Best Sony Lens For Sports Photography (2024 Updated)

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As a sports photographer, you know that capturing the perfect shot requires the right equipment. When it comes to lenses, Sony has a range of options that can help you get the best shots possible. But with so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs.

Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best Sony lens for sports photography:

1. Focal length: Choose a lens with a focal length that suits the type of sports you're shooting. For example, if you're shooting outdoor sports like football or soccer, a lens with a focal length of 70-200mm is a good choice.

2. Aperture: Look for a lens with a wide aperture, such as f/2.8, as it will allow you to shoot in low light conditions and create a shallow depth of field for more dramatic shots.

3. Image stabilization: Sports photography often requires shooting at high shutter speeds, which can lead to camera shake. A lens with image stabilization can help to counteract this and produce sharper images.

4. Autofocus speed: Sports photography requires quick and accurate autofocus, so look for a lens with fast and responsive autofocus capabilities.

5. Build quality: Sports photography can be tough on equipment, so choose a lens with a durable build quality that can withstand the rigors of shooting in different weather conditions and environments.

By considering these key points, you can narrow down your options and find the best Sony lens for your sports photography needs.

10 Best Sony Lens For Sports Photography

1. Sony Fe 70-200mm F4 G Oss Interchangeable Lens For Sony Alpha Cameras

The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Interchangeable Lens is a reliable and high-quality lens designed for use with Sony Alpha Cameras. As a product of the Sony brand, it is built with the latest technology and features that ensure optimal performance and image quality.

One of the most notable features of this lens is its minimum focus distance of 1–1.5 m (AF)/1–1.35 m (MF) (3.28–4.93 ft [AF]/3.28–4.43 ft [MF]), which allows for precise focusing and sharp image capture even at close range. Additionally, the maximum magnification ratio of 0.13x and focal-length range of 70–200 mm provide versatility in capturing a wide range of subjects, from portraits to landscapes.

The Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Interchangeable Lens is designed for fast and accurate autofocus, thanks to its internal focusing mechanism and linear motor actuator. This ensures that images are captured with sharpness and clarity, even in low-light conditions. The lens also features Optical SteadyShot technology, which helps reduce camera shake and produce smoother, clearer images.

The SEL70200G model is an interchangeable lens, which means it can be easily swapped out with other lenses to suit the photographer's needs. This allows for greater flexibility in capturing different types of images and adapting to various shooting situations.

Overall, the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Interchangeable Lens is a reliable and high-performing option for photographers using Sony Alpha Cameras. Its advanced features and technology make it a versatile and valuable addition to any photographer's toolkit.

2. Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Dg Dn Os Sports Zoom Lens For Sony E With Lacie Rugged Mini 1tb Hard Drive And 64gb Sd Card Bundle (3 Items) – Professional Zoom Lens Bundle With Storage Accessories For Sony E Cameras.

The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Zoom Lens for Sony E is a highly responsive lens that can handle even the most challenging subjects. This bundle includes the lens, a LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB USB 3.0 External Portable Hard Drive, and a SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO 170 MB/s UHS-I SDXC Memory Card.

Equipped with an AF unit that features a high-precision magnetic sensor and an OS (Optical Stabilizer) function effective to approximately 4 stops of image stabilization, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Zoom Lens is capable of fast and accurate autofocus. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-action subjects.

The lens features a Dual Action Zoom, which supports both straight zoom and ring zoom, allowing the user to change the angle of view in a quick and intuitive way. Furthermore, the lens has two standard OS modes for both handheld shooting and panning situations.

As part of the Sigma Global Vision Sports line of lenses, the 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Zoom Lens is specifically designed for everyday use in challenging conditions. The barrel construction consists of aluminum and TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) for an ideal combination of toughness and improved portability.

The LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB USB 3.0 External Portable Hard Drive is a durable and reliable storage solution that is designed to withstand drops from up to 4 feet. It is also resistant to rain and pressure.

The SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO 170 MB/s UHS-I SDXC Memory Card is a high-performance memory card that is ideal for professional photographers and videographers. With read speeds of up to 170 MB/s and write speeds of up to 90 MB/s, this memory card is capable of handling even the most demanding tasks.

