Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art

Leica L-Mount

Review

The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art lens for the L-Mount is a fantastic piece of optical engineering that is designed to deliver exceptional performance, particularly for portrait photography. Its large aperture of f/1.4 allows for a beautiful shallow depth of field, making it ideal for isolating subjects against a beautifully blurred background.

Build and Design

The lens features a robust and aesthetically pleasing design typical of the Art series, with a solid metal construction that offers both durability and a premium feel. Weighing in at around 590 grams, it strikes a nice balance between portability and sturdy build quality. The lens also has a weather-sealed design, which is an advantage for photographers who often work in challenging weather conditions.

Image Quality

In terms of image quality, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art excels in various scenarios. It offers incredible sharpness, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. The bokeh produced by this lens is smooth and creamy, which further enhances the aesthetic appeal of portrait photos. Additionally, color rendition is vibrant with minimal chromatic aberration, giving images a pleasing contrast and clarity.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system on this lens is fast and accurate, thanks to its dual-step motor system. It locks onto subjects quickly and tracks them well, which is beneficial for capturing candid moments or moving subjects. However, in low-light situations, the autofocus may occasionally struggle, which is something to consider if you often shoot in dimly lit environments.

Versatility

While designed primarily for portraiture, the 85mm focal length makes this lens versatile enough for various applications including fashion photography, weddings, and even some landscape shots. The large aperture is also useful for low-light environments, enhancing its usability across different settings.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional sharpness and image quality
• Beautiful bokeh and depth of field
• Solid and durable build quality
• Weather-sealed for outdoor use
• Accurate and fast autofocus system

Cons

• A bit heavy compared to some alternatives
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light conditions
• Price may be on the higher side for some budgets

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art lens for L-Mount is one of the best choices available for photographers looking to capture stunning portraits and high-quality images. It combines superior optical performance with a durable design, making it a solid investment for both amateur and professional photographers alike. While it may be slightly heavier and pricier than some options, the quality and versatility it offers are hard to beat.