Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 GM: A London Field Test from Soho to Sunrise

When Jonny mentioned he was heading out on Sony's Soho Street Photo Walk and needed some suitable glass, we were delighted to ship out the Sony FE 35mm F/1.8 GM to see what he could capture. The results, as usual, are wonderful - over to Jonny for a rundown...

I recently had the chance to put the Sony 35mm f/1.8 through its paces during Sony’s first photographers’ workshop in London, and it genuinely impressed me from start to finish. From a relaxed photo walk through the character-filled streets of Soho to capturing the stillness of an early morning sunrise across Westminster, this lens delivered consistently strong results.

What stood out immediately was the build quality. It feels solid and reliable in hand without being overly heavy—perfect for long days of shooting where you want to stay agile. The size and weight make it an easy addition to any kit, especially if you’re moving between locations or working in fast-paced environments.

Optically, it performs beautifully. The sharpness is excellent, even wide open, and the f/1.8 aperture gives you that lovely depth of field that works so well for storytelling. I found it particularly effective for environmental portraits—capturing subjects within the context of the street while still allowing them to stand out. It’s equally at home in a wedding setting, where versatility and speed are essential. Honestly, it’s one of those lenses you really shouldn’t be without.

Paired with my Sony A7R V, it felt like a perfect match. The combination handled everything I threw at it with ease, and it’s quickly become a lens I enjoy keeping in my camera bag. It’s not just an accessory—it’s a reliable part of the creative arsenal and a fantastic resource to have on hand for a wide range of shooting scenarios.

All in all, the Sony 35mm f/1.8 is a lens that punches well above its weight—compact, capable, and incredibly versatile. It’s well worth hiring out this lens if you’re wanting to try out some street photography or simply need it to get those hero shots for your latest wedding booking.

Thanks as ever to Jonny for this fabulous content. Check his work out on his website jgios.com. The Sony FE 35mm F/1.4 GM is available here. We also have the Sony A7R V if you're interested in matching Jonny's setup.

Here are some beautiful shots Jonny captured while London was just waking up: