SIGMA News (Page 8)

From Sigma USA:

Sigma Adds the 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art, and 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport Lenses to Its Global Vision Line

Outstanding optical performance, ultra-wide zoom range, and versatile flagship sports lens headline the Sigma line-up at Photokina 2016

Cologne, Germany – September 19, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading camera, DSLR lens, flash and accessories manufacturer, unveiled its new 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art and 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport Global Vision lenses at the Photokina 2016 event (hall 4.2, stands B020, B028 and C029).

“We are thrilled to announce three state-of-the-art additions to the Global Vision line. The Sigma 85mm 1.4 Art has been a highly requested lens and we are very confident those customers who have been waiting for us to deliver this lens will be more than pleased with the superior optical performance and zero compromise,” states Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “In addition, the re-engineered 12-24mm F4 and highly competitive 500mm F4 Sport lens both embody the world-class performance our Global Vision lenses are known for. We look forward to seeing the incredible images our customers will create using these new Sigma lenses.”

Delivering the ultimate in creative expression, the new Sigma 85mm F1.4 Art lens is engineered to support the highest resolution sensors on the market with an exceptional degree of sharpness. The high-performance optical system is purpose-built by Sigma R&D to produce the attractive bokeh effect sought after by discerning photographers. The lens’ advanced architecture features two SLD (special low dispersion) glass elements and one glass element with a high rate of anomalous partial dispersion and refraction. A re-engineered AF system brings 1.3X the torque of its predecessor, while other features such as a full-time manual focus override have been added, which can be controlled when the focus ring is rotated, even during continuous AF.

The Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. The Nikon mounts feature a brand new electromagnetic diaphragm.

The Sigma 85mm F1.4 Art lens will be available in late October and retails for a recommended street price of $1199.00 USD.

Sigma 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom for the Era of Ultra-High Resolution Digital Cameras

Boasting the renowned Global Vision image quality from center to edge, the new Sigma 12-24mm F4 features the largest aspherical glass mold in the industry, offering photographers an ultra-wide angle zoom with virtually no distortion, flare or ghosting. Encompassing the long history of Sigma wide angle lens development expertise, the new 12-24mm F4 performance highlights include constant F4 brightness and the brand new Sigma AF system with 1.3X torque boost. The 12-24mm F4 features lens elements made with FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass, which is equivalent to calcium fluorite in performance. Combined with an optimized power distribution, the result is outstanding image quality from center to edges. With a minimum focus distance of 9.4 inches at 24mm, photographers can compose incredible close-up shots with expansive backgrounds.

The all new Sigma 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art lens supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. The Nikon mounts feature the brand new electromagnetic diaphragm.

The Sigma 12-24mm F4 Art lens will be available in late October and retails for a recommended street price of $1599.00 USD.

Sigma 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Sport Lens - Pro Fast-Aperture Prime Super Telephoto

The flagship Sigma super telephoto 500mm F4 Sport lens incorporates the very latest in Sigma optical technology and innovation. Designed for the professional sports and wildlife shooter, the ultra-durable lens features magnesium alloy components, a carbon fiber hood, a water and oil resistant front element, and is dust and splash proof. The 500mm F4 features a drop-in rear filter slot for polarizers, UV and other critical filters. To help prevent damage during shooting and maintenance, the lens is also compatible with the exclusive SIGMA Protector LPT-11 (sold separately).

The lens incorporates two FLD and one SLD glass elements, while the optimized power distribution helps minimize spherical aberration and axial chromatic aberration. The optical system also effectively minimizes transverse chromatic aberration, which can affect the edges of the shots taken in the telephoto range. In addition, image quality remains exceptional when the lens is used with a Sigma Telephoto Converter (sold separately).

Other key performance features include Sigma's two-mode Optical Stabilizer for enhanced performance when shooting handheld for still subjects or panning and tracking for moving subjects. There is also a customizable AF "return" function for setting the focus position of one's choice and returning to that preset distance. The all new Sigma 500mm F4 supports Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. The Nikon mounts feature the brand new electromagnetic diaphragm. The Sigma 500mm F4 Sport lens, in Canon and Sigma mounts, will be available in late October. The Nikon mount will be available in late November. The 500mm F4 will retail for a recommended street price of $5999.00 USD.

