Closer encounters with Sony’s new 500mm super-telephoto

Closer encounters with Sony’s new 500mm super-telephoto SAL500F40G

Rugged, pro-focused SAL500F40G lens from Sony for A-mount SLT and DSLR camera

Sydney – 21 February, 2012 – Photographers seeking extreme reach can achieve this with the powerful new 500mm (equivalent to 750mm with APS-C camera) Sony super-telephoto lens. The SAL500F40G is ideal for sports, wildlife and demanding imaging applications that require extreme magnification with uncompromised optical performance.

The SAL500F40G is the longest fixed focal length G Lens from Sony to date. Whether you’re shooting detail packed stills or Full HD video, you’ll enjoy frame-filling close-ups with flawless resolution. With a bright F4.0 maximum aperture, its excellent light gathering power allows the use of faster shutter speeds to broaden shooting opportunities.

The ruggedly-engineered SAL500F40G copes effortlessly with tough photo assignments. Focusing ring and front/rear joints are protected by interlocking seals that prevent the build up of dust and moisture, even when you’re shooting outdoors in rain or arid desert conditions. This weather-resistant design makes the SAL500F40G a perfect partner for the SLT-A77 (α77) which offers serious photographers similar rugged performance.

Like all other A-mount lenses, the SAL500F40G is compatible with the SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilisation system featured in every Sony α Translucent Mirror and DSLR camera. Depending on shooting conditions, camera model and settings, you’ll enjoy camera-shake blur compensation that’s equivalent to approximately 4.5 stops (max.) in shutter speed.

Inside, the advanced optical design of the SAL500F40G, includes 11 elements in 10 groups, including three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements. It’s also the first G Lens from Sony to feature an advanced new coating process that ensures clearer images. Exclusive to Sony, the ground-breaking Nano AR Coating process drastically cuts internal reflections. Resulting images are brilliantly crisp and clear, with dramatically reduced lens flare and ghosting. Flare is reduced further still by the carbon fibre lens hood that’s lined withblack velvet fibres to absorb incident light.

Razor-sharp autofocus performance makes the SAL500F40G ideal for capturing an athlete’s explosive movements or the unpredictable movement of wild birds. The high-torque SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor) features a new drive circuit, which ensures rapid, responsive AF with significantly faster object tracking thanconventional Sony lenses.

Serious enthusiasts will also welcome a strong emphasis on enhanced handling and ergonomics. Four focus hold buttons are spaced around the lens barrel for easy operation in any position. They’re complemented by a two-way DMF (Direct Manual Focus) mode button and focus range switch for positive, fumble-free operation when you’re shooting under pressure.

Built to order, the SAL500F40G super-telephoto lens from Sony will be available at selected Sony stores and Sony Alpha Specialist Dealers from April 2012. The SRP of the SAL500F40G is $16,999.