Sigma 12-24mm F4.5-5.6 II DG HSM

Canon EF

Review

The Sigma 12-24mm F4.5-5.6 II DG HSM lens is a remarkable wide-angle zoom designed specifically for Canon EF camera systems. This lens opens a new world of possibilities for landscape, architecture, and interior photographers, thanks to its expansive focal range. With its unique combination of a wide field of view and relatively compact design, it's worth exploring its strengths and weaknesses.

Build Quality and Design

The Sigma 12-24mm II boasts a solid build quality, featuring a robust plastic and metal construction which feels durable in hand. Its weather-sealed design is an added advantage for those who often shoot in challenging conditions. At 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs), it’s relatively lightweight for a lens of this category, making it easier to carry around on extended shoots. The large front element creates a striking appearance, but it also means you’ll need to be cautious when cleaning, as the bulbous shape can make it difficult to use standard filters.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Sigma 12-24mm II performs admirably within its intended focal range. The sharpness across the frame is commendable, especially at the center, though some softness can be observed at the edges, particularly at the widest apertures. The lens incorporates various special elements, including aspherical and low dispersion glass, that help reduce chromatic aberrations and improve overall image quality. Distortion and vignetting are well-controlled, although some noticeable barrel distortion can appear at the 12mm end.

Autofocus and Usability

Equipped with Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), the autofocus is generally quick and quiet, making it suitable for both photography and videography. The manual focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for adjustments when focusing under challenging conditions. The zoom range of 12-24mm is versatile, providing ample creativity to capture both vast landscapes and intimate interiors without having to change lenses constantly.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather sealing.
• Versatile wide-angle zoom range.
• Good sharpness at the center.
• Low distortion and chromatic aberrations.
• Smooth and accurate autofocus.

Cons

• Some softness at the edges, especially at wide apertures.
• Limited use of filters due to the bulbous front element.
• Slight barrel distortion at 12mm.

Verdict

The Sigma 12-24mm F4.5-5.6 II DG HSM lens is an impressive addition to any Canon EF photographer's kit, particularly for those focusing on wide-angle compositions. With its solid construction, decent optical performance, and versatility, it delivers excellent value for its price point. While it has some limitations, such as edge sharpness and the inability to use traditional filters easily, these do not overshadow the lens's primary strengths. Whether you're capturing sweeping landscapes or intricate interiors, this lens is a worthy contender for your next wide-angle lens purchase.