umai_gohan Speaks | Capturing Ruins with Sincerity | SONY FE 85mm F1.8 | Knowledge #470

Photographers who are passionate about their craft share the stories behind their cameras. The presence of a 'beloved camera' reflects each creator’s worldview and values. In this installment, we feature umai_gohan, who is devoted to the SONY FE 85mm F1.8.

When I began to feel a disconnect with the freedom of zoom lenses, photography shifted from being an act of 'choice' to one of 'hesitation.' Even though I should have been able to find the perfect distance on the spot, it felt as if the subject was receding further and further in the viewfinder. Why choose to frame at this distance? 'If indecision is the problem, then reduce the options.' That realization led me to a single prime lens.

By facing the quiet subject of ruins, I explore the tension and sincerity brought by the 85mm focal length, and the sense of returning to my roots.

The SONY FE 85mm F1.8 is a medium-telephoto prime lens compatible with Sony E-mount cameras. Highly regarded for portraiture, it is characterized by its beautiful bokeh at a wide-open F1.8 aperture and a well-balanced sharp resolution.
Despite its lightweight design, it offers excellent rendering performance, embodying the quintessential '85mm look' that allows photographers to capture subjects naturally. It is a lens widely supported by many photographers.

When I first started photography, I used the kit zoom lens. Zoom lenses are convenient and allow you to freely adjust your composition on the spot. However, over time, that freedom became a burden for me.

Having too many options delayed my decision-making and interrupted the flow of shooting. Even when I was in the right mindset, hesitation would creep in. That was the moment I realized that, for me, photography is closer to an act of 'subtraction.'

'If indecision is the problem, then reduce the options.'

That was the thinking that led me to choose the SONY FE 85mm F1.8.

Generally, ruin photography is often shot with wide-angle lenses to create a sense of impact. For me, however, ruins are traces of past lives—a journey through time.

I feel that the SONY FE 85mm F1.8 is a lens that demands responsibility in framing. If you frame carelessly, that carelessness is reflected in the photograph. But if you approach the subject sincerely, only its essence remains quietly at the center of the image.

Empty bottles left on the ground, or a pot quietly abandoned. Within these overlooked objects, time undoubtedly remains. The subtle presence they exude is best captured at the 85mm focal length.

The SONY FE 85mm F1.8 reveals worlds that no one else notices. Depending on how you use it, there are moments when subjects that would have been passed by regain their brilliance.

It's not about increasing options, but about paring them down to see what emerges. The SONY FE 85mm F1.8 is a lens that reminds me of my origins.

I hope to continue capturing these quiet fragments of time with this one lens.