Sigma News (Page 8)

Both Tamron and Sigma seem to be set to announce new lenses very soon.

Tamron is teasing at least two lenses on its website with an ETA a week from today. Sigma Austria is teasing on its Facebook page that another "world's first" will be added to their lens lineup on February 23.

It looks like next week will be an interesting one as far as lens announcements are concerned. We'll keep you posted.

From the Sigma YouTube Channel:

Utilizing an advanced material known as “Clear Glass Ceramic”, the SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR is a highly reliable filter with outstanding protective capabilities.

The shock resistance of the SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR has undergone a rigorous drop ball test based on the ISO 12311:2013 standard using a 49g metal ball, 3 times the weight of a standard metal ball. The test proved the excellent shock resistance of SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR compared to conventional protectors.

B&H carries the Sigma WR Ceramic Protector filters.

The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the world's first* Clear Glass Ceramic protective lens filter.

Interchangeable lenses are the most important element of photographic expression, and to the photographer they are a valuable personal asset. To help photographers continue to use for many years the lens systems in which they have invested their time, knowledge, and budgets, SIGMA has developed original lens filters that meet the company’s high standards of excellence. In developing its new protective lens filter, SIGMA has leveraged an unprecedented cooperative relationship with a glass manufacturer, resulting in a completely new type of glass called Clear Glass Ceramic. Featuring this advanced material, the SIGMA WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR is a highly reliable filter with outstanding protective capability.

*Among filters for interchangeable lenses as of December 2015 (SIGMA research)

B&H carries Sigma Protector filters.

Sigma Global has published a full gallery of sample images for the Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens.

We have completed our standardized tests with the lens and are still in the process of fully evaluating this uniqely-spec'd imaging tool.

B&H carries the Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens.

RONKONKOMA, NY — October 16, 2015 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens and camera manufacturer, is setting new benchmarks for wide-angle image quality with the announcement of the newest Global Vision and market’s first full-frame 20mm F1.4 lens, the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens. The lens will be on display at PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo in New York City from October 22-24. The lens will become available late November for the street price of $899.

This revolutionary prime lens is designed to bring out the full potential of ultra-high-megapixel DSLR cameras. With a focal length of 20mm and F1.4 aperture, this lens delivers outstanding large-aperture brightness and bokeh. Through decades of experience in lens design and Sigma Global Vision lens craftsmanship, the 20mm incorporates both “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass, and five Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass in a design of 15 elements in 11 groups. The combination of advanced optics and optimized lens power distribution minimizes spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature, producing outstanding image quality. The wide angle and outstanding image quality make this lens great for seascape, cityscape, and astrophotography, as well as for photos in low light, indoor photography, portraits, and event and wedding photography.

“While many saw the development of a 20mm lens for today’s super-resolution DSLRs as challenging, Sigma approached it head-on utilizing our advanced manufacturing technologies to create the world’s first 20mm F1.4 ultra-wide-angle lens,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “This new lens is a result of years of experience by the company’s optical engineers in developing state-of-the-art lens designs and proven production knowledge, and high-precision craftsmanship by our factory team in Aizu, Japan.”

From the start of the design process, Sigma took steps to minimize flare and ghosting, and established an optical design that is resistant to strong incidental light sources such as backlight with its Super Multi-Layer Coating. As with all Sigma Global Vision lenses, the 20mm F1.4 lens incorporates the latest Sigma technology, including an optimized autofocus (AF) algorithm for smooth, fast, and accurate focusing. In addition, Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) compound material is used, which has a high affinity to metal parts, consistently performs well at extreme temperatures, and reduces the size and weight of the lens.

This lens is compatible with Sigma’s USB Dock, (sold separately) which allows photographers to update the lens’ firmware, adjust focus points and customize full-time manual focus over-ride function settings using Sigma’s Optimization Pro software. A new metal lens cap (LC907-02) is also available as a separate accessory for $23.

