SONY FE70-200mm f/2.8GM II Lens Review by an Actual Sports Photographer. By Patrick Murphy-Racey

The new FE0-200mm f/2.8GM II lens offers super quick and accurate AF, four linear focusing motors, and it's 540 grams lighter weight than the FE70-200mm f/2.8GM lens. At just $200 more than the original, it represents a fantastic value for those of us that try to capture action, whether it's sports, performance, photojournalism, or birds in flight. I got to shoot the new lens for 20 days before the launch date and show the images I was able to get in this video. To see another video on the same lens that talks about the critical technology that SONY used to create this lens, see this video as well: • SONY FE70-200mm f/2.8G...
Amazon Affiliate Link: amzn.to/3aQSe6o

[@garywhite9401]

I can't wait for Sony to also replace the 24-70 with dual XD motors. My 70-200 GM II is already on order!

[@bquinn722]

Always enjoy your videos. Have learned so much and often go back and watch your videos as I advance my craft.

[@PMRTV]

thanks so much!

[@Biosynchro]

I agree. And I don't shoot sports, or anything close.

[@cliffordmcfarlane9008]

I'm a Sony shooter, I like clear views that come with experience. Thank you.

[@keithhill9533]

What a great thorough review. You practically did everything. I was on the fence on whether I should upgrade. Now I’m going to my local shop today to place my order. I shoot all sports but shoot heavily in volleyball. I love that it can “walk and chew bubblegum at the same time.” Thanks!!

[@PMRTV]

You made my day there Keith! thanks much :)

[@krzysztofgrasssnake]

Thanks. I have watched like 100 reviews of this lens in last few days but this one “Rules them All” absolutely! In just a few minutes You have answered most of my questions and the ending with the Nile is just one great masterpiece!!!

[@PMRTV]

Great to hear! thanks so much!

[@Bo_Hazem]

This is a masterpiece indeed.

[@josefrodriguez7441]

I just traded in my first version of the 70-200 GM and wait for the arrival of version 2.

[@Biosynchro]

I'd love to see that talk that you gave to the PSA. Of course I agree with your statement that DSLRs are dead (and have been for years), but I want to see why you think that, and whether your reasons are different to mine.

[@hwirtwirt4500]

Great review Patrick, than you for sharing your expertise.

[@PMRTV]

you bet!

[@brianpatterson8499]

As a fellow Knoxvillian, I will be taking delivery of the new 70-200 Mk II tomorrow and am very pumped by your video and others that demonstrate its capabilities. While I settled for Sigma's 24-70/2.8 Art zoom (easily equal to the GM version) I have learned to wait for the best glass Sony makes (20/1.8G, 85/1.8 primes) and in the 70-200 category that wait is over! Thanks for your candid remarks and superb sample images, Patrick. Keep on truckin'!

[@PMRTV]

thanks Brian!!!

[@Mike-fs3bv]

I love one of your last points. This will lead to many used 70-200's now available at a more reasonable price for those who could not afford them before. I have many excellent photos on the Mark 1, and am on seriously looking to upgrade.

[@NormaBarrientos]

My canon 70D is dying and I am seriously looking into switching to the Sony A7 iv and getting this lens with the teleconverter. I shoot sports for my 4 kids & their teams - all four play lacrosse and one also play soccer using the canon 70d with a Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 and also have a 1.4 converter. This is a big spurge for me but my husband is really encouraging me to do it. If you could only get one dedicated sports lens in this price range it sound like this might be the one along with the teleconverters. I have looked at the Sony FE 100-400 as well as Sigma 100-400mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary Lens for Sony E. but the aperture is not 2.8 and frequently I shoot night games. The sales person at Samy's said i would be fine not having f/2.8 because the iso setting are so high. If you don't mind sharing your thoughts? I am lucky all my kids have the next weekend off so I have a few days to further research before pulling the trigger.

[@PMRTV]

its another world compared to what you are shooting now. I'd go for it. Also, if you have to do it a little at a time, you could also use the Sigma MC-11 adapter and use your Sigma 70-200 for a while on your new a7IV, but best results will always come with using sony glass on Sony bodies. I can save you a few bucks if you use my code PMR at bedfords.com and buy the new gear there. Once they ship you the gear your purchase, you will get 5% credited to your card AFTER the sale goes through. (You will not see any discount appear in checkout but it will be applied). You can get this on anything they sell, not just sony gear :). For field sports, you would definitely be better off with the longer zoom and I much prefer the 200-600G lens even though it's a third of a stop slower than the 100-400GM. It's also less expensive and is newer. I own this lens and love it. Samy's is right in that the a7IV works great in low light as long as you don't underexpose your files. Underexposure of Sony files will bring noise that is not normal. So either way you go, the camera will be right no matter what lens you choose.

[@NormaBarrientos]

@@PMRTV Thank so much for your encouragement. I found a9ii and purchased the Sony 200-600 lens. Fumbled thru the first time using and now starting to feel more comfortable using it. Got some great shots of both lacrosse and soccer. Just used your code to order another lens from Bedfords. Love your videos!1

[@LemarGriffinfilms]

Can’t wait to use this on Sundays! Thanks for making this Pat! Amazing work

[@PMRTV]

thanks Buddy!

