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General Questions Discontinued Cameras Lens Questions Digital Cameras
Flash Questions
   
1.
I want to do Macro photography. Sigma offers five different 1:1 macro lenses. How do I choose which lens to use?
A: Sigma presently offers five macro lenses; 50mm f2.8 EX Macro DG, 70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro, 105mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro, 150mm F2.8 APO EX DG Macro and 180mm f/3.5 APO EX DG Macro lenses. Each can produce up to 1:1 (Life-size) reproduction images, but at different working distances. For a given reproduction ration (a.k.a.. magnification), the 50mm lens provides the shortest working distance, the70mm, 105mm 150mm respectively longer working distances, and the 180mm lens the longest working distance. If you plan to do a lot of copy work (documents, photographs, etc.) using a copy stand, the 50mm lens may be the best choice, because of the limited height of the copy stand column. The 70mm lens may also work well for these applications plus is an excellent portrait lens for most digital cameras. The 105mm lens may be better for photographing small 3-dimensional subjects (eg. jewelry, insects, medical subjects, etc.) and for shooting portraiture will 35mm and full frame digital cameras. The150mm and 180mm lenses would probably be best suited for shooting animate subjects in nature (eg. butterflies or other skittish subjects). The 150mm and 180mm lenses can also be used with the EX teleconverters, for additional Macro magnification and telephoto power. All five provide excellent optical performance, and are fully compatible with current digital and 35mm SLR cameras.
     
   
   
2.
Some Sigma lenses are designated "DG". What does this mean?
A: The DG designation applied to most newer Sigma lenses indicates that the lens is especially suited for use with digital SLR cameras. The DG lenses feature improved (more even) light distribution from image center to edge, and incorporate the latest multi-layer lens coatings to avoid reflections of the sensors of digital cameras. This is important in digital photography, but is also useful in 35mm photography, especially when slide film is used. Lenses designated as DC are designed exclusively for use with digital cameras having APS-C size image sensors. They feature smaller image circles and often feature shorter focal lengths (e.g. 10-20mm DC, 17-70mm DC, 18-50mm DC, 18-200mm DC, etc.). The shorter focal lengths are desirable, because most digital SLR cameras have image sensors whose dimensions are considerably smaller than a 35mm negative (usually by a factor of 1.3X to 2.0X), making the lens’ angle of view equivalent to that of a longer lens on a 35mm cameras.
     
   
   
3.
Does Sigma intend to produce lenses for the new Minolta Maxxum 7 with the "D" function?
A: Yes, in fact Sigma has already introduced a number of new lenses, the first few at Photokina, in the Fall of 2000, which include this new capability, necessary for certain functions of Maxxum 7, Maxxum 5 and Maxxum 4 type cameras. The first of such lenses, are the 20mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical RF, the 24mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro and 28mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical Macro ultra-fast, ultra-wideangle lenses. Other lenses include the 24-70mm f/2.8 EX DF, 24-70mm f/3.5-5.6 HF, 100-300mm f/4 APO EX IF, a new 15-30mm f/3.5-4.5 EX DG and a new 20-40mm F2.8 EX DG. The latest lenses include the new 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 Compact Hyperzoom Macro and the 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Compact Hyperzoom. Also, Sigmafs new, dedicated flash unit, the EF500 DG Super for Minolta, will also incorporate this new capability. Other future new lenses will also include this capability.
     
   
   
4.
Can the 1.4X EX and 2X EX teleconverters be used with the 50-500mm f/4-6.3 zoom lens? And I’ve been told that Sigma’s teleconverters can only be used with certain lenses. Just which lenses can be used, and will they still be autofocus?
A: Yes, the EX dedicated teleconverters can be used with the 50-500mm EX zoom lens, as well as with several other current telephoto and zoom lenses. In fact the following current Sigma lenses can be used with the EX teleconverters.

