The lens being reviewed is usually mounted on a camera and ready for quick use, and on this day, the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art was that lens. This lens's high utility focal length range, wide aperture, fast and accurate AF, and superb optical quality made it a perfect choice for around-the-house use. Then Elliott came for a visit.
Elliott enjoys playing on the stairs, and it is hard to go wrong with a white background (and foreground), including with any color wardrobe.
I seldom appreciate obstacles in front of the subject's face, even if they are strongly blurred. However, this image shows a scenario where that concept works.
A sharp eye matters for portraits, and the Sony Alpha 1's eye AF easily made that distinction despite the ballisters in the foreground. Elliott was moving fast, and this lens's fast AF was critical during this well-timed shutter release button mash.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Highlighting some just-arriving gear in the B&H Used Department:
Category | What Just Arrived |
---|---|
Canon EOS Cameras | R5, R5 C, R7 |
Canon RF Lenses | 24-105 F4, 100-500, Adapter |
Sony Alpha Cameras | a9 III, a7C R, a9 II, a7S III, a7 IV, ZV-E1, a6700 |
Sony FE Lenses | 16-35 F2.8 II, 70-200 F2.8 II, 200-600, 50 F1.2, 135 F1.8 |
Remember to use the B&H Payboo payment card to save the tax.
Learn more about the new Microsoft Surface Pro models at B&H.
Another milestone was reached, and I was given the green light for a graduation photo shoot. Getting ready took two hours longer than originally planned, but a couple of hours of sunlight still remained as we went out the door.
Just inside of shade is usually a great choice for portrait lighting, and we started with that option. The background is usually a large percentage of the composition, so selecting a good one is important, and large columns usually work great.
Columns this large are typically found at institutions, and they provide a sense of place that is valued in university graduation photos. More to that point, these columns were in front of the building where most of her classes were held, adding relevance to the composition.
While several other lenses were along and used, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens on an EOS R5 was my first choice for this shoot. This combination produces standout portraits at f/1.2, with impressive resolution and contrast, and the incredible 85mm f/1.2 background blur is especially advantageous.
The background blur reduces distracting lines of contrast behind the subject, especially for their head. In this case, the subject was aligned on the column to fully eliminate that issue.
I lost a few points for the edge of the graduation gown sleeve intersecting the line of the column's edge. A good photographer always has an excuse ready, so I'll blame feeling rushed for that one.
A larger version of this image is available here.
Check out today's B&H Deal Zone for big savings on:
See today's full list of B&H Deal Zone Deals.
Take a few minutes to browse this week's Deals of the Week at B&H.
Adobe Creative Cloud (100GB Cloud Storage, 12 Month Subscription, Download) is on sale at B&H for only $495.99 (Save $163.89).
Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan (1TB Cloud Storage, 12 Month Subscription, Download) is on sale for $139.99, a $99.89 savings.
Adobe Creative Cloud (Student and Teacher Edition) (100GB Cloud Storage, 12 Month Subscription, Download) is on sale for only $179.99 (Save $59.89).
Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results are now available on the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens page.
This is a compact, lightweight, sharp lens. Here are some comparisons.
Compared to the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II Lens
Compared to the Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens
Compared to the Sigma 16-28mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens
Compared to the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens
Compared to the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Lens
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
Highlighting some just-arriving gear in the B&H Used Department:
Category | What Just Arrived |
---|---|
Canon EOS Cameras | R5, R5 Kit, R6, R7 |
Canon RF Lenses | 15-35, 24-50, 24-105 F4-7.1, 28-70, 70-200 F2.8, 35, 85 F2 |
Sony Alpha Cameras | a1, a7R V, a7S III, a7R IVA, a7 IV Kit, a9, a7C II, a7 IV |
Sony FE Lenses | 100-400, 200-600, 50 F1.2 |
Really Right Stuff | TVC-24 Versa Series MK2 Tripod, L-Plate Set for Canon EOS R5 |
Remember to use the B&H Payboo payment card to save the tax.
Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results, along with specs, measurements, and standard and varied product images, are now available on the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens page.
As I just said in the press release, this lens's predecessor, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens, is less than 4 years old and, remarkably, the #1 best seller at B&H — out of 1,782 mirrorless lenses.
Here are some image quality comparisons.
