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Posts Tagged ‘Sigma’

Cream of the crop: Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 real-world samples

10 Mar

The Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 is a bit of a rarity. It’s a fast telezoom designed specifically for Canon, Nikon and Sigma APS-C bodies, providing 75-150mm equivalent range (80-160mm on Canon bodies). Canon and Sigma mount versions should also work on Sony E-mount cameras with Sigma’s new MC-11 adapter. With Sigma’s ‘Art’ designation, it’s built to the company’s highest standards and includes a redesigned Hyper Sonic Motor and nine rounded aperture blades. We were lucky enough to get our hands on a pre-production model while we were in Japan for CP+ 2016, and didn’t waste any time putting it to work.

Due to our limited time with the lens, samples aren’t as varied as we’d have liked, but we’ll be adding more to this gallery once we get one back in. For now, enjoy a number of aperture progressions at various focal lengths to get an idea of edge-to-edge sharpness, chromatic aberration, and vignetting performance. Our preliminary thoughts are that sharpness and contrast are impressive for a F1.8 zoom, with center sharpness nearing its peak by F2.8, and extreme edge sharpness maximal by F5.6.

See our Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art real-world sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary real-world sample gallery

09 Mar

Among all its releases at CP+ 2016, Sigma’s 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary lens is the smallest in size, but its wide aperture should help it pack an image quality punch. Designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras and Sony E-Mount, the Sigma 30mm F1.4 uses a stepping motor for quiet autofocus, weighs in at a feathery 265g (9.3oz), and will retail for $ 339 when it’s released later this month.

During a visit to the Sigma factory in Aizu, Japan, we had a chance to test it out in a snowy winter wonderland. The lens is a pre-production sample, and the images were shot on a Sony a7R II in crop mode. We’ve included JPEGs processed from Raw using Adobe Camera Raw (some with and without manual distortion correction), and original Raw files as well, for your viewing pleasure. Check them out and see how the lens stacks up.

See our Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary real-world sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CP+ 2016: Sigma MC-11 adapter allows DSLR Sigma lenses full range of AF modes on Sony bodies

02 Mar

While photographing and filming our way through Sigma’s booth this year at CP+ 2016 in Yokohama, one rather understated product may have just stolen the show for a number of Sony shooters, as well as our Technical Editor Rishi Sanyal.

Put simply, the Sigma MC-11 adapter allows the use of Sigma-mount and Canon-mount Sigma lenses, such as the excellent Sigma Art 35mm F1.4, to be adapted to Sony bodies with no autofocus compromises whatsoever. That means Sigma is the first brand of DSLR lenses to support Eye AF and Lock-On AF modes on Sony cameras, as well as smooth phase-detection in video. What’s more, they work really well.

Don’t believe us? We didn’t believe it at first either. Watch the video and see for yourself why this is a huge step forward in realizing truly hybrid camera systems: where you can pair the best lens with the best camera body – for you – without severe compromises.

Pricing and availability of the Sigma MC-11 adapter has yet to be announced.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CP+ 2016: Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

25 Feb

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

Sigma announced several new products at CP+ 2016, including two new cameras. The interchangeable lens SD Quattro And SD Quattro H represent a new departure for the company in two senses – both are mirrorless cameras, and the ‘H’ features an APS-H format sensor. More conventional are a new 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art zoom and 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary prime for mirrorless cameras.

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

Ergonomically, the new SD Quattro and Quattro H are far more conventional than the DP-series compact cameras in Sigma’s lineup. But both still handle very differently to most other mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. They’re boxier, for one thing, with a distinctive body shape, and a viewfinder that’s much further to the right than the majority of DSLRs and EVF-equipped mirrorless models. 

The 2.3MP viewfinders in Sigma’s new cameras are sharp and detailed, although our preliminary impressions of the cameras’ hybrid autofocus systems aren’t terribly encouraging. We’re hoping that the slow, hesitant AF that we experienced is a symptom of these early, pre-production cameras because in most other respects the new models handle very well. 

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

That being said, the cameras are comfortable to hold, and feel like ‘premium’ products, as we’d expect from Sigma at this point. This view highlights the unusually deep lens throat, which protrudes a good inch or so from the front of the main camera body. Here, we’ve attached a (Sigma mount, of course) 50mm F1.4 ‘Art’, and the total package handles (and balances) very well. 

