Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN | C Leica L-Mount
Review
The Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN | C lens is a remarkable addition to the L-Mount lineup, especially for photographers who seek high optical performance combined with compactness. This prime lens is designed to satisfy both amateur and professional photographers, offering an excellent balance of sharpness, bokeh, and build quality.
Build Quality and Design
Sigma has always been known for its robust construction, and the 90mm F2.8 continues this tradition. The lens features a solid metal body that feels premium in hand while remaining relatively lightweight at approximately 335 grams. The compact design makes it an excellent choice for street photography, portraiture, and even macro subjects, allowing for easy handling without the burden of a heavy setup.
The lens is also weather-sealed, providing a layer of durability against the elements. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who frequently shoot outdoors, making it a reliable option in various conditions. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, offering precise control, which is crucial for critical focus, particularly at wider apertures.
Optical Performance
When it comes to optical performance, the Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN | C does not disappoint. Sharpness is outstanding, with edge-to-edge clarity that allows for crisp details and vibrant colors. The lens employs a high-quality hybrid aspherical lens and low dispersion glass elements, which effectively minimizes aberrations and distortion.
The bokeh produced by this lens is another highlight. The rounded aperture blades create a pleasing blur effect, making it an excellent choice for portrait photography where subject separation is vital. However, it’s worth noting that at the maximum aperture of F2.8, some users might find the bokeh not as creamy as that of faster primes, particularly in comparison to F1.4 lenses.
Autofocus Performance
The autofocus system of the Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN | C is quick and precise, utilizing a stepping motor that ensures minimal noise during operation. This feature makes it suitable for both still photography and video work. The lens also offers full-time manual focus override, which allows for fine-tuning focus adjustments as needed. However, in low-light conditions, autofocus performance may occasionally struggle, demonstrating the limitations of relying on contrast detection systems.
Compatibility and Use Cases
Designed specifically for mirrorless systems, this lens fully takes advantage of the capabilities of L-Mount cameras. Its 90mm focal length is well-suited for a range of photography styles including portraits, street photography, and product photography. The moderate telephoto perspective offers a flattering compression that enhances the appearance of facial features while maintaining some environmental context.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent build quality with weather sealing
- Outstanding optical performance with great sharpness
- Beautiful bokeh, ideal for portraits
- Quick and quiet autofocus
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- Bokeh not as creamy as some faster lenses
- Autofocus can be slow in low-light conditions
Verdict
The Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN | C is a highly capable lens that excels in sharpness, build quality, and overall optical performance, making it a fantastic choice for L-Mount users. While it has some limitations in low-light autofocus performance and bokeh compared to faster alternatives, its many strengths far outweigh these minor shortcomings. Whether you're a portraitist looking to capture stunning images or a street photographer on the go, this lens will serve you well in a variety of photographic endeavors.