Sigma 15mm F2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 15mm F2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye lens is a captivating option for Nikon F (DX) mount shooters looking to inject a unique perspective into their photography. This lens is designed to create striking visual effects thanks to its diagonal fisheye design, which offers a 180-degree angle of view. Its wide aperture of F2.8 allows for impressive low-light performance and creative depth of field manipulation, making it a versatile addition to any photographer's kit.

One of the standout features of the Sigma 15mm F2.8 is its robust build quality. The lens feels solid in hand, offering a sense of durability that is reassuring for the traveler or outdoor photographer. Additionally, it features a multi-layer coating that minimizes ghosting and flare, ensuring that your images appear vibrant and crisp even in challenging lighting conditions. The close focusing distance of just 5.9 inches adds to its usability, allowing you to create complex compositions by combining foreground elements with the expansive background.

However, as with any lens, there are some downsides to consider. The distortion that comes with the fisheye effect, while intended, may not be suitable for all subjects. Portraits and straight lines can appear heavily warped, which could frustrate some photographers. Furthermore, the lack of a built-in image stabilization feature might be a concern for those intending to shoot handheld in less than ideal lighting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide 180-degree angle of view creates unique perspectives.
• Fast F2.8 aperture for low-light performance.
• Sturdy construction and build quality.
• Close focusing distance allows for creative compositions.
• Multilayer coating reduces ghosting and flare.

Cons

• Heavy distortion may not suit all photography styles.
• Lack of built-in image stabilization can hinder handheld shooting.
• Limited versatility outside of its specialized use case.

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 15mm F2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye is a fantastic lens for photographers who want to explore creative angles and compositions. While it may not be useful for all types of photography, its unique characteristics make it an exciting tool for those willing to embrace the fisheye effect. If you're looking to add a distinct flair to your images with a lens that offers both quality and versatility, the Sigma 15mm F2.8 Fisheye is certainly worth considering for your Nikon F (DX) mount camera.