In summary, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Zoom Lens for Sony E with LaCie Rugged Mini 1TB Hard Drive and 64GB SD Card Bundle (3 Items) is a highly responsive lens that is capable of capturing fast-action subjects. The bundle includes a durable and reliable storage solution and a high-performance memory card, making it an ideal choice for professional photographers and videographers.

3. Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Dg Dn Os Sports Lens With Haida 95mm Filter Kit And Cleaning Kit For Sony E.

The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens for Sony E is a versatile and powerful lens designed for professional photographers and videographers. This lens construction consists of 25 elements in 15 groups, with 4 FLD and 2 SLD elements, delivering high-resolution images with exceptional clarity.

The lens features an Optical Stabilizer (OS) function, which helps to minimize camera shake and allows for sharp images even when shooting handheld in low light conditions. The Inner focus system ensures fast and smooth autofocus, while the compatibility with high-speed autofocus makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

This lens comes bundled with the Haida 95mm CPL+Clear Filter Kit, which includes a NanoPro MC Circular Polarizer (CPL) filter and a NanoPro MC Clear filter. The CPL filter reduces reflections and glare, and enhances color saturation and contrast, while the clear filter provides protection for the lens.

The Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens for Sony E also comes with a Lens Cover Hood, Lens Cover Cap, Tripod Socket, Front Cap, Rear Cap, Shoulder Strap, and Soft Lens Case for easy transportation and storage. The lens is backed by a Sigma 1 Year Limited Warranty.

Overall, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Lens for Sony E is an excellent choice for photographers and videographers looking for a high-quality, versatile, and reliable lens for capturing stunning images and videos. With its advanced features and durable construction, this lens is perfect for wildlife, sports, and other outdoor photography and videography applications.

4. Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di Iii Vc Vxd Lens For Full Frame Sony Mirrorless Camera

The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens is a hand-holdable full-frame 500mm lens that defies conventional wisdom. Measuring just 8.3” in length and with a maximum diameter of 93mm, this lens is remarkably compact and lightweight, weighing only 60.8oz.

Despite its small size, this lens offers impressive close-up capabilities, with a minimum object distance (MOD) of 23.6” at the 150mm end and 70.9” at the 500mm telephoto end. It also has a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 at 150mm, making it an excellent choice for nature and wildlife photographers looking to capture stunning images up close.

The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens also features Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating, which helps to protect the lens from the elements and ensure that it delivers sharp, clear images even in challenging shooting conditions.

This lens is designed specifically for use with full-frame Sony mirrorless cameras and is equipped with Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear motor focus mechanism, which provides fast, precise autofocus performance.

Only Tamron lenses imported officially by Tamron USA, Inc. and distributed by authorized Tamron USA, Inc. dealers carry a Six-Year Limited USA warranty, giving customers peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected.

Overall, the Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Lens is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a versatile, high-performance telephoto lens that can capture stunning images up close. Its compact size, close-up capabilities, and advanced features make it an ideal choice for nature and wildlife photographers, as well as those shooting sports, events, and other fast-paced subjects.

5. Sony Sel2470gm E-Mount Camera Lens: Fe 24-70 Mm F2.8 G Master Full Frame Standard Zoom Lens

The Sony SEL2470GM E-Mount Camera Lens is a high-quality lens that delivers stunning imagery with natural and lifelike detail. This lens features a 35mm full-frame format and an instant auto/manual focus selection with a focus hold button. The minimum focus distance is 0.38 meters, making it ideal for capturing close-up shots with tremendous clarity and sharpness.

The lens is designed with ED and Super ED glass elements that deliver breathtaking texture and detail, while two aspherical elements and an extremely precise XA element reduce aberration and maximize resolution. This combination of features ensures that every image captured with this lens is crisp, clear, and of the highest quality.

The SEL2470GM lens has a 9 blade circular aperture that provides a gorgeous bokeh effect, making it perfect for portrait photography and other artistic shots. Additionally, the lens is equipped with a Nano AR coating that allows for accurate light transmission, improving clarity, contrast, and quality.

