Sony Planar T* FE 50mm f/1.4 ZA

I don't own this lens but you keep asking me to review stuff I don't own alot so thought I'd give it a go!

I have been a photographer for about 30yrs, used every type of lens. This lens is heavy but oh my, it’s stunning, the quality is superb and the images on my Sony A9 are incredible

The Sony FE 50mm f1.4 ZA is a very respectable large aperture standard prime lens for Sony's mirrorless bodies. It’s very sharp in the center and produces one of the best full-frame corners I've seen. Plus its resistance against flare and glare in adverse contra-light situations is commendable. Its Bokeh is good albeit not best in class and it can be a little slow to focus. But it is sealed thoroughly and is smaller and lighter than many of its f1.4 rivals. That said, if small and light are what you want, do consider the Sony FE 55mm f1.8 ZA which loses two thirds of a stop of aperture and some of the bokeh quality to meet a much more compact size and lower price. But if you desire the more attractive bokeh and faster focal ratio, the Sony FE 50mm f1.4 ZA is a well-rounded package that justifies the price and deserves a Highly Recommended.

I got this lens when it had a huge discount . Right out the box it feels well built. I am amazed by how well the focus works, even if its focus by wire. It is hands down THE BEST focus by wire system that I've used. You dont even feel its controlled by a motor. its very responsive, and it feels just like a full manual lens focus. Picture quality is superb. I can see more details on human skin that any other lens. I've used also the Milvus lineup from zeiss which has the best glass in the market, but this Sony has even better glass coming at 12 elements 9 groups. 11 blades. Another amazing thing is that this lens has auto & manual aperture controlling as well as the option to de-click the ring. how awesome is that? you dont find this option on many lenses. if you're thinking about buying this lens, i'm telling your right away its worth it... The other lens that might compete with this is the milvus 50mm but that one is FULL manual. so this one is even better.

Bokeh is very pleasing and lacks severe onion-ring effect. Chromatic adoration is hardly evident and sharpness is, well, sharp at all f-stops. A little heavy but I like the weight which makes it feel like pure quality. Best prime I've owned so far.