Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM Canon EF
Review
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM is a prime lens that has garnered attention for its impressive performance, especially amongst Canon EF mount users. Known for its fast aperture and excellent build quality, this lens aims to satisfy both enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable option in the 30mm focal length.
Build Quality and Design
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 is built to last, featuring a robust structure that feels solid in hand. The lens barrel is predominantly made of high-quality plastic, which helps keep the weight manageable, but it does not feel cheap. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, making manual focusing quite enjoyable. Additionally, the lens has a stylish matte finish, helping to reduce glare during shooting.
Optical Performance
One of the standout features of the Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM is its wide maximum aperture of F1.4. This allows for stunning low-light performance, providing photographers with the ability to capture striking images in challenging lighting conditions. The lens produces beautiful bokeh, which is smooth and pleasing for portrait photography.
Sharpness is another highlight, with images taken at F1.4 being impressively sharp at the center. As you stop down, the lens maintains good sharpness across the frame, making it versatile for landscape or street photography as well. However, some users have reported that corner sharpness may not be as stellar particularly when shot wide open.
Autofocus Performance
The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides quick and quiet autofocus, making this lens a great choice for capturing candid moments or video production where noise might be an issue. However, in low-light conditions, the autofocus can occasionally struggle, requiring the photographer to switch to manual focus for optimal results.
Compatibility
While this lens is primarily designed for APS-C sensor cameras, it can also be used on full-frame systems where it will function effectively but with some vignetting at the extreme corners. Its focal length is equivalent to approximately 48mm on a full-frame body, making it a decent standard lens for various photography genres.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Impressive low-light performance with F1.4 aperture
- Excellent build quality and design
- Sharp images, particularly at the center
- Fast and quiet autofocus system
Cons
- Corner sharpness drops when wide open
- Autofocus may struggle in low-light conditions
Verdict
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM is a fantastic addition for Canon EF mount users who seek a fast, reliable prime lens. With its excellent optical performance and solid build quality, it stands out in its category. While it does have a few minor drawbacks, such as corner sharpness and autofocus issues in low light, the overall performance, especially in bright conditions, makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of photography styles. Whether for portraits, landscapes, or street photography, this lens is sure to enhance your photographic experience.