Sony has created some wonderful telephoto lenses for sports and wildlife photographers. While there are some good options to work with (like the newly launched 400-800mm), it is not enough for those who want lightweight build. It appears that Sony is keen on changing this soon, as there are fresh reports of two new models’ introduction: the 400mm and 600mm.
According to Sony Alpha Rumors, a new source has stumbled upon the next major development from Sony. The report states that a Sony photographer and field tester was recently spotted testing unreleased telephoto lenses that are reportedly three-quarters the length of the current 400mm and 600mm offerings. The camera body he was carrying had no external markings.
The encounter was brief, and there is no knowledge of when the lenses will hit the market. The current 400m f2.8 measures 367mm in length and weighs 2,895 grams. As for the 600mm f4, it stretches to 449mm and weighs 3,040 grams. In that regard, a lens that is smaller than this also means some genuine reduction in size and weight, which will make Sony a popular choice amongst wildlife and sports photographers.
The report also notes that Fresnel optical elements, which are also known as Phase Fresnel (PF) technology, are largely responsible for this. And this is without sacrificing the aperture. Nikon has already adopted this technology with the Z 600mm f6.3 VR S (weighs 1,390 grams) and the Z 800mm f6.3 VR.
While this sounds like great news, it is still unconfirmed. Which means we won’t see the lens anytime soon. But there is also the part that if it is true, then Sony may not rely on Fresnel elements at all since the 300mm f2.8 that was introduced in 2023 managed to keep the weight low as well. So the 400mm and 600mm could also go down this path.
A prime lens offers a bright aperture, and that can be of help to many. Moreover, it is also a better option than the existing 400-800mm f6.3-f8. Sigma is another lens maker that caters to Sony, and they, too, have 150-600mm f5-f6.3 and 300-600mm f4 offerings, but the aperture can be a challenge for some professionals.
Moreover, for those who need first-party lenses for better autofocus integration, Sony’s own lightweight lenses will then be considered, despite the price tag. At the same time, some photographers would like if Sony added a teleconverter like Nikon, as it often helps them to get a boost.
It remains to be seen what Sony reveals in the next few weeks. If we come across images and some tech specs, then it is proven the 400mm and 600mm will be launched sometime soon. Otherwise, the wildlife and sports photography community will have to keep a close watch.