Compared to the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens
Compared to the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens
Compared to the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens
Compared to the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens
Compared to the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
Many more image quality comparisons are available — create your own using the site's tools.
From a measurements and specifications perspective, here is the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II compared to the 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens. Here is the visual comparison (the version II lens is to the left):
Here is the rotated and extended with hoods version:
Support this site by ordering the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Adorama | WEX
Please share!
This lens's predecessor, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens, is less than 4 years old and, remarkably, the #1 best seller mirrorless lens at B&H — out of 1,782 lenses.
Order the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens at B&H.
From Sigma Corporation of America:
SIGMA Announces 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art Lens, an Upgraded Follow-Up to its Popular Standard Zoom for Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras
Ronkonkoma, NY – May 16, 2024 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens. This is the second generation of the highly successful SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. The new lens has undergone a significant evolution, including enhanced optical performance, AF speed and operability, while also achieving a more compact size than the original.
The advancement of optical design has shortened the total optical length, and the lens barrel has been made slimmer by thoroughly downsizing the zoom mechanism. In addition, the lens barrel has been downsized by placing buttons and switches directly on the lens barrel. The weight has been reduced by approximately 10% compared to the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. By driving the lightweight focus group with the high-thrust HLA, autofocus is significantly swifter than the original version.
6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 double-sided aspheric lenses are used. Aberrations are highly corrected through advanced optical design made possible by advanced basic technologies in both design and manufacturing, including the use of new glass materials and aspherical lenses with thin walls and high degrees of asphericity. In particular, sagittal coma flare is heavily corrected to achieve MTF characteristics surpassing those of the highly-acclaimed 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art. The high level of flare resistance also results in point images, such as stars, at the periphery of the image being closer to ideal points.
A close-focusing distance of 6.7 inches (17cm) at the wide end at 1:2.7 magnification* adds to the versatility of this lens, and the addition of a click/de-click and lockable aperture ring, along with an additional AF-L button for vertical orientation still or video capture,
are additional enhancements of this second-generation lens.
The zoom lock switch, which disengages when zooming, is inherited from the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art.
Manual focus can be switched between Linear and Non-linear response (L-Mount only).
A splash- and dust-resistant structure, plus water and oil-repellent coating on the front element, add to durability.
* close-focusing distance of 13.4 inches (34cm) with 1:4 magnification at 70mm
The new SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art lens builds on the success and popularity of the original 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, and offers an impressive upgrade with added features and performance in a more compact package that is perfect for working pros in both still and video applications. Offered in Sony E-mount and L-Mount, the lens will be available through authorized retailers in late May 2024 and will sell for $1,199.
Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras
A | Art
SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II
A classic, evolved.
Supplied accessories: CASE, LENS HOOD LH878-05, FRONT CAP LCF-82 III, REAR CAP LCR II
Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount
Launch date: May 30, 2024
* The appearance and specifications of the products are subject to change.
* Sony E-mount lenses are developed, manufactured and sold in accordance with the E-mount specifications licensed under a license agreement with Sony Corporation.
* L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
#SIGMA #SIGMA2470mmF28IIArt #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtZoom #SIGMADGDN
The Art 24-70mm F2.8, evolved on all levels:
Rendering performance, functionality, and portability.
The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is SIGMA's flagship lens that has evolved significantly from the previous model by incorporating the most advanced technologies available to SIGMA from design to production. Compared to the previous SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has improved resolving power throughout the entire zoom range, and also benefits from functional enhancements such as the addition of an aperture ring and high-speed AF with a redesigned AF motor, HLA (High-response Linear Actuator). The lens is also approximately 7% smaller and 10% lighter. This 24-70mm F2.8 Art zoom is a versatile and high-performance tool that will help photographers and filmmakers unlock their creative potential.
[Key Features]
1. Rendering performance worthy of the flagship name
The SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is the successor to the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art, which is known for its high optical performance, and has further improved resolution throughout the zoom range. The lens has high sharpness throughout the entire image from its maximum aperture, even on high-resolution cameras. Focusing on enhancing its rendering performance, the brightness of F2.8 produces a large, beautiful bokeh effect, and allows users to experience the power of a flagship lens in all types of visual expression. In addition to its advanced close-up capability and resistance to flare and ghosting, the lens is designed to minimize focus breathing.
