Which of These 50mm Lenses Is Better?

Sigma long ago established themselves as one of the premier manufacturers of lenses that offer top-level image quality that professional photographers demand at prices that often significantly undercut those of first-party manufacturers. Two of their options, the 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art and 50mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary, often similar capabilities but with different experiences and at different prices. Which is right for you? This insightful video comparison will help you pick. 

Coming to you from Benj Haisch, this great video review compares the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art and 50mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary lenses. Of course, the two most obvious differences between these lenses are the one-stop difference in maximum aperture and the price, with the f/1.4 version costing $849 and the f/2 version costing $639. However, another difference worth considering is the weight. At 23.6 oz (670 g), the f/1.4 Art is the sort of lens you will be well aware of around your neck and that could lead to discomfort after extended periods of use. On the other hand, the f/1.2 Contemporary is almost 50% lighter, weighing just 12.3 oz (350 g), making it far more portable and easier to work with. If you do not need that extra stop of aperture, it may be worth saving your wallet and back and going with the Contemporary line. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Haisch. 

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Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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