Smart_Photography_-_January_2016_

Mahesh Reddy

Aperture: f/5.6

Shutter Speed: 0.3sec

ISO: 640;

VERDICT

The Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM

is a very sharp lens – ideal for

landscapes, environmental portraits,

architectural photography, shooting

in any cramped spaces and for use in

low light conditions, including astral-

photography. It is on the heavier side but

its ability to shoot in low light should

make up for the weight. Best Buy!

PLUS

• Very sharp


• Almost
  imperceptible
  distortion


• Very good
  build quality

MINUS

• Filters cannot be used


• Quite heavy


• No IS (but would
  you need it for a super
  wide-angle lens?)

FINAL SCORE

Design and Build Quality 17/20

Key Features 16/20

Ergonomics 18/20

Performance

Autofocus 4/5

Sharpness 4/5

Distortion control 5/5

Aberrations 4.5/5

Darkening

of corners 4/5

Extra features 3.5/5

Sub-Total 24.5/30

Value for Money 7.5/10

83 %

Lens Construction: 15 elements in 11 groups

Aperture range: F/1.4 – 16

Min. focussing distance: 27.6cm/10.9”

Diaphragm blades: 9, rounded

Max. magni�ication: 1:7.1

Dimensions: 90.7 (Dia) x 129.8mm

Weight: 950g

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

At f/1.4, darkening at the corners was

evident. Corner darkening reduced

appreciably by f/4. Flare could be

seen in shots that included the sun.

Chromatic aberration was very well

controlled – only a trace could be seen

when we tried hard to look for it.

Overall, a very good performer!

Value for Money

The Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is

available at an MRP of Rs.73,000/-. This

may sound expensive but don’t forget

that it is a f/1.4 lens. In our opinion, the

price is justi�ied. |SP

http://www.smartphotography.in 107

Smart PhotographyJanuary 2016