UPDATE: Sony has just announced the release of its highly anticipated 100mm Macro Lens, marking a significant upgrade after over a decade. This groundbreaking lens promises to revolutionize macro photography with its advanced features, including exceptional corner-to-corner sharpness and improved autofocus capabilities.
This lens is particularly vital for professional photographers focused on achieving the highest possible image quality. The new design allows for a 1:1 magnification, delivering “seemingly endless resolution” even when paired with high-resolution cameras, such as a 61 MP body. The urgency of this release stems from its potential to dramatically enhance workflows for macro enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The 100mm Macro Lens features a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and a minimum focus distance of 10.2 inches (26 cm), making it an essential tool for capturing intricate details. Weighing in at 1.4 lb (646 g) and measuring ø 3.2 in x 5.8 in (ø 81.4 mm x L 147.9 mm), it is designed for full-frame cameras and boasts an optical design of 17 elements in 13 groups.
Significantly, the lens introduces a reworked manual focus clutch mechanism, allowing photographers to switch seamlessly between autofocus and manual focus without losing reference positions. This addresses a major pain point for macro shooters, enhancing usability and efficiency during shoots.
In an exclusive video breakdown, expert photographer Alex Cooke highlights the lens’ full-time direct manual focus (DMF) feature, even while autofocus is engaged. The lens also performs exceptionally well in varying conditions, as demonstrated when capturing a moving object, such as an overhead plane, while maintaining clarity at f/5.6 with a teleconverter.
The video compares the new lens to the previous 90mm macro lens, which had served the market for over a decade. Cooke elaborates on why it took Sony so long to develop this new G Master version, emphasizing the need for a clear performance leap to justify the upgrade.
As the photography community eagerly awaits further reviews, this lens is poised to redefine macro photography standards. For those using the older model, the video serves as a critical resource to assess whether the upgrade is worthwhile.
Check out the full rundown and sample images in the video above to see how the 100mm Macro Lens can elevate your photography game. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your craft with Sony’s latest innovation.