The Sigma 20mm F1.4 Art lens will also feature:

• A Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) that ensures a silent, high-speed AF function. Smoother AF is achieved when the this AF algorithm is optimized
• A nine-blade, rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image
• A brass bayonet mount of highly precise and durable construction to enhance mount’s strength and long-term wear resistance
• Specifications: Weight of 33.5 ounces; a diameter and length of 3.6 inches by 5.1 inches; a minimum aperture of F16; and angle of view (35mm) of 94.5°; minimum focusing distance of 10.9 inches; and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:7.1

Sigma fans can feel confident knowing that every 20mm lens that leaves Japan’s factory has been tested using Sigma’s own modulation transfer function (MTF) measuring system, “A1.” Other prime lenses in the Art line include: 24mm F1.4 DG HSM, 30mm F1.4 DC HSM, 35mm F1.4 DG HSM, and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.

B&H has the Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce the update in the lens firmware of the 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports Nikon on the SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware update improves focusing performance when Continuous servo (AF-C) is in use.

For those customers who own the following products, please update the firmware of the lens via the SIGMA Optimization Pro.

Applicable products:

• 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports NIKON

Firmware version 1.02:

• It has improved the focusing performance of Continuous servo (AF-C) mode.
• Note: Before upgrading the firmware of 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM S014, please first update your SIGMA Optimization Pro to Ver1.2.0.

The Sigm USB Dock and Sigma Optimization Pro Software are required to perform the firmware update.

B&H carries the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports Lens.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce the update in the lens firmware of the 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports CANON and 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary CANON on the SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware update enables the lens to improve the AF accuracy when attached to the TELE CONVERTER TC-1401.

For those customers who own the following products, please update the firmware of the lens via the SIGMA Optimization Pro.

Applicable products

• 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports CANON
• 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary CANON

Benefit of this firmware update
It has improved the AF accuracy when attached to the TELE CONVERTER TC-1401.

You can download the latest version of the software from the following page:
SIGMA Optimization Pro Download page

B&H carries the Sigma USB Dock.

From Sigma:

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that the best-in-class optical performance lens "SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art" and a masterpiece of hyper-telephoto zoom lens "SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports" have won EISA Awards 2015-2016.

EUROPEAN DSLR LENS 2015 - 2016

SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
The Sigma 24mm F1.4 is a superb lens, combining exceptional resolution with very low distortion and chromatic aberration. However it's not just the incredible sharpness of this large-aperture wide-angle lens that’s impressive, but the overall look of the images, including the smooth, attractive rendition of out-of-focus regions. The construction is excellent too, with an ergonomic design and smooth manual focus ring, and autofocus is fast and silent. Available for the most popular DSLR systems, the Sigma lens is exceptional value compared to its direct competitors, and most importantly produces consistently attractive pictures with the minimum of fuss.

EUROPEAN DSLR TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 2015 - 2016

SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports
Specially designed for wildlife and sport photographers, this state-of-the-art lens is a new standard for telephoto zooms. Build quality is exemplary, with dust- and splash-proof construction for use in the great outdoors, and the zoom can be locked at all marked focal lengths. Images are very sharp, aided by an improved optical image stabilizer (OS) that helps to avoid blurring from camera shake. Autofocus is fast and quiet, and compatibility with the Sigma USB dock gives scope for user customisation of settings, along with the possibility of firmware updates. For sports and wildlife photographers it's in a class of its own.

* EISA is the unique association of 50 special interest magazines from 20 European countries. All EISA member magazines meet to decide which of products analyzed in their publications during the past year deserve the coveted EISA Award. The six categories under consideration are: Photo, Video, Audio, Home Theater, and Mobile Electronics Equipment Devices.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation Announces Pricing and Availability of 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art Lens

Market’s first F2 full-frame zoom available in late July for $999

RONKONKOMA, NY — July 16, 2015 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens and camera manufacturer, today announced that the new Sigma 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art lens will become available in late July for the street price of $999.

The 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art lens is the market’s first full-frame zoom that allows photographers to carry one fast aperture lens that can do the work of three popular fixed focal length lenses – the 24mm, 28mm and 35mm. It includes an optimized autofocus (AF) algorithm for smooth, fast, and accurate focusing, a manual focus (MF) override functionality, and is made of Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) reducing its size and weight.

Built upon the impressive versatility offered by Sigma’s 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens, the new 24-35mm continues the Art line tradition of top optical performance that’s comparable to Sigma’s 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art and 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art. It offers optimized lens power distribution, and minimizes spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature. The Sigma 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art lens also features a video-friendly, inner focusing system that eliminates front-lens rotation, enhancing the lens' stability as well as a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) that ensures a silent, high-speed AF function.

