Canon SLR Reviews

Sigma 50mm f 2 8 EX DG Macro Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Sigma launched its first standard 50mm macro lens in 1990, and followed it up with an improved model in 1998. The advent of digital SLR cameras, however, required updated optical technology and a better imaging performance. Enter the latest incarnation of the 50mm macro lens, with an improved design that corrects for various aberrations. Designed exclusively for Canon SLR cameras, this macro lens is specially coated to get the best possible color balance while cutting down on ghosting caused by reflections from the digital image sensor. The lens also includes a floating focusing system, which allows you to precisely photograph objects throughout the entire focusing range. Most importantly, this standard macro lens makes it possible to enjoy better communication with your subject. When viewing through the camera’s finder, you’ll be able to move the subject and make precise adjustments. For example, the lens offers a close working distance of 7.4 inches, making it extremely convenient to take close-up pictures of a fossil or other inanimate objects.

Other details include a minimum aperture of f/45 that provides a greater depth of field than most lenses, a screw-in lens hood that makes it easy to attach circular polarizing filters, and a 46.8-degree angle of view. All Sigma lenses carry a one-year warranty.

Specifications

• Focal length: 50mm
• Maximum aperture: f/2.8
• Lens construction: 10 elements in 9 groups
• Angle of view: 46.8 degrees
• Number of diaphragm blades: 7
• Minimum aperture: f/45
• Minimum focusing distance: 7.4 inches
• Maximum magnification: 1:1
• Filter size: 55mm
• Corresponding mount: Canon
• Dimensions: 2.8 inches in diameter and 2.6 inches long
• Weight: 11.3 ounces
• Warranty: 1 year

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Superb lens for a superb camera
Not only am I completely satisfied with this lens, but the price was excellent and the shipping the same. I saw the “buy within the next 14 minutes and receive next day” tag and I would have paid just about anything to get it the next day. As it was I think the shipping fee was $21.95 for next day service, and since I know when the UPS guy comes by my street, I made sure I was home at that time. He showed up six minutes early that day.

My next goal is something like a 600 mm or 1200 mm macro lens.

4 Stars Surprise
As a Canon user I search for Prime Lenses, Canon or others. As I use both Camera bodies S and full frame, I find the field quite large. My research has found few really fine lenses; this Sigma 50mm is a keeper.

5 Stars Great Detail .. Affordable Price
Bought this lens to assist in Small Product Photography. Since depth of field is normally limited in Macro Photography, the ability of this lens to stop down to F45 was crucial. The result was fine detail and color reproduction to the point where I could see my finger prints on the bezels of the watches. Got to wear cotton gloves!

Don West Photography

4 Stars Great Image Quality, TERRIBLE Autofocus
I have had this lens for a couple of months now, and the image quality is outstanding. However, when in autofocus mode, the lens searches and searches for focus and is unable to lock. Even at focal distances of 3 to 4 feet, and with bright outdoor sunlight, it still is unable to lock focus. This is EXTREMELY frustrating when trying to shoot. Just keep this lens in manual focus, and you’ll be good to go!

5 Stars Great lens for the money
I recently purchased a Sony A300 and was looking for an affordable lens for photographing plants and flowers close up as the kit lens that came with the camera is unsatisfactory for macro photography.

I chose the Sigma 50mm F/2.8 EX DG Macro and have found that I made a very good choice. I don’t know all the technical in’s and out’s of a camera lens so I can’t really discuss that topic.

But… the day I got my lens I mounted it up, put my camera on a tripod and took some killer macro shots of small plants. I may not know the tech stuff but I do know a great picture and this lens is helping me get them.

I’d highly recommend this lens.

Buy/More Info