Sigma Creates a New Standard: 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art for E and L-Mount

Sigma's 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art lens updates a classic prime for full-frame L-Mount and Sony E-Mount cameras. The new lens features a revamped optical design, faster autofocusing, and a scaled-down form factor to suit the mirrorless format better than before. Continuing Sigma's commitment to fast, sharp glass in the Art series, it is destined to become a favorite for portrait, street, event, and any other photographer looking for a top-tier, 50mm f/1.4 for the E or L-mount systems.

Once as notorious for its heavy optics as cherished for its exacting sharpness, Sigma's recent Art lenses have adopted more compact and lightweight designs for mirrorless systems. The new 50mm weighs 1.48 pounds and shrinks its front element down to 72mm for a more manageable experience over its predecessor. All the while, it packs 14 elements (11 groups) including one SLD and three aspherical elements to deliver sharp, accurate imagery with minimal distortion, even in challenging light conditions. An 11-bladed diaphragm promises to deliver the kind of clean and consistent bokeh that has become synonymous with Sigma's Art primes.

The new lens upgrades to Sigma's latest High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) motor for faster autofocusing performance. On-lens controls have also been expanded to include a de-clickable aperture ring, aperture ring lock switch, and customizable AFL button. It retains the AF/MF switch of its predecessor for switching quickly between focusing modes. L-Mount lenses can also switch between linear and non-linear focus ring settings. The entire build is dust and splash resistant and a water- and oil-repellent coating has been applied to the front element to protect against the weather, oils, dust, and debris.

What do you think of Sigma's latest update to the Art series? Share your thoughts in the Comments section, below!