We have two new Sigma Art lenses to tell you about today: the next-gen 35mm f/1.2 DG II – a follow-up to the world’s first 35mm mirrorless camera lens with an f/1.2 aperture in 2019 – and the 135mm f/1.4 DG, the world’s first 135mm autofocus lens to achieve a maximum aperture of f/1.4.
Sigma Art lenses are truly in a class of their own. As the name suggests, they’re designed to deliver a level of exceptional optical excellence that’s ideal for photographers who focus on creative artistic work. Both of these new models stand out for their own unique reasons and both deserve a closer look.
Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art
The first version of this coveted lens made waves when it debuted almost six years ago for obvious reasons: that massive f/1.2 maximum aperture.
That’s a hard act to follow, but Sigma has done it handily: the new lens retains its predecessor’s generous light-gathering capacity while delivering overall enhanced optical performance in a more portable package reduced in size by roughly 20% and in weight by 30%.
With this lens, Sigma has paid particular attention to correcting the various optical aberrations that come into play and affect image quality, especially when shooting wide open. This includes suppression of colour bleeding and double-line bokeh, as well as distracting flare and ghosting.
Designed and engineered for professional use, the lens features a dust- and splash-resistant structure, and the front element uses a water- and oil-repellent coating to keep it well protected in harsh outdoor environments.
For those shooting video, you’ll be relieved to know that the focus-group arrangement and aspherical shape have been optimized to minimize focus breathing as well.
View Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Pricing and Availability at Vistek
Features
- 35mm focal length
- f/16 minimum aperture
- 17 elements in 13 groups
- 11 rounded diaphragm blades
- E-mount and L-mount
Sigma 135mm f/1.4 DG Art
Although we’ve seen vintage manual-focus lenses with this kind of extended focal length and bright aperture before, this is the first 135mm we’re aware of to reach the f/1.4 threshold combined with AF capabilities – and that’s no mean feat. Kudos to Sigma.
Other standout features include its 13-blade diaphragm designed to maintain a pleasantly circular bokeh shape, with precision aspherical lens processing to further enhance overall blurred-background smoothness.
The 135mm f/1.4 also features a unique floating focus system that maneuvers the two focus lens groups independently in order to maintain consistently high resolution throughout the focus range.
So far, this is the longest focal length in Sigma’s series of large-aperture Art prime lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The result is an outstanding tool for professional applications ranging from portraits in particular to weddings and fashion photography.
View Sigma 135mm f/1.4 DG Art Pricing and Availability at Vistek
Features
- 135mm focal length
- f/16 minimum aperture
- 17 elements in 13 groups
- 13 rounded diaphragm blades
- E-mount and L-mount