For many photographers, a fast, 85mm prime lens is a dream lens. It’s perfect for a variety of portrait styles and can produce the dreamy bokeh that is the hallmark of large aperture glass. The latest 85mm prime on the market is the second generation Sony 85mm f/1.4 G-Master II. The original was introduced eight years ago, to meet (or maybe exceed) that era’s digital camera capabilities.

But eight years is a long time in a tech timeline, and naturally, digital cameras are much more advanced. To keep up, Sony has upgraded its popular f/1.4 lens. The new 85mm GM II is capable of capturing higher resolution images with extreme detail. Sony promises corner to corner sharpness as well as beautiful bokeh from its shallow depth of field.

Importantly, the lens’ autofocus and AF tracking are designed to keep up with Sony’s  latest cameras like the Alpha 1 (a1). When shooting stills, Sony claims AF is up to three times faster than the lens’ predecessor while subject tracking has improved as well (“up to seven times”)—depending on camera body used.

Sony has paid attention to its cinema capabilities as well by minimizing focus breathing and supporting in-camera focus breathing compensation. AF is quiet thanks to its XD linear motor adding to the lens’ versatility.

At 22.7 ounces, the new Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 G Master II lens is about 20% lighter than its predecessor. Its slightly smaller, too, at 3 3/8 x 4 1/4 inches. But it maintains important physical attributes, such as an aperture ring, two customizable focus hold buttons, and dust and moisture resistance.

Even better, the FE 85mm f/1.4 G Master II lens is launching at the same price as the original eight years ago: $1,800. The lens should be shipping at the end of September.

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters course below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.