LENSConverterEffective
Focal length		Effective
Aperture		Focus
Function		Maximum
Macro
Ratio
150mm F2.8 EX DG Macro 1.4X210mmf/4AF *1 1:4.1
150mm F2.8 EX DG Macro 2X300mmf/5.6MF2:1
180mm f/3.5 Macro1.4X252mmf/4.9AF*1.4:1
180mm f/3.5 Macro2X360mmf/7MF2:1
300mm f/2.8 EX1.4X420mmf/4AF1:5.4
300mm f/2.8 EX2X600mmf/5.6AF1:3.8
500mm f/4.5 EX1.4X700mmf/6.3MF**1:5.5
500mm f/4.5 EX2X1000mmf/9MF1:3.9
800mm f/5.6 EX1.4X1120mmf/8MF1:6.3
800mm f/5.6 EX2X1600mmf/11MF1:4.4
50-150mm F2.8 II EX DC HSM1.4X70-210mmf/4AF1:3.8
50-150mm F2.8 II EX DC HSM2X100-300mmf/5.6AF1:2.7
50-500mm f/4-6.3 EX***1.4X140-700mmf/7.3-8.8MF1:3.7
50-500mm f/4-6.3 EX ***2X200-1000mmf/10.4-12.6MF1:2.6
70-200mm f/2.8 EX1.4X98-280mmf/4AF1:5.6
70-200mm f/2.8 EX2X140-400mmf/5.6AF1:3.9
70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG MACRO HSM1.4X98-280mmf/4AF1:5.6
70-200mm F2.8 II EX DG MACRO HSM2X140-400mmf/5.6AF1:3.9
80-400mm f4.5-5.6 EX OS1.4X112-560mmf/6.3-7.84MF1:3.6
80-400mm f4.5-5.6 EX OS2X160-400mmf/9-11.2MF1:2.5
100-300mm f/4 EX1.4X140-420mmf/5.6AF1:3.6
100-300mm f/4 EX2X200-600mmf/8MF**1:2.5
120-300mm f/2.8 EX1.4X168-420mmf/4AF1:6.1
120-300mm f/2.8 EX2X240-600mmf/5.6AF1:4.3
120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG OS1.4X168-560mmf/6.3-8MF1:3
120-400mm f4.5-5.6 DG OS2X240-800mmf/9-11MF1:2.1
150-500mm F5-6.3 DG OS1.4X210-700mmf/7-8.8MF1:3.7
150-500mm F5-6.3 DG OS2X300-1000mmf/10-11MF1:2.6
300-800mm f/5.6 EX1.4X420-1120mmf/7.8MF1:4.9
300-800mm f/5.6 EX2X600-1600mmf/11.2MF1:3.5

* For Canon, Nikon and Sigma AF cameras, Autofocus operates from 47" to Infinity, Manual focus must be used from 47" to 18"; for Minolta and Pentax AF cameras, Manual focus only can be used.

** MF for all cameras, except Canon EOS 3 and EOS 1v, which can autofocus with this combination.

***Zoom control range is limited to 100-500mm, when the teleconverters are used with this lens.

*1 AF function is available from 20.5" to infinity

Corrected effective aperture will be displayed on the camera’s digital display, and TTL exposure will be normal, when these teleconverters are used with the lenses listed above.
     
   
   
5.
How good is your new 50-500mm Super zoom?
A: The Sigma 50-500mm f/4-6.3 APO EX zoom lens is an excellent
super-zoom lens. In fact it was recently judged "the Lens of the Year 2000/2001" by TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) in Europe. This prestigious award is confirmation of the superior performance, versatility, and value of this new super zoom. In spite of its amazing 10:1 zoom ratio, its optical performance is outstanding. In fact Popular Photography magazine (July 2000 issue) said, in their objective review, "cthe lens is remarkably sharp at all focal lengths, probably the sharpest extremely long focal length zoom we have ever testedc". And with the HSM autofocus drive (Canon, Nikon and Sigma AF models only) it is incredibly quiet and quick when autofocusing, and you can focus manually without having to disengage the AF mode. In addition, this lens can be used with Sigma’s two EX teleconverters for additional versatility (manual focus only).
     
   
   
6.
I have heard that you will introduce a 18-125mm zoom for digital camera soon. Is this true?
A: Yes, Sigma has introduced a new 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC zoom lens.. The IF (Internal Focus) design allows for a non-rotating front barrel, which is very convenient for polarizing filter and petal shape lens hood use.
     
   
   
7.
I bought a Sigma 14mm f/2.8 HSM lens for my Nikon cameras. It works fine with my N90S, but it will not autofocus with my N60. Why is this?
A: Sigma’s HSM lenses are similar to Nikon’s own AF-S (Silent Wave Motor) type lenses. Only certain model Nikon AF cameras can use this type lens and maintain AF function. These cameras include: F5 series, F4, F100, N90S, N90, N80, N75, N70, N65, N55, D1, D1H, D1X, and D100. Models like the N60, N50, N8008, N6006, etc. can only be used for manual focus, with this type lens. However, all other functions (metering, exposure, etc.) will be normal with this, and other Sigma HSM lenses.
     
   
   
8.
Does Sigma make lenses for digital cameras.
A: Sigma presently offers a number of lenses designed specifically for digital SLR cameras, which can also be used with 35mm SLRs. They are mostly wideangle and widezoom type lenses with large apertures (e.g. 20mm f/1.8, 24mm f/1.8, 28mm f/1.8, 24-70mm f/2.8, 15-30mm f/3.5-4.5), and feature superior light distribution, so that there is minimal light fall-off or vignetting, even when used at maximum aperture. These lenses are designated DG type, and are part of Sigma’s EX series of lenses. Remember that the digital imaging device is generally much smaller than a 35mm negative, so the lens will have a longer "effective" focal length. The conversion factor is generally about 1.5X, so a 14mm lens effectively becomes about 21mm when used on these digital cameras. As a result, there are few choices available for wideangle lenses, or even fast "normal" lenses, for these digital cameras. These new DG lenses help fill this void.
     
   
   
9.
Are Sigma lenses compatible with my new Canon Elan 7 camera? The Digital Rebel? How about EOS 10D.
A: All current production Sigma lenses for Canon autofocus cameras are fully compatible with the new Elan 7, Digital Rebel or EOS 10D camera. If you have a question about a particular lens, please contact Sigma’s service department (in the U.S.) at (631) 585-1144 or via email at info@sigmaphoto.com. 
     
