Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens

The Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS combines cutting-edge lens technologies with a sophisticated and relatively lightweight construction, making it an ideal fast super-telephoto prime lens for sports and wildlife photographers operating in challenging environments. This G Master lens provides both extended reach and rapid performance, delivering exceptional image quality while ensuring ease of use in handheld situations, attributed to its well-balanced design and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization.

G Master Optical Design

This lens, part of Sony's prestigious G Master series, is engineered to deliver an exceptional combination of remarkable resolution and sharpness, alongside a unique and aesthetically pleasing bokeh. The large f/2.8 maximum aperture facilitates operation in challenging lighting environments and offers an extremely shallow depth of field, effectively isolating subjects from complex backgrounds. To enhance clarity and color fidelity, three fluorite elements and one extra-low dispersion element are incorporated to reduce both axial and lateral chromatic aberrations, as well as color fringing. Additionally, a Nano AR coating has been applied to the internal lens surfaces to minimize reflections that can lead to flare and ghosting. The G Master optical design further aids in reducing spherical aberrations, ensuring high sharpness and a delightful bokeh quality, which is enhanced by a rounded 11-blade diaphragm.

Fast Focusing and Reliable OSS

The XD (Extreme Dynamic) Linear Motor System operates with remarkable quietness and speed, effectively tracking fast-moving subjects during high-velocity shooting. This high-precision motor system is enhanced by advanced autofocus algorithms, which contribute to improved responsiveness and reduced noise, making it particularly advantageous for sports and wildlife photography. The Power Focus feature ensures smooth focusing while recording videos. Additionally, the full-time Direct Manual Focus (DMF) allows for easy manual focus adjustments by simply rotating the focusing ring, irrespective of the selected focusing mode. The Linear Response Manual Focus (MF) offers a natural and responsive feel, facilitating more accurate manual control. Furthermore, the focus range limiter switch and preset focus functions enhance focusing efficiency, enabling quick adjustments within a defined range or to a specific focus point.

Optical SteadyShot image stabilization effectively mitigates the impact of camera shake, facilitating the capture of sharp images during handheld shooting. When utilized with a camera that incorporates in-body image stabilization, a 5-axis stabilization system is accessible, providing enhanced support. Depending on the shooting context, three distinct stabilization modes can be employed: Mode 1 is designed for general shooting, Mode 2 is tailored for panning shots, and Mode 3 focuses on maintaining precise framing while photographing and tracking fast-moving or erratic subjects.

Professional Durability and Intuitive Handling

The construction is weather-sealed to safeguard against dust, dirt, and moisture. The front element features a fluorine coating that not only resists dirt and fingerprints but also facilitates easier cleaning. Weighing a mere 6.4 lb, this lens offers remarkable portability for an f/2.8 super-telephoto. Its weight is strategically distributed towards the rear, allowing it to rest comfortably on a monopod, thereby enhancing the ease of tracking subjects and panning. Furthermore, the optical design incorporates fluorite elements to reduce weight, while the external barrel extensively utilizes magnesium alloy, ensuring a lightweight yet robust construction. The mount has been reinforced to provide enhanced rigidity, capable of withstanding the demands of professional use.

The function ring located near the front of the lens can be configured to manage a predetermined focus position or can be designated for power focus and other selectable features through an in-camera menu. Additionally, there are four customizable focus hold buttons that allow users to modify or activate various settings, including Eye AF. The rear section of the lens is equipped with a drop-in filter slot that accommodates 40.5mm round filters. The rotating tripod collar is designed with ball bearings to ensure smooth movement and includes detents at every 90° interval for user-friendly operation; these clicks can also be turned off if desired. Furthermore, to enhance weight efficiency, the provided lens hood is constructed from carbon fiber. The lens is also compatible with optional FE 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters.