Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art Review

( For Sony E-Mount Lens )

The Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens is a high-performance telephoto lens that was created for professional photographers who are looking for great picture quality and versatile shooting options. This lens has the ability to produce amazing photographs with a shallow depth of field because to its wide aperture of F1.8.

This provides the opportunity for gorgeous bokeh in the background as well as good subject isolation. It doesn’t matter if you’re shooting portraits, sports, or events; the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens will provide you with exceptional results thanks to its cutting-edge features and excellent optics.

Key Specs

  • Focal Length: 135mm
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
  • Lens Mount: Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E
  • Format Compatibility: Full Frame
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 2.87 ft / 87.5 cm
  • Optical Design: 13 Elements in 10 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9 Rounded
  • Auto Focus: Yes
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Filter Size: 82mm
  • Dimensions (DxL): 3.6 x 4.5″ / 91.4 x 114.9 mm
  • Weight: 40.9 oz / 1159 g
  • Special Features: Super Multi-Layer Coating, HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor)
  • Construction: Metal Barrel, Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) Material
  • Weather Sealing: Yes
  • Compatibility with Teleconverters: Yes

Performance

It is safe to say that the overall performance of the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens is exceptional. Because it has such a quick maximum aperture of F1.8, photographers are able to shoot in low-light circumstances without compromising the quality of their images. The lens has a high-quality optical design that is equipped with two F Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements and two Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements.

These elements efficiently decrease chromatic aberrations and guarantee that the whole image is exceptionally crisp and clear. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to the lens, which helps to decrease flare and ghosting. This results in photos that have a high contrast level and accurate color reproduction.

Autofocus System

The autofocus technology of the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens is lightning-quick, pinpoint accurate, and completely dependable. It is equipped with a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), which enables photographers to easily take pictures of subjects that are moving quickly while maintaining a low level of background noise during the process.

Even while autofocus is active, users are able to make accurate changes using the autofocus system since it has full-time manual focus override. This adaptability guarantees that photographers have total control over their focus, which ultimately results in photographs that are clear and well-defined.

Vibration Reduction

There is no optical image stabilization or vibration reduction technology built in to the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens. On the other hand, the lens has a quick aperture of F1.8, which makes it possible to use higher shutter rates, which can assist reduce the impacts of camera shake.

Additionally, the majority of contemporary camera bodies are equipped with in-body image stabilization (IBIS) systems, which may offer image stabilization with the use of any lens, including the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art. Consequently, even if the lens does not have image stabilization built into it, photographers may still produce steady photos by leveraging the technology that is built into their camera bodies.

Build Quality

The Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens has an outstandingly high standard of construction across its whole body. It is built with a sturdy and long-lasting construction that is intended to endure the rigorous use that is required in the workplace. The lens barrel is made up of a combination of metal and an engineered thermally stable composite (TSC), which gives it a higher overall strength and makes it less likely to expand or contract as a result of temperature changes.

Because it is composed of brass, the lens mount provides a connection that is both secure and accurate with the camera body. When shooting in severe weather circumstances, having a lens that is resistant to dust and splashes will provide an additional layer of protection. The Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens has an overall build quality that inspires trust and durability, making it appropriate for use in challenging photography settings.

Handling and Ergonomics

The handling and ergonomics of the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens have been thoughtfully considered during the design process. It boasts a focus ring that is both broad and smooth, allowing for accurate manual focus adjustment and making it easy for photographers to obtain critical focus. Additionally, the lens includes a programmable AFL button that, according on the user’s preferences, may be set to do a variety of different purposes.

Because both the lens’s weight and its balance are well distributed, it is possible to have a comfortable shooting experience even when using the lens for a lengthy period of time. The lens hood that comes included with the camera helps to eliminate glare that isn’t wanted and guards the front element against accidental bumps and scratches. In general, the ergonomic shape of the lens makes it easier to use and assures that taking photographs will be a smooth experience.

Image Stabilization

As was previously said, the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens does not come equipped with an optical image stabilization system that is built in. On the other hand, it is essential to bring to your attention the fact that the bodies of certain contemporary cameras are built with in-body image stabilization (IBIS) technology. When used in conjunction with these types of camera bodies, the lens is able to take use of the image stabilization features offered by the camera.

Even if the lens does not have its own specific image stabilization technology, photographers are nevertheless able to get clear and steady photos when shooting handheld. It is suggested to check the specs provided by the camera maker in order to verify whether or not the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens is compatible with the camera’s in-body image stabilization system and how well it works.

Shooting Experience

Any photographer will enjoy their time behind the camera while using the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens. The maximum aperture of this lens is a wide F1.8, which enables remarkable performance in low light as well as creative control over the depth of field. The lens has a focal length of 135 millimeters, which gives it a varied viewpoint and makes it an excellent choice for photographing portraits, sports, and events. The sophisticated optical design guarantees exceptional image quality with remarkable sharpness, contrast, and color accuracy.

The combination of the quick and accurate autofocus mechanism and the full-time manual focus override makes it possible to achieve pinpoint focusing in any given environment. When photographing in difficult situations, the lens’s sturdy build quality and weather-resistant design instill trust in the photographer. In general, the experience of shooting with the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens is quite pleasant, giving experienced photographers the tools they require to take excellent photographs.

Image Quality

Image quality is superb when captured with the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens. The optical design of the lens comprises two elements of F Low Dispersion (FLD) glass and two elements of Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass. These components efficiently correct chromatic aberrations and guarantee that the image is extremely crisp and clear. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to the lens, which helps to reduce flare and ghosting.

This results in photos that have a high contrast level and accurate color reproduction. Images are given a more three-dimensional appearance because to the large maximum aperture of F1.8, which enables stunning bokeh effects in the background and a narrow depth of field. As a whole, the image quality that is generated by the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens is breathtaking, which makes it an invaluable tool for photographers that work professionally.

Teleconverter Compatibility

The versatility and range of the Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens may be expanded with Sigma’s teleconverters, which are compatible with the lens. When used in conjunction with a teleconverter, such as the Sigma Teleconverter TC-1401 or TC-2001, it is possible to extend the focal length of the lens while preserving the high picture quality of the original shot. Because the teleconverters give an additional 1.4x or 2x magnification factor, the 135mm lens is essentially transformed into an 189mm or 270mm lens, depending on which factor you choose.

This adaptability enables photographers to capture distant things with higher detail, which makes the lens appropriate for shooting of animals and sports. It is essential to be aware that the use of a teleconverter may have a marginal influence on the maximum aperture and focusing performance of the lens; hence, it is recommended to test and calibrate the lens with the teleconverter before engaging in crucial photographing activities.

Comparison with Competitors

The Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens stands out from its rivals in the market because to its remarkable picture quality, quick maximum aperture, and high-quality construction. This is especially true when compared to the other lenses in its class. Sharpness, clarity, and contrast that are up to the standards required by professional photographers are delivered by its optical performance, which is on par with that of some of the greatest lenses now on the market.

The Sigma lens has an advantage in low-light circumstances due to its wide aperture of F1.8, which enables faster shutter speeds and greater versatility in tough lighting conditions. Even under difficult shooting conditions, the lens will retain its longevity and dependability because to the excellent build quality. Although several manufacturers provide lenses with focal lengths that are comparable to Sigma’s 135mm F1.8 DG HSM Art lens, the latter stands out from the pack because to its appealing mix of optical superiority, a fast aperture, and excellent build quality.

Specifications

Focal Length135mm
Maximum Aperturef/1.8
Minimum Aperturef/16
Lens MountCanon EF, Nikon F, Sony E
Format CompatibilityFull Frame
Angle of View18.2