The Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS (SEL1635Z) holds a significant position within Sony's full-frame E-mount lens lineup, having been one of the earlier wide-angle zoom offerings. Developed in collaboration with ZEISS, this lens aims to provide a premium experience, blending robust build quality with excellent optical performance for a variety of demanding photographic and videographic applications. Positioned as a versatile workhorse, it caters to photographers and videographers seeking a constant aperture wide-angle solution that balances performance, portability, and value.
From a build quality perspective, the SEL1635Z lives up to the ZEISS branding, featuring a sturdy construction that inspires confidence. The lens incorporates a combination of high-quality metals and robust plastics, contributing to a premium feel without excessive weight. At just 518 grams, it is notably lighter and more compact than its faster f/2.8 counterparts, making it an attractive option for travel, extended handheld shooting, or gimbal work. A crucial feature for those who venture outdoors is its dust and moisture-resistant design, providing peace of mind when shooting in challenging environmental conditions, a common scenario for landscape and architectural photographers. The constant f/4 maximum aperture allows for consistent exposure settings across the zoom range and contributes to the lens's manageable size, accommodating a common 72mm filter thread. The internal focusing mechanism is another practical advantage, ensuring the lens's length remains constant during focus adjustments, which is beneficial for gimbals and the use of polarizing filters.
Optically, the FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS delivers impressive results, particularly when considering its versatility. Sharpness is generally very good across the frame, especially when stopped down slightly from its maximum aperture. At 16mm wide open, some corner softness may be observed, but it improves significantly by f/5.6 or f/8. The ZEISS Vario-Tessar T* coating is instrumental in maintaining high contrast and color fidelity, while effectively minimizing flare and ghosting, even when shooting directly into bright light sources. This is a considerable asset for photographers working in diverse lighting scenarios, from sunrises and sunsets to architectural interiors with strong highlights. Distortion, a common characteristic of wide-angle zooms, is present, particularly barrel distortion at the 16mm end. However, this is largely correctable through in-camera processing or post-production software profiles, delivering geometrically accurate images. Vignetting is noticeable at f/4, especially at wider focal lengths, but it's also readily corrected. Chromatic aberration is well-controlled, thanks to the lens's optical design and effective in-camera corrections, leading to clean edges and transitions. While an f/4 aperture on a wide-angle lens isn't typically chosen for its shallow depth of field, the 7-blade circular diaphragm can still produce a reasonably pleasing, smooth bokeh when subjects are close to the minimum focus distance of 0.28m, particularly at the 35mm end.
Autofocus performance is generally swift, quiet, and accurate, making it suitable for both stills and video applications. The internal focusing system contributes to this silent operation, which is critical for videographers who need to avoid capturing focus motor noise. Complementing the autofocus system is Sony's Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization. This in-lens stabilization is a significant advantage, particularly for earlier Sony E-mount bodies that may lack in-body image stabilization (IBIS) or for users who benefit from the combined effect of OSS and IBIS for enhanced stability. It greatly aids in achieving sharp handheld shots in lower light conditions and is indispensable for smooth, stable handheld video recording, especially when walking or vlogging.
The SEL1635Z excels in several key use cases, making it a highly versatile lens for Sony E-mount users. For landscape and architecture photographers, its wide focal range, constant aperture, and robust weather sealing are ideal. It allows for expansive vistas and dramatic architectural perspectives, with the f/4 aperture proving entirely sufficient given that these genres often involve stopping down for maximum depth of field. Travel photography benefits immensely from its lightweight and compact nature, coupled with its versatile focal range and weather resistance. It’s an excellent all-around lens to pack for trips, capable of capturing everything from grand landscapes to street scenes. While not the fastest lens, it is remarkably capable for astrophotography, particularly for wide-field nightscapes. The 16mm focal length is excellent for capturing star fields and the Milky Way, and while f/4 requires slightly higher ISO settings or longer exposures than f/2.8 primes, modern full-frame sensors handle this well. Lastly, for video and vlogging, the lens is a strong contender. Its wide-angle coverage is perfect for vlogging at arm's length, the OSS ensures stable footage, and the quiet internal focusing is a boon for audio recording. Its relatively light weight also makes it a good match for gimbals, providing smooth and cinematic results.
In conclusion, the Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS (SEL1635Z) stands as a highly competent and balanced wide-angle zoom lens for the Sony E-mount system. It offers a compelling blend of optical quality, practical features like Optical SteadyShot and weather resistance, and a manageable size and weight. While faster f/2.8 alternatives exist for those who prioritize maximum light gathering or ultimate subject separation, the SEL1635Z often represents a more practical and accessible choice for many photographers and videographers. Its robust build, consistent performance, and versatility across genres like landscape, architecture, travel, astrophotography, and video make it an excellent investment for those seeking a reliable and high-performing wide-angle lens for their full-frame Sony camera.