Sigma Launches Art Lenses for Sony Full Frame E-Mount Cameras

Good news for those who shoot Sony full frame E-mount and enjoy the look of Sigma optics. On the heels of the company's $1,300 14-24mm F2.8 DG HSM Art (Nikon F, Canon EF) announcement, the lens designer says it will roll out nine prime lenses for E-mount in its Arts series, two of which are brand new: the 70mm F2.8 DG MACRO and the 105mm F1.4 DG HSM. 

While the Art line is aimed at photographers, video shooters can take advantage of their optical performance. The Sony E-mount models will cover 14mm to 135mm and tout a "newly developed control algorithm that optimizes the autofocus drive and maximizes the data transmission speed." Basically, Sigma is saying the autofocus system has a similar performance level to other E-mount lenses, e.g. Sony.

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They're also noting compatibility with Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF, AF-C mode, and high-speed focus, something the Mount Converter MC-11 did not address. In-camera image stabilization will be supported along with in-camera aberration correction—specifically correcting peripheral illumination, chromatic aberrations, and distortion. The brass bayonet mount has a "special surface treatment" to add strength and rubber seals adds to its dust-and-splash-proof design. 

Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG MACROCredit: Sigma

The 70mm F2.8 DG MACRO features an extending, floating, two-group focus mechanism to minimize aberrations. The focus-by-wire system and coreless DC motor adjusts focus with "optimal speed and low noise." Manual focus is available even in autofocus.

Optically, 13 elements in 10 groups include two FLD  (“F” Low Dispersion), two SLD (Special Low Dispersion), and two aspherical elements to enhance image performance. Nine rounded diaphragm aperture blades offer a F2.8 - F22 aperture range. 

While it will be available for Sony E-mount, Sigma plans to develop the lens for Canon mount lens with Canon Lens Aberration Correction function, the Sigma Electronic Flash Macro EM-140 DG, and Sigma Teleconverters. 

Sigma 105mm F1.4 DG HSMCredit: Sigma

Sigma is calling the 105mm F1.4 DG HSM Art the "bokeh master," which we're assuming is the karate equivalent to a black belt. It's also the longest focal length among Sigma F1.4 Art lenses. The 135mm is F1.8. It's designed with 17 optical elements in 12 groups—three FLD elements, two SLD elements, and one aspherical lens element—to drive its look and bokeh effect.

The lens provides a 23.3-degree angle of view and a bright F1.4 max aperture. It also has a dust-and-splash-proof construction and "special sealing" at the mount, focus ring, and connection. The front of the lens has a water-and-oil-repellent coating for easy cleaning. Besides Sony E-Mount cameras, it will be available for Canon mount lens with the Canon Lens Aberration Correction function.

Lastly, for Canon cameras featuring Lens Aberration Correction, Sigma will be releasing a firmware version 2.00 next Wednesday, March 7th. The software will address peripheral illumination, chromatic aberrations, and distortion where you can adjust aberration corrections to match the look of your lens. The update will affect models in the Art, Contemporary, and Sport lines. 

Sigma mentions that they "will gradually introduce" the E-mount lenses, but we remain uncertain of the timetable. Hopefully it's before the end of the year. 

Art line for full frame Sony E-mount

• 14mm F1.8 DG HSM Art
• 20mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
• 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
• 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
• 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
• 70mm F2.8 DG MACRO Art (new)
• 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
• 105mm F1.4 DG HSM Art (new)
• 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art

Source: Sigma