Mark Ellington
Sony 24-105mm F4 G OSS Zoom Lens
Introduction
The Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Lens (model SEL24105G) represents a versatile option in the realm of full-frame lenses. Manufactured by Sony, a leader in imaging technology, this lens is designed for photographers and videographers seeking a reliable zoom lens that bridges the gap between wide-angle and telephoto. With its constant F4 maximum aperture, it caters well to various shooting scenarios, from landscapes to portraits, making it a staple for any Sony camera enthusiast.
Appearance and Design
The Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS sports a sleek and professional design, characterized by its all-black finish. The lens is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring durability while remaining relatively lightweight at approximately 1.5 pounds. Its aesthetic is complemented by a robust build, featuring a petal-shaped hood that can be attached via a secure bayonet mount. Additionally, the lens incorporates a moisture and dust-resistant design, making it suitable for outdoor shooting in varying weather conditions. The ergonomics are well thought out, with a manual focus ring that feels smooth and responsive during operation.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 24-105mm
- Maximum Aperture: Constant F4
- Lens Construction: 4 aspherical elements and 3 extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.38 m (1.25 feet)
- Aperture Blades: 9-blade circular aperture for beautiful bokeh
- Angle of View (35mm): 84°-23°
- Included Accessories: Lens hood (ALC-SH152), front cap (ALC-F77S), rear cap (ALC-R1EM), and case
- Part Number: SEL24105G
- Warranty: Yes
- Release Date: November 30, 2017
Experience Using the Product
In practical use, the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS excels across a variety of shooting environments. When photographing landscapes, the lens delivers sharp images with excellent corner-to-corner clarity, thanks to its advanced optical design. The constant F4 aperture allows for consistent exposure while zooming, making it easier to capture dynamic scenes without needing to adjust settings frequently.
In portrait photography, the 9-blade circular aperture produces smooth and aesthetically pleasing bokeh, beautifully separating subjects from backgrounds. The lens’s closest focusing distance of 0.38 m also allows for creative close-up shots.
For videographers, the lens’s Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization is a game changer, providing stability during handheld shooting and ensuring smooth footage. Whether capturing a bustling event or serene nature scenes, the lens performs admirably, maintaining focus and clarity throughout.
However, while it’s versatile, the lens may exhibit slight distortion at the wider end, which can be corrected in post-processing but is worth noting for those concerned with image integrity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Versatile focal range suitable for various photography styles
- Constant F4 aperture maintains exposure throughout the zoom range
- Excellent optical performance with minimal distortion
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- Optical SteadyShot image stabilization for smooth video capture
Cons
- Price point may be considered high for amateur photographers
- Some distortion at the wide end that requires correction
Conclusion
Overall, the Sony FE 24-105mm F4 G OSS Standard Zoom Lens (SEL24105G) is a remarkable addition to any photographer or videographer’s toolkit. Its combination of versatility, optical performance, and build quality makes it a formidable choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Despite its higher price point and minor distortion issues, the lens shines in various shooting conditions, making it a worthy investment for those looking to enhance their creative capabilities. If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-quality zoom lens for your Sony full-frame camera, look no further than the SEL24105G.