Ergonomically, the SD Quattro and SD Quattro H are identical. The only difference is the size of their sensors. Sigma claims that the Foveon sensors inside the SD Quattro and SD Quattro H offer resolutions equivalent to 39 and 51MP respectively, in conventional Bayer terms. 

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

The new cameras are being launched alongside a new flash – the EF-630. Compatible with ‘with most well-known digital SLR cameras’ (and the Sigma SD Quattro / H) the EF-630 has a guide number of 63, and the articulating head can zoom to cover focal lengths from 24-200mm. 

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

We don’t normally get too excited by flashguns but the EF-630 is an unusually solid-feeling, well-made unit. As well as on-camera use it can also be triggered wirelessly.

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

As well as a new flash, the SD also gets a new dedicated grip. The grip adds duplicated vertical controls and can incorporate two batteries. It also converts the SD Quattro’s unconventional body shape into a more traditional flat-sided form. Booooring…

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

Not at all boring is the new 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art, which provides a 75-150mm focal length range on the APS-C format DSLRs for which it’s designed. Offering a fast maximum aperture and standard ‘Art’-series construction quality the 50-100mm is solid, heavy and luxuriously engineered. 

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

With enthusiast APS-C format DSLRs enjoying something of a resurgence in the past couple of years, we suspect there are a lot of Canon EOS 7D Mark II and prospective Nikon D500 owners who will be very excited by this lens. The 50-100mm features three FLD (F Low Dispersion) glass elements, one SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element, and one high-refractive index, high-dispersion glass element. We expect this lens to deliver great results and we’re keen to see how it performs. 

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

At the other end of the size and weight scale is he 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary. A small, lightweight prime for mirrorless cameras, the 30mm F1.4 is available in two versions – one for Micro Four Thirds (shown here) and another for Sigma’s APS-C mirrorless E-mount cameras. We were able to use both versions briefly at CP+ and we’re especially impressed by how fast the lens can focus. Eventually, we’d love to see Sigma make a version for full-frame mirrorless (you’ll get heavy vignetting if you put the E-mount version on an A7-series camera). 

The 30mm F1.4 will ship in mid-March at an MSRP of $ 339, while the 50-100mm F1.8 is expected in late April priced at $ 1099.

CP+ 2016: Firing up the Quattro – Hands-on with new Sigma SD cameras and lenses

Sigma’s final CP+ announcement was the Mount Converter MC-11, which lets you attach Sigma’s most recent lenses (in either Canon or Sigma mount) on full-frame or APS-C E-mount bodies. The MC-11 adapter is able to support phase detection AF with adapted lenses, and makes use of both camera and lens stabilization when present.

Effectively an own-brand version of Metabones Canon EF to FE adapters, the MC-11 (sort of) answers a long-standing complaint of Sony A7-series owners about the lack of full-frame Sigma lenses for their chosen platform. Pricing and availability has yet to be announced. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma introduces EF-630 multi-function flash

24 Feb

Sigma has announced a more powerful external flash for DSLRs, the EF-630. It updates the existing EF-610 flash units by covering a 24mm to 200mm focal range (as wide as 17mm with the built-in Wide Panel), with an auto zooming function. Based on Sigma’s naming conventions it’s safe to assume the EF-630 offers a guide number of 63. It’s also able to tilt upward by 90°, left/right by 180° and downward by 7°. It offers TTL exposure control, high-speed sync and slave mode for use with other flashes. 

No pricing or availability is given for the EF-610.

Press release:

Sigma Introduces Electronic Flash EF-630 Multifunctional External Flash

Boasts TTL exposure control, high-speed sync, wireless flash functions, rear-curtain sync, auto-zoom, and wide-angle illumination coverage and more

KANAGAWA, JAPAN — February 23, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessories manufacturer, has just announced the Sigma Electronic Flash EF-630, a multifunctional flash designed to work with current digital SLR cameras. Offering greater output of light, the EF-630 features TTL exposure control, high-speed sync, wireless flash functions, auto-zoom and bounce-flash, amongst additional features that make it ideal for many types of photography.

“Lighting is one of the most important factors when it comes to creating a beautiful image, and can be the difference between capturing the perfect moment and missing it entirely,” comments Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The EF-630 has all the features advanced photographers look for in a flash and is the perfect companion to the DSLR.”

The Sigma EF-630 flash automatically adjusts for focal lengths of 24mm to 200mm focal length, making it ideal for wide angle and super-zoomed shots alike. For ultra-wide angle shots, photographers can utilize the built-in Wide Panel to cover an angle of up to that of a 17mm lens.

