Pros
Excellent build quality with a sturdy metal body
Quick and silent autofocus system
Beautiful picture quality with great sharpness and contrast
Highly recommended for both photography and videography
Nine-blade iris produces smooth bokeh
Stunning image quality even at f/1.4 with minimal issues
Great value compared to comparable lenses like Canon's L series
Perfect for a wide range of uses including portraits, landscapes, and street photography
Sharp from edge to edge
Well-balanced on heavier camera bodies
Cons
Some noticeable vignetting at f/1.4
Issues with longitudinal chromatic aberration at f/1.4
Autofocus may be slower than Canon's 35mm L series lens
Main Product Advantages
10 Sharpness
The Sigma 35mm lens offers exceptional sharpness at all apertures, including wide open at f/1.4. This sharpness remains consistent across different subjects and scenarios.
9 Image Quality
Produces beautiful picture quality with lovely colors, high contrast, and smooth bokeh thanks to a nine-blade iris. It handles chromatic aberration and other issues well, even at wide open settings.
9 Build Quality
The lens is well-built with a metal body that feels sturdy and substantial. It has a professional appearance and a smooth focus ring which is great for video. However, it is not weather-sealed.
9 Value for Money
Compared to other high-end lenses like the Canon L series, it offers almost similar performance at a lower price point, making it a great investment for those looking to upgrade their lens collection.
8 Versatility
Good for both cinematography and photography, handling a variety of subjects from macro to landscapes. On a crop sensor, it functions very well as a slightly narrower standard focal length.
8 Aperture Performance
The low f/1.4 aperture allows for excellent depth of field control and performance in low light. Slight vignetting and chromatic aberration at wide open settings, but these are manageable.
7 Autofocus
Quick and silent autofocus system, but some users experienced inconsistency and required microadjustments to achieve optimal performance. Can have occasional issues with focus accuracy, especially in lower light settings.
7 Accessories and Packaging
Comes with lens caps, a lens pouch, and a lens hood. Some users found issues with packaging cushioning during shipping.
6 Weight
Heavier than typical prime lenses due to the metal build, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer lighter gear for extended handheld use.
5 Customer Support
Some users faced issues with customer support, especially when dealing with unauthorized sellers and repair services.
Sigma 35mm F1.4 Art DG HSM Lens for Canon - Detailed Review
The Sigma 35mm F1.4 Art DG HSM Lens for Canon is a high-performing lens that boasts an impressive construction. With 13 elements arranged in 11 groups, this lens ensures superior optical performance and exceptional build quality. The intricate assembly contributes to sharp and clear image quality, which is a hallmark of the Sigma Art series.
Angle of View
This lens provides a broad angle of view at 63.4 degrees, making it versatile for various photography genres, from landscapes to portraiture. The wide angle allows for creative framing and captures more of the scene in each shot.
Diaphragm and Aperture
Featuring 9 diaphragm blades, the lens produces beautiful, smooth bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography where background blur is a key component. The maximum aperture of 1.4 is excellent for low-light conditions and offers significant depth-of-field control. The minimum aperture of 16 is useful for those scenarios needing a broader focus range.
Focusing and Minimum Focusing Distance
The minimum focusing distance of 30 cm (11.8 in) allows photographers to get up close to their subjects, which is perfect for detailed close-up shots. The floating inner focusing system further enhances optical performance at all focusing distances, ensuring sharp and vibrant images.
Filter Size
This lens supports a filter size of 67mm. This is a standard size, making it easier to find compatible filters that can enhance your photography, whether for reducing glare, protecting the lens, or adding creative effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sigma 35mm F1.4 Art DG HSM Lens for Canon delivers remarkable optical performance, versatile usage, and excellent build quality. Its wide angle of view, spectacular bokeh, and close-up capabilities make it a superb choice for both amateur and professional photographers. With features like a maximum aperture of 1.4 and a floating inner focusing system, this lens stands out as a powerful addition to any Canon user's toolkit.
