Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary

Canon EF-M

Review

The Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary is a standout lens for Canon EF-M mount users seeking a fast, high-quality prime lens for portrait, street, and general photography. With its bright f/1.4 aperture, this lens opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to achieve a shallow depth of field that beautifully isolates subjects against a soft, blurred background.

Build Quality and Design

Sigma has a reputation for producing well-constructed lenses, and the 56mm f/1.4 is no exception. It features a robust and compact design that feels solid in hand, weighing in at just 405 grams (approximately 0.89 lbs). The lens is relatively small for a fast prime, making it a perfect companion for smaller Canon mirrorless bodies, and one that you can carry around comfortably all day. The exterior has a smooth matte finish, which not only looks elegant but is also resistant to fingerprints and smudges.

Optics and Performance

Optically, the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 is impressive. It features 10 elements in 6 groups, including one extra-low dispersion element and one high refractive index element, which work together to significantly reduce chromatic aberrations and distortions. The outcomes are vivid colors and sharp images throughout the aperture range. Expect stunning sharpness even wide open at f/1.4, making it an excellent choice for low-light situations as well. Furthermore, the lens is equipped with a fast and quiet autofocus system, which is perfect for both stills and video recording.

Usability

The 56mm focal length translates to an effective 90mm on Canon EF-M mount cameras, which is ideal for portraits and other applications. Users will appreciate the lens's close focusing capability, allowing for creative compositions with beautiful bokeh. One point worth noting is that there is no image stabilization present, which can be a disadvantage when shooting at slower shutter speeds without a tripod.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical quality with sharp images and vibrant colors
• Fast f/1.4 aperture for low-light performance and shallow depth of field
• Compact and lightweight design ideal for travel
• Fast and quiet autofocus system
• Close focusing capability enhances versatility

Cons

• No image stabilization
• The lens can be a bit pricier compared to some entry-level alternatives

Verdict

The Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Canon EF-M is a fantastic lens that excels in image quality, build quality, and overall performance. It’s an excellent choice for enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable and versatile prime lens that delivers exceptional results in a range of shooting scenarios. While the lack of image stabilization may deter some users, the optical performance and fast aperture more than compensate for this drawback, making it a worthy investment for any Canon EF-M photographer.