Compatible with most well-known digital SLR cameras, the EF-630 features auto TTL exposure control, as well as remote control operation through the TTL wireless flash function, where the camera lens calculates the correct exposure automatically for perfect lighting. For multi-flash setups, photographers can use the Slave Flash Function to trigger additional flashes. To achieve a softer look, photographers can bounce light off of a white wall, ceiling or reflector by tilting the EF-630’s flash head upwards by as much as 90°, or swiveling left or right by 180°. For close-up shots, the flash head can also be titled down by 7°.

The FP Flash function of the EF-630 makes flash photography possible at shutter speeds greater than the normal sync speed, which is typically limited at shutter speeds up to 1/250 second for most cameras. The FP Flash function for high shutter speeds is necessary when setting a larger aperture to limit depth of field when shooting in daylight, as high shutter speeds are used to balance the daylight and the flashlight at any shutter speed. To capture natural motions, the Rear-curtain Sync mode allows the flash to be triggered immediately before the rear-curtain of the shutter closes, recording blurred trails behind a moving subject rather than in front.

Additional EF-630 features:

  • Intuitive user interface: dot matrix LCD screen for improved menu visibility, D-Pad and dial settings controls, and easy one-click disengage function improve ease of use
  • Modeling flash function: check for intense reflections and shadows before capturing the shot
  • AF assist light: accurate auto-focus in low light conditions
  • Auto Power-off: flashgun automatically powers off after a period of non-operation to conserve battery life
  • Manual flash power level control: manually sets the flash power level from 1/1 to 1/128

The new EF-630 Flash can be updated with the latest software from a workstation or laptop using the Sigma Optimization Pro software and Flash USB Dock (sold separately).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma announces sd Quattro and sd Quattro H Foveon mirrorless cameras

24 Feb

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Sigma has announced two mirrorless ILCs: the Sigma sd Quattro and the sd Quattro H. Both cameras use the company’s full-depth SA lens mount as used in its SLRs, and are built around APS-C and APS-H sized sensors, respectively. The cameras share a body design with a built-in viewfinder that, while unusual, appears more ergonomically conventional than the recent DP Quattro series of large-sensor compacts.

Both cameras feature on-sensor phase detection as part of a hybrid AF system, which should mean they work effectively with existing SA-mount lenses. The down-side is that it reduces the range of lenses that could be added via adapter.

Both cameras use the latest, ‘Quattro’ version of Sigma’s Foveon technology, which measures different color information based on how deeply into the sensor it is able to penetrate. The Quattro design features full resolution at the top (predominantly blue-sensing) layer but then 1/4 of that resolution for the two deeper layers used to interpret information about red and green color components.

The APS-H sensor features 25.5MP in its top layer, which the company considers equivalent to the capture of a 51 megapixel sensor using the conventional Bayer design. This 26.6 x 17.9mm sensor is around 30% larger than the more common APS-C size, but it’s currently unclear what proportion of Sigma’s ‘DC’ lenses designed for APS-C offer a large enough image circle for use with the camera.

The APS-C version uses a phase-detection capable variant of the sensor used in the existing DP Quattros, offering 19.6MP on its top layer. Sigma says this should offer a level of detail comparable with a 39MP Bayer chip. (Foveon explained the logic of these claims when we spoke to them a few years ago).

The cameras feature two rear screens, one of which displays the camera’s current settings. They also feature USB 3.0 interfaces. A vertical/battery grip will be available.

Press Release:

Sigma Announces Two New Mirrorless Cameras: Sigma sd Quattro and sd Quattro H

Interchangeable lens APS-C and APS-H Foveon Quattro sensors in state-of-the-art camera systems

KANAGAWA, JAPAN — February 23, 2016 — Sigma Corporation of America, a leading camera, DSLR lens, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the new high-performance, compact Sigma sd Quattro and Sigma sd Quattro H mirrorless camera systems with Foveon Quattro sensors. The Sigma sd Quattro features an APS-C sized sensor and the Sigma sd Quattro H touting a larger APS-H sized sensor for even greater image quality. Thanks to the mirrorless aspect of the cameras, both the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H are designed to take full advantage of all Sigma Global Vision lenses.

