Sony Announces Its First Full-Frame E-Mount Fisheye Zoom Lens for Mirr

For underwater photographers, Sony's new 8-14mm f/3.5 Fisheye G lens sounds almost too good to be true. The ultra-wide field of view, close focusing distance, constant f/3.5 aperture, and internal zoom make this lens nearly form-fit for underwater shooters.

Exceptionally Useful Zoom Range

The 8-14mm zoom range is exceptionally useful for underwater photo and video. Especially for those close-focus-wide-angle, reefscape, and megafauna shooters. Capture a wide, classic circular fisheye scene at 8mm, and a frame-filled fisheye view at the 14mm end. Both ends of the spectrum provide a 180º field of view.

Get Really Close to Your Subject

The 5.9 inch (.15 meters) minimum focusing distance means you can get extremely close to your subject which means less water and less particulate matter between your lens and your subject. Get crisp, clear shots without loss of contrast. With a close minimum focusing distance and a maximum magnification of 0.22x, close-focus-wide-angle shooters will have a field day with this exciting new lens.

No Loss of Maximum Aperture

The constant f/3.5 aperture means you're not sacrificing shutter speed nor shifting exposure when zooming the lens. It also provides better optics for lowlight and natural light shooting scenarios.

Autofocus

Sony's new fisheye lens uses two linear motors for autofocus. It shows great promise for fast, reliable autofocus when shooting stills and should be a winning choice for those shooters who love capturing a lot of action underwater. Minimal focus breathing provides smooth video footage.

Travel-Friendly, Streamlined System

Clocking in at only 11.1 ounces (314 grams), this lens is lighter than most of the other fisheye lenses in its class, making it easier to pack for travel and to handle underwater.

Additionally, the internal zoom function means this lens won't physically extend as you zoom it. We expect this means you can leave the port extensions at home and make your underwater system ultra-streamlined.

Details and Specs

2.5 inches maximum diameter, 3.25 inches length (63.1mm, 82.8mm)
11.1 ounces (314 grams)
8-14mm focal length full frame (12-21mm for APS-C cameras)
180º field of view
f/3.5 maximum aperture, f/22 minimum aperture
Circular, 7 blade aperture
5.9 inches minimum focus distance (.15 meters)
.22 maximum magnification
Two linear motors for autofocus

Availability

Retailing at $1599USD, this lens looks like a solid investment for underwater Sony shooters, suitable for both full frame and APS-C shooters. We expect to have full coverage for this lens once it hits the market in October.