By technical editor Matt Allard:
Sigma has unveiled the 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art, the world’s first large-aperture full-frame wide-angle zoom lens offering F2 brightness throughout the zoom range. The new lens is the first of its kind and should be viewed more as a multi purpose prime lens than a zoom. The lens covers 24mm, 28mm and 35mm focal lengths and should excel on cameras like the Canon 5D mkIII or Sony a7S. On a APS-C sized sensor you will get a range of 38-56mm – although unless you are using a Speedbooster you would probably be better off with the excellent Sigma 18-35mm f1.8 ART lens instead with this sensor size.
Designed so photographers can carry one lens to do the work of three fixed focal length lenses. According to Sigma, with a F2 brightness and top optical performance the lens delivers flexible functionality and high convenience. At the 24mm and 35mm focal lengths, this lens offers the performance that is equivalent to that of two prime lenses in the Art line. Instead of changing one high-performance fixed focal length lens for another, simply zoom. This is a new zoom lens for 35mm full frame sensor SLRs that offers the quality of a fixed focal length lens at various angles of view.
With a limited range of 24-35mm the lens looks to be perfect for gimbal and stedicam operators who commonly use prime lenses within that focal range. Having the ability to adjust the focal length between 24-35mm and not have to worry about re balancing your rig should make this lens a very popular option. The inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens’ stability and allowing use of Variable ND or Circular Polarizing filters.
This from Sigma:
The lens incorporates large-diameter aspherical lens elements, which require advanced technologies to manufacture, one FLD (“F” Low Dispersion)* glass and seven SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements, of which two are aspherical lenses. The advanced optics and optimized lens power distribution minimize spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature, resulting in outstanding optical performance. Even at widest aperture, this lens delivers breathtaking image quality.
With a minimum focusing distance of 28cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.4, this lens is excellent for close-up photography.
From an early stage in the lens design process, flare and ghosting have been measured to establish an optical design resistant to strong incident light sources such as backlighting. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions. The included lens hood can be attached to block out extraneous light, which can have a negative effect on rendering performance.
The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function. By optimizing the AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved. Also, this lens offers full-time MF by rotating the focus ring of the lens while auto focusing. Without changing the AF/MF Focus Mode Switch, it allows faster focus adjustment.
* The default setting of Full-time MF function varies for each mount.
As an experienced lens manufacturer that has been creating a diverse range of interchangeable lenses, we have started the innovative “Mount Conversion Service”. With this chargeable service, the mount of your current SIGMA lenses can be changed to another mount of your choice. It gives new life to your favorite lenses when you wish to use them on a different camera body.
* This “Mount Conversion Service” is different from a normal repair. In order to apply for the service, please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary / SIGMA distributor.
Specifications:
[Specification]
Lens Construction: 18 elements in 13 groups
Minimum aperture: F16
Filter size: ø82mm
Angle of view (35mm): 84.1°-63.4°
Minimum focusing distance: 28cm/11.0in.
Dimensions (Diameter x Length): ø87.6mm x 122.7mm/3.4in. x 4.8in.
Number of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm)
Maximum magnification ratio: 1:4.4
Weight: 940g/33.2oz.
The lens will be available in Nikon, Canon and Sigma mounts. There is no indication of price but the lens should be available to purchase in July.
