Sony’s 50mm lens lineup boasts impressive options, and the new 50mm f/1.4 GM enters the scene as a compelling alternative to the high-end 50mm f/1.2 GM. This article provides a detailed comparison, allowing you to Compare Photos Side By Side from both lenses in a real-world wedding photography setting in Madeira. See for yourself the subtle differences in image quality and decide which lens best suits your needs.
Side by Side Image Comparison: Minimal Differences in Real World Shooting
The Sony 50mm f/1.4 GM and 50mm f/1.2 GM lenses share a similar robust build quality, yet the f/1.4 GM distinguishes itself with a more compact and lightweight design, aligning with Sony’s recent 24mm and 35mm GM lenses. Both lenses deliver exceptional image quality and performance, making the key differentiator the nuances in bokeh and background blur.
To truly compare photos side by side, we conducted a real wedding photoshoot in Madeira, capturing images with both lenses in quick succession from the same position. This real-world scenario provides a practical perspective beyond controlled studio shots.
The side-by-side image samples below reveal that the visual differences are indeed minimal. A slight variation in background blur becomes apparent, especially at shorter distances between the subject and background, where the 50mm f/1.2 GM exhibits a marginally more pronounced blur. Conversely, the 50mm f/1.2 GM tends to introduce slightly more vignette. However, vignetting is easily corrected in post-processing and should not be a primary factor in your decision.
Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM or 50mm f/1.4 GM: Which Lens is Right for You?
Both the Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM and 50mm f/1.4 GM are truly exceptional lenses, representing the pinnacle of Sony’s optical engineering. You can expect top-tier quality, sharpness, and beautifully smooth bokeh from both. Furthermore, autofocus performance is outstanding across both models.
If you are already a 50mm f/1.2 GM owner, the 50mm f/1.4 GM offers a very similar experience in terms of quality and performance. The trade-off for a marginally less blurred background is a significantly smaller and lighter lens. For photographers prioritizing portability, the 50mm f/1.4 GM is an excellent choice. Many photographers have happily switched from the 50mm f/1.2 to the 50mm f/1.4 GM, appreciating the reduced size and weight.
However, if you are a dedicated bokeh enthusiast who seeks the absolute maximum background blur, the 50mm f/1.2 GM remains the ultimate option. Realistically, for most clients, the subtle difference in bokeh will be imperceptible. The distinction is often more for the photographer’s critical eye. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either of these remarkable lenses.
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