AF Lens (with character) Suggestions to compliment 85mm
I have been using manual focus lenses on my Sony cameras for a long time now (I'm currently using the A7iv). The lens that sits on my camera 90% of the time is the Canon New FD 50mm F1.4. I love the rendering of lens so much, especially for portraits, but lately I've found myself craving the ability to focus more quickly.
I recently purchased the Sony 85mm 1.4 GM lens. I was a little concerned about the size/weight, slow AF and AF noise, but it turns out none of them are a problem at all for me (perhaps they improved noise issues with later production models?) The rendering of this lens is incredible (so dreamy!) and what a pleasure it is to be able to focus so quickly. - the eye-AF feels very fast to me, but perhaps that's because I'm used to focussing manually!
So yea.. now I'm hooked on Auto Focus lenses, I need some suggestions for some wider angle lenses (with AF) that have some character. I want something for portraits etc. where space is more constrained. Perfect example would be where grandma and grandchildren were cooking together and I wanted to get the full context of the shot (28mm has worked well for me in the past).
I actually bought the Sony 35mm 1.4 GM some years ago, which on paper looks like the perfect complimentary lens for the 85mm, but I found this lens too clinical and lacking in character. Comparing the results to my trusty canon NDF 50, I returned the lens. It just wasn't for me.
I also had the Sony 28mm F2 (sold it many years ago), which I bought with my first Sony Full Frame Camera (A7Rii) and I really liked it! Some of my favourite images have been shot with the lens - it's got a nice character - but let's face it, it's not the sharpest of lenses. I could probably live with this lens, but I would like something of higher quality if possible.
Do you guys have any recommendations?
Oct 31, 2025 at 05:42 AM
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