All Sigma Global Vision lenses, including the new 85mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, 12-24mm F4 DG HSM Art, and 500mm F4 DG OS HSM Global Vision lenses, can be updated with the latest lens firmware from a workstation or laptop using the Sigma Optimization Pro software and Sigma USB Dock (sold separately).

Preorders:

• Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art Lens – B&H | Adorama
• Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens – B&H | Adorama
• Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports Lens – B&H | Adorama

From Sigma:

SIGMA 12-24mm F4 DG HSM | Art

The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the SIGMA 12-24mm F4 DG HSM | Art, an ultra-wide-angle zoom for DSLRs with full-frame sensors. This new lens offers an optimal package of center-to-edge image quality, minimized distortion, and a minimal focusing distance.

To achieve these qualities without compromise, the SIGMA 12-24mm F4 DG HSM | Art incorporates the latest lens design, advanced materials such as low-dispersion glass and cutting-edge large-diameter molded glass aspherical lens processing methods.

Release date and price: TBD
Accessories: Case
Corresponding AF mounts: SIGMA, Canon and Nikon

The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the ultimate lens for portraits, the SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art which offers outstanding resolution with minimized chromatic aberrations.

Outstanding resolution and the attractive bokeh effect that large-diameter lenses offer. Fulfilling the exacting standards of the Art line, the SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art delivers both of these elements at the highest level. The bokeh effect is so precise, you can focus on the pupil of the subject’s eye while blurring the eyelashes. Adding to the effect, the area in focus is extremely high-resolution while the bokeh area is very attractive in appearance. The SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art incorporates 14 lens elements in 12 groups, a remarkable structure that helps the lens deliver ultra-high-resolution. This lens is therefore an excellent match for full-frame DSLRs offering 50-megapixel or higher resolution.

Release date and price: TBD
Accessories: Case, Hood (LH927-02)
Corresponding AF mounts: SIGMA, Canon and Nikon

The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the flagship lens of the Sports line, SIGMA 500mm F4 DG OS HSM | Sports which has both outstanding functionality for challenging shoots and top-level optical performance.

The SIGMA 500mm F4 DG OS HSM | Sports incorporates SIGMA’s latest technologies and delivers a full range of advanced features and functions: enhanced dust- and splash-proof construction, Optical Stabilizer (OS) system, SIGMA Tele Converter compatibility, AF function switch, SIGMA’s latest-generation Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), and more. Combining top-level optical performance with functionality for challenging shoots, the flagship lens of the Sports line, SIGMA 500mm F4 DG OS HSM | Sports sets a new standard for high-performance telephoto lenses.

Release date and price: TBD
Accessories: Case, Hood (LH1388-01),WR Protector,Lens is equipped with fixed tripod socket.
Corresponding AF mounts: SIGMA, Canon and Nikon

B&H has the following available for preorder:

Preorders:

• Sigma 12-24mm f/4 DG HSM Art Lens – B&H | Adorama
• Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens – B&H | Adorama
• Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM Sports Lens – B&H | Adorama

Amsterdam, The Netherlands — September 7, 2016 – The SIGMA CORPORATION is pleased to announce that it will enter into the cinema lens market with the release of its SIGMA CINE LENSES, designed specifically for cinematography. In the world of digital film production, there is an increasing demand for higher resolution, and SIGMA’s new lineup of high-performance lenses is compatible with the latest, high-resolution digital cinema cameras. SIGMA has developed its own production system by establishing the required technology for mass production of high-performance lenses for ultra-mega-pixel shooting.

• Unbeatable value – the highest optical performance in its class and outstanding compact design
• Wide range of lenses for professional use
• Optimized for the latest digital moviemaking technology

For the first phase, SIGMA will release two zoom lenses in Japan and the USA for EF and E mount camera systems. Furthermore, another zoom lens and five prime lenses will be released to the market in sequence from 2017 onward. SIGMA plans to develop additional zoom and prime lenses as well as add support for PL mount camera systems. The latest release information will be sequentially updated on its official website.

