Sigma 50-150mm F2.8 EX DC APO OS HSM

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 50-150mm F2.8 EX DC APO OS HSM is a versatile zoom lens designed specifically for Nikon F mount (DX format) cameras. This lens is suitable for a wide range of photography styles, including portrait, sports, and wildlife, thanks to its constant f/2.8 aperture and impressive focal length range.

One of the standout features of this lens is its sharpness throughout the zoom range. From 50mm to 150mm, images maintain high levels of detail, making it perfect for capturing portraits with beautiful bokeh and fine details. The f/2.8 aperture not only allows for low-light shooting but also enables photographers to achieve that creamy background blur that is so desirable in portraiture.

The lens incorporates Sigma's Optical Stabilization (OS) technology, which is a boon for handheld shooting, reducing the effects of camera shake, especially noticeable at longer focal lengths. This is particularly useful for users who may not have the luxury of always shooting with a tripod. The lens is also well-constructed, featuring a durable build that feels solid in hand, which is a plus for outdoor photographers.

However, while the build quality is commendable, some users may find the weight to be on the heavier side compared to similar lenses, which can lead to fatigue during long shooting sessions. Additionally, the autofocus speed, while generally accurate, may lag slightly in low-light situations or in fast-action scenarios, which could be a drawback for sports photographers seeking rapid focus acquisition.

Another consideration is the lens's performance at the extreme ends of its focal range. While it is sharp overall, some distortion and softness may be observed at the very edges, especially when shooting wide open. It requires users to sometimes stop down the aperture to improve corner sharpness, which doesn't always align with the convenience of a zoom lens.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Constant f/2.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance and depth of field.
• Good sharpness across the zoom range.
• Optical Stabilization (OS) for reduced camera shake.
• Solid build quality, making it durable for varied shooting conditions.

Cons

• Heavier compared to other similar lenses, which can lead to fatigue.
• Autofocus may struggle in low-light or fast-paced situations.
• Some distortion and edge softness at the extremes of the zoom range.

Verdict

The Sigma 50-150mm F2.8 EX DC APO OS HSM is a powerful lens that offers tremendous flexibility and performance for Nikon F mount users, especially in portrait and event photography. While it comes with some weight and minor autofocus issues in specific situations, its image quality and stabilization features make it a worthy investment for serious photographers looking for a reliable telephoto option with a fast aperture.