“The combination of fast, constant aperture and zoom versatility will make this lens exceptionally popular for photographers who crave the convenience of wide angle zooms, paired with the performance of fast, wide primes,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The Art lenses have raised the bar for total imaging performance, and this lens is going to make a lot of photographers very happy.”

As with all new lenses under the Global Vision categories, every 24-35mm will be tested using Sigma’s own modulation transfer function (MTF) measuring system, “A1,” in the company’s factory in Japan. It is compatible with Sigma’s USB DOCK, which allows photographers to update the lens’ firmware, adjust focus points and customize full-time MF function settings by using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. Sigma’s exclusive Mount Conversion Service, which enables users to easily convert the lens’ camera mount between supported versions, is also available for a fee. The lens will be available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts.

The Sigma 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art lens will also feature:

• Large-diameter, aspherical lens elements, which require advanced technologies to produce, one “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass, and seven Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements with two aspherical lenses. The advanced optics and optimized lens power distribution minimizes spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature, resulting in outstanding optical performance
• A video-friendly, inner focusing system that eliminates front-lens rotation, enhancing the lens' stability and allowing use of circular polarizing filters
• A Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) that ensures a silent, high-speed AF function. Smoother AF is achieved when the this AF algorithm is optimized
• Full-time MF by rotating the focus ring of the lens while auto focusing
• A nine-blade, rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image
• Specifications: Lens construction containing 18 elements in 13 groups; a weight of 33.2 ounces; a diameter and length of 3.4 inches by 4.8 inches, respectively; a minimum aperture of F16; and angle of view (35mm) of 84.1° to 63.4°; minimum focusing distance of 11 inches; and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.4

Preorder the Sigma 24-35mm Art Lens

B&H is accepting Sigma 24-35mm Art Lens preorders.

From Sigma:

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that we are going to introduce the SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art, the world's first large-aperture full-frame wide-angle zoom lens offering F2 brightness throughout the zoom range.

While offering the premier optics of the Art line, this lens covers 24mm, 28mm and 35mm focal lengths. Incredible performance overturns the conventional perception of a zoom lens.

SIGMA was determined to create a zoom lens that offers the same brightness and resolution as a fixed focal length lens: in other words, the highest level of optical performance. The result of this challenge was the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art, the world’s first zoom to offer a fast F1.8 aperture value throughout the zoom range. Building on this concept, SIGMA has developed the new SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art for 35mm full frame sensor. It allows photographers to carry one lens to do the work of three fixed focal length lenses, a 24mm, 28mm and 35mm — with F2 brightness and top optical performance. One package delivers flexible functionality and high convenience. In particular, at the 24mm and 35mm focal lengths, this lens offers the performance that is equivalent to that of two prime lenses in the Art line. Instead of changing one high-performance fixed focal length lens for another, simply zoom. This is a new zoom lens for 35mm full frame sensor SLRs that offers the quality of a fixed focal length lens at various angles of view.

Key features

1. The world’s first large-aperture full-frame zoom lens offering a wide open aperture of F2 throughout the zoom range
A large-diameter zoom lens covering the full frame image sensor. Optical performance equivalent to a fixed focal length lens throughout the entire zoom range. These are the concepts the SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM embodies. It covers three of the most commonly used prime lenses, 24mm, 28mm and 35mm all in one lens. In order to achieve an attractive bokeh effect at wide aperture, we have developed the world's first zoom lens for the 35mm full frame sensor with an F2 aperture value throughout the zoom range.

2. Outstanding optical performance of the fixed focal length lenses in SIGMA’s Art line
The SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM builds on the concept of the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art, the world’s first zoom lens to offer F1.8 brightness throughout the zoom range. Thanks to the outstanding optical performance, the lens provides the quality of high performance fixed focal length lenses in the Art line

3. Covering the range of three fixed focal length wide-angle lenses
Delivering excellent functionality and convenience, one lens offers the equivalent quality of three high-performance fixed focal length lenses at F2 brightness: 24mm, 28mm and 35mm. With a minimum focusing distance of 28cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.4, this lens is suitable for close-up shooting, portraits with an attractive bokeh and deep-focus landscape photography. Photographers have access to the angle of view equivalent to that of three wide-angle lenses without having to switch them. While achieving the desired background effect can be difficult with a conventional wide-angle lens, the large diameter of this lens allows photographers to open the aperture wide and use the shallow focus to achieve stunning results.