High optical performance across the entire image and zoom range
The optical design of the lens includes 6 FLD glass elements, 2 SLD glass elements, and 5 aspherical lens elements to thoroughly suppress various aberrations throughout the entire zoom range. In particular, sagittal coma flare has been well controlled to achieve consistently high resolution all the way to the periphery of the image. By also effectively correcting lateral chromatic aberration, high resolution, beautifully rendered images can be achieved, free from color fringing can be achieved.
Incorporating 5 aspherical lenses
The use of 5 high-precision aspherical lenses enables both high optical performance with minimal aberration correction and a compact optical design. The SIGMA's only manufacturing base, the Aizu factory’s ultra-high-precision aspherical molding technology makes it possible to produce the thin, highly polarized aspherical lenses that are essential for the construction of this lens. This has brought about a higher degree of freedom in optical design.
Excellent close-up capability
The lens has excellent close-up capability with a minimum focusing distance of 17cm / 6.7in. at the wide end and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.7. This is useful when composing close-up shots of a subject, or when shooting in tight spaces where it is difficult to get a good distance from the subject.
* Be extremely careful that the front lens element does not hit the subject when photographing. Remove the lens hood when photographing at the minimum focusing distance at the wide-angle end.
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, have been largely eliminated using advanced simulation technology, ensuring the lens renders rich, high-contrast results in all conditions. In addition, Nano Porous Coating and Super Multi-layer Coating have been applied to help suppress flare and ghosting to the utmost degree. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions.
Minimal focus breathing
The lens has been designed to suppress focus breathing. The change in angle-of-view due to focus shift across the entire zoom range is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus pulls when recording video.
2. Improved portability and expanded feature set
The body of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art is approximately 7% smaller in size and 10% lighter in weight than the previous model, while improving usability by adding an aperture ring and two AFL buttons. Despite the reduction in size and added features, the lens maintains SIGMA’s renowned excellent build quality, with the uncompromisingly precise and robust construction expected of a professional photographic tool.
Highly portable lens body
While the number of lens elements used in its construction is the same as that of the previous model, the overall length has been shortened owing to an advanced optical design. In addition, the more efficient mechanical design has resulted in a highly portable lens body with a maximum diameter of 87.8mm / 3.5in., length of 120.2mm / 4.7in., and weight of 745g / 26.3oz.*
* These figures are for L-Mount.
Excellent build quality
Simultaneously focusing on reducing the size and weight of the lens body, the use of metal parts for the zoom extension unit and other parts, as well as the robust internal structure ensure rigidity during use, such as when operating the ring, pressing buttons, and carrying the lens. The design emphasizes the lens’ longevity and reliability as a tool, which cannot be achieved by solely pursuing a compact and lightweight body.
Equipped with an aperture ring
The lens is equipped with an aperture ring as well as an aperture ring click switch and an aperture ring lock switch, allowing for aperture operation suitable for various shooing situations.
Equipped with two AFL buttons
The lens is equipped with two AFL buttons*, to which a range of functions can be assigned via the menu on selected cameras, one more than the previous model. In addition to the side, the additional button has been positioned on the top to facilitate button operation when the camera is held in vertical orientation.
* Functions can be assigned on supported cameras only. Available functions may vary depending on the camera used.
3. A wealth of functions including high-speed autofocus
In addition to high-speed AF with HLA (High-response Linear Actuator), the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art has a full range of features including weather resistance such as a dust and splash resistant structure* and water and oil repellent coating, as well as a zoom lock switch. The lens delivers the best possible results in every shooting situation.
* The structure is designed to be dust and splash resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.
Incorporating a linear motor HLA
The lens incorporates a linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) for the AF actuator. The high output HLA makes the maximum drive speed more than three times faster than the previous model*, ensuring responsive AF shooting.
* Compared by the maximum drive speed of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | Art with that of the SIGMA 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art (It is different from the actual time for AF to focus).
Dust and splash resistant structure and water and oil repellent coating
In addition to a dust and splash resistant structure, the front element of the lens features a water and oil repellent coating, allowing users to shoot without concerns even in harsh outdoor environments.
Equipped with a zoom lock switch at the wide end
The lens is equipped with a zoom lock switch that locks the lens at the wide end and prevents the barrel from extending unintentionally under its own weight. The lock can be released not only by the switch but also via zoom operation, allowing for flexible handling of even impromptu shooting.
