Mark Ellington
Sigma 135mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art Lens
Introduction
The Sigma 135mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF is a premium prime lens designed for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. Manufactured by Sigma, a renowned name in the world of optics, this lens falls under the category of Art lenses, which are known for their exceptional image quality and creative capabilities. The Sigma 135mm f/1.8 lens is particularly suited for portrait photography, event coverage, and any scenario where sharpness and beautiful bokeh are desired.
Product Overview
Crafted with precision in Aizu, Japan, the Sigma 135mm f/1.8 features high-quality optics and a robust build. Its unique design elements include a dust and splash-proof mount, ensuring reliable performance in challenging environments. This lens combines cutting-edge technology with artistic design, making it an excellent choice for photographers who seek both performance and aesthetics in their gear.
Appearance and Design
The Sigma 135mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art Lens boasts a sleek and elegant black finish that exudes professionalism. The lens is constructed from high-quality materials, giving it a solid and durable feel. Its compact size, measuring approximately 4.5 x 4.5 inches, balances well with Canon EF camera bodies. One of its standout design features is the large, smooth focusing ring that allows for precise adjustments, making it easy to achieve the perfect composition.
Key Features and Specifications
- Part Number: 240954
- Model: 240954
- Warranty: Manufacturer warranty included
- Color: Black
- Release Date: August 22, 2018
- Size: 4.5 x 4.5 x 4 inches
- Aperture: f/1.8 for superior low-light performance and depth of field control
- Focusing System: Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for fast and accurate focusing
- Weather Sealing: Dust and splash-proof construction
Experience Using the Product
Using the Sigma 135mm f/1.8 lens in various scenarios has been a rewarding experience. In portrait photography, the lens excels with its stunning compression effect and beautiful bokeh, allowing subjects to stand out against softly blurred backgrounds. The large f/1.8 aperture provides excellent low-light performance, making it ideal for event photography where lighting conditions can vary. The Hyper Sonic Motor ensures quick and silent autofocus, which is particularly beneficial during live events.
In addition to portraits, I experimented with landscape and street photography. While the 135mm focal length may not be the most conventional choice for landscapes, the lens’ sharpness and color rendition produced impressive results. Street photography also benefited from the lens’ ability to isolate subjects effectively without intrusive distortion.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with sharp details and vibrant colors
- Fast f/1.8 aperture for low-light versatility and creative control
- Robust weather-sealed construction for reliability
- Smooth bokeh that enhances portrait photography
- Fast and quiet autofocus due to Hyper Sonic Motor
Cons:
- 135mm focal length may not be suitable for all types of photography
- Price point may be higher compared to other lenses in its class
- Weight could be a consideration for long shooting sessions
Conclusion
Overall, the Sigma 135mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF is a remarkable addition to any photographer’s kit. Its combination of exquisite optical performance, robust build, and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice for those seeking to unleash their creativity. While it may not be the most versatile lens for every situation, its strengths in portrait and event photography are undeniable. For photographers willing to invest in high-quality glass, the Sigma 135mm f/1.8 is a worthy candidate that will elevate their craft.