4. Incorporating SIGMA’s latest technologies
To realize a large-diameter zoom lens for full frame cameras with F2 brightness, SIGMA designed each and every part with uncompromising care and quality. The lens incorporates large-diameter aspherical lens elements, which require advanced technologies to manufacture, one FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass and seven SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements, of which two are aspherical lenses. The advanced optics and optimized lens power distribution minimize spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature, resulting in outstanding optical performance. Even at widest aperture, this lens delivers breathtaking image quality.

5. Convenient handling
The inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens' stability and allowing use of Circular Polarizing filters. This specification is particularly convenient for shooting video.

Other features

Minimum focusing distance of 28cm
With a minimum focusing distance of 28cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.4, this lens is excellent for close-up photography.

Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
From an early stage in the lens design process, flare and ghosting have been measured to establish an optical design resistant to strong incident light sources such as backlighting. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions. The included lens hood can be attached to block out extraneous light, which can have a negative effect on rendering performance.

Hyper Sonic Motor ensures High AF Speed
The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function. By optimizing the AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved. Also, this lens offers full-time MF by rotating the focus ring of the lens while auto focusing. Without changing the AF/MF Focus Mode Switch, it allows faster focus adjustment.

Rounded Diaphragm
The 9 blade-rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image.

Brass bayonet mount
This lens incorporates a brass bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and durability. A special treatment to reinforce its strength is applied to the surface giving it greater strength and making it highly resistant to long-term use.

Applicable for the Mount Conversion Service
As an experienced lens manufacturer that has been creating a diverse range of interchangeable lenses, we have started the innovative "Mount Conversion Service". With this chargeable service, the mount of your current SIGMA lenses can be changed to another mount of your choice. It gives new life to your favorite lenses when you wish to use them on a different camera body.

Art line delivers high-level artistic expression
SIGMA is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines; Contemporary, Art, and Sports, where each line has a distinctive concept. Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, our Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. With the astonishing rendering performance that meets the highest standard, along with landscapes, portraits, still-lifes, close-ups, and general snaps, they are perfect for the kind of photography that unleashes the inner artist. Ideal for studio photography, they offer just as much expressive scope when capturing architecture and starry skies and many other scenes.

Customization and flexible adjustment for convenience or a specific purpose is possible. SIGMA USB DOCK that is designed exclusively for the new lens line-ups.
With the optional SIGMA USB DOCK, you can update your lens firmware, adjust focus points and customize Full-time MF function settings as well as the timing to operate the Full-time MF function. By attaching this lens to a SIGMA USB DOCK, which is connected to a computer, the dedicated software "SIGMA Optimization Pro" offers various types of customization and adjustment.

New product lines from SGV concepts that are setting new benchmarks for image quality.

Design Concept
With the new product lines, supplied hoods incorporate rubber for the connected part. Lens caps and AF/MF switches are also newly designed in order to improve usability. For the internal parts, various metals and a new material called TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which works well with metal, are located to achieve products with high accuracy. The lens barrel includes the year of release, engraved for users to recognize when the lens was released.

Evaluation with SIGMA's own MTF measuring system "A1"
We used to measure lens performance with an MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we've now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. All SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM lenses will all be checked using "A1" before they are shipped.

Made in Japan
All SIGMA's manufacturing – right down to molds and parts – with a few exceptions, are carried out under a single integrated production system, entirely in Japan. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely "made in Japan". We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of SIGMA products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world, because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.

Specifications
Lens Construction: 18 elements in 13 groups | Minimum aperture: F/16 | Filter size: 082mm | Angle of view (35mm): 84.1°-63.4° | Minimum focusing distance: 28cm/11.0in. | Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 087.6mm x 122.7mm/3.4in. x 4.8in. | Number of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm) | Maximum magnification ratio: 1:4.4 | Weight: 940g/33.2oz.

From Sigma:

SIGMA 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary F/SIGMA and F/NIKON are scheduled to start shipping towards the end of this month.

