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August 09, 2008
[REVIEW—SIGMA 10-20mm EX DC HSM Lens]
Price: $800
Outstanding
The low-down: This wide angle zoom lens, with a film equivalent focal length range of 15 to 30mm, is one of Sigma’s superior line of zooms. The HSM refers to the hypersonic focus motor, which is indeed very fast and very quiet. The lens construction is superb and typical of Sigma’s better lenses. The crinkle finish on exterior surfaces feels pleasant and the mechanics are absolutely outstanding. Both the zoom and focus ring are smooth and well damped. The maximum aperture of f4 is not fast, but it is par for this type of lens. At 20mm it drops to f5.6. It is threaded for a 77mm filter.
Like: The lens is remarkably free of objectionable distortions. In fact at 10mm distortion is only extreme and noticeable in the corners, if you look hard. Resolution and general sharpness are excellent. And the auto focus is a delight. Third party lenses are usually a little noisy in the auto focus mechanism, but not this one.
Dislike: There is little to criticise about the lens. Vignetting is apparent, but that is also par for the type. And it is easy enough to remove in Photoshop.
Verdict: Extreme wide angle lenses are a lot of fun because they provide a new perspective on the world. Even for portraits, where the rule of thumb is telephoto-is-better, the wide angle can integrate the subjects with their environment in a way that creates a pictorial biography in a flash. And for architectural photography, such as the inside of a cathedral, a very wide angle is indispensable. The Sigma excels in such situations. What’s more the price of this lens makes it a winner. The Canon equivalent costs $1400. The serious competitor for the Sigma in this configuration is the excellent Tokina 12-24mm zoom. The Sigma’s HSM focussing gives it a slight edge. It pained us to send it back.
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Posted by terry at August 9, 2008 02:38 AM
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