The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II delivers dynamic wide-angle perspectives with extraordinary resolution and bokeh while maximizing the speed and performance of advanced camera bodies. Unequalled AF performance provides significant advantages for stills and movies in a versatile lens that is also the smallest and lightest of its kind.
Even though it is the smallest and lightest full-frame F2.8 16-35mm zoom in the world, the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II delivers extraordinary image quality thanks to XA elements and Super ED glass (extra-low dispersion) in an advanced optical design. Lightweight high-thrust XD Linear Motors further contribute to a low overall weight of just 19.3 oz. (547 g) – about 20% lighter than FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM. Overall length is a just 4.5 in. (111.5 mm).
High spatial resolution results in detailed rendering of dynamic wide-angle scenes right out to the image edges throughout the 16-35 mm zoom range, even with the aperture wide open. Five aspherical elements include three XA (extreme aspherical) elements, and aberration is controlled for a superb blend of high resolution and gorgeous bokeh.
Smooth, beautiful bokeh that can add depth to this remarkable lens’s outstanding resolution is made possible by a large F2.8 maximum aperture, innovative optical design, and an advanced 11-blade aperture unit. Gorgeous circular bokeh can add extra appeal and expressive impact to a wide range of images.
The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II uses a floating focus mechanism that includes four original XD Linear Motors and precise lens control for up to approx. 2x2 faster AF speed. Continuous shooting at up to 30 fps is possible with Sony’s α1 camera3. It reliably acquires focus and smoothly tracks subjects, easily achieving the critical focus required for slow motion and 4K/8K movies.
The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II offers outstanding close-up performance with a minimum focusing distance of just 8.7” (0.22 m) throughout the zoom range and a maximum magnification of 0.32x. This makes it possible to get close for dynamic perspectives while deep bokeh adds extra expressive capability.
The latest lens technology reduces focus breathing, focus shift, and axis shift when zooming. Image movement and angle of view variations are minimized for smooth movie imagery without distractions. XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors and an advanced aperture unit also reduce noise and vibration that can interfere with movie recording.
In addition to being lightweight, the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II has been designed for ideal balance with minimal extension when zooming. A center of gravity that changes very little contributes to agile, stable maneuverability when shooting handheld, and eliminates the need for readjustment after changing the zoom setting when using a gimbal.
Flare and ghosting can occur when the sun or other strong light source is in the frame. Sony’s original Nano AR Coating II produces a uniform anti-reflection coating on lens surfaces, effectively subduing flare and ghosting in tricky lighting conditions. Internal reflections that can reduce clarity are also suppressed.
The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II features a dedicated aperture ring with both a click ON/OFF switch and an iris lock switch for quick, flexible aperture control. The aperture ring click stops can be turned ON to provide tactile feedback when shooting stills, or OFF for seamless, silent aperture control when shooting movies.
Linear Response MF ensures that the focus ring responds directly, repeatably and linearly to subtle control when focusing manually. Focus ring rotation translates directly to a corresponding change in focus, so control feels immediate and precise when shooting stills or movies.
Two customizable focus hold buttons are provided for easy access and convenient control when shooting in horizontal or vertical orientation. One function can be assigned to the focus hold buttons from the camera’s menus. AF/MF switch allows direct access to auto and manual focus modes.
The FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II offers improved dust and moisture resistance. All seams feature structural sealing, buttons and switches are fitted with silicone rubber gaskets, and a rubber ring seals the lens mount. These refinements work together to minimize the possibility of dust and moisture incursion in challenging outdoor environments.
The front lens element features a fluorine coating that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, while making it easier to wipe off any contaminants or fingerprints that do become attached to the lens surface.
While effectively blocking unwanted light, the new lens hood supplied with the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II is smaller than the lens hood supplied with the FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM, making it less obtrusive in use or when stored in a camera bag.
