First Impression: Zeiss 55mm f/1.8 FE in 2024

Why the Sony 55mm f/1.8 FE Is a Must-Have Lens for Sony E-Mount Users

The Sony 55mm f/1.8 FE lens stands out in the Sony lineup and has earned a purposeful place in my photography kit. Compact, lightweight, weather-resistant, and incredibly sharp, this lens holds a unique appeal among Sony’s offerings. Recently, I picked it up secondhand in excellent condition for around $300, and I can already tell it will be invaluable, especially for travel and on-the-go portrait work. Its versatility goes beyond portraits, making it a fantastic investment for various styles and scenarios. Amongst all of the other 50mm lenses available in the market, this lens has somewhat been forgotten or praised.

Why the Sony 55mm f/1.8 Shines

The Sony 55mm is one of the sharpest lenses in the E-Mount lineup, but it’s the character of this lens that sets it apart. It brings out detail and depth in a way reminiscent of classic film, adding charm and personality to every shot. Released in 2013, this lens still performs at a top level, with fast and reliable autofocus that stands up well against newer models. I had the chance to use it in a recent beach shoot with Kristina, where I kept the setup light and portable. Paired with a Glimmerglass filter for highlight flares, this lens performed beautifully even in midday lighting—not typically ideal for portraits—capturing shots I was more than happy with.

First Impressions of the 55mm f/1.8

Since returning to digital photography in 2018, I’d had my eye on this lens, though at first, I opted for the Zeiss 50mm f/1.4, which was similarly priced at the time. Recently, however, the price for a used 55mm dropped, making it a great addition to my Zeiss 35mm. My choice of the 55mm over the 50mm f/1.4 ultimately came down to size and ease of travel. The switch to mirrorless was all about a compact form factor, and the 55mm delivers that without sacrificing much in quality. While the 50mm f/1.4 may have slightly faster autofocus, the 55mm’s image quality and character make up for it. The subtle focal length difference even brings its unique feel to the photos, a style that I quickly recognized after years of using the Zeiss 50.

Sony A7r3 | Zeiss 55mm FE f/1.8 Lens | ISO 50 – 1/1250 – f/3.5 | Tiffen Black Glimmerglass 1/8th

Some Drawbacks to Consider

Of course, no lens is perfect, and the Sony 55mm f/1.8 has a couple of quirks. Given its age, it lacks built-in stabilization, which could be a drawback for those using older Sony models. However, newer cameras with in-body stabilization make this less of an issue.

Another aspect to consider is the autofocus. While it’s generally quick, it’s not flawless—particularly when shooting wide open. Unlike the Zeiss 50mm f/1.4, which locks focus reliably every time, the 55mm can occasionally miss. Using flexible spot focusing on newer Sony bodies improves this, but it’s something to keep in mind if you need the absolute precision of other premium primes.

Sony A7r3 | Zeiss 55mm FE f/1.8 Lens | ISO 50 – 1/1250 – f/3.5 | Tiffen Black Glimmerglass 1/8th

The 55mm f/1.8: Who It’s For (and Not For)

If you’re searching for a quality prime lens for your Sony E-mount, the 55mm f/1.8 is a fantastic choice. It’s versatile enough to handle landscapes, street photography, weddings, events, and more, producing consistently impressive results. Price-wise, it’s reasonable for its quality, positioned attractively among other Sony G and Zeiss lenses.

For my kit, the 55mm isn’t here to replace my Zeiss 50mm but rather to complement it. When I want something compact and light for a weekend getaway or a quick travel shoot, the 55mm will be my go-to lens. If you prioritize a wide aperture and don’t mind a bit more weight, the Zeiss 50mm f/1.4 may be more suited to you. But for those wanting an excellent, versatile lens that combines portability with high-quality optics, the 55mm f/1.8 is a true winner, and would recommend finding one in the used market for a good deal!

Sony A7r3 | Zeiss 55mm FE f/1.8 Lens | ISO 50 – 1/1250 – f/3.5 | Tiffen Black Glimmerglass 1/8th