Lens News

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Jon Sienkiewicz  |  Feb 09, 2017  | 

If you’re into high quality glass, this is the kind of lens you can get lost in. Build quality is exceptional, performance is outstanding and…I’m getting ahead of myself, but you’ll see the world in a whole new way when you use this lens.

George Schaub  |  May 11, 2017  | 

When Sigma introduced their new super-wide zoom in late 2016 I was eager to give it a try. Among their Art lens offerings, the Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM lens ($1,599, MSRP) serves as an upgrade to their 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 (still available at an MSRP of $949) with a constant f/4 aperture; a nine-bladed diaphragm; FLD glass elements; an updated HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) that uses 1.3x the torque for fast and smooth autofocus operation; 16 elements in 11 groups construction; and what Sigma claims is “the largest aspherical element in the industry” to minimize distortion, ghosting, and flare. The angle of view ranges from 84 to 122 degrees, with mount compatibility for Canon, Nikon, and Sigma DSLRs.

Jon Sienkiewicz  |  Jun 14, 2018  | 

The specifications are impressive, but can a super-wideangle zoom with a super-fast f/2.8 aperture deliver the results pros and ardent amateurs demand?

Howard Millard  |  Aug 24, 2015  | 

If you spend a lot of time photographing wildlife, sports, aircraft in flight (or even UFO’s) I'm sure you've longed for a lens with extreme telephoto reach. Sigma now offers a tough, quality 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports lens that can fulfill the wishes of many nature and action shooters. In addition to the ultra long reach, the fact that the lens is a zoom makes it easy to frame the precise composition you want at a wide variety of distances from the subject—and for subjects in a variety of sizes.

 

Jack Neubart  |  Sep 03, 2013  |  First Published: Aug 01, 2013  | 

While the Sigma 150mm f/2.8 lens has been out for a good while we decided to take a closer look at one of the most interesting pro-oriented products in their lineup. One of the key selling points in this lens is built-in optical image stabilization (“OS” in Sigma-speak) to aid in achieving camera-shake-free, handheld exposures. Granted, image stabilization in a macro lens is not the be-all and end-all of successful close-ups, though it sure gives added insurance. And because the Sigma 150mm OS macro is optimized for full-frame D-SLRs, it allows for use at the stated focal length with such cameras and provides even greater effective focal length with APS-C-type SLRs.

Joe Farace  |  Apr 15, 2014  |  First Published: Mar 01, 2014  | 

Sigma’s 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM is part of their DC series of lenses designed for APS-C-sized sensors so the imaging circle is matched to the size of the sensor. For this assignment, I used a Canon EOS 60D with a 22.3x14.9mm sensor, producing an equivalent angle of view of a 28-56mm lens. Shooters of Nikon, Pentax, Sigma, and Sony cameras, the other mounts for which the lens is available, will achieve an angle of view equivalent to 27-52mm. Unlike other lens manufacturers, Sigma priced the different mounts the same ($799) so don’t feel you’re going to be paying a premium for your camera choice. Bucking a trend with camera manufacturers’ lenses, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM includes a lens hood at no extra charge.

Jack Neubart  |  Jan 06, 2016  | 

Call them what you will – ultra-wides or super-wides – I love ‘em. By covering a breathtaking expanse, these types of extreme wide-angle lenses are not only capable of capturing most landscapes, they also help sweep you into that landscape, making you feel a part of the scene in the process.

Stan Trzoniec  |  Feb 08, 2016  | 

When I was a cub photographer in high school, I was very proud of my Kodak Signet 40 camera. With the attached flash unit, even if I did not look like a professional, I felt like one. Later, thanks to my obsession with large aperture lenses, I moved up to a Heiland H2 Pentax camera complete with its awesome Auto Takumar 50mm f/2 lens that I carried throughout Europe and later for the local newspaper.

Henry Anderson  |  Jun 23, 2015  | 

Sigma has long been a leader in the third-party lens market, producing an astounding array of glass that’s compatible with major DSLR systems from Nikon and Canon (plus their own camera line) as well mirrorless and other camera manufacturers. While the collection of lenses has been staggering, it’s not always been easy to figure out if a Sigma lens is a high-end professional product or a consumer-level piece of optics from name and price alone.

George Schaub  |  Aug 12, 2013  |  First Published: Jul 01, 2013  | 

There’s something about a fixed focal length lens that brings the photographer out in me. It forces me to move in and back from compositions without resorting to a zoom. Yes, there are times when a zoom is most appreciated—especially the fast constant aperture zooms now available—but a prime puts me in a mindset that a zoom has yet to match.

Jason Schneider  |  Nov 03, 2020  | 

At first glance, the Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN seems to be a run-of-the-mill, reasonably fast normal lens designed to cover the full frame format. In fact, its 45mm focal length is closer to normal than the classic 50mm, as determined by the diagonal of 24 x 36mm frame, which measures 43.26mm.

Press Release  |  May 30, 2014  | 

Sigma Corporation of America is pleased to announce that the newest addition to its Global Vision Art camera lens lineup, the 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, will be available late April for the street price of $949.
The much anticipated 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is a pro-level performer for full-frame DSLRs and is ideal for many types of videography and photography, including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been redesigned and re-engineered with SLD glass and has been optimized for rich peripheral brightness, with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups.

Jon Sienkiewicz  |  Feb 14, 2019  | 

Admit it. You’ve always wanted a 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lens. For many professional and enthusiastic amateur photographers, it’s the backbone of their lens arsenal. Here’s a great candidate if you’re ready to take the plunge.

Joe Farace  |  Mar 21, 2017  | 

In the trifecta of portrait lenses—85mm, 105mm, and 135mm—the 85mm focal length is the gateway. It’s short enough for tight shooting spaces, while producing a real portrait look, yet versatile enough for use in other genres, including photojournalism, where a nifty 50 comes up a bit short. Enter Sigma’s 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens ($1,199) that’s fast enough for reportage and long enough for portraiture.

Steve Bedell  |  Aug 09, 2012  |  First Published: Jul 01, 2012  | 

The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM lens (average price: $969 on various Internet sites) is designed for full-frame cameras; with an APS-C multiply by your usual factor. At about 25 oz, I’d describe the lens as substantial, but not hefty. One of the reasons for the weight is the build—11 elements in eight groups, including the use of SLD glass, Sigma speak for Special Low Dispersion. The big chunk of glass on the end requires a 77mm filter. As to handling, Sigma has gone from their black “crinkle” finish to a smooth black rubberized finish that feels great to the touch. It’s plastic, not metal, but based on my experience with previous Sigma lenses, I’ve found them to be built to professional standards and can take a lot of abuse.

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