Includes petal-type hood with lock
A dedicated petal-shaped hood is supplied. A locking mechanism is provided for secure attachment.
[ Additional Features ]
[ Key Specifications ]
The following specifications are for L-Mount.
Lens Construction: 19 elements in 15 groups
(6 FLD, 2 SLD, 5 aspherical elements)
Angle of view: 84.1 - 34.3°
Number of diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm)
Minimum aperture: F22
Minimum focusing distance: 6.7 (W) - 13.4 (T) in. / 17 (W) -34 (T) cm
Maximum magnification ratio: 1:2.7 (W) - 1:4 (T)
Filter size: 82mm
Dimensions (Max. Diam. x Length): 3.5 x 4.7 in. / 87.8 x 120.2mm
Weight: 26.3 oz. / 745g
[ Accessories: Supplied ]
LENS HOOD LH878-05: 0085126 941406
FRONT CAP LCF-82 III: 0085126 930028
REAR CAP LCR II for L-Mount: 0085126 937256
REAR CAP LCR II for Sony E-mount: 0085126 929879
[ Accessories: Optional ]
SIGMA USB DOCK UD for L-Mount: 0085126 878696
SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 931834
SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 930974
SIGMA PROTECTOR 82mm: 0085126 93 00
SIGMA WR UV FILTER 82mm: 0085126 930714
SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 82mm: 0085126 930844
Orders
Order the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II Art Lens at B&H.
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The new Apple iPads are in stock:
Apple 11" iPad Pro M4 Chip Standard Glass 256GB, Wi-Fi Only, Space Black
Apple 13" iPad Pro M4 Chip Standard Glass, 256GB, Wi-Fi Only, Space Black
The Ansel Adams Landscape Stamps announced last month are now available for purchase at USPS.com.
From Canon USA:
CANON DEVELOPS EOS R1 AS FIRST FLAGSHIP MODEL FOR EOS R SYSTEM
New Image Processing System Further Improves AF and Image Quality
MELVILLE, N.Y., May 15, 2024 - Canon U.S.A., Inc. today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc. announced today that it is currently developing the EOS R1, a full-frame mirrorless camera, as the first flagship model for the EOS R SYSTEM equipped with an RF mount and is aiming for a 2024 release.
The EOS R1 is a mirrorless camera geared toward professionals that brings together Canon’s cutting-edge technology and combines top-class performance with the strong durability and high reliability sought in a flagship model. This camera will dramatically improve1 the performance of both still images and video and meet the high requirements of professionals on the frontlines of a wide range of fields including sports, news reporting, and video production.
This camera employs the newly developed image processor DIGIC Accelerator in addition to the pre-existing processor DIGIC X. The new image processing system, composed of these processors and a new CMOS sensor, enables large volumes of data to be processed at high speeds and delivers never-before-seen advancements in Auto Focus (AF) and other functions.
By combining the new image processing system and deep learning technology to an advanced degree, Canon has achieved high-speed and high-accuracy subject recognition. For example, subject tracking accuracy has been improved so that in team sporting events where multiple subjects intersect, the target subject can continually be tracked even if another player passes directly in front of them. In addition, the AF “Action Priority” function recognizes subject movement by rapidly analyzing the subject’s status. In moments during a sports game when it is difficult to predict what will happen next, this function automatically determines the player performing a certain action, such as shooting a ball, as the main subject and instantly shifts the AF frame, thereby helping to capture decisive moments of gameplay.
The combination of the new image processing system and deep learning technology will help to improve image quality. Canon implements the image noise reduction function, which has been previously developed and improved as part of the software for PCs, as a camera function to further improve image quality and contribute to user creativity.
Canon is working on field tests for this camera and will support capturing definitive and impactful moments at international sporting events to be held in the future.
Going forward, Canon will continue to expand the EOS R SYSTEM lineup of fascinating cameras and RF lenses, thereby continuing to meet the demands of a wide range of users and contribute to the development of photography and video culture.
1 In comparison to EOS R3 (released in November 2021)
Image quality test results are now available on the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens page.
Covering a common set of general-purpose focal lengths, this lens has many comparisons available. I'll get you started.
Compared to the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens
Compared to the Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens
Compared to the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 Lens
Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens (or anything else) from B&H | Sony | Adorama | Amazon (all available countries) | WEX | Camera Canada
Rent the Sony FE 24-50mm F2.8 G Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!