Sony’s new ultra-wide angle zoom lens, the FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM, is available for pr-order right now for $2,998. Why does it cost so much and can you justify spending that amount of money when other options are available?
Ultra-wide angle zoom lens with fast apertures don’t tend to come cheap, and Sony’s latest G Master lens is no exception. This short video from Ted Forbes explains why this high-end, professional lens costs so much money and discusses why you might want to consider buying it over its two closest alternatives.
Forbes doesn’t go into too much detail, but the 2mm offered by the 12-24mm f/2.8 over the 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art lens from Sigma are a sizable difference, especially if you shoot real estate and simply don’t have the option of taking a few steps back. 14-24mm will save you more than 50% when it comes to the price, however; the Sigma costs a mere $1,399.
If you’re looking to save even more money while still getting a huge amount of width, you might want to consider a prime — something like the Samyang AF 14mm f/2.8. You can check out a review here.
Will you be preordering Sony’s new lens? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
The thought of 12mm photos on the MLS makes me sick.
Unless it's in the hands of a super talented photographer, of course.
Somehow you ignored Sony 12-24 f4 G as an alternative. I have one and love it. One extra stop doesn't make any difference to me.
Really have to crank the ISO, meaning one full stop. I'll grant that it might push you into territory that is not great on your camera, but one stop is not all that massive.
There is a lot making this lens cost so much . 1. The autofocus speed for an ultrawide. Beats the competition by a good deal . This wasn’t really ever considered a need but neither was Image stabilization on an ultrawide until it was done . I shoot live music photography and videography af speed is a must and most ultrawides just don’t cut it and miss the action.
2. Making a good 12-24 f/2.8 . Just that 2mm requires more engineering. Longer focal lenght range but as good or better than the competitors.
3. The size and weight have been kept fairly respectable for that 12mm f/2.8 chunk of glass .