High Speed Zoom Line
High Speed Zoom Line offers the constant aperture of T2 throughout the zoom range, and the optical performance is ready for high-resolution shooting such as 6K - 8K. Furthermore, while offering the highest image quality in its class, the High Speed Zoom Line has a compact construction and offers amazing value.

FF Zoom Line
FF Zoom Line is compatible with a full-frame image circle, and the optical performance is ready for high-resolution shooting such as 6K - 8K. It provides a rare option for cinematographers since very few lenses can cater to the requirements of the latest digital cinema cameras' image sensor, which is larger than Super 35, and expand the range of compatible cameras. This is the cinema zoom lens offering the highest image quality and compact design. This lens is not available in PL mount.

FF High Speed Prime Line
The lineup ranges from 20mm to 85mm, and all five lenses are T1.5. They are compatible with full-frame sensors and, while being more compact, can offer superior resolution than other high-end prime sets do. With the five prime lenses from FF High Speed Prime Line, there is no need to change the lighting to shoot a variety of cuts. These lenses bring a consistent level of light to the production and offer greater consistency with regards to the film’s look and color/contrast before it enters post-production.

Each CINE lens model is weatherproof and has luminous paint markings to aid in changing and operating the lens in the dark. It touts a long focus rotation of 180 degrees and is guided by cams for smooth operation and accuracy. The CINE lens design features standardized essentials such as an 82mm front for ND filters* and a 95mm front diameter for matte box use and standard gear positions for accessories like follow focus. They also include a manual linear iris control and electronic mounts that provide vital camera metadata. Each lens is manufactured and inspected in the SIGMA factory located in Aizu, Japan.

Availability & Pricing
Availability: toward the end of 2016 (in Japan and USA in the first phase)
Pricing: TBD
Mounts: Initially Canon-EF and Sony-E to be followed later by PL

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to inform you of the lens firmware updates which incorporate a new algorithm to improve AF performance even further. Although we announced on April 14th, 2016 that release of the firmware updates is planned around June to August, the development has been delayed and the actual release will start from October onward.

For customers waiting for the availability of the lens firmware updates, we apologize for the inconvenience. We appreciate your understanding and will continue the development with our utmost efforts.

Release of the firmware updates will be announced as they become available.

Products that we are developing its firmware

Sigma has firmware updates available for the following lenses:

• Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
• Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary
• Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary
• SIGMA 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports

All three firmware updates resolve an underexposure issue when the lens is used with a Nikon D500. The 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports firmware update is only required if using a TC-1401 or TC-2001 teleconverter with the lens.

Sigma Global Vision lenses (like the ones above) can be updated using Sigma USB Dock. Before updating, be sure to download and install the latest version of Sigma Optimization Pro.

If you do not own a USB Dock, you can send your lens to a Sigma Service Center and have its firmware updated free of charge. However, considering the cost of shipping a lens insured and the universal nature of the dock, simply buying the USB Dock seems to be the most practical way to update your lens' firmware.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce the update in the lens firmware of the SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art Canon and SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art Canon on the SIGMA Optimization Pro.

The latest firmware update makes it fully functional with the Canon Digital Cinema Camera EOS C300 Mark II.

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

[Applicable products]
SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art– Canon mount
SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art– Canon mount

[Benefit of this firmware update]

• It becomes fully functional with the Canon Digital Cinema Camera EOS C300 Mark II.
• For SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art Canon, this lens firmware update also corrects the phenomenon that the images show some underexposure when "Evaluative Metering" or "Center-weighted Average Metering" is selected on Canon EOS-1D X Mark II.

Please be sure to update SIGMA Optimization Pro to the latest version before upgrading the lens's firmware.

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

We appreciate your consistent support for our company and products.

