Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art

Sony E

Review

The Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art lens for Sony E mount is an intriguing option for photographers seeking a high-quality prime lens that balances performance, versatility, and compactness. Part of Sigma's renowned Art line, this lens is designed to provide exceptional image quality and a beautiful bokeh effect.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art is impressive. It features a robust, all-metal construction that feels solid in hand, giving photographers confidence while using it in various shooting environments. The lens is also lightweight and compact, making it ideal for travel and street photography. The sleek design, combined with a smooth focus ring, enhances usability, thereby allowing for precise adjustments when focusing manually.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art performs admirably. It boasts a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which is beneficial for low-light scenarios while still providing ample depth of field control. The lens delivers sharp images across the frame, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. When shooting at the wide-open aperture, images exhibit excellent contrast and clarity. Additionally, the bokeh produced by this lens is smooth and creamy, making it a delight for portrait photography.

Autofocus System

The autofocus on the Sigma 60mm is fast and accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions. Its stepping motor ensures smooth and silent focusing, which is a significant advantage for video creators. However, there can be instances where the autofocus might hunt slightly in low light situations, which could frustrate some users. Overall, it provides a reliable autofocus experience for most regular shooting needs.

Versatility

While this lens is primarily marketed for portrait and general photography, its 60mm focal length (equivalent to 90mm on full-frame) makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from landscapes to close-up shots. The f/2.8 aperture strikes a balance, providing a good depth of field while allowing for some background separation.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with a solid, all-metal construction.
• Sharp images with excellent contrast and minimal optical flaws.
• Smooth and aesthetically pleasing bokeh.
• Fast and accurate autofocus performance.
• Lightweight and compact design, ideal for portability.

Cons

• Autofocus can occasionally hunt in very low light.
• The maximum aperture of f/2.8 may not be sufficient for some low-light environments compared to faster lenses.

Verdict

The Sigma 60mm F2.8 DN Art lens for Sony E mount is an outstanding choice for photographers looking for a versatile prime lens that excels in image quality and handling. While it has minor drawbacks, such as potential autofocus hunting in low light, the overall performance and build quality make it a worthy addition to any photographer's kit. Whether you’re capturing beautiful portraits or stunning street scenes, this lens will meet your creative needs effectively.