Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens is an impressive addition to the world of telephoto zoom lenses, particularly for Nikon F (DX) mount users. Designed with a fast constant aperture of f/1.8 throughout the zoom range, this lens stands out as an exceptional option for portraiture, event photography, and even some sports uses, given its flexibility and performance.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Sigma 50-100mm is outstanding, aligning with the 'Art' designation that the lens proudly carries. Crafted with a robust metal body, it feels premium and durable in hand. The lens has a larger diameter due to its constant f/1.8 aperture, which contributes to an aesthetically pleasing appearance and functional handling. It features a comfortable focus ring that operates smoothly, allowing for precise adjustments, especially critical in portrait work where focus accuracy is vital.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Sigma 50-100mm delivers truly stunning results. The sharpness at both f/1.8 and stopping down is remarkable, resulting in rich, crisp images. As expected from the Art series, color rendition is vibrant, and contrast is superb, making it a joy to post-process images taken with this lens. The lens also handles chromatic aberration and distortion very well, which is a significant plus for photographers looking for clean images right out of the camera.

Bokeh quality is another standout feature, with the lens producing pleasingly smooth background blur. This capability complements portrait photography exceptionally well, isolating subjects beautifully and creating depth in compositions.

Autofocus System

The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) autofocus system performs admirably for most shooting scenarios. It is fast and relatively quiet, benefiting users who might be shooting video or in situations where silence is golden. However, in very low-light conditions, it might struggle a bit to lock focus quickly. This is not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind if you frequently shoot in challenging light.

Size and Weight

One of the main considerations with the Sigma 50-100mm is its size and weight. While it’s understandable given its construction and quality, the lens can feel substantial when mounted on smaller DX bodies. This extra heft is something to consider for long shooting sessions, particularly for portrait or event photographers who may desire a more portable setup.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image quality with sharpness and contrast across the zoom range.
• Fast and constant f/1.8 aperture, excellent for low-light situations.
• Beautiful bokeh provides excellent subject isolation.
• Robust and premium build quality.
• Reliable autofocus performance in good lighting.

Cons

• Bulky and heavy, which may be cumbersome for extended use.
• Autofocus can struggle in low-light conditions.
• The price point may be higher than some alternatives.

Verdict

In summary, the Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens is an outstanding choice for Nikon F (DX) mount photographers. It excels in optical performance, build quality, and image aesthetics, making it a formidable contender for those serious about portrait and event photography. However, prospective buyers should weigh the size and weight against their shooting needs. If you can manage the heft, this lens will likely become a favorite in your kit thanks to its versatility and impressive output.