum focus distance with internal focus design
• 78g weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction with 72mm filter thread
• Two customizable focus hold buttons reposition for horizontal and vertical shooting

FAQ

Does the front element rotate when focusing?

No. The internal focus design keeps the front element stationary, so circular polarizers won't shift during focus breathing or focus pulls.

How does the 11-blade aperture affect bokeh?

The aperture stays nearly circular through f/2.8, rendering out-of-focus highlights as clean discs rather than polygons. Open wider and you get the smooth, creamy bokeh G Master lenses are known for.

What's the minimum focus distance and how close can you focus?

40cm (15.7 inches) with 0.17x magnification. At f/1.2, that's close enough for tight headshots with serious subject separation, though it won't focus-stack or do macro work.

Can you use an ND filter or variable ND without issues?

Yes. The non-rotating front element means no vignetting or color shifts as you adjust a variable ND. Standard 72mm filters mount directly.

How does the aperture ring work for video?

It has a de-click switch. Leave it clicked for tactile feedback on stills, flip it off for silent, continuous rotation during video takes without audible steps.

Is autofocus fast enough for tracking in video?

Four XD Linear Motors drive the two focus groups with silent, low-vibration tracking. It handles continuous AF for both stills and high-frame-rate video without hunting.

Does this lens come with a hood?

Yes, it's included in the box.