Halim, Author at bYx Optics

Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G

I adore the Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G lens, yet for close-up framing where object distortion can be a concern, I want a more versatile option. One of the solutions is using narrower focal lengths, as provided by Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G.

When travelling and restricted to just one lens, for example, during my Camino de Santiago walk, the 24 G and 40 G lenses were an eye-opener. Constantly switching between the two, especially in varied weather conditions like rain, proved tiring. Therefore, I was in search for an ideal travel lens. Reflecting on this, I initially leaned towards the Tamron 20-40mm for its f/2.8 aperture. However, I ultimately opted for the Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G despite its maximum aperture at f/4. Its extended wide and telephoto focal lengths won me over, promising versatility for future adventures.

After a year of using the Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G lens, I’ve added this telephoto lens to my kit to complement my flows. Its compact size and lightweight build were a major draw for me; strong factors to count when considering replacing the bulkier Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM lens.

Since my documentary-style running gun typically involves shooting at f/6.3 and narrower, the 20-70G’s smaller footprint perfectly suits my needs. I also require a lens with the flexibility to zoom in closer to my subjects. This lens also stands out for its lightweight build and ergonomic design, making it ideal for handheld shooting, ensuring a comfortable and steady grip during recording sessions.

	Minimum Focus Distance	Weight
Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G	Wide: 30 cm, Tele: 25 cm	488 g
Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G	19 cm	375 g
Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM	38 cm	890 g
Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II	Wide: 21 cm, Tele: 30 cm	695 g

It seems the 20-70G lens will become a staple on my Sony ZV-E1 for documentary-style videography projects, and undoubtedly going to accompany me on travels; (1) if I can bring two camera bodies, this one will be on ZV-E1 and something else on Sony α7 IV, or (2) if I am restricted by weight, it will be the only lens to be paired with Sony α7 IV,.

In essence, while I appreciate the flexibility offered by this zoom lens in terms of focal length, I remain committed to prime lenses for their exceptional wider apertures (f/1.2, f/1.4 or f/1.8), which deliver exquisite bokeh. Despite having focal length “duplication”, I am keeping the Sony 20mm F1.8 G because it proves invaluable when a place is tight and it has low-light; and also for the astrophotography. Moreover, their nearly identical sizes make them equally convenient options to carry around when alternating and storing in the bag ¹.

**Astrophotography: Roskilde Harbour, Spring Night at 11pm**
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G
f/1.8 30 sec ISO 500

**Pablo’s Close-up Portraits (sharp overall and nice separation from the background).**
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
f/5.6 1/250 sec ISO 3200 70mm

**Spring leaves against the sun.**
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
f/11 1/250 sec ISO 640 38mm

**Close-up view of a dandelion.**
Sony α7 IV + Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G
f/4 1/250 sec ISO 500 70mm

I look forward to updating my workflow process by adding this zoom lens from its ability to do a close-up and the shaved weight (as opposed to 24-70GM).

Key Features

Aperture range: f/4 to f/22
The angle of view: 94° – 34º
Minimum focus distance: 30 cm (wide) to 25 cm (tele)
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.39×
Filter thread: 72 mm
Dimensions (⌀ × L): 79 × 104.5 mm
Weight: 488 g

Optimising and Harmonising My System

I’ve made the decision to part ways with some of my lenses and cameras that don’t quite align with my current system. Some of these lenses duplicate functionality, while others have been gathering dust for nearly two years. Recently, I sold my Sony ZV-1, as I’ve delved into the world of 10-bit colour grading. Although I incurred some losses selling them to MPB, I’d rather not let them depreciate further sitting unused. Instead, I’m putting the funds towards financing my purchase of the Sony ZV-E1.

Sony FE 50mm F1.2 GM

The Sony Carl Zeiss Sonnar T✻ FE 55mm F1.8 has been my trusted lens for nearly two years, since March 2022. Its performance has consistently delivered outstanding and sharp images. The rendering of a portrait and the environment is just pleasing as attested by the photos below.

Autumn Portrait at RUC
Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony Zeiss 55mm F1.8 + Godox AD200Pro
1/100 sec. f/2.5 ISO 100

Roskilde Festival 2023
Sony ɑ7R III + Sony Zeiss 55mm F1.8
1/1000 sec. f/3.5 ISO 100

An aperture of f/1.8 offers a significant opening, but after delving into reviews and watching various YouTube videos, it became evident that f/1.4 (or even better, f/1.2) brings about a distinctive experience. Having used the Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM for nearly a year, I can attest that it has become my favourite lens. The f/1.4 aperture not only provides speed but also yields a beautiful bokeh effect in the background.

In December 2023, during my visit to Malaysia, I took the Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G, the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM, and the Sony Carl Zeiss Sonnar T✻ FE 55mm F1.8. At a wedding reception, the 24-70mm lens proved versatile, but I frequently extended it to 70mm at f/2.8 to get the bokeh effect. On another wedding reception, the 55mm lens delivered pleasing results, though I desired a slightly more pronounced softening of the background.