B&H carries the SIGMA 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

Regarding the Live View mode of Canon “EOS 8000D (Rebel T6s / 760D)” and “EOS Kiss X8i (Rebel T6i / 750D)” cameras that we announced on April 21st, 2015, we have now started providing a firmware update and can confirm that deliveries of these products now include the new firmware.

If you own one of the lenses listed below, please contact your nearest authorized SIGMA subsidiary or distributor to receive a firmware update free of charge.

[Update]
The new firmware will ensure the lens is compatible with the Live View mode of EOS 8000D (Rebel T6s / 760D) and EOS Kiss X8i (Rebel T6i / 750D) cameras.

Products and Serial Numbers that require the firmware update

For lenses that have been repaired in the past, they may require the firmware update even when the serial number is not listed above. If the mentioned camera does not display images on the rear LCD monitor when Live View Mode button on the camera body is pressed, the firmware update is necessary.

For those who own the SIGMA USB DOCK, it will be possible to update the firmware of 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports through SIGMA Optimization Pro.

* If you use the SIGMA USB DOCK with 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports, even when the lens does not require the update, its firmware will be updated to the new version.
* For those who use APO TELE CONVERTER 1.4x EX DG or APO TELE CONVERTER 2x EX DG with the 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports, please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary / distributor of SIGMA for further support.

How to identify updated products

Products that we will be shipping from now on already have updated firmware. This can be recognized by the white sticker on lower left side of the gift box as shown below.

RONKONKOMA – April 9, 2015 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, is pleased to announce that the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) has select two Sigma products for the TIPA Awards 2015. The 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM Contemporary lens has been lauded Best Entry Level DSLR Lens, and the recently released 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens won Best Expert DSLR Prime Lens.

With more than 25 years of experience in the industry, the TIPA organization has a worldwide membership of 27 photo and imaging magazines from 16 countries across five continents. When TIPA member magazines began the TIPA Awards, their goal was to develop an award that would showcase the best photography, imaging products and services introduced to the market during the past year. According to TIPA, only products that the General Assembly think deserve recognition are considered in the voting process.

“On behalf of Sigma Corporation, we are honored to have two Sigma lenses receive TIPA awards this year, and be recognized by such a far-reaching organization,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “We’re especially proud to be acknowledged as a company that continues to produce leading-edge technology in the photo industry. The addition of the 24mm F1.4 and 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 lenses to our Global Vision lineup demonstrates how Sigma is continuing to redefine expectations and improve the experience for our loyal users.”

As the ninth addition to Sigma’s iconic Global Vision Art line-up, the 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens is designed for full-frame DSLRs, and when used on digital cameras with an APS-C size sensor, it effectively becomes a 38mm. The 24mm excels at indoor photography in low light, thanks to the combination of exceptional focal plane sharpness, and gorgeous bokeh rendered by nine rounded-aperture blades. The lens features both "F" Low Dispersion (FLD) glass and Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass in a design of 15 elements in 11 groups to minimize chromatic aberration of magnification, especially at the edge of the image field. It also has the ability to achieve a maximum magnification of 1:5.3 with a minimum focusing distance of 9.8 inches.

The 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM Contemporary lens is designed exclusively for APS-C camera sensors and features a 16.6x high-ratio zoom lens that equates to a 27-450mm zoom range. It incorporates four “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite, in addition to one Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass element. This enables the lens to minimize the chromatic aberration, especially toward the telephoto-end, and provide clear image quality with high color fidelity. Also, this lens comes with a newly developed optical stabilization (OS) system, ensuring better compensation.

Both lenses are compatible with Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service and Sigma’s USB dock, allowing photographers to update the lens firmware and change focus parameters.

B&H carries the Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art and 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM Contemporary lenses.

From Sigma:

Nine loyal fans will receive choice of lens, be featured on Sigma website

RONKONKOMA, NY — March 4, 2015 – Are you a loyal Sigma camera and/or lens owner? Sigma Corporation of America is giving away nine lenses to its super fans from now until December with the launch of its #SigmaSuperFan contest.

The #SigmaSuperFan contest is open to all Sigma camera and/or lens owners, and entrants will be asked to share “what motivated you to buy a Sigma product and why are you a super fan?” for a chance to be a monthly winner of their choice of three lenses. Winners may choose from the Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary, 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary or the 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM, and will be notified on or about the first day of each month by a Sigma representative.