“With the introduction of these two new cameras, Sigma continues its rich history of innovation. The Foveon sensor is renowned for its imaging characteristics, and the mirrorless interchangeable format offers photographers the full line of Sigma Global Vision lenses to help realize their creative visions,” stated Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of Sigma Corporation of America. “The sharpness of detail and nuanced color tone captured by the Foveon sensors is a key component of Sigma Global Vision. The sd Quattro, and the sd Quattro H, with the newly announced Foveon Quattro APS-H sensor, will be greatly appreciated by photographers who demand the utmost in imaging purity, with the added benefit of portability for both in-studio and on-location photography.”

Both the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H feature similar design aspects with a compact form consistent with the dp Quattro line, making them highly portable and utilizing the Foveon Quattro sensor for exceptional imaging quality and fast processing. A magnesium alloy body makes the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H durable and rugged, while a dust- and splash-proof design makes it ideal for photographers facing harsh conditions. In addition to the new body design, both cameras boast a list of useful advancements. These include a two-mode Autofocus detection that combines Phase Detection for focus speed and Contrast Detection for focus accuracy. The focus settings have also been enhanced with such modes as Movement Prediction, Face Detection, Free Movement, Focus Peaking and a variety of others. The new 2.3 megapixel viewfinder displays close to 100% of the field of view and when placed in “Auto” will toggle between the viewfinder when the user has the camera to their eye and then to the LCD when the user lowers the camera. A new “Super-Fine Detail” mode brings out the full potential of the Quattro sensor by capturing seven different exposures with one shot and merging them for exceptional dynamic range (images can be extracted individually as well). Meanwhile an updated algorithm for the Auto White Balance allows for greater accuracy, even with multiple light sources.

While the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H are similar in physical design details, they stand apart when their Foveon sensors are compared. The sd Quattro utilizes the same sensor found in the dp Quattro line and produces image quality comparable to that of a 39 megapixel Bayer-pattern sensor on resolution testing. The stacked silicon Foveon Direct Imaging sensor captures all detail information on the top 19.6 megapixel layer along with all color information for the Blue channel, while the two five-megapixel layers below capture Red and Green color information, all without the need for a low pass filter. Merged together they create incredible image quality that is comparable to medium format files. The sd Quattro H boasts a larger APS-H sensor (26.6×17.9mm) than the sd Quattro and can produce images equivalent to that of a 51-megapixel Bayer-pattern sensor camera on resolution testing. The sensor structure is similar to that of the sd Quattro but uses a 25.5 megapixels on the top layer of the sensor that captures the detail information. Both cameras use the latest Dual TRUE III image processor and take full advantage of the Art, Contemporary and Sport line Global Vision lenses that are made for high megapixel cameras. Like all Sigma Cameras, RAW (X3F) data can processed via Sigma Photo Pro, which offers editing options, including Monochrome mode to take advantage of the incredible monochrome images the Foveon sensor captures.

Sigma sd Quattro specifications

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma Mount Converter MC-11 adapts Sigma lenses to E-mount cameras, supports autofocus

23 Feb

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Sigma has announced an adapter for Sony E-mount cameras, making it possible to use Sigma’s most recent lenses in Canon and Sigma mount on full-frame or APS-C E-mount bodies. The MC-11 adapter is able to use phase detection AF with adapted lenses, and makes use of both camera and lens stabilization when present. An LED display on the side of the mount provides compatibility information of attached lenses. The adapter also communicates EXIF data to the camera body, and retains profiles of compatible lenses – those included in Sigma’s Global Vision line – to optimize AF performance. 

Sigma has not announced pricing or availability at this time.

Press release:

New Sigma Global Vision Lens Mount Converter Expands High-Performance Lens Options for Sony Cameras

Brings Sigma’s Global Vision Lenses to the Sony E-Mount Camera Family

KANAGAWA, JAPAN — February 23, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the release of its new high-performance Sigma Global Vision lens converter – the Mount Converter MC 11 – for Sony E-mount, full frame and APS-C sensor cameras. With the new MC-11, Sony camera users will be able to utilize 19 Global Vision lenses in Sigma Canon Mount (EOS) and Sigma Mount (SA).

“There are many challenges to designing high-quality mount converter and topping the list is aptly handling phase detection AF in newer cameras and this is where the Sigma MC-11 is groundbreaking in its support for the Sony E-mount systems,” states Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The new Sigma MC-11 mitigates complications with a purpose-built lens control data system engineered for maintaining superior AF functionality. So the growing number of Sony E-mount camera users who have been asking for more lens options, now have access to a large pool of lenses that fully embody Sigma’s signature quality and performance.” 