[@EricHarmon67]

Nice to see the Maryville teams! I lived in Maryville before moving into a motorhome full-time. I carry an a1 with me, and this lens looks like it could be an awesome addition to my kit.

[@PMRTV]

Very cool!

[@stuckeykids414]

Yes, I second the motion...please give us a 300mm f2.8 GM !!!

[@bigbubu75]

Sony, DO IT. Do it now. I‘m waiting for so long

[@BoboMedia007]

hopefully i can get a mark 1 for cheap now

[@PMRTV]

yes!!!!

[@rodrigodepierola]

"...not just a river...", you killed me. Looks like a fantastic lens.

[@bap1944]

Another GREAT review... THANKS for real world shooting advice

[@PMRTV]

my pleasure!

[@Dan.gibson.photographer]

I used to have the a7iii and the 70200 mk1 and a 200600mm. I bought the GM2 an that’s a whole new world, Next to place I leave the wildlife is not skittish (France🇫🇷) . guess what my 200 600mm leave on a shelves as I bought couple of teleconverter. This new 70200 is blazing fast. Even on the a7iii BIF are an easy task. And I can’t take it all day long without pain and the MDF coupled the tc1.4 yummm 😋

[@IMDABROWN]

Hopefully they listen to you and make a 300mm 2.8.

[@PMRTV]

I know man...

[@rktaylor51]

@PM-R TV Hi Patrick: I hope to be purchasing the following from Bedford’s within the next couple weeks using your Affiliate Code (PMR): -> the Sony Alpha a7R IVA (or with the new GM II AF Lenses, should I invest in the Sony a9 or the a9II instead?) -> the VG-C4EM Vertical Grip -> four (4) Sony NP-FZ 100 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Batteries -> the Sony FE 135mm GM Lens (should I wait for the dual XD Linear AF Motors Version?) -> the Sony FE 24-70mm GM Lens (any idea if there will be a GM II Version anytime soon?) -> the Sony FE 70-200mm GM II Lens -> the Sony FE 100-400mm GM Lens (any idea if there will be a GM II Version anytime soon?) -> the Sony FE 1.4x & the 2.0x Teleconverters -> the Godox Ving V860III Li-Ion Flash for Sony Cameras Do you recommend a particular Memory card and which lens filters? Do you recommend the Insurance offered? Any additional advice will be appreciated… Many thanks! Ray K. Taylor 203.343.3101

[@PMRTV]

thanks so much Ray! Every little bit helps!

[@rktaylor51]

@@PMRTV Hi Patrick: Any comments or thoughts to my questions?

[@JACKnJESUS]

Very informative. I have the 20mm 1.8 and it is a killer lens...and frankly...a steal price wise.

[@PMRTV]

I love mine!!!!

[@petercolichidas7484]

I just sent an email to my AD here in Germany to get this lens, replacing my old one. I hope it going to be easier to obtain than the new 50mm GM! I finally just got the 50mm when it showed up, without notice, at my AD! I hope they get it before Xmas. It will be a Merry Xmas to me.

[@PMRTV]

great!!! hope you don't have to wait too long :)

[@emiliedixneuf8228]

Hello. I like the smooth rendering of your photos. What sort of post processing? Thank you so much. Emilie.

[@PMRTV]

it's likely more the lighting than anything else. Strobes are the bomb!!!

[@marksummers5504]

Nice video. You forgot Sony’s definition of “high-thrust” XD Linear Motors. Haha… It sounds like a rocket ship motor. I’m really excited to get one of these lightweight high thrust GMaster bad boys!

[@PMRTV]

Great point!

[@bvilll]

I’d love to do exactly what you do for a living…it’d be a dream! I seriously always wonder how I myself can get into this career. Even if I don’t make a killing, I’d still be doing what I love.📸

[@PMRTV]

It's really difficult to make a living shooting sports. My advice is find another way to make photography pay and then do the sports for fun.

[@danhiggins8733]

Great stuff, Patrick! So helpful and so important to hear the perspective and even the tips from a very experienced pro. (Punching in with the button on the lens is a great idea. I had assigned APS-C mode on my A1 to the C3 button but now I see the value of doing what you have done).

[@PMRTV]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@barrysmith6099]

@@PMRTV What are you referring to when you say "Punching In". I know the APSC mode creates a smaller file. Are you referring to the clear image zoom as "punching In"?

[@mattsmith9617]

@@barrysmith6099 from what I understand is that apsc mode with a full frame lens is like adding a 1.5 magnifier to the lense.

[@elysiumcore]

Sold ! Along with the 35:GM 🔥

[@rexilily]

Thank you Patrick, gives me a very good impression, how this new lens performs - wow I have recently bought the 135GM to my a1 - a dream combination, but not so versatile (what should I do ??) Small hint - the 135GM has according the Sony page a dual XD linear drive too

[@PMRTV]

whatever you do, don't sell the 135GM--just wait till you can afford the zoom...

