Sep 12 2016
Offering moviemakers a powerful new creative tool, Sony has developed an advanced Super 35mm / APS-C format power zoom lens that starts at 18mm wide angle and extends to 110mm at the telephoto end (27mm – 165mm equiv. in 35mm format[ii]). The new lens has a 6.1x high zoom ratio, even with inner focus, and maintains a constant F4 maximum aperture throughout its zoom range for beautiful depth of field effects and stable exposure control.
Sony introduces 18-110mm Super 35mm / APS-C lens with power zoom capability (PRNewsFoto/Sony)
An ideal companion to a wide range of α cameras, from the PXW-FS7 professional camcorder to interchangeable-lens cameras such as α7 series and α6300, this G LensTM delivers image quality that will satisfy even the most demanding of professional users. It consists of 18 elements in 15 groups, including 6 aspherical elements and 3 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and features a 7 blade circular aperture design. This highly intricate design delivers extremely high resolution image quality and is particularly suited to professional 4K movie shooting.
The E PZ 18-110mm F4 G OSS is only the second lens[iii] to benefit from Sony's Smooth Motion Optics (SMO) design and construction, which has been developed to eliminate unwanted image shifts while making adjustments during movie shooting. SMO addresses three particular aspects of lens operation that can have a significant impact on movie quality: Focus Breathing, where shifts in angle of view during focusing are minimized by an internal focus mechanism; focus shift, where small shifts in focus that can occur during zooming are eliminated by precise focus tracking adjustment, and Axial shift, where axial image shifts during zooming are minimized by a constant length design.
The high level of operability and quiet operation of the new lens makes it a compelling proposition for its integration into professional movie production environments. Its three separate rings give control over focus, zoom and aperture, with optimal torque for a satisfyingly responsive, professional feel. Both servo and responsive manual mechanical zoom are fully supported and the zoom ring direction is switchable to match individual user preferences. Additionally, the lens length remains constant during any changes, making it easy to use with matte boxes and other lens accessories. Also, in a first for Sony α lenses, a 0.8mm pitch focus gear is built right onto the ring, providing direct compatibility with standard focusing accessories.
Optimum optical performance and operability is complimented by a dust and moisture-resistant designi, making the lens ideal for location use. Extra versatility is afforded by Optical SteadyShot technology that provides in-lens image stabilization during handheld shooting. The lens also features a compact and lightweight[iv] design making it a truly mobile solution. Additional flexibility is afforded when used with the SEL14TC and SEL20TC teleconverters for 1.4x and 2.0x extension of focal range.
The E PZ 18-110mm F4 G OSS Super 35mm / APS-C power zoom lens for professional movie-makers and photographers will available in North America from November 2016, priced at approximately $3,500 US / $4,500 CA.