Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art lens is a fantastic addition to the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem, offering a versatile focal length that fills a perfect gap for portrait, street, and even product photography. With its compact and lightweight design, this lens stands out as an excellent option for photographers who require a high-quality prime lens without the burden of carrying heavy equipment.

Build Quality and Design

Sigma is known for its premium build quality, and the 60mm F2.8 DN Art is no exception. The lens features a solid metal construction that exudes durability, yet it remains lightweight, making it ideal for travel and everyday use. The smooth matte finish adds to the aesthetic appeal, while the compact size ensures it fits well with a variety of Micro Four Thirds camera bodies. The focus ring is well-dampened and offers accurate manual focusing, which is a boon for those who prefer to take control of their shots.

Optical Performance

In terms of image quality, the Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art excels. The lens produces sharp images across the frame, even when shot wide open at F2.8. Distortions are minimal, and chromatic aberration is virtually non-existent, thanks to the use of high-quality optics. Bokeh is pleasing, albeit not as creamy as some other fast primes, but it effectively isolates subjects from the background without being overly distracting. This makes it a great choice for portraiture where subject separation is key.

Autofocus Systems

Autofocus performance is another strong point for the Sigma 60mm. The lens features a fast and quiet stepping motor that ensures quick focus acquisition, which is particularly useful for capturing spontaneous moments. It's compatible with on-sensor phase detection systems found in many Micro Four Thirds cameras, providing reliable tracking performance. However, in certain low-light conditions, the autofocus can occasionally hunt, which is something to keep in mind.

Versatility

The 60mm focal length (equivalent to 120mm in full-frame terms) opens up diverse opportunities for creativity. It excels in portraits, allowing for tight compositions that flatter the subject. Additionally, it’s capable of delivering impressive results in street photography, where its moderate telephoto range enables some distance while still getting intimate shots. The lens also handles close-up subjects well, thanks to its reasonable minimum focus distance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent image sharpness and clarity
• Robust construction and build quality
• Lightweight and compact, making it ideal for travel
• Fast and quiet autofocus system
• Versatile focal length for various shooting scenarios

Cons

• Autofocus may hunt in low-light situations
• Bokeh may not be as creamy as some competitors

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art lens is a remarkable choice for Micro Four Thirds users looking for a high-performance prime lens. It balances portability with exceptional optical quality, making it a worthy investment for photographers in various fields. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as its performance in low-light autofocus, these do not overshadow the many strengths of the lens. Whether you are an amateur or a seasoned professional, the Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art lens is sure to elevate your photography experience.