Sony SEL85F14GM2

Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens (SEL85F14GM2) Instruction Manual

Model: SEL85F14GM2

Introduction

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens (SEL85F14GM2) is a high-performance G Master prime lens designed for Sony Alpha E-mount full-frame cameras. This lens delivers exceptional resolution and magnificent bokeh, making it ideal for both still photography and video recording. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with advanced autofocus capabilities, provides photographers and videographers with a versatile tool for capturing stunning images and cinematic footage.

Key Features

  • Breathtaking G Master Image Quality: Delivers superb resolution and detail across the entire frame.
  • Magnificent Bokeh: Innovative optics and a large F1.4 aperture create smooth, natural background blur.
  • Fast and Precise Autofocus: Equipped with two XD linear motors for quick, accurate, and quiet autofocus, suitable for both stills and movies.
  • Compact and Lightweight Design: Highly mobile and easy to handle, even during extended shooting sessions.
  • Advanced Control and Reliability: Features a selectable-click aperture ring, customizable focus hold buttons, and dust and moisture resistance for professional use.

Setup

Attaching the Lens

  1. Ensure your camera is turned off.
  2. Align the white index mark on the lens barrel with the white index mark on your camera's E-mount.
  3. Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.

Attaching the Lens Hood

The included lens hood (ALC-SH160) helps to block unwanted light and protect the front element of the lens.

  1. Align the red dot on the lens hood with the red dot on the front of the lens.
  2. Insert the lens hood and rotate it clockwise until it locks securely.
Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens front view
Figure 1: Front view of the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens. This image shows the lens from the front, highlighting the large front element and the focus ring.
Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens side view
Figure 2: Side view of the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens. This image displays the lens from the side, showing the aperture ring, AF/MF switch, and focus hold button.
Image of a camera being held by a person with the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens attached
Figure 3: A person holding a camera with the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens attached, demonstrating its ergonomic fit.

Operating the Lens

Focus Modes (AF/MF Switch)

The lens features an AF/MF switch to quickly toggle between autofocus and manual focus modes.

  • AF (Autofocus): For automatic focusing. The two XD linear motors provide fast, precise, and quiet autofocus performance.
  • MF (Manual Focus): For manual focusing. Rotate the focus ring to adjust focus. This lens offers a linear response manual focus, ideal for precise control during video recording.

Aperture Control

The lens features a dedicated aperture ring with a selectable-click switch.

  • Aperture Ring: Rotate the ring to select your desired aperture from F1.4 to F16.
  • CLICK ON/OFF Switch: Set to 'ON' for tactile clicks when changing aperture, useful for still photography. Set to 'OFF' for smooth, clickless aperture changes, ideal for video recording to avoid audible clicks.
  • IRIS LOCK Switch: This switch prevents accidental changes to the aperture setting. When locked, the aperture ring cannot be moved from the 'A' (Auto) position or from a manually selected aperture.

Focus Hold Buttons

The lens is equipped with two customizable focus hold buttons. These buttons can be assigned various functions via your camera's menu, such as focus hold, Eye AF, or other custom functions.

Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens mounted on a Sony Alpha camera
Figure 4: The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens mounted on a Sony Alpha camera, ready for use.
Image showing the speed of the lens and how its able to capture fast moving objects
Figure 5: Demonstrates the lens's ability to capture fast-moving subjects with precision, highlighting its advanced autofocus system.
Video 1: Official Sony product feature video for the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens. This video showcases the lens's capabilities in various shooting scenarios, emphasizing its image quality, autofocus speed, and handling.

Maintenance

Cleaning the Lens

  • Use a lens blower to remove dust and loose particles from the lens surface.
  • For smudges or fingerprints, use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics. Apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens, and gently wipe in a circular motion.
  • Avoid touching the lens elements with your fingers.

Storage

When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The included lens bag provides additional protection.

Dust and Moisture Resistance

This lens features a dust and moisture-resistant design, offering enhanced reliability for outdoor shooting. However, it is not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture-proof. Avoid direct exposure to heavy rain or water.

Troubleshooting

  • Lens not recognized by camera: Ensure the lens is securely mounted to the camera body. Turn the camera off and on again. Clean the lens and camera contacts with a dry, clean cloth.
  • Autofocus not working: Check if the AF/MF switch on the lens is set to AF. Ensure your camera's focus mode is set to autofocus. Verify that there is sufficient light and contrast for the autofocus system to operate effectively.
  • Image quality issues (e.g., blur, chromatic aberration): Ensure the lens elements are clean. Check your camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO) to ensure they are appropriate for your shooting conditions. While the lens is designed to suppress chromatic aberration, extreme conditions might still show minor effects.

For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to your camera's instruction manual or visit the Sony support website.

Specifications

BrandSony
Model NameFE 85mm F1.4 GM II
Model NumberSEL85F14GM2
Focal Length85 Millimeters (Fixed)
Maximum Aperture1.4 f
Minimum Aperture16 f
Lens MountSony E
Compatible MountingsSony FE
Focus TypeAuto/Manual
Number of Diaphragm Blades11
Photo Filter Size77 Millimeters
Item Weight1.4 Pounds (Approx. 642 g)
Lens Coating DescriptionNano AR Coating II
Water Resistance LevelNot Water Resistant (Dust and moisture resistant)

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information

This product comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in the packaging for full terms and conditions. You may also be eligible for an extended warranty by registering your product with Sony.

What's in the Box

  • Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II Lens
  • Lens Hood (ALC-SH160)
  • Lens Front Cap
  • Lens Rear Cap
  • Soft Case/Bag
  • Bag Strap
  • Instruction Manual and Warranty Card

Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Sony support website or contact their customer service department.

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.