Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens

The Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 G Master is a durable and lightweight pro lens with fast, precise autofocus thanks to two newly developed high-speed XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors that drive the lens’ focus group, achieving up to a 5x improvement in moving-subject tracking performance. This 400mm lens features an 11-blade circular aperture mechanism that allows it to produce extremely natural and beautiful background defocus or bokeh.

Newly developed XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motor
The XD Linear Motors used in the SEL400F28GM have been newly developed to deliver higher thrust and efficiency than conventional types in order to make the most of the rapidly evolving speed performance of current and future camera bodies. Linear motor design and component layout have been thoroughly revised to achieve significantly higher thrust. Two of these new motors are used in the SEL400F28GM, achieving up to a 5x improvement3 in moving-subject tracking performance. This means that the full speed performance of advanced camera bodies can be applied to capturing perfect images of the most dynamic sports or wildlife subjects. The XD motors are further supported by new algorithms developed specifically for them, notably improving the motors’ response to control signals and minimizing lag and instability that can occur when driving a large aperture focus lens group for quiet, low-vibration operation. To withstand harsh weather conditions, this lens is built with a durable magnesium alloy and a strong, lightweight carbon fibre hood. It is also dust and moisture resistant and the front element is coated with fluorine to resist dirt and fingerprints.

Built-in optical image stabilization
Optical image stabilization is built in, making it easier to capture sharp images when shooting handheld. In addition to the Mode 2 setting that is provided for panning shots, the SEL400F28GM features a new Mode 3 setting with an advanced algorithm that ensures easier framing when following moving subjects. Mode 3 provides optimum stabilization for tracking and shooting dynamic, unpredictable sports action. 5-axis image stabilization becomes available when the SEL400F28GM is used with an α body that features in-body image stabilization.

Natural, beautiful bokeh
In addition to careful control of spherical aberration at the design stage, each lens is individually tested and adjusted during manufacture to achieve the highest possible bokeh quality. An 11-blade circular aperture mechanism further contributes to smooth circular bokeh. The SEL400F28GM allows the narrow depth of field achievable with a 400mm F2.8 lens to be utilized to create images with deep, lush, defocused backgrounds.

Nano AR Coating
Sony’s original Nano AR Coating is applied to interior lens surfaces to effectively suppress reflections that can lead to flare and ghosting, significantly enhancing image clarity and contrast.

G Master resolution
All lenses bearing the G Master brand are designed to extremely high standards, ensuring that outstanding contrast at high spatial frequencies is maintained right out to the image edges. The optical design includes three fluorite elements that help to minimize axial chromatic aberration that can be a problem in large-aperture lenses, as well as lateral chromatic aberration that can reduce resolution towards the image periphery. Colour bleeding is effectively suppressed, allowing clear reproduction of the finest subject details.

Full-time DMF
When the FULL TIME DMF switch is ON, manual focus is immediately engaged by simply rotating the focus ring, even while shooting in the AF-C mode. If AF causes focus to shift to a different subject while shooting, the focus ring can be used to quickly bring focus back to the desired subject. In situations where the user wants to fine tune focus manually after initial AF, the body’s shutter button half-press focus function can be turned off and AF assigned to a different button, making it easy to use the focus ring for final focus after initial AF has been achieved. The ability to instantly switch to manual focus can also be useful when it is necessary to focus beyond a set focus range limit.

Drop-in filter slot
The SEL400F28GM includes a filter slot that accepts ø 40.5mm ND and other filter types, as well as the optional VF-DCPL1 drop-in circular polarizer. The VF-DCPL1 circular polarizer can be rotated to achieve the desired polarization while installed in the lens.

Focus
Power Focus - When the function ring select switch is set to FUNCTION and the function ring is rotated, focus shifts smoothly at a speed determined by the amount of function ring rotation. This allows smooth focus shift for movies.
Preset Focus - The SET button is initially used to memorize the desired focus point. If the mode switch is then set to the PRESET position, moving the function ring in either direction will immediately set focus to the memorized point. This can be a huge advantage for sports and other rapidly changing situations, allowing focus to be preset in advance and instantly recalled to ensure that the decisive moment is properly captured. This function is available whether shooting with AF or MF, and can focus outside a set focus limit range.
Focus range limiter - The focus range limit switch allows a limited focus range to be selected when the fastest possible focusing is required. Three settings are provided: FULL, 7m-2.7m, and ∞-7m.

Durable, lightweight construction
An innovative optical design that includes three fluorite elements and reduces the number of elements deployed at the front of the lens barrel is behind the remarkably light weight of this fine lens. Another weight-reducing factor is the use of durable magnesium alloy components in the barrel. The SEL400F28GM weighs just 2,895 grams, providing portability and handheld maneuverability.

The number of mount attachment screws has been increased to ensure maximum rigidity and durability that will easily withstand professional use.

The supplied lens hood is made of strong, lightweight carbon fibre, with interior flocking for optimum light control.

The tripod collar ring employs bearings to ensure smooth rotation as well as high reliability. The tripod collar ring also features 90-degree click stops and a switch that engages or disengages the click stops as required.

MFR ref: SEL400F28GM