Sigma 85mm F1.2 DG Art

The Sigma 85mm F1.2 DG Art is a large-aperture medium telephoto prime for full-frame mirrorless cameras, available for Sony E and L-Mount. Sigma presents it as the third lens of its F1.2 Art series, next to the 35mm F1.2 DG II Art and the 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art. It targets portraits, weddings, fashion and video, and Sigma's main claim is the smallest and lightest body among autofocus 85mm F1.2 lenses for full-frame mirrorless, as of September 2026.

Optical design

Sigma specifies 17 elements in 12 groups. According to Sigma, two SLD elements and glass with high anomalous dispersion limit axial chromatic aberration, and aspherical elements correct spherical aberration and sagittal coma flare. The 13-blade diaphragm is said to keep highlights near circular when stopped down. The minimum aperture is F16, the minimum focusing distance 84 cm at 1:8.9 magnification, the angle of view 28.6 degrees, and the filter thread 82mm.

Autofocus and handling

Two HLA linear actuators (dual HLA) drive the autofocus, which Sigma calls fast and quiet for stills and video. The focus group is designed to minimize focus breathing. The barrel has an aperture ring with a click switch and a lock switch, two AFL buttons assignable on selected cameras, and an AF/MF switch. On L-Mount the focus ring can be set to linear or non-linear response, and the Sigma USB Dock UD-11 is supported. Neither is listed for Sony E. No optical stabilizer is mentioned.

Build and size

The lens weighs 905 g on both mounts and is 87.2mm in diameter. Length is 119.7mm on L-Mount and 121.7mm on Sony E. Sigma uses high-precision parts including TSC, a polycarbonate with thermal expansion similar to aluminum. The structure is dust and splash resistant, the front element has a water and oil repellent coating, and the lens is not waterproof.

Where it fits

On Sony E, alternatives include the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM, the Sony FE 85mm F1.8 and the Viltrox AF 85mm F1.4 Pro. Within Sigma's range, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art offers one stop less light. The F1.2 line continues with the 35mm F1.2 DG II Art and the 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art.

Pros and cons

Pros

• F1.2 at 85mm for very shallow depth of field
• 905 g, light for its class according to Sigma
• Aperture ring with de-click and lock, two AFL buttons
• Dust and splash resistant construction

Cons

• 905 g and an 82mm filter thread are substantial for a prime
• Minimum focusing distance of 84 cm
• No stabilization mentioned, the camera must provide it

Verdict

Aimed at portrait and event shooters who want F1.2 and accept the size of the class. According to Sigma it is the lightest of its kind and offers video-friendly controls. Image quality still needs independent testing.