Sigma 105mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Sigma’s reputation for high-quality lenses continues to grow, thanks to the Art series. These photo lenses offer incredible but affordable quality, and lend their optical design to Sigma’s full-frame cinema lenses.
Art is viable for Canon, Sony and Sony mount cameras. This 105mm f/1.4 is the longest in the range and, says Sigma, the master of bokeh and perfect for portraits, as the extra focal length gives a little more compression to bring the background closer. On an APS-C or Super35-size camera it’s roughly equal to a 160mm lens, but with an enviable f/1.4 maximum aperture.
Sigma’s premium lenses often out-perform manufacturers’ own glass and the new 105mm really delivers. Seventeen optical elements in 12 groups is a huge amount for a prime lens. With five special low-dispersion elements and one aspherical lens element, plus a rounded nine-bladed diaphragm for smooth out-of-focus areas, it’s no lightweight in performance, or in actual weight. Housed in a sturdy metal body (1645g and 131.5mm long) it is heavy and big for a 105mm lens, especially with the detachable mammoth lens hood. The tripod mount is a useful addition.
Images are sharp and detailed, with attractive and smooth out-of-focus areas, aided by the longer focal length. We used a Canon-mount version on a Canon DSLR and on a Sony A7R III with a Metabones adapter. On the Canon the lens worked as well as a native lens with the Dual Pixel AF system. On the Canon and Sony we also used manual focus; perfect every time thanks to focus confirmation.
Specifications
Type: 105mm autofocus lens
Aperture range: f/1.4-f/16
Format: Full frame
Optical design:
17 elements in 12 groups
Diaphragm blades: 9 rounded
Minimum focus: 100cm/ 3.28ft
Filter thread: 105mm
Dimensions DxH:
115.9×131.5mm/ 4.56×5.18in
Weight: 1645g/ 3.62lb
PRO MOVIEMAKER RATING: 8/10
Affordable alternative to Sigma’s cine lenses and easy to use
+ Pros: Wow image quality for price
– Cons: Size and weight
PRICE: £1499/$1599
