Sigma has unveiled two powerful lenses for Sony E-mount and L-mount cameras: the 24mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary and the 90mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary.
The lenses slot into Sigma’s “I” lineup, a series of glass featuring top-notch build quality, portable bodies (Sigma claims the I series is perfect for “everyday use”), and high-resolution imaging on par with even the most demanding mirrorless cameras.
And the Sigma 24mm f/2 continues this I series tradition, offering outstanding build quality in a portable package. The lens is entirely metal, from the barrel and mount to the focus and aperture rings (and yes, the 24mm f/2 does sport a manual aperture ring, for photographers who prefer a more tactile, analogue method of shooting).
Sigma notes that the 24mm f/2 works well for “night sky photography, events, and interiors,” as well as “day-to-day use.” It certainly should perform well in low-light situations like indoor events (e.g., weddings) thanks to the wide f/2 maximum aperture, though Sigma might be selling the lens short; in addition to the aforementioned uses, I’d also peg the 24mm f/2 as an excellent street photography lens – it’s compact, fast, and sharp, even if its 24mm focal length is wider than the 35mm/50mm street photography standards – a capable landscape lens, especially for photographers looking to lighten their load, and an ideal travel lens.
The 24mm f/2 aims for optical perfection. Sigma explains that “lens resolution is extremely high and is uniform from the center to the periphery of the image,” while the lens features “the highest level of optical performance even at its maximum aperture of f/2.”
And the price is a quite reasonable $639 USD, ideal for budget-conscious photographers in need of a second or third lens.
The 90mm f/2.8 features a similar design – all metal, to match existing I-series lenses, plus a manual aperture ring, a compact build, and a “sleek, stylish finish.” At 90mm, I hadn’t expected the lens to be quite as travel-ready as its 24mm counterpart, yet the 2.4 inch (59.7 millimeter) barrel is ultra-slim and even pocketable.
Who should buy the 90mm f/2.8? Sigma advertises the lens as ideal “for portraits, close-ups, weddings, and events,” and I’d probably add product and still life photography to that list, thanks to the short telephoto focal length, not to mention the “exceptional resolving power that can keep up with the latest ultra-high-resolution cameras.” Plus, the lens offers a 1:5 magnification ratio; it’s no true macro lens, but can certainly get you a close perspective for detail shots.
Like the 24mm f/2, the 90mm f/2.8 sells for a very reasonable $639 USD. And both lenses should begin shipping at the end of September, so if you’re a Sony or L-mount shooter looking for a well-built, compact prime, I highly recommend you take a look.
Now over to you:
What do you think of these new lenses from Sigma? Do either of them appeal to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
