As camera manufacturers transition over to mirrorless systems, lens manufacturers have been making a similar change. Sigma, a company that doesn't shy away from producing large, heavy lenses, has just announced a brand new 85mm lens for mirrorless cameras. Based on the specifications, this could be the best portrait lens produced so far.
The previous 85mm f/1.4 Art lens that Sigma produced was huge and somewhat unwieldy. This was especially the case when adapting it to a mirrorless camera like the ones from Sony. Sigma has produced "native" E-mount lenses for Sony and L-mount lenses too. The issue was that these lenses were in essence, DSLR lenses that had been adapted for their respective mounts.
This time however, things are different, as Sigma has now produced a completely native, mirrorless specific lens. The latest 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art lens is now much smaller and significantly lighter in comparison to the previous model. At only 630g, Sigma is making full use of the shorter flange distance and are being more efficient.
Key Specifications
- Focal length: 85mm
- Maximum aperture: f/1.4
- Minimum aperture: f/16
- Lens mount: Sony E-Mount & L-Mount
- Format compatibility: Full-Frame
- Angle of view: 28.6°
- Minimum focus distance: 85cm
- Maximum magnification: 1:8
- Optical Design: 15 Elements in 11 Groups with 5 SLDs and 1 aspherical lens
- 11-blade rounded diaphragm
- Focus type: Autofocus
- De-clickable aperture ring
- Filter Size: 77 mm (Front)
- Weight: 630g
The specifications show that this is a completely new lens and not just a revamp of the older Art lens. The addition of three more SLDs and even more elements is impressive, especially considering the smaller, lightweight design. The front filter thread is also much smaller compared to the 86mm filter thread found on the current Art model. In my discussions with Sigma, I was told that a larger front element can help reduce vignetting, so, it will be interesting to see how this latest lens handles that.
Example Images
From the few images provided you can see that the lens produces some brilliantly sharp results even when shot wide open. It's difficult to say if this lens is going to be sharper than the current 85mm Art lens, although if it's anything close to it, then it should make for a more compelling option.
Even when attached to the smallest full frame camera currently on the market the Sigma fp, the latest 85mm lens looks relatively comfortable. In the past Sigma had almost a need to make the largest, heaviest lenses. It's great to see that Sigma are now producing lenses that sit well with smaller mirrorless cameras.
The lens is due to start shipping late August 2020, with an MSRP of $1,199.00.
Love the presentation! Always good to have an option aside from Sony and Samyang for the 85mm f/1.4. Upgrading to this from the Sony 85mm f/1.8 might actually be justifiable.
Red is Sony 85/1.8
But... How???
Dark science... secrets only the Sith knew!
D 78 x L 82 mm x 371 g
D 83 x L 94 mm x 630 g
That's a seriously dense lens
Wow that’s impressive.
They slightly sacrificed performance on vignetting and distortion which can be easily corrected on camera or software. Therefore, managed to produce smaller lens.
I always thought that would be a better solution as opposed to having a huge lens so I’m glad that’s what they’ve done.
what a BEAST !!
No matter how good the optics, I never considered the original Sigma 85 1.4. Just way to heavy for me. I'm glad they are addressing the biggest sticking point most people have with their lenses.