SEL85F18 85mm F/1.8-22 Medium-Telephoto Fixed Prime Camera Lens Review
Introduction
The Sony SEL85F18 85mm F/1.8-22 is a medium-telephoto prime lens promising exceptional image quality and performance, particularly in low-light conditions. After weeks of extensive testing in various scenarios, from bustling city streets to serene landscapes, I’m ready to share my in-depth review.
Features
The SEL85F18 boasts a fast f/1.8 maximum aperture, a key feature for capturing stunning images in low light. The aspherical lens elements effectively minimize chromatic aberration, resulting in crisp, clear images. The floating focusing system contributes to consistently sharp focus across the entire focal range. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel and everyday photography.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Weight | 371 g |
| Colour Name | Black |
| Camera Lens Adjustment | Automatic with manual |
| Product Length | 78 mm |
| Product Width/Depth | 82 mm |
| Features | Travel, Business, Personal, Ergonomic |
| Model Number | SEL85F18 |
| Model Name | SEL85F18 |
Performance
In practice, the SEL85F18 delivers on its promises. The f/1.8 aperture excels in low-light situations, allowing for significantly faster shutter speeds and reduced noise. I found the autofocus to be quick and accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions. The image quality is outstanding, with excellent sharpness and minimal distortion. The bokeh, or background blur, is beautifully smooth and creamy, ideal for portrait photography. I particularly appreciated the lens’s ability to handle various shooting scenarios, from close-up portraits to landscapes.
However, there were some minor drawbacks. While the autofocus is generally fast, I occasionally experienced some hunting in extremely low light. Also, at its widest aperture, there’s a slight softening towards the edges of the frame, though this is easily corrected in post-processing.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Fast f/1.8 aperture, excellent low-light performance, sharp images, beautiful bokeh, compact and lightweight design, accurate autofocus.
- Cons: Minor autofocus hunting in very low light, slight edge softening at widest aperture.
Final Verdict
The Sony SEL85F18 85mm F/1.8-22 is a fantastic lens that offers exceptional image quality and performance at a reasonable price. The fast aperture, sharp images, and beautiful bokeh make it a highly versatile option for a wide range of photography styles. While there are minor shortcomings, they are easily outweighed by its strengths. I highly recommend the SEL85F18 to any photographer looking for a high-quality, versatile prime lens.
