Hands-on with the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN
The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN is the latest in the company`s `DN` (Digital Native) lens lineup, designed specifically for use with mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. Like previous DN-series lenses, the 85mm F1.4 is available in two mounts: L (Sigma, Leica and Panasonic), and Sony E-mount.
Click through this article for a closer look at Sigma`s latest portrait prime lens.
New optical formula
The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN might share a focal length and maximum aperture with the older 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art (released in 2016) but the similarities end there. This is a completely new optical design, comprising 15 elements in 11 groups, with five SLD (super low-dispersion) elements and one aspherical element.
Sigma claims that this combination results in excellent sharpness at all apertures, and very well-controlled flare and ghosting: claims that appear to be born out in our initial shooting. Like all of the lenses in Sigma`s `Global Vision` line (Art, Contemporary and Sport) each copy of the 85mm is tested using Sigma`s proprietary `A1` MTF measuring system prior to shipping.
Smaller and lighter than previous 85mm F1.4 Art
Despite its ambitious optical construction, the new 85mm F1.4 is more than an inch shorter (94mm/3.7`, compared to 127mm/5`) and more than a pound lighter (635g/1.4lb), compared to 1.1kg/2.5lb) than the previous-generation 85mm F1.4 Art. Many of Sigma`s Art-series primes have felt rather heavy and bulky, but the new 85mm gives an impression of compactness and light weight, helped by its tapering barrel.
Build quality has not been sacrificed for the sake of weight though, and construction is in-line with what we`d expect: a mixture of aluminum and Sigma`s TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), complete with a brass mount. The lens is rated as `dust and splash-proof`.
Physical aperture ring
All of Sigma`s `DN` lenses have been designed with video, as wel ...
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