B&H carries the Sigma USB Dock.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce the availability of new firmware and support for the applicable lenses regarding the phenomenon that exposure of the image may not be accurate, which was announced on May 27th, 2016. This happens when some SIGMA interchangeable lenses for CANON are used on Canon EOS-1DX Mark II.

If you own the following applicable products, please refer to the information below and update the lens firmware accordingly.

[Benefit of this firmware update]
The lens firmware update corrects the phenomenon of some underexposure when the lenses listed below are used and either “Evaluative Metering” or “Center-weighted Average Metering” is selected in Metering Mode of the camera.

[Applicable products]
SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art – Canon mount
SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art – Canon mount
SIGMA 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM – Canon mount

For customers who own the applicable products listed above, the lens firmware update will be provided free of charge. Please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary/distributors of SIGMA.

For customers who own the SIGMA USB DOCK, and either the SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art Canon or the SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art Canon, please update the lens firmware using SIGMA Optimization Pro.

We appreciate your continued support for our company and products.

B&H carries the Sigma USB Dock.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We have found that some SIGMA interchangeable lenses for CANON are not fully compatible with CANON EOS-1DX Mark II, which was released on April 28th. When certain lenses are attached to this camera, exposure of the image may not be accurate.

We are sorry for the inconvenience, and we will make a further announcement on our website when specific details are finalized. In addition, please also refer to the below usage notice related to this announcement.

[Phenomenon]
When the lenses listed below are used and either “Evaluative Metering” or “Center-weighted Average Metering” is selected in Metering Mode of the camera, the image could show some underexposure.

[Products concerned]

• SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
• SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art
• SIGMA 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

We are currently working on the firmware update for respective lenses, and the release dates will be announced later.

Usage Notice for customers who are using EOS mount SIGMA lenses on a CANON EOS-1DX Mark II

• MO (Manual Override) function is unavailable with this camera (Full-time Manual function can be offered).
• When using a SIGMA interchangeable lens for EOS, setting the corrections to [Disable] is recommended, as “Lens Correction” functions of the camera, such as Peripheral illumination correction, Chromatic aberration correction, Diffraction correction and Distortion correction, are not supported. If those functions are activated, the performance of lenses may not be accurate. This is not only for EOS-1DX Mark II, but also other camera bodies.

We appreciate your continued support for our company and products.

Note from TDP: Any firmware fix will either require the Sigma USB Dock or a trip to Sigma's Service Center to implement. If you don't already have the dock, I highly suggest picking one up. [Sean]

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

Today, we are pleased to announce the availability of “SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.3 for Windows” and “SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.3 for Macintosh”, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK and SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11.

This download service is for SIGMA USB DOCK users and/or SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 users who are using our interchangeable lenses from our Art, Contemporary and Sports product lines.Please be sure to download SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.3 to use the SIGMA USB DOCK and SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 effectively.

Benefit of SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.3:

SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.3 for Windows

• It has enabled compatibility with SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11.
• It has enabled compatibility with Windows 10.
• It has corrected the phenomenon where click-and-drag operation for the Focus Limiter adjustment slider is not possible when the check box to switch the primary mouse button from the left to the right is ticked in Mouse Preferences within the Windows Control Panel.

SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.3 for Macintosh

• It has enabled compatibility with SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11.
• It has enabled compatibility with OS X El Capitan 10.11, and Condition of Operation has changed to Mac OS X 10.8, 10.9, 10.10 and 10.11.
• When adjusting the timing of the MF switch function, it has corrected the icon which shows the amount of the focus ring rotation.

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download page
http://www.sigma-global.com/download/en/

Please ensure the SIGMA USB DOCK has the latest firmware installed.

B&H has the Sigma USB Dock in stock and the Mount Converter MC-11 available for preorder.

From Sigma:

The Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art Lens, and 20mm F1.4 DG HSM Art Lens were chosen as this year’s best DSLR telephoto zoom lens, best DSLR wide angle zoom lens, and best professional DSLR lens, respectively

RONKONKOMA, NY – April 19, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessory manufacturer, today announced it has received three awards from the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA). Sigma was awarded with the honors of Best DSLR Telephoto Zoom Lens for the Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, Best DSLR Wide Angle Zoom Lens for the Sigma 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art Lens, and Best Professional DSLR Lens for the Sigma 20mm F1.4 DG HSM Art Lens.