With an aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22, a minimum focus distance of 1.24 feet, and a max magnification ratio of 0.24x, this lens is versatile enough to handle a wide range of shooting situations. The angle of view is 84-34 deg. (APS-C 61-23 deg.), and the 35mm equivalent focal length is 36-105mm.

To ensure compatibility, buyers should check the lens against the model number of their camera before purchasing. The product comes with a hood (ALC-SH141), lens front cap (ALC-F82S), lens rear cap (ALC-R1EM), and lens case.

In conclusion, the Sony SEL2470GM E-Mount Camera Lens is a top-of-the-line lens that delivers exceptional image quality, reduced aberration, and a beautiful bokeh effect. Its versatility, compatibility, and easy-to-use features make it an excellent choice for photographers of all levels who want to capture stunning, lifelike images.

6. Sony Fe 70-200mm F/2.8 Gm Oss Lens

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens is a top-tier lens that combines exceptional sharpness and smooth bokeh with a constant F2.8 maximum aperture for consistent exposure and depth of field. With a weight of 1480g (without tripod mount), this lens is designed with the G Master technology that provides superb resolution, making it a perfect choice for professional photographers.

The lens features a class-leading minimum focus distance of 37.8 inches and a 0.25x maximum magnification, making it ideal for capturing stunning close-up shots. The dual floating focus system ensures high autofocus speed and precision, while the XA, ED/Super ED elements and Nano AR Coating offer exceptional resolution even in challenging lighting conditions.

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens is equipped with aspherical elements and an 11-blade circular aperture that creates gorgeous bokeh. It also features a minimum focus breathing and par focal design that makes it ideal for video shooting. The direct-coupled mechanical focus system offers precise manual focus, while the rigid construction ensures constant lens length during focusing and zooming.

This lens also features high-performance Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which minimizes camera shake and ensures sharp images even in low-light conditions. It is also dust and moisture-resistant, providing robust reliability for outdoor shooting.

The Nano AR coating on the lens suppresses reflections, flare, and ghosting, while the XA (extreme aspherical) element delivers 0.01-micron surface precision, ensuring excellent image quality. Overall, the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens is an outstanding lens that offers exceptional performance, making it an ideal choice for professional photographers who demand the best.

7. Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di Iii Vc Vxd Zoom Lens For Sony E-Mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras (A057 Model) With Photography Backpack And Filter Kit.

The Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Zoom Lens for Sony E-Mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras (Model A057) is an ultra-telephoto zoom lens that defies conventional wisdom with its compact design and high image quality. The lens is built with mirrorless cameras in mind and is compatible with many of the advanced features that are specific to mirrorless cameras, such as Fast Hybrid AF, Eye AF, Direct Manual Focus (DMF), and in-camera lens correction.

The optical construction of the Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Zoom Lens features 25 elements in 16 groups and utilizes special lens elements and hybrid aspherical lens elements. The lens achieves a 500mm focal length while retaining a compact size, with a length of just 209.6mm (8.3 in) and a maximum diameter of 93mm, enabling comfortable handheld shooting.

The 150-500mm F5-6.7 zoom is equipped with a high-speed, high-precision linear motor focus mechanism VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) and VC (Vibration Compensation), ensuring no moment is missed. The linear motor also suppresses drive noise and vibrations, making it ideal for shooting both still photos and video in environments that demand quietness.

The lens has a MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 0.6m (23.6 in) at the 150mm end and remarkable overall usability. The 150-500mm F5-6.7 zoom lets users freely enjoy telephoto macro shooting of closeup subjects. The lens has an MOD of 0.6m (23.6 in) at the 150mm wide-angle end, and 1.8m (70.9 in) at the 500mm telephoto end. More remarkably, the maximum magnification ratio at the 150mm end is 1:3.1, offering excellent close-up shooting capabilities for an ultra-telephoto zoom lens.

The Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Zoom Lens comes bundled with a Deco Gear Photography Backpack, an 82mm UV, Polarizer & FLD Filter Kit, a Lexar Professional 633x 64GB UHS-1 SDXC Memory Card, and a Deco Photo Photography Accessories Kit that includes a carry case, lens blower, sensor brush, lens tissue paper, and a 2-piece microfiber cloth.

In summary, the Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Zoom Lens for Sony E-Mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras (Model A057) is a highly versatile lens that lets you capture a wide array of subjects including wild animals, birds, nature, and sports, while producing soft and beautiful bokeh effects. It is built with mirrorless cameras in mind and comes bundled with a range of accessories to enhance your photography experience.

8. Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 Dg Dn Art For Sony E Lens

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art for Sony E Lens is an exceptional camera lens that offers exceptional optical performance and versatility. This lens is designed to provide professional photographers with a high-quality lens that can handle a wide range of shooting scenarios.

One of the key features of this lens is its compact and lightweight design. Measuring just 10.5 cms (L) x 18.3 cms (W) x 19.3 cms (H), this lens is easy to carry around and can be used for extended periods without causing fatigue. Additionally, it features a sleek and modern design that complements the aesthetics of modern mirrorless cameras.

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art for Sony E Lens is a product of Japan, renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. This lens is made with the best materials and engineering techniques to ensure that it delivers exceptional performance and durability.

This camera lens is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of shooting scenarios. Its focal range of 24-70mm makes it perfect for capturing wide-angle landscapes, portraits, and street photography, as well as close-up shots of flowers and other small objects. Additionally, its fast aperture of F2.8 allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh.

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art for Sony E Lens is also equipped with advanced optical technology that ensures crisp and clear images. It features 19 elements in 15 groups, including 6 FLD and 2 SLD elements, which help to minimize chromatic aberration and produce sharp, high-contrast images. Its Super Multi-Layer Coating also helps to reduce ghosting and flare, providing excellent color accuracy and contrast.

In conclusion, the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art for Sony E Lens is a top-of-the-line camera lens that offers exceptional optical performance, versatility, and durability. Its compact and lightweight design, advanced optical technology, and fast aperture make it a go-to choice for professional photographers who demand the best quality and reliability from their equipment.

9. Tamron 28-200mm Di Iii Rxd Lens Bundle For Sony E-Mount Mirrorless Cameras With Backpack, Filters, 64gb Card, Monopod & Accessories.

Tamron has launched its latest lens, the 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (Model A071), specifically designed for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. This lens is an all-in-one zoom lens that offers performance and versatility. It can capture almost all possible scenes, from landscape photography to portrait photos and snapshots, making it an innovative and convenient option for photographers.

The lens has a large maximum aperture of F2.8 at the 28mm wide end, which represents a world's first for all-in-one zoom lenses, and delivers high-level performance across the entire zoom range, from the 28mm wide-angle end to 200mm telephoto. Aside from day-to-day portability, the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6's lightweight and compact size make it especially convenient for travel photos, where users wish to avoid the burden of heavy baggage.

Tamron's LD (Low Dispersion) and XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) special lens elements achieve high image quality from edge to edge. With an MOD (Minimum Object Distance) of 0.19m (7.5 in) at the wide end and 0.8m (31.5 in) at the telephoto end, the lens also offers high-level close-up performance. The AF drive system is powered by the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) stepping motor to deliver high-speed, high-precision performance. Additionally, the lens has a Moisture-Resistant Construction and Fluorine Coating for added protection.

The bundle includes Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD for Sony E Mount Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras Model A071, Lens Hood, Front Cap, Rear Cap, Deco Gear Photo Video Photography Backpack for Cameras Lenses and Drones, Lexar Professional 633x 64GB UHS-1 Class 10 SDXC Memory Card, 67mm UV, Polarizer & FLD Filter Kit, 48" Adjustable Telescopic Monopod Stabilizer, and Deco Photo All-in-One Photography Accessory Kit: Carry Case, Lens Blower, Lens/Sensor Brush, Lens Tissue Paper, Microfiber Cloth.

