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Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF Lens

The Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF is a 135mm f/2.8 lens designed for Sony A mount cameras. Used copies start from $503.88 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF Lens

Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF Lens

Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF — image 1
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Sony 135mm f2.8 [T4.5] STF Lens SAL135F28

Condition: Good

Product Highlights

  • 135mm Telephoto Prime Lens
  • Smooth Trans Focus (STF) Technology
  • Maximum Aperture of f/2.8
  • Apodization Filter for Smooth Bokeh

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Used Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF Listings on GearFocus

Sony 135mm f2.8 [T4.5] STF Lens SAL135F28
Sony 135mm f2.8 [T4.5] STF Lens SAL135F28

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$503.88

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Lens Overview — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

The Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF is a specialized 135mm prime lens built around Sony's Smooth Trans Focus technology, engineered specifically to produce exceptionally smooth out-of-focus rendering. It covers a full-frame image circle and is available in both Sony A and Sony E mounts, making it a versatile option for shooters working across Sony's DSLR and mirrorless camera ecosystems. The lens operates at a maximum aperture of f/2.8, though the STF optical element reduces the effective transmission to T4.5 — an important distinction for photographers coming from standard telephoto primes, as exposure metering will reflect the T4.5 light transmission rather than the f/2.8 geometric aperture.

Focus is entirely manual, with no autofocus capability, which suits the lens's portrait and creative photography niche where precise, deliberate focus placement is typically preferred anyway. A 72mm filter thread accommodates standard circular filters. Weighing 730g, the lens has a solid, purposeful build that feels appropriate for a specialized telephoto prime of this focal length.

For portrait, fashion, or fine art photographers who prioritize the quality of background blur above all else, this lens occupies a genuinely unique position in the Sony ecosystem.

Key Features — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

STF Apodization Element: Sony's Smooth Trans Focus optical design gradually reduces light transmission toward the edges of the aperture, producing exceptionally smooth and gradual bokeh transitions that standard lenses cannot replicate.

f/2.8 Aperture, T4.5 Transmission: The STF element reduces effective light transmission to T4.5 despite the f/2.8 geometric aperture, so exposure metering will read T4.5 — an important consideration when setting exposure.

135mm Full-Frame Prime: A classic portrait focal length that provides flattering subject compression and comfortable working distances on full-frame sensors.

Sony A-Mount: Designed natively for the Sony A-mount system, compatible with Sony and Minolta A-mount DSLR and SLT bodies.

Manual Focus Only: Entirely manual focus operation suits deliberate, precise focus placement typical of portrait and fine art photography workflows.

72mm Filter Thread: Standard 72mm front thread accepts widely available circular filters such as polarizers and ND filters.

Lens Specifications — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesPortrait, Creative Effects, Video / Cinematography
Lens TypePrime
FormatFull Frame
Zoom/PrimePrime
Focal Length135mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Camera SystemDSLR
Lens MountSony A
AutofocusNo
Focus TypeManual
Image StabilizationNone
Filter Thread72mm

Description — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

The Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF is a 135mm full-frame prime lens designed for photographers who place a premium on the quality of out-of-focus rendering. Built around Sony's Smooth Trans Focus optical concept, this lens is compatible with both Sony A mount and Sony E mount systems, making it accessible to a broad range of Sony shooters. The maximum geometric aperture is f/2.8, though the STF element reduces effective light transmission to T4.5 — a key spec to understand when planning exposure.

Focus is manual only, with no autofocus capability, placing full control in the photographer's hands for deliberate, precise focus work. A 72mm filter thread is provided for standard filter compatibility. At 730g, the lens has a substantial feel appropriate to its specialized purpose.

With no image stabilization, technique and shutter speed management are important considerations when shooting handheld. This lens is purpose-built for portrait, fashion, and creative photographers working within the Sony ecosystem who prioritize bokeh quality above all other optical characteristics.

Pros — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

  • ✓Covers full-frame sensors with a 135mm prime focal length suited to portrait and telephoto work
  • ✓Compatible with both Sony A and Sony E mount cameras, offering flexibility across Sony's camera lineup
  • ✓Maximum aperture of f/2.8 enables subject separation and smooth background rendering

Cons — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

  • ✗No autofocus — manual focus only, which limits shooting speed and spontaneous capture situations
  • ✗Effective light transmission is T4.5 despite f/2.8 geometric aperture, meaning less light reaches the sensor than a conventional f/2.8 lens
  • ✗No image stabilization, which can be a challenge at 135mm in lower-light conditions

Videos — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 STF GM OSS lens review — Christopher Frost

Frequently Asked Questions — Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF

What camera mounts is this lens compatible with?+
The Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF is available in both Sony A and Sony E mounts, covering Sony's DSLR and mirrorless camera systems respectively. Be sure to confirm which mount version you are purchasing to ensure compatibility with your specific camera body.
Why does the lens show both f/2.8 and T4.5 values?+
The f/2.8 refers to the geometric aperture of the lens, while T4.5 is the actual light transmission value after passing through the STF optical element. In practical terms, your camera's exposure metering will register T4.5, meaning the lens transmits less light than a standard f/2.8 prime would.
Does this lens have autofocus?+
No — the Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF is a manual-focus-only lens. There is no autofocus mechanism. This is an important consideration if you rely on AF for moving subjects or fast-paced shooting environments.
What filter size does this lens use?+
The lens has a 72mm filter thread, which is a common size with broad availability for circular polarizers, ND filters, and other accessories.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
No, image stabilization is listed as None in the specifications. Photographers shooting handheld at 135mm should account for this, particularly in lower-light situations where slower shutter speeds might be needed.
How heavy is this lens?+
The Sony 135mm f/2.8 [T4.5] STF weighs 730g. This is worth factoring in when planning extended shooting sessions, especially when combined with a heavier mirrorless or DSLR body.

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