Sigma 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Sigma 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM is a unique ultra-wide-angle lens designed specifically for Nikon F mount cameras equipped with a DX sensor. This lens stands out in the market due to its impressive focal range and design, making it a great choice for landscape, architecture, and interior photography.

Build Quality and Design

The Sigma 8-16mm features a solid build that exudes confidence and durability. Despite being made mostly of high-quality plastic, it feels sturdy and well-constructed in your hands. The lens has a sleek design with a matte finish, which not only looks professional but also helps to minimize glare when shooting in bright conditions. Weighing in at a manageable 500 grams, it's relatively lightweight for an ultra-wide-angle lens, making it easier to carry around on lengthy shoots.

Optical Performance

With a maximum aperture of F4.5 to F5.6, the Sigma 8-16mm offers decent performance in varied lighting conditions. It's designed to provide excellent sharpness even at the edges of the frame, a common critique of ultra-wide lenses. Wide-open shots at F4.5 might show some softening compared to shots taken at smaller apertures, but overall, the image quality is impressive across the zoom range. The lens also incorporates special low-dispersion elements and aspherical lenses to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion, which is often an issue with wide-angle designs.

Autofocus and Usability

The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides quick and quiet autofocus, which is a significant advantage for anyone shooting in conditions where silence is crucial, such as during weddings or habitat photography. Manual focus is also smooth and precise, making it user-friendly for those who prefer that control. The lens is compatible with Nikon's focus systems, allowing for accurate autofocus on a range of camera bodies.

Filter Compatibility

One notable drawback of the Sigma 8-16mm is its lack of a standard front filter thread, which means you can't easily attach filters such as polarizers or ND filters. This can limit creative options, particularly for landscape photographers who often rely on these tools to enhance their images. However, you can still use a rear filter holder system, albeit with added complexity.

Color and Contrast

The color rendition of the Sigma 8-16mm is vibrant, and the contrast is satisfactory. You'll find that images maintain their integrity, with minimal color shift across the focal range. That said, in certain situations, you may notice lens flaring if shooting directly into the sun, and it's advised to use a lens hood to mitigate this.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical performance with good sharpness.
• Durable and lightweight design.
• Fast and quiet autofocus system.
• Versatile focal length ideal for landscapes and architecture.

Cons

• No front filter thread limits the use of filters.
• Some distortion at the extreme edges, although well-controlled.
• Maximum aperture may not be ideal for low-light photography.

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM stands out as an excellent choice for Nikon F (DX) users looking for a reliable ultra-wide-angle lens. With solid construction, impressive sharpness, and a decent autofocus system, it makes a compelling option for anyone passionate about capturing wider perspectives. However, potential users should consider the lack of front filter compatibility as a significant factor in their decision-making. If the absence of traditional filter usage isn't a deal-breaker, this lens could expand your creative horizons dramatically.