Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML Lens - Sony E

The Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML is a manual-focus prime lens designed for high optical performance. A Sonnar optical design with aspherical elements minimises chromatic aberrations and distortion, ensuring sharpness and true-to-life colour. The T* anti-reflective coating reduces flare, while the 10-blade aperture creates smooth bokeh. Precision-engineered mechanics, de-click aperture control, and all-metal construction provide complete control for photographers and videographers seeking accuracy and consistency.

Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML Lens Key Features:

• Manual-focus lens with precision control for photography and video
• Excels in low light with wide and fast f1.4 maximum aperture
• Premium optical construction featuring 15 elements in 11 groups
• Sonnar design minimises chromatic aberrations
• Aspherical elements reduce distortion and improve sharpness
• 10-bladed aperture diaphragm for naturally circular bokeh
• Improve composition with the 0.8m minimum focus distance
• T* anti-reflective coating reduces flare and enhances contrast
• Features a de-click aperture ring for smooth, silent adjustments
• Long focus throw supports accurate manual focusing
• All-metal construction for durability and a secure grip
• Internal focusing maintains a consistent lens size
• Clearly marked focus and aperture scales for quick adjustments
• Weather sealing protects against dust and moisture

How to use the Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML Lens

Manual control with precision engineering

Zeiss designed the 85mm f1.4 Otus ML for photographers and videographers who require complete manual control over their images. Its long focus throw and precision-machined helicoid drive allow for accurate focusing, making it well-suited for portrait and documentary work where selective focus is key. The de-click aperture control enables seamless exposure adjustments, complemented by engraved focus and aperture scales that provide precise, repeatable adjustments for accurate manual operation.

Renowned Zeiss optics for maximum detail

Built on the foundation of the renowned Otus family, the Otus ML series delivers high-resolution image quality with a Sonnar optical design. Aspherical elements reduce distortion and maintain edge-to-edge sharpness, preserving fine details even at wide apertures. The T* anti-reflective coating minimises ghosting and flare, improving contrast in high-contrast and backlit conditions. With a wide f1.4 aperture, the lens excels in low-light scenarios while maintaining clarity and micro-contrast. A minimum focus distance of 0.8m allows for precise framing without sacrificing optical performance.

The distinctive Zeiss look

The Otus ML lenses are known for their signature Zeiss rendering, characterised by sharpness, natural colour reproduction, and a near three-dimensional effect. The combination of high micro-contrast and controlled depth of field ensures subjects stand out clearly against softly blurred backgrounds. The 10-blade aperture produces smooth, harmonious bokeh, making the lens well-suited for portrait photography, cinematic videography, and creative compositions where subject separation is paramount.

Durability and compact design

Zeiss constructed the Otus ML lenses with a full metal housing for professional use in challenging environments. The frosted, anodised surface provides a secure grip, while internal focusing ensures the lens maintains a consistent physical size when adjusting focus. A blue sealing ring at the mount protects against dust and moisture, and the lens can operate in temperatures ranging from -20°C to +55°C. Optimised for mirrorless systems, the Otus ML balances portability with mechanical precision, making it a reliable choice for professionals in varied shooting scenarios.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML Lens
• 1 x Lens Shade
• 1 x Front Cap
• 1 x Rear Cap
• 1 x Lens Pouch
• 1 x De-Click Key
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Warranty
• 1 x Test Certificate

FAQs:

What is the minimum focusing distance of the Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML?

The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.8m (31.5"), with a free working distance of 0.68m (26.77") from the front element to the subject. This technology allows tight framing while maintaining optical performance, minimising distortion and preserving edge-to-edge sharpness.

How much focus throw does the Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML have?

The Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML features a 244° focus throw, enabling precise, gradual adjustments. The extended rotation angle enhances focusing accuracy, which is particularly beneficial for photographers working with shallow depth of field and videographers performing controlled focus transitions. The helicoid-driven focus ring is designed for smooth, resistance-based operation, ensuring precise manual control without play or backlash.

Can I use filters with the Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML?

The lens has a 77mm front filter thread, compatible with standard circular filters such as UV, polarising, and neutral density filters. This thread allows photographers and videographers to control reflections, exposure, and contrast without requiring additional matte boxes or external filter systems.

Zeiss 85mm f1.4 Otus ML Lens - Sony E - Sample Images