BY EVE FITZSIMONS

NORMAL PEOPLE BY EVE FITZSIMONS

This is located at the LUAS tram stop on College Green and unfortunately there is no information available to me at present except that Eve Fitzsimons is the artist.

College Green, situated in the heart of Dublin, is a historic and vibrant public space that embodies the city's rich heritage and bustling energy. This iconic plaza, triangular in shape, is bordered by several landmarks that define Dublin's architectural and cultural landscape.  

On its northern side stands the imposing Bank of Ireland building, a testament to Dublin's past as it once housed the Irish Parliament. To its east lies the prestigious Trinity College Dublin, Ireland's oldest university, renowned for its beautiful campus and academic excellence. And along its southern edge, a series of elegant 19th-century buildings complete the plaza's distinctive character.  

College Green is not merely a static space; it pulsates with the rhythm of Dublin life. It serves as a popular meeting point, a thoroughfare for locals and tourists alike, and a stage for various events and gatherings, from political rallies to cultural celebrations. The plaza's central location, at the intersection of several major streets, including Dame Street, Grafton Street, and Westmoreland Street, further amplifies its significance as a vital hub within the city.  

In recent years, College Green has undergone revitalisation efforts aimed at enhancing its pedestrian-friendliness and accessibility. These projects have focused on creating a more welcoming and vibrant public space that prioritises the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, while also respecting its historical context.  

A visit to Dublin is incomplete without experiencing the charm and dynamism of College Green. Whether you're admiring the architectural grandeur of its surrounding buildings, soaking in the lively atmosphere, or simply people-watching, this plaza offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of Dublin.

Today I uses a Zeiss Batis 85mm Lens so let's take a comprehensive look at the Zeiss Batis 85mm lens and how it compares to the Sony 85mm GM, including the Sony's notable autofocus noise issue for video.

Zeiss Batis 85mm f/1.8

Strengths:

Exceptional sharpness across the frame, even wide open at f/1.8
Compact and lightweight, comfortable for long shoots or travel
Fast and quiet autofocus, suitable for candid moments and video
Weather-sealed for protection against dust and moisture
Unique OLED display shows focus distance and depth of field
Considerations:

Maximum aperture of f/1.8 limits low-light performance and shallow depth of field compared to the Sony GM
Slight vignetting, correctable in post-processing
Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM

Strengths:

Wider maximum aperture of f/1.4 excels in low light and produces creamy bokeh
Outstanding image quality with exceptional sharpness, contrast, and colour
Beautiful bokeh from the 11-blade aperture
Fast and accurate autofocus for reliable subject tracking
Dust and moisture resistant for challenging conditions
Considerations:

Larger and heavier than the Batis, less portable for extended use
Higher price point
Noticeably loud autofocus motor, unsuitable for video recording with on-camera audio
Comparison

Image Quality: Both lenses produce stunning images. The Sony GM has an edge in bokeh and low-light performance due to its wider aperture.
Autofocus: Both have fast and accurate autofocus. The Batis might be slightly faster, but the Sony GM is known for its reliability. However, the Sony GM's loud autofocus motor is a major drawback for video.
Size and Weight: The Batis is significantly smaller and lighter, a more portable option.
Price: The Batis is more affordable than the Sony GM.
Versatility: The Batis's quiet autofocus makes it suitable for both stills and video, while the Sony GM's loud motor limits its use for video.
Conclusion

The choice depends on your needs and budget.

The Zeiss Batis 85mm is an excellent all-around 85mm lens, offering portability, fast and quiet autofocus, and sharp images. It's versatile for various genres, including portraits, events, and video.
The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM is a top-tier portrait lens with exceptional image quality and beautiful bokeh, ideal for professionals and enthusiasts who prioritise stills photography. However, its loud autofocus motor makes it unsuitable for video work with on-camera audio.
Consider your priorities and shooting style when deciding. If you need a versatile lens for stills and video, the Batis is a strong contender. If you focus primarily on stills and want the absolute best image quality, the Sony GM might be the choice, despite its limitations for video.