Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN is a compact and versatile lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras. With an equivalent focal length of 38mm on full-frame systems, this lens is particularly suitable for street photography, environmental portraits, and landscape shots.

In terms of build quality, the Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN is solidly constructed. The lens features a metal mount and a quality plastic barrel that feels durable yet lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods. The compact design adds to its portability, which is a significant advantage for travel photographers.

The lens offers a maximum aperture of F2.8, which, while not the fastest available, provides a good balance of light-gathering capability and depth of field control. Users can achieve a nice background blur, or bokeh, when needed, although those seeking creamy, soft backgrounds might find F2.8 slightly limiting compared to faster primes.

Optically, the Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN performs admirably. Images are sharp across the frame, with minimal distortion and vignetting. The color rendering is pleasant, delivering vibrant colors and good contrast, which is essential for landscape and outdoor photography. There are some slight chromatic aberrations noticeable at the edges, especially when shooting wide open, but they can largely be corrected in post-processing.

One feature worth mentioning is the fast and quiet autofocus system, thanks to its stepping motor. This makes it an excellent choice for video work as well as still photography, as it doesn’t disrupt recording with audible focusing noises. However, keep in mind that the autofocus performance may lag in low-light situations compared to some more expensive lenses with advanced focusing systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with a compact form factor
• Good optical performance with sharp images and minimal distortion
• Fast and quiet autofocus system suitable for both photography and videography
• Pleasant color rendering and contrast

Cons

• Maximum aperture of F2.8 may limit depth of field control in low-light situations
• Slight chromatic aberrations at the edges, mostly correctable in post-processing

Verdict

The Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN is a fantastic lens for Micro Four Thirds users who prioritize portability and quality. While it may not be the fastest lens available, it offers excellent optical performance and a versatile focal length for various shooting scenarios. If you’re looking for a reliable, lightweight option for street photography, landscapes, or casual shooting, this lens is certainly worth considering. Just be mindful of its limitations in low-light situations and the more pronounced bokeh at wider apertures. Overall, it’s a thoughtfully designed lens that delivers solid results for its price point.