Sony a7R II and Batis Combo - Initial thoughts and images from the coast of Maine

[Show Performance]

Just put together a post with my thoughts on the a7R II and Batis lenses.

Check it here:Sony a7R II and Zeiss Batis lenses – Initial thoughts and shots from the coast of Maine | Chad Wadsworth | Photographer

 

[Guy Mancuso]

Becoming two of my favorite lenses. Zeiss really out did themselves

 

[retow]

Nice review, not making the wait for the two Batis easier.

 

[Viramati]

Very good review. I am though one of those who didn't like the shimmering effect as it distracted me when trying to compose even though it could help at times with manual focussing.

 

[ptomsu]

Thanks indeed for this great review!

 

[dandrewk]

I am still so torn between the Batis 85 and Sony 90. I -do- shoot occassional close ups, but usually it's for isolation shots, and the f2.8 is less than ideal.

From examples I have seen, both lenses are incredibly sharp and have lovely bokeh. I can't go wrong with either.

In a perfect world, my choice would be the Sony 90. However, it's a beast, and I'm afraid I'd often leave it behind rather than slogging it around. The Batis is much more manageable... but then, it's minimum focus distance pales compared to the Sony.

Tough choice.

 

[Zlatko Batistich]

With some lenses a macro converter can be used to reduce the focus distance. I wonder whether the 85 Batis can be used with any kind of macro converter, either between the lens and the camera body, or in front of the lens? Canon makes those macro filters that screw on the front of a lens (not sure if there's one in the right size). Similarly, Raynox makes one that snaps on into the filter thread, although I don't think it will fit on the 85 Batis. Anyway, something like that may be a solution for someone who prefers the 85 but occasionally needs to get closer.

Good review, by the way. Thanks!

 

[spence]

Terrific shots. I think I'm in love with that Batis 25. Sigh.

 

[ggibson]

Thanks for the review! Enjoyable read and some great pictures.

What's your post-processing method? Looks like you're applying some film-like color filters. Care to share some of your key settings?

 

[Guy Mancuso]

I think the 25 is slightly better than the 85 but they are screaming good

 

[Quentin_Bargate]

Intelligent review, thanks. I own the 90mm macro G OSS, and the 16-35mm F/4, so justifying either Batis lens is hard.

 

[Show Performance]

Thanks for the review! Enjoyable read and some great pictures.

What's your post-processing method? Looks like you're applying some film-like color filters. Care to share some of your key settings?

Thank you. All my edits are done solely in LR using VSCO as a base but I have over 300 additional customized profiles that are unique to specific camera, lens and light conditions. the profiles can vary greatly in their intended effect - some are very neutral while others dramatic.