The Sigma MC-11’s sleek LED display lets Sony users know if the attached Sigma lens is compatible and whether or not the MC-11 needs to be updated for that specific lens. Its internal control data system keeps detailed information on each compatible Sigma lens, automatically optimizing performance of AF drive, aperture control and other critical lens functions. The MC-11’s internal control data system also maintains continuity with key camera functions that control brightness and correct transverse chromatic aberration, distortion, and more. The complete compatibility with both Sigma lens OS and Sony in-camera OS ensures correction of camera shake and other stability issues and when used with in-camera stabilization, MC-11 allows angle shake correction in the lens. The integrated flocking helps prevent internal reflections and reduction in lens performance. In addition, the MC-11 retains important EXIF data ensuring users can analyze every detail of their lens setting. 

The Sigma MC-11 converter can be updated with the latest compatible lens information from a workstation or laptop using the Sigma Optimization Pro software and Sigma USB Dock (sold separately).

For more information on the Sigma MC-11 converter please visit www.sigmaphoto.com/mount-converter-mc-11

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sigma announces 30mm F1.4 for E-mount and Micro 4/3 and 50-100mm F1.8 Art for APS-C

23 Feb

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Sigma has added two new fast-aperture lenses to its Art and Contemporary lineups. 

For owners of Canon, Nikon and Sigma APS-C bodies there’s the 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art, which is equivalent to 75-150mm. This lens has a redesigned Hyper Sonic Motor, nine-blade rounded aperture and internal zoom. Being a weighty lens (1490g/3.3lbs), it also has a built-in tripod socket.

The other lens is for Sony E-mount and Micro Four Thirds bodies, and it’s a fast 30mm F1.4 prime, equivalent to 45mm and 60mm, respectively. This lens uses a stepping motor for fast and quiet focus during video and weighs just 263g/9.3oz. 

The 30mm F1.4 will ship in mid-March at an MSRP of $ 339, while the 50-100mm F1.8 is expected in late April priced at $ 1099.

Press release:

Sigma Expands Its Global Vision Lens Line With Two New High-Performance Lenses

50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art and 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary 

50-100mm is first constant aperture F1.8 telephoto zoom; 30mm represents first affordable F1.4 high-performance lens for mirrorless cameras

KANAGAWA, JAPAN — February 23, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the addition of two high-performance APS-C format lenses to the Sigma Global Vision product line: Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens and the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens. 

“Sigma’s aim is to provide high-performance lens options that lead with innovation and break new boundaries for every photographic scenario our customers can dream up,” states Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “These new lenses build on Global Vision’s great IQ technology and reflect this goal, delivering immense value, quality and performance that the Sigma brand is known for.”

Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art

Building on the groundbreaking Sigma Global Vision 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, the new Sigma 50-100 F1.8 (75-150mm on 35mm format) mid-range zoom lens embodies the same engineering prowess to deliver outstanding prime lens-like results. Factoring in the APS-C image circle of 1.5x, the 50-100mm F1.8 covers three popular short tele prime focal lengths: 85mm, 105mm and 135mm. Like the 18-35mm F1.8, the new 50-100mm F1.8 maintains a constant F1.8 aperture yielding exceptional brightness and resolution throughout the zoom, while simultaneously maintaining focus as the lens is zoomed, a feature videographers will greatly appreciate. 

Sigma Art Line Image Technology Innovation

  • Features three FLD (F Low Dispersion) glass elements, one SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element, and one high-refractive index, high-dispersion glass element to minimize aberrations.
  • Redesigned and enhanced, the new Hyper Sonic Motor is 30% slimmer and provides fast and accurate AF.
  • Highly durable polycarbonate diaphragm made with fluorine; blades feature carbon feather film offering exceptionally smooth operation even during continuous shooting.

Outstanding Zoom Lens Maneuverability

  • Inner focusing and zoom design offer versatile shooting options
  • Tripod socket for stable, comfortable operation
  • Features 21 elements / 15 groups, Minimum Aperture: F1.6, 82mm filter thread, Minimum Focus Distance: 37.4in, Dimensions: 3.7×6.7, Weight: 52.6oz

The new Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 Art will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. For more information, please visit www.sigmaphoto.com/50-100mm-f1-8-dc-hsm-art.

Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary 

Combining outstanding optical performance and compact design, the new affordable Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens brings immense value to mirrorless cameras. Boasting superior image quality with F1.4 brightness, the versatile lens covers a wide range of photo and video capture scenarios, delighting users with its beautiful bokeh effects. 

