Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS Macro HSM

Canon EF

Review

The Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS Macro HSM is an impressive macro lens designed for Canon EF mount. With a strong combination of optical performance and physical design, it appeals to photographers aiming for detailed close-up shots as well as general portraiture. Its focal length provides photographers with a comfortable working distance, allowing them to capture intricate details without getting too close to their subject—a critical factor when photographing smaller creatures or delicate items.

Build Quality and Design

This lens boasts a solid and durable construction that feels well-built in hand. The barrel is primarily made of high-quality plastics, which helps keep the weight to a manageable level. It also features a rubberized focus ring that provides excellent grip and control. Although it is a sizeable lens owing to the longer focal length, the overall design remains user-friendly, particularly when mounted on full-frame Canon cameras. Additionally, the lens comes with a lens hood that reduces flare and protects the front element.

Optical Performance

The Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS Macro HSM excels in optical quality. It delivers sharp images across the entire frame, even at maximum aperture. Chromatic aberration is well-controlled, and distortion is minimal. With a close focusing distance of 18 cm, it achieves a magnification ratio of 1:1, making it suitable for true macro photography. The Optical Stabilization (OS) feature is an added bonus, effectively reducing camera shake and aiding in handheld shooting, especially in low-light environments.

Autofocus

One of the standout features of this lens is its HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) autofocus system. The autofocus is generally fast and quiet, making it a good fit for both stills and videos. However, in low-light conditions or with subjects that have low contrast, the autofocus may hunt a bit, which is something to keep in mind. The lens also has a full-time manual focus override, allowing photographers to make fine adjustments easily, which is particularly useful in macro photography.

Compatibility

As a Canon EF mount lens, compatibility is extensive, allowing it to be used on both full-frame and APS-C sensor cameras. While it performs brilliantly on full-frame bodies, APS-C users will appreciate the effective increase in focal length due to the crop factor, making it a viable option for portrait photography as well.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical quality with sharp images
• Effective Optical Stabilization (OS)
• Solid build quality and comfortable handling
• Fast and quiet autofocus with manual override

Cons

• Size and weight may be cumbersome for some users
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light conditions

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 150mm F2.8 EX DG OS Macro HSM for Canon EF mounts is a fantastic choice for macro enthusiasts and portrait photographers alike. With its excellent optical performance, robust build quality, and user-friendly features, it stands out in the market. While it has some minor drawbacks, particularly in weight and low-light autofocus performance, the benefits it brings to the table far outweigh these concerns. If you are seeking a reliable macro lens that performs well in a variety of situations, this lens is certainly worth considering.