The annual TIPA Awards honor the best photo and imaging products introduced during 2015 through 2016. Renowned in professional photo markets across the world, TIPA awards are among the highest accolades photo and imaging products can receive. The TIPA organization has a worldwide membership of 27 photo and imaging magazines from 16 countries across five continents.

“We are once again honored to have the Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, the 24-35mm F2 DG HSM Art Lens and the 20mm F1.4 DG HSM Art Lens selected by TIPA for their outstanding quality and impact on the industry. The thorough judging criteria take into account not only the innovation, but also the use of leading-edge technology, design and ergonomics, ease of use as well as the price/performance ratio. We are incredibly proud to have Sigma lenses meet these high standards,” comments Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “We pride ourselves on designing and manufacturing the very best lenses using today’s most cutting-edge optical technology. I want to thank the Sigma design and manufacturing team for their commitment to engineering excellence and look forward to seeing the inspiring images Sigma fans will create using our lenses.”

B&H carries the Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art, 24-35mm f/2 DG HSM Art and 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lenses.

From Sigma:

Thank you for your patronage to SIGMA products.

We would like to announce the availability of a new firmware update for the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports in Canon and Nikon mount, as well as the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary in Canon and Nikon mount. This firmware update can be installed using SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware update improves the AF algorithm of SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM lenses and further enhances AF speed by optimizing HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) drive control. It is expected to increase autofocus speed by approximately 20%, to a maximum of 50%, during normal shooting as well as when using “Speed Priority” set through SIGMA Optimization Pro.

For customers who own the SIGMA USB DOCK and applicable products listed below, please update the firmware using SIGMA Optimization Pro.

For customers who do not own a SIGMA USB DOCK, please contact your nearest authorized SIGMA representative for details about updating the firmware free of charge.

Applicable products

• SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports – Canon and Nikon mount
• SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary – Canon and Nikon mount

Benefit of this firmware update

Improved the AF algorithm to further enhance AF speed

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download page

B&H carries the Sigma 150-600mm lenses and USB Dock.

From Sigma USA:

KANAGAWA, JAPAN – February 23, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the addition of a high-performance APS-C format lens for DSLR cameras to the Sigma Global Vision product line: Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens.

Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM Art
Building on the groundbreaking Sigma Global Vision 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art Lens, the new Sigma 50-100 F1.8 (75-150mm on 35mm format) mid-range zoom lens embodies the same engineering prowess to deliver outstanding prime lens-like results. Factoring in the APS-C image circle of 1.5x, the 50-100mm F1.8 covers three popular short tele prime focal lengths: 85mm, 105mm and 135mm. Like the 18-35mm F1.8, the new 50-100mm F1.8 maintains a constant F1.8 aperture yielding exceptional brightness and resolution throughout the zoom, while simultaneously maintaining focus as the lens is zoomed, a feature videographers will greatly appreciate.

Sigma Art Line Image Technology Innovation

• Features three FLD (F Low Dispersion) glass elements, one SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element, and one high-refractive index, high-dispersion glass element to minimize aberrations.
• Redesigned and enhanced, the new Hyper Sonic Motor is 30% slimmer and provides fast and accurate AF.
• Highly durable polycarbonate diaphragm made with fluorine; blades feature carbon feather film offering exceptionally smooth operation even during continuous shooting.

Outstanding Zoom Lens Maneuverability

• Inner focusing and zoom design offer versatile shooting options
• Tripod socket for stable, comfortable operation
• Features 21 elements / 15 groups, Minimum Aperture: F16, 82mm filter thread, Minimum Focus Distance: 37.4in, Dimensions: 3.7x6.7, Weight: 52.6oz

The new Sigma 50-100mm F1.8 Art will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts.

B&H has the Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens available for preorder.

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.