Contemporary Line Performance and Value

  • Represents first affordable F1.4 performance lens for the mirrorless market
  • Sigma engineered quality within a sleek compact design
  • Fast, smooth AF stepping motor designed to support video
  • Features one aspherical element and one double-sided aspherical element producing imaging quality comparable to the Art line.
  • Features 9 elements / 7 groups, Minimum Aperture: F16, 52mm filter thread, Minimum Focus Distance: 11.8in, Weight: 9.3oz, Dimensions: 2.6×2.9in.

The new Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens will be available in Sony E-Mount and Micro Four Thirds mount. For more information, please visit www.sigmaphoto.com/30mm-f1-4-dc-dn-c.

Sigma Global Vision lenses including the new 50-100mm F1.8 DC Art and 30mm F1.4 Contemporary lenses can be updated with the latest lens software from a workstation or laptop using the Sigma Optimization Pro software and Sigma USB Dock (sold separately).

Tested for Optimum Performance

Sigma lenses are born of well-thought-out design concepts, exceptional Japanese craftsmanship and manufacturing, and advanced lens performance testing and evaluation. To this end, Sigma has developed its own A1 proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even the most elusive high-frequency details are within the scope of Sigma’s quality control inspections. Every Global Vision lens is A1 tested, analyzed and approved before leaving the factory ensuring maximum performance out of the box.

For more information on Sigma’s industry leading testing, please visit http://blog.sigmaphoto.com/2012/a1-mtf-testing-for-new-sigma-lenses/

Specialized Mount Conversion Services 

Ensuring continued ROI, Sigma will convert the current mount of your Sigma Global Vision lens to another of your choice. Sigma lenses currently from the Contemporary, Art or Sports line, in Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax mounts can be converted to Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Sony or Pentax*.  Mirrorless lenses can be converted to Micro Four Thirds and Sony-E Mount. They cannot be converted to either an APS-C or a Full Frame format.  *For specific details, please visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com/service-support/mount-conversion-service

Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary and 50-150mm F1.8 Art specifications

  Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN | C Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art
Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens Zoom lens
Max Format size APS-C / DX
Focal length 30 mm 50–100 mm
Image stabilisation No
Lens mount Micro Four Thirds, Sony E (NEX) Canon EF, Nikon F (DX), Sigma SA Bayonet
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4 F1.8
Minimum aperture F16.0
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Aperture notes Rounded blades
Optics
Elements 9 21
Groups 7 15
Special elements / coatings 1 aspherical and 1 double-sided aspherical Three FLD, one SLD, one HRI elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.30 m (11.81″) 0.95 m (37.4″)
Maximum magnification 0.14× 0.15×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual No
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 265 g (0.58 lb) 1490 g (3.28 lb)
Diameter 65 mm (2.56″) 94 mm (3.7″)
Length 73 mm (2.87″) 171 mm (6.73″)
Sealing No
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (internal)
Power zoom No
Filter thread 52.0 mm 82.0 mm
Hood supplied No Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rumors hint at super-fast Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 Art lens for APS-C DSLRs

20 Feb

Rumors suggest Sigma is getting ready to launch a 50-100mm F1.8 lens for APS-C cameras. Full specifications and convincing images of the lens have been leaked, suggesting the lens will be part of the company’s impressive ‘Art’ range. Such a lens would offer a fast partner to the company’s 18-35mm F1.8 Art lens, giving the same angle-of-view, depth-of-field and total light gathering capability as a ~75-150mm F2.8 lens on full-frame.

Specifications reported on Digicame-info.com seem plausible, so we’re looking forward to next week’s CP+ show in Yokohama, Japan, to see if the rumors are true. We’ll be reporting from the show, so stay tuned for all the details.

Lens construction (elements/groups) 21/15
Filter size 82
Minimum focus distance 95cm
Aperture blades 9
Length 170.7mm (mount not specified)
Diameter 93.5mm
Weight 1490g

 The site suggests a price of ¥167,400 (~$ 1500) and a launch date of April 22nd.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Lens Technique: Wide-angle portraiture with the Sigma 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art

15 Feb

Photographers tend to shy away from wide-angle lenses when shooting portraits, but DPReview Technical Editor Rishi Sanyal thinks that’s all wrong. In this video, he uses the Sigma 24-35mm F2 Art to illustrate his case for wide-angle portraits, capturing a couple of models with a setting sun in Seattle’s lovely Discovery Park. Step away from your 85mm comfort zone and learn some of Rishi’s tips for environmental portraits.

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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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