Quick answer
A fast APS-C normal prime for A-mount with an f/1.8 aperture. At about 170 g with a 55mm filter size, it is a very small lens.
Pros
- Fast f/1.8 aperture
- Light at about 170 g
- Close focus of 0.23 m
- SAM autofocus
Cons
- APS-C only
- Plastic build
- 7-bladed aperture gives less rounded highlights when stopped down
Verdict
A simple, fast upgrade from a kit zoom for APS-C A-mount bodies.
About this lens
A 35mm f/1.8 fast wide-angle prime lens, the Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) is designed for Sony A mount bodies. The wide view suits landscapes, architecture and environmental shots.
Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM (SAL35F18) specifications
- Brand
- Sony
- Mount
- Sony A
- Focal length
- 35mm
- Maximum aperture
- f/1.8
- Lens type
- Prime
- Format coverage
- aps-c
- Released
- 2010
- Optical construction
- 6 elements in 5 groups
- Aperture blades
- 7
- Autofocus motor
- SAM
- Minimum focus distance
- 0.23 m
- Maximum magnification
- 0.25x
- Filter thread
- 55 mm
- Weight
- 170 g
- Length
- 52 mm
Specification source: dyxum.com
What can you shoot with the Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM (SAL35F18)?
- Everyday photography
- Low-light indoor shots
- Beginner portraits
Its fast maximum aperture helps in dim light and gives good subject separation.
Full-frame equivalent and field of view
Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.
| Sensor | Crop | Equivalent | Horizontal FOV | Diagonal FOV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APS-C | 1.5x | 53mm | 37.8° | 44.8° |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM a full-frame lens?
No. It is designed for APS-C sensors. On a full-frame A-mount body such as the A99 it will be used in crop mode.
What field of view does the DT 35mm f/1.8 give?
On an APS-C body it frames like roughly a 52mm lens on full frame, close to the natural view of the eye.
What does SAM stand for on Sony A-mount lenses?
SAM is Smooth Autofocus Motor, a small motor in the lens that is quieter and faster than the screw drive in the camera body.
Alternatives for Sony A from other brands
All Sony A lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
