Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM lens is a powerful telephoto zoom specifically designed for Nikon F (DX) mount cameras. This lens is particularly popular among sports and wildlife photographers due to its impressive focal range and constant f/2.8 aperture, which allows for clear, high-quality images in various lighting conditions.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things you notice about the Sigma 120-300mm is its robust build quality. Constructed with a durable metal body, it feels substantial in hand, which is great for those who prioritize sturdiness in their gear. The lens also features a weather-sealed design, providing some level of protection against dust and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor shooting. However, at around 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs), it can be quite heavy for extended handheld use, requiring a sturdy tripod or monopod for optimal performance.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Sigma 120-300mm is where it truly shines. The lens utilizes advanced lens elements that help to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion, resulting in crisp and vibrant images. The constant f/2.8 aperture is impressive, allowing for excellent subject isolation and beautiful bokeh, which is particularly beneficial for portrait and sports photography. Users can expect exceptional sharpness throughout the zoom range, with the lens performing admirably even at the maximum focal length.

Autofocus and Speed

Equipped with Sigma's HSM (Hypersonic Motor), the autofocus system is swift and fairly silent. It locks on quickly, making it suitable for fast-moving subjects. That said, it can struggle in low-light conditions or when tracking very erratic movements, which can be a concern for wildlife or action photographers. The lens also features a focus range limiter, which can enhance performance by allowing the user to restrict the autofocus system to a specific distance, further improving speed in certain scenarios.

Compatibility with Nikon F (DX)

When mounted on a Nikon F (DX) camera, the crop factor can have a dramatic effect on the effective focal length, turning the 120-300mm into approximately a 180-450mm lens. This extra reach is beneficial for those needing to shoot subjects from a distance, such as in wildlife photography. However, some may find the lens a bit unwieldy for portrait photography given the extended focal range.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with weather sealing
• Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
• Excellent optical performance with sharp images
• Fast and relatively quiet autofocus
• Versatile focal length range for sports and wildlife photography

Cons

• Heavy and cumbersome for extended handheld shooting
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light conditions
• Performance can be unpredictable at longer focal lengths for fast subjects

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM for Nikon F (DX) mount is an impressive piece of glass that excels in its intended applications. While it may pose some challenges due to its weight and autofocus performance in low-light conditions, the exceptional image quality and versatility make it a worthy investment, especially for dedicated sports and wildlife photographers looking for a reliable telephoto lens. If you can handle its heft and you're working primarily in good lighting, this lens is a fantastic choice that won't disappoint.