Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary Sony E
Review
The Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary lens for Sony E mount is a versatile addition to any photographer’s kit. Known for its superb optical performance and solid build quality, this lens caters to both enthusiasts and professionals seeking a lightweight, compact prime that can handle a variety of shooting scenarios.
Design and Build Quality
The construction of the Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN is impressive. It features a robust metal barrel that exudes durability, making it suitable for outdoor shooting environments. Weighing in at just 640 grams, it strikes a fine balance between portability and sturdiness. The lens has a sleek design with a smooth focus ring and a tactile aperture ring that allows for intuitive adjustments while shooting. Additionally, the lens is weather-sealed, providing extra protection against the elements, which is a considerable advantage for those who often venture into challenging conditions.
Optical Performance
In terms of optical quality, the Sigma 35mm F2 stands out with its sharpness and clarity. The lens uses advanced optical elements, including aspherical and low dispersion glass elements, which help mitigate chromatic aberration and distortion. At its widest aperture of F2, images are beautifully sharp in the center, with a pleasing out-of-focus area (bokeh) that is creamy and smooth, making it ideal for portraiture and street photography alike. Stopping down to F4 or F5.6 only enhances sharpness across the frame, allowing for stunning landscape and architectural photography.
Autofocus and Usability
The autofocus performance on this lens is fast and quiet, thanks to its stepping motor, which is particularly beneficial for video recording. The ability to quickly acquire focus makes it a reliable choice for capturing candid moments or for use in fast-paced situations. Manual focusing is also a delight due to the smoothness of the focus ring, offering photographers precision in their adjustments.
Versatility
The 35mm focal length is beloved for its versatility. It works well for a wide array of photography styles, from portraits and landscapes to street and event photography. This lens provides an effective field of view that allows you to capture context without being too wide or too narrow. The F2 aperture further enhances its use in low-light conditions, letting in a good amount of light without needing to crank up your ISO.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent sharpness and contrast across the frame
- Compact and lightweight design
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Weather-sealed construction
- Versatile focal length for various photography styles
Cons
- Slight vignetting at F2, though it is easily correctable in post-processing
- Some users may prefer a slightly faster maximum aperture for low-light performance
Verdict
The Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary is a fantastic lens that excels in both performance and usability, making it an outstanding option for Sony E mount photographers. Its combination of portability, optical excellence, and versatility makes it perfect for various shooting scenarios, whether you are a seasoned photographer or an enthusiastic hobbyist. With only minor drawbacks, this lens is a worthwhile investment that can handle a multitude of creative needs.