The Sigma 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM for Canon EF mount is an extraordinary lens that excels in versatility, making it an appealing choice for wildlife and sports photography. With an impressive zoom range from 50mm to a staggering 500mm, this lens allows photographers to capture both wide landscapes and distant subjects with relative ease. The optical stabilization (OS) feature helps to minimize the effects of camera shake, which is particularly beneficial at longer focal lengths.
The lens construction includes several special elements that work together to reduce chromatic aberrations and enhance overall image quality. Notably, the lens offers a constant maximum aperture of F4.5 at the wide end, which is decent for shooting in varied lighting conditions, though it does ramp down to F6.3 at 500mm. At this upper end, the lens can become quite dark, necessitating higher ISO settings or slower shutter speeds, which may not always be ideal for fast-moving subjects.
This lens's autofocus system benefits from Sigma's Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), providing quick and quiet focusing, which is advantageous for wildlife photography where discretion is often necessary. However, some users have experienced occasional hunting in low light or challenging conditions, which can be frustrating when trying to capture that elusive moment.
The build quality of the Sigma 50-500mm is robust, featuring weather-sealing which adds a layer of durability for outdoor shoots. However, this rugged build comes at the cost of weight; the lens can feel unwieldy when fully extended, especially when used without a tripod. It's recommended to use a tripod collar for long periods of shooting to maintain stability and comfort.
Overall, the Sigma 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM for Canon EF mount is a solid choice for photographers looking for an all-in-one zoom solution that covers a wide range of focal lengths. While it does have some drawbacks, particularly in terms of size and low-light performance, its versatility, image stabilization, and build quality make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s kit, especially for those focused on wildlife and sports photography. If you can manage the weight and are mindful of your shooting conditions, this lens could be the perfect fit for your Canon system.