From the start of the design process, SIGMA measured flare and ghosting to establish an optical design that is resistant to strong incidental light sources such as backlight.

To achieve outstanding image quality and F1.8 brightness, SIGMA has enhanced its Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM). Optimizing the layout as well as the shapes of the individual parts, SIGMA has made the HSM 30 percent slimmer than before. In turn, this slimmer HSM has made possible the combination of F1.8 brightness and high image quality in a zoom lens.

The diameter of the diaphragm is the second-largest in the SIGMA lens lineup after that of the SIGMA 200-500mm F2.8 / 400-1000mm F5.6 EX DG, necessitating smoother and quicker operation than ever before. To achieve this goal, the diaphragm blades feature Carbon Feather film, and the diaphragm unit features a new polycarbonate made with fluorine. Thanks to these innovations, diaphragm operation is exceptionally smooth even during continuous shooting, while the new polycarbonate is exceptionally durable and wear-resistant.

Since its release, the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art has been widely used for videography. Understanding that the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art and new SIGMA 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art will often be used together, SIGMA has made the style of operation the same for both lenses, including the feel of focusing and zooming. Thanks to SIGMA’s inner focus and inner zoom technologies, adjusting the focus and zoom rings does not change the length of the lens, and turning the zoom ring is not prone to cause focus shift.

The tripod socket is compact, making operation more stable and comfortable during handheld photography. Parts with electro-less nickel plating help ensure the quality and durability of the 90-degree click stops and smooth switching between the horizontal and vertical position. The shape of the socket also enhances ease of handling and carrying when the lens is not attached to a camera.

SIGMA is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines: Contemporary, Art, and Sports, each with a distinctive concept. Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, our Art line lenses deliver high-level artistic expression. Offering astonishing rendering performance that meets the highest standard, they are perfect for landscapes, portraits, still-lifes, close-ups, and casual snaps. They are made for the kind of photography that unleashes the inner artist. A powerful ally in every genre of photography, SIGMA’s Art line lenses excel both in the studio for formal works and outdoors for impressive shots of architecture, starry skies, and many other scenes.

To ensure precise operation, internal parts feature generous use of metal and Thermally Stable Composite (TSC),* which is highly compatible with metal parts. The lens barrel is engraved with the year of release for instant access to this information.

* TSC offers thermal expansion characteristics similar to those of aluminum. Parts made with TSC deform less, making lens construction of extremely high precision possible. As compared to polycarbonate containing 20% glass, a commonly used material, TSC offers approximately 70% higher elasticity. As compared to polycarbonate containing 30% glass, it offers 25% higher elasticity. (Comparison is between SIGMA-produced components.)

We used to measure lens performance with MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we’ve now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. All SIGMA 50-100mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art lenses are checked using this A1 system before they are shipped.

* A1: Aizu1

With only a few minor exceptions, all of SIGMA’s manufacturing, including molds and parts, takes place under a single integrated production system in Japan. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are truly made in Japan. We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of SIGMA products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.

With the optional SIGMA USB DOCK, you can update your lens firmware and adjust the focus position and other settings. Simply connect the lens to the SIGMA USB DOCK and the dock to a computer to use the dedicated SIGMA Optimization Pro software and perform various types of customization and adjustment.

The 9-blade rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur in the out-of-focus areas of the image.

The brass mount combines high precision with rugged construction. Its treated surfaces and enhanced strength contribute to the exceptional durability of the lens.

An experienced lens manufacturer offering a diverse range of interchangeable lenses, SIGMA provides the innovative Mount Conversion Service, in which we change the mount of a lens in one of our new product lines to another mount of your choice (charges apply). This service can give new life to your favorite lenses when you wish to use them with a different camera body.

Vignetting will occur if the lens is used with image sensor larger than APS-C size or 35mm SLR, and APS Film SLR cameras. To find the 35 mm camera equivalent focal length, multiply the DC lens focal length by the “crop factor” (digital multiplier) of 1.5~1.7, depending on the brand of DSLR camera on which the lens will be used. The appearance and specification are subject to change without notice.