Lenses. I got a few new ones for Easter and the summer holidays. The first one I got is the Sigma 85 f/1.4. I have only had this lens for a few days, but I thought I would post some impressions I have. Also, this is for Canon lenses. I do not own other DSLR brands.

Introduction/Build Quality and Features (9/10)

Its a nice chunk of glass to boot. Its built quick solidly and I was more than a little concerned about that being my first Sigma lens. However, despite not being a new Sigma "Art" lens, its built really nicely. I really like the finish and I love that the lens is not white for once. This lens has a massive front element and large 77mm filter thread. Although a large size, the filter size is a widely used one, so you will be able to use filters across lenses.

The finish gives a nice grip and the focus rings have a solid rubber grip. The Sigma 85 f/1.4 finish on it that gives it almost a matte look which is a nice change. The only problem is that the focus ring is a bit stiff and the focus throw is not all that long. Maybe I have been spoiled by Zeiss 35mm. Overall, really nice construction.

The Sigma 85 f/1.4 also comes with a very handy padded case, not bag. Most canon lenses, below about $2,000 come with a nice leather/suede bag with a leather padded bottom. However, the case with the Sigma is much nicer to have just for storage. I rarely use my bags that come with the Canon lenses. It comes with a few levels of padding that insert and are removable. I guess so you can put it in with the lens hood on, off, or on with the extender.

The lens comes with a very nice lens hood. It snaps into place very nicely. My canon ones, except for the 70-200 which has a lock in button, do not snap into place as well. The lens hood also has an attachment for those with APS-C sensors. This attaches to the lens hood to give that extra protection. See below

Focus (7.5/10)

I really am starting to love this lens. It focuses quick, but not blisteringly fast. Also, I luckily got a good copy of the lens. It focuses accurately and doesn't really focus hunt. Sigma, unlike other third parties as far as I know, reverse engineers the Canon autofocus system Now, you should know that Sigma lenses, in terms of autofocus, they can be hit or miss. Sometimes, you have to send it back to get a good copy for autofocus.

Image Quality (9/10)

Image quality with this lens is really nice. The depth of field allows for some great shots. The images are very sharp and have some nice contrast. There is a bit of vignetting wide open but pretty much goes away after you stop down a few times. I included a sample that I took off one of the new spring flowers in my yard. The bokeh is really smooth due to the 9 aperture blades and the focus falloff is smooth.

Value/Conclusion (10/10)

This lens is a great value. Especially compared with then Canon 85 f/1.2 which is over $2,000. Canon does sell an 85 f/1.8 for around $400-500, but its a little older and a slower lens. However it still is a solid lens for the price. Compared to the Canon 1.2, this Sigma lens blows it out of the water for focus speed from what I have read and seen on video. I can't seem to find really much difference between f/1.2 and f/1.4 from sample photos I have seen. This may be the best lens of this focal length for the money. There are cheaper and more expensive lenses in this focal length, but none this versatile.

Sigma 85 f/1.4 First Look/Mini Review

Mouth of the Beast (Wallpaper)

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