Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art

Sony E

Review

The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens for Sony E mount is a remarkable addition to any Sony photographer’s toolkit, especially for those who appreciate high-quality optics combined with a wide aperture. This lens is part of Sigma's esteemed Art Series, known for its exceptional performance and build quality, making it a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Build Quality and Design

The construction of the Sigma 35mm F1.4 Art is impressive. The lens features a robust, weather-sealed design that ensures durability in various shooting conditions. The barrel is made from high-quality materials that provide a premium feel, and the wide focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for accurate manual focus adjustments. Weighing in at around 665 grams, it strikes a good balance between sturdiness and portability, making it suitable for both studio work and on-location shoots.

Optics and Performance

When it comes to optical performance, this lens truly shines. The F1.4 maximum aperture allows for stunning depth of field effects and performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions. The bokeh produced by the lens is creamy and aesthetically pleasing, making it ideal for portraiture and creative photography. Furthermore, the lens exhibits minimal chromatic aberration and distortion, ensuring sharp and clear images even at wide apertures.

Sharpness is one of the standout features of the Sigma 35mm F1.4. It is sharp across the entire frame, even when shooting wide open. Users have noted that corner sharpness is impressive, which is a common weakness in many fast prime lenses. The lens also handles flare and ghosting well, making it a reliable option for shooting in challenging lighting situations.

Autofocus System

Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides quick and accurate autofocus performance. While it is not entirely silent, the operation is generally unobtrusive, which is great for both photography and videography. However, some users have reported that the autofocus can be slightly inconsistent in low-light situations compared to other lenses in the same category.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with weather sealing
• Outstanding optical performance with minimal distortion
• Impressive sharpness across the frame
• Beautiful bokeh and low-light capability
• Quick and generally accurate autofocus

Cons

• Autofocus can struggle in very low light
• Heavier than some competitors in its category
• Price point may be high for beginners

Verdict

Overall, the Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens for Sony E mount is a fantastic lens that excels in nearly every aspect. Its superb optical performance, combined with a durable and professional build, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their photography. Despite some minor downsides like the autofocus performance in low light and weight, the positives far outweigh these concerns. Whether you're shooting portraits, landscapes, or street photography, this lens is sure to impress and deliver beautiful results.