Seeing Through A Projection of Another Lens
Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM
70mm 1/125 sec f/2.8 ISO 2000

During a family portrait session, I signalled to the ‘photographer’ to come closer by extending my hand. In doing so, I inadvertently showcased the impressive capabilities of the camera’s autofocus system.
Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 55mm F1.8 Zeiss
1/250 sec f/1.8 ISO 100

On leaving Malaysia, I was thinking of upgrading to a dedicated 50mm GM lens, initially considering f/1.4 as the ideal choice. However, in January 2024, I came across one boasting a maximum aperture of f/1.2. Several factors influenced my choice, including the obvious appeal of the wider aperture and the presence of a physical aperture ring on the lens body. Notably, after reading multiple reviews, it became apparent that the F1.2 GM surpasses the F1.4 GM and even the 55mm F1.8 Zeiss in performance. (Some reviewers did suggest sticking with the 55mm F1.8 Zeiss if already in possession.)

But the main reason for the upgrade is that I’ve become accustomed to the physical aperture ring on the lens body, which enables swift adjustments to get the desired aperture. However, with the 55mm lens, the process of manually scrolling on the camera took some time, especially when returning to the previous aperture position. In addition, there are two additional keywords: bokeh rendition and overall sharpness.

Here are some tests I conducted within a week of acquiring it. From what I can see, this definitely is a very specific lens! One word comes to mind: overkill 😅🤨

The portrait came out well-focused and sharp. The bokeh was nicely rendered too.
1/160 sec. f/2.0 ISO 200 + Godox V1

Portrait in a controlled environment renders an overall sharpness.
1/200 sec. f/5.6 ISO 100 + AD200Pro

Tree bark and snow.
1/1000 sec. f/1.2 ISO 100

Statue of David & Goliath (Ivar Johnsson, 1922), Helsingborg.
1/500 sec. f/4 ISO 400

Kärnan Keep, Helsingborg.
1/1600 sec. f/1.2 ISO 100

View from Terrace Stairs (Terrasstrapporna) towards the Helsingborg City Hall and Helsingør across the Øresund straits.
1/4000 sec. f/1.2 ISO 100

My first after one week impression: I’ve been using the 55mm lens for nearly two years, and I genuinely appreciate the quality of the photos it produces. Recently, I made the decision to “upgrade” to the overkill 50mm F1.2 GM lens, and its f/1.2 aperture is truly magical. However, I’m not ready to part ways with the 55mm just yet. The 50mm F1.2, albeit FANTASTIC, comes with an overkill weight too, making it less practical for casual outings. Therefore, I’ll still be holding onto my trusty 55mm for those lighter, more spontaneous photography moments. My only complaint is that the filter thread is just odd. Why not align it with other GM lenses at 67mm or 82mm?

Eriksvej, Roskilde.

Key Features

Aperture range: f/1.2 to f/16
The angle of view: 47°
Minimum focus distance: 40 cm
Maximum magnification ratio: 0.17×
Filter thread: 72 mm
Dimensions (⌀ × L): 87 × 108 mm
Weight: 778 g

Magical Malaysia (2023) – Part 1

I had the opportunity to visit Malaysia again after my last trip in July 2019. This time, I stayed from December 2 to December 26. I chose Turkish Airlines for my journey, departed from Copenhagen Airport (CPH) for Istanbul Airport (IST). After less than an hour layover in Istanbul, I took the second long journey leg towards the east. Upon reaching Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), I transferred to a Malaysia Airlines flight (codeshare with Turkish Airlines) headed for Penang International Airport (PEN). Upon arrival, my mother and my sister’s family picked me up and dropped me off at my apartment, a place where I hadn’t slept in nearly 5 years.

Landed at Penang International Airport on Malaysia Airlines.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

I fell ill from the second day until my last day in Malaysia. By the fourth day, I had to seek medical help at the hospital due to a heatstroke. Fortunately, tests for COVID-19 and dengue were negative. A midnight x-ray ruled out pneumonia. Despite battling an on-and-off fever, losing my voice, and enduring a persistent cough that caused chest pain, I pushed through and stuck to my plans: meeting people for outdoor activities.

*I spent a night in the hospital due to a heatstroke, and the next day, I fell seriously ill.*
*Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max*

During my stay at my mother’s in the countryside, I made it a habit to get up at 5:30 every morning, ensuring I caught the sunrise. Some days, I waited for sunset. The only exceptions were the day I returned from the hospital and the final day of my stay when continuous rainfall continued for two days.

The first I arrived at my mum’s, it rained. After it stopped, a not-so-vibrant rainbow emerged just before dusk.
Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G

The first person I met was Diyana. Our first destination? Queensbay Mall! We opted for Zus Coffee, a local brand gradually gaining ground over Starbucks (thanks to a boycott due to war). Afterwards, it was for some casual window shopping. For dinner, we had authentic Malay cuisine, which turned out to be delightfully spicy! To cap off the night, we treated ourselves to a foot massage. There were fits of laughter, even from the two masseuse, when a funny incident occurred (Diyana, you remember the details!)

