Sigma 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM Art Canon EF
Review
The Sigma 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM Art lens is a versatile zoom lens designed for Canon EF mount cameras. It belongs to Sigma's esteemed Art series, which is known for delivering high-quality optics and exceptional build quality. With a focal length that spans from a wide 24mm to a more telephoto 105mm, this lens is an ideal choice for a wide range of photographic genres, including landscape, portrait, and event photography.
Build Quality and Design
The lens exhibits a robust construction with a solid metal body, making it both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The satin finish not only looks good but also feels comfortable in hand. The weight of the lens is substantial, providing a sense of stability, which is beneficial when shooting handheld. A weather-sealed design adds to its versatility, allowing photographers to use it in a variety of environmental conditions without worrying about moisture or dust entering the lens.
Optical Performance
In terms of optical performance, the Sigma 24-105mm provides excellent sharpness across the frame. At its maximum aperture of F4, it performs admirably, producing images that are crisp and clear. The lens incorporates multiple special glass elements, including aspherical and low dispersion glass elements, which work together to reduce chromatic aberrations and enhance contrast. However, it's worth noting that while sharpness is impressive throughout the zoom range, the lens is at its peak performance when stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8.
Autofocus Performance
The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures fast and quiet autofocus, making this lens an excellent choice for both photography and videography. The autofocus system is reliable, with quick acquisition times and consistent tracking. However, in low light situations, the autofocus may struggle occasionally, which is something to consider if you plan to shoot in darker environments.
Versatility and Use Cases
Thanks to its versatile focal length, this lens shines in numerous scenarios. It is perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes at 24mm, and when zoomed in, it excels at portrait photography. The constant F4 aperture is advantageous for maintaining exposure settings while zooming, and the lens is well-suited for both full-frame and APS-C camera users. On APS-C cameras, the equivalent focal length makes it a fantastic option for both portrait and event photography.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent build quality with a durable design
- Sharp images across the focal range
- Fast and reliable autofocus
- Versatile focal length suitable for various photography genres
- Weather-sealed for outdoor use
Cons
- Can be heavy and bulky for some shooters
- Autofocus struggles in very low light settings
- Peak sharpness occurs when stopped down
Verdict
Overall, the Sigma 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM Art lens stands out as an exceptional choice for Canon EF mount users. Its impressive optical performance, build quality, and versatile focal length make it suitable for both amateur and professional photographers. While it does have some minor drawbacks, such as weight and low light autofocus performance, the strengths far outweigh the negatives. If you're looking for a reliable, high-quality zoom lens that can handle a variety of shooting scenarios, this lens should definitely be on your radar.