Sigma has shaken up the world of full-frame lenses with the release of their brand new 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens. This innovative lens boasts several firsts, making it a highly attractive option for both professional and enthusiast photographers. Here’s a closer look at what makes this lens so special:
The lens has an internal zoom mechanism to eliminate lens creeping
The Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN holds the title of the world’s first full-frame zoom lens with a constant f/1.8 aperture. This impressive feat allows for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur (bokeh) throughout the entire zoom range. Imagine capturing stunning portraits with a dreamy background at any focal length, from wide-angle to slightly telephoto. The constant f/1.8 aperture also rivals the performance of many high-quality prime lenses, offering exceptional image quality without the need to switch lenses for different lighting conditions.
Despite its impressive capabilities, Sigma hasn’t compromised on portability. The lens utilizes an internal zoom mechanism, ensuring the overall length remains constant while zooming. This eliminates the “lens creep” experienced with some zoom lenses and makes it ideal for travel or street photography. Additionally, the focusing distance remains a fixed 30cm throughout the zoom range, simplifying focusing calculations for close-up shots.
The Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN incorporates a sophisticated 18-element, 15-group lens structure. This complex design incorporates 5 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements and 3 aspherical lenses to effectively minimize chromatic aberrations and other optical distortions. These elements work together to deliver sharp, clear images across the entire frame, even at wider apertures. Furthermore, Sigma’s nano-porous coating and super multi-layer coating technology further enhance image quality by reducing flare and ghosting, especially when shooting in backlit situations.
Sigma hasn’t skimped on professional-grade features either. The lens utilizes a high-speed HLA linear motor for fast and quiet autofocus, ensuring you never miss a fleeting moment. The bidirectional drive focus ring allows for precise manual focus adjustments, perfect for situations demanding meticulous control. The lens also boasts a variety of physical controls, including an aperture ring, an infinite aperture switch, an aperture lock switch, two customizable AFL buttons (for assigning specific functions), and a locking petal-shaped lens hood.
Built to withstand the rigors of professional use, the Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN features a dust-proof and splash-proof lens body. The front lens group also comes equipped with a water and oil-proof coating, making it suitable for shooting in challenging environments. Whether you’re braving the elements or navigating dusty locations, you can be confident your lens will perform flawlessly.
With its exceptional image quality, constant fast aperture, and versatile zoom range, the Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens offers a all-in-one package for a wide range of photographers. Portrait photographers will appreciate the beautiful bokeh and low-light capabilities, while landscape and street photographers will benefit from the versatile zoom range and exceptional sharpness.
(Via)