“As part of the contest, we’d like to hear from all of our loyal Sigma fans about their first encounter with Sigma, and how the relationship evolved into being a super fan,” said Christine Moossmann, Director of Marketing for Sigma Corporation of America. “Our family-owned business owes much of its success to the devotion of these photographers, and we’re using this contest as a way to engage with our community and thank them for their loyalty.”

Sigma is encouraging all U.S.-based photographers who own two or more Sigma products to enter the contest. Entries will be accepted from March 3 to November 16, 2015 on the Sigma website, and participants will be asked to fill out and submit a brief entry form. Each participant can only submit one entry, which will remain a submission throughout the duration of the nine-month contest.

Sigma encourages all fans and photographers who enter into the contest to share why they are a Sigma super fan, and photos of what they have shot using their favorite Sigma product on their social channels (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) using the hashtag #SigmaSuperFan.

For a full list of terms and conditions for the Sigma Super Fan contest, please visit here.

B&H carries Sigma lenses.

From Sigma:

SIGMA 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM | Art F/CANON and SIGMA fittings are scheduled to start the shipment towards the middle of March.

SIGMA 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary F/CANON fittings are scheduled to start the shipment towards the middle to end of March.

B&H lists an expected availability date of March 20 for the Sigma 24mm f/1.4 Art Lens and 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens for Canon.

From Sigma:

We are pleased to announce the development of TRIPOD SOCKET TS-81 that is the optional lens foot which can be attached to the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports.

It is compatible with the Arca Swiss quick release plate and the clamp. The deliberately designed length of its rail provides the flexibility to adjust the center of gravity making it balance perfectly, even while zooming or using accessories, such as a tele converter and battery pack. Consideration has been given to the portability and transportation of the lens when Tripod Socket TS-81 is attached. The lens hood can still be reversed and the lens stored in its original padded case, even with the Tripod Socket TS-81 attached. Incorporated into the Tripod Socket are safety stopper screws to prevent the lens from falling. There are 2 sizes of screw holes, 1/4 and 3/8, making it compatible with tripods other than Arca Swiss, too. When it is compared to the supplied tripod socket, it offers more space between the lens and device, and the change of grip has improved the usage as a handle for carrying.

Launch Date & Price: TBD

Note: The TS-81 Tripod Foot is not yet available for preorder. We will advise when it becomes available.

From Sigma UK:

2015-02-10 09:00:00

New Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art lens

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art lens. SIGMA has a proven reputation for wide-angle lens design and manufacturing. Drawing on this experience and design know-how, refined through development of the SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art and SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art, we have successfully minimized sagittal coma flare, chromatic aberration, distortion and vignetting to achieve exceptional levels of optical performance with almost no aberration or distortion. The Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art lens is the latest “F1.4” to join the Sigma Art line series which is built with the highest optical performance in its class and perfect for a variety of subjects from cityscapes to a star-filled night sky. It is a new horizon for a large F1.4 maximum aperture wide-angle lens with rendering performance that is at a whole new level.

Price TBD

Available in SIGMA, Canon and Nikon AF mounts. Sony mount to be announced.

Estimated availability for Sigma and Canon mounts in March 2015, Nikon mount in April 2015.

I'm sure that "Price TBD" is at least part of the reason B&H and other retailers are not currently accepting preorders. Watch the site's news page closely to be the first to know when the preorder line opens. With a March initial delivery date, the wait shouldn't be long.

Sigma has just announced a lens that closely resembles another highly successful model in their lineup, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens. If these two lenses share similar image quality, the 24 Art is a certain hit.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation of America Introduces New 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art Lens at CP+ Imaging Show

Latest Global Vision Art lens offers highest-quality optical performance in its class

YOKOHAMA, Japan — February 10, 2015 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced the new Sigma 24mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens, the ninth Global Vision lens to join the company’s iconic Art line-up. The announcement comes at the start of the CP+ Camera and Photo Imaging Show 2015, which begins on Feb. 12 in Yokohama, Japan.