A collage of photos of Diyana and me.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

End of part 1. So, what’s next?

Trekking the Via de la Plata on the Camino de Santiago

A quick heads up: I’ll be sharing additional photos and videos soon once I get on my proper laptop 😅

Trekking from Cáceres to Plasencia, with captivating pit stops in Casar de Cáceres, Cañaveral, Riolobos and Carcaboso was an adventure that immersed me in the breathtaking Spanish countryside. The landscape was an exquisite tapestry of rolling hills, lush meadows, and picturesque vistas that left me in awe.

Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G
1/800 sec. f/2.8 ISO 100

Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G
1/400 sec. f/2.8 ISO 100

As I ventured through some of the villages en route, a sense of timelessness pervaded the air. Some seemed like they were frozen in time, their streets quiet and still during night time, yet enchanting ambience.

The roads stretched endlessly, disappearing into the horizon, a seemingly infinite ribbon of adventure. Each step brought me closer to the next destination, but it also reminded me of the vastness of this journey. The Spanish countryside, with its undulating beauty, offered a stark contrast to the bustling urban life I was accustomed to.

The mental image of lamb, seasoned to perfection and served with savoury accompaniments, painted a vivid picture that helped me push through fatigue and keep pace with each step. It was a delightful daydream that brought a smile to my face, reminding me that sometimes, the most unexpected and mouthwatering motivations can be found in the simplest of pleasures.

Suckling Goat Chops at Restaurante Asador Villa de Cañaveral (€19)
Snapped using iPhone 15 Pro Max

Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 40mm F2.g G
1/60 sec. f/2.5 ISO 250

Sony ɑ7 IV + Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G
1/640 sec. f/2.8 ISO 100

However, nature had its own plans for our journey. As we neared the culmination of this epic trek, the sky unleashed its fury, drenching us with a relentless downpour. The skies above remained shrouded in darkness for much of our final stretch. Despite the challenging weather, the temperature remained moderate, providing some comfort as we trudged on, our spirits undampened (but then waned off).

The journey’s crescendo, an experience that would stay with me forever, was the train ride from Plasencia to Madrid Atochas. Sitting in the cosy train cabin, I watched the world outside transform. The landscape shifted from rural tranquillity to urban vibrancy, as Madrid’s lively spirit greeted us to its chaos.

This voyage was not just a physical journey but a spiritual one. It exposed me to the diverse facets of Spain, from the serene countryside to the bustling city life. It was a reminder that the magic of travel lies not only in the destination but in the stories woven along the way.

BACKPACK

I’m travelling light this time around, with just two shirts, two pairs of shorts, and two sets of socks. The good news is that most of the places have laundry machines. So I get to keep things fresh and clean throughout my journey.

GEARS

I brought along my trusty Sony α7 IV, along with a pair of lenses – the Sony FE 24mm F2.8 G and the Sony FE 40mm F2.5 G. While the 24mm lens offered a wide view for capturing landscapes, I found myself increasingly drawn to the 40mm lens. Even for landscape shots, it had this unique ability to “zoom in” and isolate exactly the elements I wanted to highlight.

The GoPro Hero 11, a reliable companion on my journey, was a saviour as my hiking legs began to grow weary. Its horizon levelling feature became something I was truly grateful for, especially when fatigue set in, and maintaining a steady frame became a challenge.

But the real surprise of my gear collection was the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max. It proved to be an indispensable sidekick, effortlessly snapping photos and shooting videos. I alternated between using the default camera app and the BlackMagic Cam, and, at times, it almost made me forget that I had a high-end full-sensor camera and a trusty GoPro in my kit.

All these cameras were packed into my Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L V3.

Every day, I would be busy transferring photos and videos to my trusted companion, the Samsung T7. This routine not only freed up space on my phone but also ensured that my GoPro was always ready to capture more videos without any storage concerns. The portable hard drive, cables and other electronic stuff were packed in Peak Design Tech Pouch.

FINAL THOUGHTS

It was an enlightening experience that offered me fresh perspectives on life beyond the confines of my comfort zone, away from the familiarity of my apartment. Devoid of a computer for reading, composing emails, or watching YouTube, this adventure provided ample opportunity for an amateur photographer like myself to hone my skills in outdoor settings. It allowed me to confront the challenges posed by scorching hot days, rainy weather, and biting cold, offering a valuable learning experience.

In terms of gear, I wish I had opted for just one lens – a versatile zoom lens like the Sony FE 24-70mm F4 would have been ideal, considering the frequent lens changes I made throughout the day. Additionally, I found myself yearning for the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 on certain occasions to stabilise the horizon while recording videos on my Apple iPhone 15.