Zoom vs Primes – 28-70mm f/2.0 vs 35mm f/1.4 + 50mm f/1.2

The time has come—Zoom vs Primes is back! This third installment the series dives into the highly anticipated Sony 28-70mm f/2 lens, a zoom lens designed to rival primes in both performance and aesthetic. Could this be the ultimate hybrid solution?

In the video, I put this zoom lens head-to-head with two legendary primes: the Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM and Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM, during a practical photoshoot with a couple. My goal? To see if the new zoom can deliver prime-quality results without sacrificing the creative flexibility zooms are known for.

I also conducted a few controlled tests, including:

• Studio tripod shots for a detailed look at background blur and bokeh differences.

• 1-to-1 comparisons of identical compositions between the zoom and the primes.

• A full photoshoot where I shot naturally with each lens, capturing what felt right in the moment.

Take the Quiz!

Think you can tell the difference between photos taken with a zoom and a prime? Test your eye by taking the Prime or Zoom quiz below. You’ll find a mix of comparison shots from the video—some subtle, some tricky 🙂

All photos edited with Magicadabra Presets:

Zoom vs Primes – QUIZ

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View the Full Gallery

Want to analyze the photos at your own pace? Check out the full gallery of images, hosted by Pic-Time, and see the results for yourself.

FULL GALLERY