The much anticipated 24mm F1.4 Art wide angle lens is designed for full-frame DSLRs, and when used on digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor, it effectively becomes a 38mm. The lens is ideal for capturing a variety of photography subjects, including cityscapes, mountain ranges, astrophotography and weddings and is great for videography work as well. The 24mm also excels at indoor photography in low illumination thanks to the combination of exceptional focal plane sharpness, and gorgeous bokeh rendered by nine rounded aperture blades. The lens achieves a maximum magnification of 1:5.3 with a minimum focusing distance of 9.8 inches. The 24mm incorporates both "F" Low Dispersion (FLD) glass and Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass in a design of 15 elements in 11 groups to minimize chromatic aberration of magnification especially in the edge of the image field. Moreover, the optimized power layout includes aspherical elements that are positioned in the rear of the lens for improved wide open performance. This helps to ensure minimal distortion through the correction of axial chromatic aberration and sagittal coma flare. The new lens element design also delivers excellent peripheral brightness.

“The Sigma Art lenses are recognized by photographers for world-class performance, and the new 24mm F1.4 DG HSM will be a significant contribution to our selection of fast aperture prime lenses which is quickly becoming a strong force in the industry” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Sigma is redefining the expectations of fast-aperture full-frame prime lens performance, especially wide-open, and the results the 24mm F1.4 will deliver will be up to the exacting standards set by the 35mm F1.4 DG HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM .”

Other updates to this lens include a new full-time manual focusing mechanism that switches to manual focusing, simply by rotating the focus ring, even when AF is being used, first introduced on the 50mm Art. This allows the photographer to make focus adjustments quickly and easily. As with all new lenses under the Global Vision categories, every 24mm will be tested using Sigma’s own MTF measuring system, “A1,” in the company’s factory in Japan.

Other lenses in the Art line include 35mm F1.4 DG HSM, 30mm F1.4 DC HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM, 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 50mm F1.4 DG HSM, 19mm F2.8 DN, 30mm F2.8 DN and 60mm F2.8 DN.

The 24mm F1.4 is compatible with Sigma’s USB dock, allowing photographers to update the lens’ firmware and change focus parameters as well as manual focus over-ride using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service. The lens will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts, and timing, pricing and availability will be announced at a later date.

Ordering the Sigma 24 Art Lens

Hopefully the fulfillment process for this lens is more expediant than we are currently experiencing with the 150-600 Sports and 24-105 Art lenses. While many lenses are introduced to relatively low demand, my expectation is that this is not one of them.

B&H has the Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts on their site, but preorders are not currently being accepted.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that the lens firmware update for the 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports SIGMA, CANON and NIKON is available through SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware enables the lens to offer improved Optical Stabilization in OS mode 2, which is optimized for panning photography. By taking advantage of the new OS algorithm in OS mode 2, it provides effective compensation, not only in horizontal direction, but also vertical and diagonal directions.

For those customers who own the following product, please update the firmware of the lens via SIGMA Optimization Pro.

[Product]

• Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports for SIGMA, CANON and NIKON

Should the version of SIGMA Optimization Pro not be updated to Ver. 1.2 yet, please be sure to update it before operating any lens firmware update.

You can download the latest version of the software from the following page;
http://www.sigma-global.com/download/en/

B&H carries the Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports lens.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation would like to announce the availability of two types of new tele converters. Please note that the SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports requires an update to the firmware to make it compatible with the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 and SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-2001.

For those who own the SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports and considering using it with either the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 or SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-2001, please follow the steps below to update the firmware of the lens.

Please be advised that the updated version of firmware will make it compatible with the new tele converters, however it will also make it incompatible with conventional APO TELE CONVERTER 1.4x EX DG and APO TELE CONVERTER 2x EX DG.For further information, please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary / distributor of SIGMA.

For customers who own the SIGMA USB DOCK
Please start up the SIGMA Optimization Pro software and update the firmware of the SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports.

There will be the optimized firmware compatible with the new tele converters (Sigma: Ver. 1.01, Nikon: Ver. 1.02, Canon: Ver. 1.03), currently scheduled for release on October 24th.

For customers who do not own SIGMA USB DOCK
We are going to start the service for update on October 27th.

Please contact our Service department with any further detail or question.

Compatibility table for SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 and TC-2001

B&H carries the Sigma TC-1401 and TC-2001 Teleconverters and the USB Dock.