[@AUDACITY4Uphotographer]

Great review on the new Sony 70-200mm F2.8 GM ll. Other than loss of a F stop, did you notice any major difference in the 1.4x and the 2x teleconverters? Also, thank you for the big nod to the Sony 20mm G lens.

[@PMRTV]

love me the 20G!!!

[@briannicholson2971]

Hi Patrick, came across your video of this lens as i seriously considering buying it with its quality....i want to get to 400mm at times in my landscape photography and not sure if you used your x2 teleconverter with it to see how it paired up with it . Cheers Brian

[@PMRTV]

Yes, absolutely. 2X works great on it as well as the 1.4, which I prefer. You may be better off though going with either the 100-400GM or 200-600G???

[@briannicholson2971]

@@PMRTV Thanks for your reply....in the meantime and a lot of research I have ordered the Tamron 50-400 lens and should have it soon 😉

[@alexcaparros]

Great content here. Thanks for sharing.

[@PMRTV]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@cesarmillan2361]

Thank you, I liked :)

[@PMRTV]

Thanks for liking

[@hamburgerquieddje3898]

Still have to save some coins for that one but it will be worth it, maybe with some cashback by sony, who knows. Awesome review, great pictures! Thanks for the video from germany✌️

[@PMRTV]

Thanks for watching!

[@derrickrr5516]

I know video isn’t your thing but what I’m hearing is there is minimal focus breathing with this new lens. I wish they could’ve pulled that off with their new primes.

[@PMRTV]

yeah... this lens was made for video as well as stills, unlike many others

[@MF.Productions]

Shame Sony still do not have the arca swiss milled into the foot. Fitting this expensive lens via a $2.- plate is a very silly look in my books. Just take a look at the new Sigma 150-600 Sport for e-mount of how it is done right.

[@PMRTV]

I'm a manfrotto guy so arca swiss is lost on me :)

[@hartaran1998]

Great review, cant wait to buy it!! does the minimum focus distance changes while using 2x teleconverter?

[@PMRTV]

I need to check on this--good question!!!

[@michaell5806]

Is your Bedfords code still good?

[@PMRTV]

Yes it is!!!!

[@N4865G]

Thank you for a great review Patrick. Out of curiosity, I see you wear glasses, how do you go about shooting fast sports with them? Do you take them off when looking at the viewfinder, or have it calibrated for your spectacles? Thanks

[@actisink1643]

Is it worth buying if your using the Sony A7C?

[@PMRTV]

yes! 1. weight 2. sharper 3. faster and more accurate AF

[@actisink1643]

@@PMRTV Thank you going to purchase as soon its available!

[@robertreinhardt4924]

How do you think this lens would perform on an A7III? We all drool over the A1, but the vast majority of hobbyists are working with lesser bodies. Thanks!

[@PMRTV]

it's going to be much faster because the lens is so much faster. Yo would definitely see the difference.

[@michaelachen296]

Would an a7III be able to take advantage of all the updates-amateur team sports videographer/photographer, ultimate frisbee.

[@PMRTV]

yes, most certainly!

[@LiveGreen247]

Hello Patrick! Would a Sony a6500 work well with it this lense? My son started HS water polo this year and would love to capture awesome pics of the boys. Any advice or guidance will be greatly appreciated 🙏🏽 🙂

[@PMRTV]

Yes it does! Because the lens is designed for full frame cameras, it will effectively become a 100-300mm f/2.8 on your a6500.

[@afsoto]

In terms of sharpness and color rendition....how does it compare to 100 to 400mm and to the prime 135mm f1.8 ( the gold standard). Is there any way to describe how close or far this new one is?

[@PMRTV]

I will not be selling my 135GM for any reason. As good as the new lens is, it's no where near as fast as the 135GM in terms of how much light it lets in (1.3 stops more light than GMII). I will find an easy use for both lenses. It's a tough call on 100-400GM vs. 70-200GMII because each has advantages: 1. the 100-400 offers an actual 400mm focal length. 2. The new GMII lens offers even faster and more accurate AF. If I had to choose, I'd go with 70-200GMII with the 1.4X and 2X.

[@belezasdanatureza1539]

Pretendo compra uma dessa para natureza e animais, o que vc me diz ?

[@HensleyDesign]

hey man, i have a sony a6000. which of the two would be a better option for my camera body? the sony 70-200mm f/2.8 gm oss ii or the sony 70-200mm f/2.8 gm oss i? thanks in advance for any guidance!

[@PMRTV]

either would work really well on your camera.

[@mgermelckumyn3688]

Sony best beautiful

[@richodphoto]

how is your flash duration figure determined? thanks!

[@PMRTV]

The FJ400 units are really cool. When you take them out of TTL mode and you enter full manual control, for each setting you select, it shows you the exact fraction of the flash duration. it's really cool!

[@dnldnl4880]

I wanted this for my a74 is that a waste?

[@Shrieken213]

Does it share a lens foot with the old 70-200 and the 100-400?

[@PMRTV]

I think they are the same

[@Thekoffrekup]

Your photos are really high in contrast, almost looks too dark

[@PMRTV]

you're not used to looking at strobed basketball--it's all about contrast and better color!

[@luistorres255]

You sounds like a car salesmen or street seller