This product is Tamron USA AUTHORIZED and comes with a Full Tamron USA WARRANTY. The lens is a revolutionary all-in-one zoom lens that is perfect for photographers who want to capture the world around them quickly and easily. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for travel photography, where a lightweight and compact lens is essential. The bundle includes all the necessary accessories to make the most of the lens and capture stunning photos.

Best Sony Lens For Sports Photography FAQs

Is a prime or zoom lens better for capturing sports with a Sony camera?

When it comes to capturing sports with a Sony camera, both prime and zoom lenses can be useful, depending on the situation. Prime lenses typically offer faster maximum apertures, allowing for better low-light performance and faster shutter speeds, which can be important in fast-paced sports photography. They also tend to be lighter and more compact than zoom lenses, making them easier to handle and maneuver.

Zoom lenses, on the other hand, provide greater versatility and flexibility, allowing you to quickly adjust your focal length to capture different perspectives and distances. This can be particularly useful in sports photography, where you may need to switch between capturing distant action and close-up shots of athletes.

Ultimately, the choice between a prime or zoom lens for sports photography will depend on your personal preferences and shooting style. Both types of lenses can produce excellent results, and it may be a good idea to try out both and see which one works best for you.

What are the top Sony lenses for capturing action and sports photography?

For capturing action and sports photography with Sony cameras, there are several lenses that are popular among professionals. The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens is considered one of the top lenses for this type of photography, as it offers a fast and constant aperture, excellent image quality, and effective image stabilization. Another popular option is the Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS lens, which offers a longer zoom range and is ideal for capturing distant subjects. The Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens is a top-of-the-line option that provides exceptional image quality and fast autofocus, making it a favorite of professional sports photographers. Other lenses that can be used for action and sports photography include the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM and the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS. Ultimately, the choice of lens will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

What features should I look for in a Sony lens for sports photography, such as image stabilization or weather sealing?

When looking for a Sony lens for sports photography, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, image stabilization is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths or in low light conditions. Look for lenses with optical image stabilization (OIS) or in-body stabilization (IBIS) to reduce camera shake.

Secondly, weather sealing is essential for outdoor sports photography, as it protects the lens from dust, moisture, and other elements. This is particularly important if you're shooting in challenging weather conditions or environments.

Another important factor to consider is the aperture of the lens. A larger aperture (lower f-number) allows more light to enter the lens, which is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects in low light conditions. Look for lenses with wide apertures, such as f/2.8 or wider.

Finally, the focal length of the lens is crucial for sports photography. Look for lenses with a long focal length, such as telephoto zoom lenses, to capture distant subjects in detail.

What focal length is recommended for sports photography with Sony cameras?

The recommended focal length for sports photography with Sony cameras depends on the specific sport and shooting conditions. Generally, a telephoto lens with a focal length of 70-200mm or longer is ideal for capturing action from a distance. For outdoor sports, a lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or wider is recommended to allow for faster shutter speeds and better low-light performance. For indoor sports, a lens with image stabilization and a wider aperture is beneficial to compensate for the lower light levels.

Additionally, the type of camera body used can affect the recommended focal length. Sony full-frame cameras, such as the A7 series, may benefit from longer focal lengths due to their larger sensors. Crop-sensor Sony cameras, such as the A6000 series, may require slightly shorter focal lengths to achieve the same field of view as a full-frame camera.

Ultimately, the best lens for sports photography with Sony cameras will depend on the specific shooting situation and personal preferences. Professional sports photographers often use a range of lenses to capture different perspectives and moments during a game or event.

Which Sony lens offers the fastest autofocus and best image quality for shooting sports?

The Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens offers the fastest autofocus and best image quality for shooting sports. This lens is designed specifically for professional sports photographers and features advanced autofocus technology that can track fast-moving subjects with precision and speed. It also has a large maximum aperture of f/2.8, which allows for excellent low-light performance and creates a shallow depth of field for stunning bokeh. The lens is constructed with high-quality materials and features advanced optical elements that reduce distortion, chromatic aberration, and other image artifacts. It also has built-in image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images. Overall, the Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens is an excellent choice for sports photographers who demand the best possible image quality and autofocus performance.

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