Best of 2016: Sigma Lenses

Over the past few years, Sigma has been carving a spot in the camera lens pantheon while building a loyal (and outspoken) following of users looking for fast, sharp glass without breaking the bank. The evidence of Sigma’s ascent is noticeable in the way that its 2016 releases were anticipated and received. No longer an over-performing underdog, the shock has worn off and this manufacturer’s lenses are greeted with elevated expectations from reviewers and a list of demands from users.  

85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens

Since Sigma began its Global Vision product line in 2012, it has been building an impressive collection of lenses in its “Art” series. Countless prayers were answered this year when Sigma announced its 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens. This portrait-ready addition to the lauded series combines two “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements with an anomalous partial dispersion/high refractive index element to produce the kind of sharp images with minimal aberration and fringing that Sigma converts have come to expect. Focusing is fast and quiet with its updated Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM). Its wide aperture and 9-blade, rounded diaphragm makes for pleasing bokeh and makes handling low-light environments a breeze.

12-24mm f/4 DG HSM and 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lenses

Sigma covered a wide range of focal lengths with two zoom additions to the Art series: the 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM and 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lenses. Both feature constant maximum apertures and HSM focusing. The ultra-wide 12-24mm’s massive aspherical lens elements and FLD glass combine to deliver solid edge-to-edge sharpness while tempering distortion. The versatile 50-100mm was welcomed by photographers using cameras with APS-C sized sensors. A combination of one SLD and three FLD glass elements extends the quality of its full-frame brethren at a smaller format.

500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports Lens

While Sigma extended the range of focal lengths available in its Art series, the reach of these additions falls short for all but the boldest sports or wildlife photographers. Luckily, Sigma’s “Sports” series in the Global Vision line added a flagship prime lens in the form of the 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM. An advanced Optical Stabilizer (OS) keeps images in focus while shooting with the hefty lens. One SLD and two FLD elements keep images sharp while its HSM maintains quick focus. Designed to weather outdoor conditions, it is dust- and splash-proof.

Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens

Not forgetting about mirrorless shooters, Sigma released the 30mm f/1.4 DC DN to their “Contemporary” series of the Global Vision line for photographers shooting with Micro Four Thirds or APS-C Sony E-mount cameras. In contrast to the company’s massive additions to the Art and Sports series, this lens offers high performance in a small (and lightweight) package. Its wide aperture works well in low-light situations, while a stepping motor keeps autofocus fast and accurate for still and video work. 

Sigma MC-11 Mount Converter/Lens Adapter

In an effort to accommodate photographers shooting with full-frame Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, Sigma released its MC-11 Mount Converter/Lens Adapter for Sigma EF or Sigma SA-mount lenses. The adapter not only acts as a physical attachment method but also serves as an electronic relay between lens and camera, which enables autofocus and autofocus functionality.

Do you have a favorite Sigma Art lens? Tell us about it in the Comments section, below.