Last week, Sigma announced the 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art. It’s the company’s latest ‘DN’ (Digital Native) lens. This lens is made to work with mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.
Which mirrorless interchangeable cameras are we talking about? Well, just like the previous DN-series lens, the 85mm F1.4 is available in two mounts. Those mounts are (Sigma, Leica and Panasonic), and Sony E-mount. Additionally, similar to 2016’s 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, the 85mm F1.4 DG DN Art has a very similar focal length and maximum aperture. Let’s take a look at the optical design.
Optical design
The lens is built from 15 elements in 11 groups, with five SLD (super low-dispersion) elements and one aspherical element. Sigma says that the lens’ new optical design should allow it to capture excellent sharpness at all apertures. Also, the flare and ghosting should be under control.
Autofocus
According to Sigma, the 85mm F1.4 is optimized for use with both contrast detection (Leica, Sigma and Panasonic) and phase detection autofocus systems. It uses a stepping motor with a small focusing group.
Design
Overall, the new 85mm F1.4 Art should be lighter and smaller than the previous model. The lens measures out to be 94mm/3.7″, which is an inch shorter than the previous model. As for its weight, it weighs a pound less coming in at 635g/1.4lb. However, despite its smaller size and weight, it doesn’t appear Sigma had to compromise its overall construction and functionality.
Moving on, its aperture ring features a physical aperture ring that will click as you adjust. The lens does have an option to turn off the clicking however if you’re shooting video. Also, you can choose to adjust the aperture through the camera and can lock at the ring in the ‘A’ position using a dedicated switch.
Pricing and availability
The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG DN will be later in the month for $1199 in L and E-mounts.
Image courtesy: Sigma