   
   
10.
Will Sigma lenses be compatible with my Nikon F100 and the new N75 or N55? How about new D70 digital camera?
A: Yes, all current production Sigma lenses for Nikon AF cameras are fully compatible with these new Nikon cameras. In addition, the Sigma HSM type lenses can also be used with these cameras (as well as the N70/F70, N90s/F90x, F4s, F5, D100 and D70 models), and will provide all the benefits of the HSM technology; quieter, faster autofocus, plus "full time" manual focus.
     
   
   
11.
I’ve seen advertisements for a new 28-300mm zoom lens. What is the difference between it and the earlier model?
A: The Sigma 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Macro lens is an entirely new design. Its features include closer focusing (a constant 19.7 inches at all zoom settings), a larger reproduction ratio 1:3, a non-rotating front barrel (for convenient use of polarizing filters), an all new optical design featuring Aspherical elements (for better performance and more metal in its construction (to make it more rugged). It has been very highly rated in objective reviews.
     
   
   
12.
I’ve heard a rumor that Sigma is making some new long telephoto zoom lenses. I need fast lenses for nature photography. What do you have?
A: Sigma has recently introduced two new fast ultra-telephoto zoom lenses to replace three existing lenses. They are 120-300mm f/2.8 EX and 300-800mm f/5.6 EX. These will be part of Sigma’s EX series of high performance, professionally specified lenses. Both of them will be APO (apochromatic) lenses and will feature Sigma’s exclusive HSM autofocus technology for Canon, Nikon, and Sigma AF cameras for silent, fast AF function and "full time" manual focus. Also, 300-800mm f/5.6 EX will be unique in that it will feature elements made of new ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass. Both lenses are compatible with Sigma EX Apo Teleconverters.
     
   
   
13.
I’ve recently seen a reference to ELD glass being used in Sigma lenses, is this different from SLD glass?
A: Yes, ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass is a new glass material developed recently by Hoya (the glass maker). It has even lower dispersion characteristics than SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass, which Sigma has been using in its APO lenses (and some non-APO lenses as well) for many years now. It has other advantageous properties as well. Sigma is the first camera-maker to use this new glass it its lenses. It is presently used in the three EX APO ultra-telephoto lenses (300mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4.5, 800mm f/5.6) and the 300-800mm f/5.6 Ultra telezoom lens. 
     
   
   
14.
Is the 14mm f/2.8 lens a fisheye lens?
A: The 14mm f/2.8 ultra wide-angle lens is a rectilinear type lens. It is corrected to record straight line (walls, ceilings, floors, telephone poles, etc.) as straight lines on the film, unlike a fisheye lens. Its degree of linear distortion is comparable to that of other good 24mm or 28mm wide-angle lenses, and less than many, therefore it is very desirable where a distortion free ultra wide angle of view is required. It is especially desirable for use with digital SLR cameras.
     
   
   
15.
Will the 170-500mm APO zoom lens autofocus with my AF camera?
A: The Sigma 170-500 f/5-6.3 APO zoom lens will autofocus with today’s autofocus cameras, in spite of the fact that its maximum aperture ranges from f/5 at 170mm to f/6.3 at 500mm.
     
   
   
16.
Does Sigma offer any teleconverters?
A: Sigma offers both a 1.4X and a 2.0X autofocus APO teleconverter. These are dedicated teleconverters, designed for use with certain compatible lenses (generally, long telezoom and long telephoto lenses, e.g. 70-200mm F2.8 APO EX, 100-300mm F4 EX Apo, 50-500mm F4-6.3 EX, 80-400mm f4.5-5.6 EX OS, 120-300mm F2.8 EX, 300-800mm F5.6 EX, 180mm F3.5 EX APO Macro, 300mm F2.8 EX APO, 300mm F4 APO, 400mm F5.6 APO, 500mm F4.5 EX APO and 800mm F5.6 EX APO), and can maintain autofocus function with certain larger aperture (faster) lenses.
     
   
   
17.
Where are Sigma lenses made?
A: All Sigma products, lenses, cameras and flash units are manufactured exclusively by Sigma in Sigma’s own factory in Aizu, Japan. No Sigma Corporation product - lens, camera or flash - is manufactured outside of Japan. This is very unusual these days, as most companies have at least some of their products produced outside of Japan because of cost considerations.
     
   
   
18.
What are the differences between the 70-300mm F/4-5.6 Macro II and the 70-300 F/4-5.6 APO Macro Super II zoom lenses?
A: The major difference between these two lenses is the optical performance. The DL Super model features a more conventional, achromatic optical design and uses one element of Special Low Dispersion glass (SLD). Its sharpness and contrast are rated very highly, however it is not quite as good as the APO Super model, which uses an apochromatic optical design and uses three SLD glass elements. This model has been top-rated by independent photo magazines. The APO Super model is also somewhat more expensive than the DL Super mode. If you plan to make very large enlargements from your negatives or slides, the APO Super lens may be your better choice.
     
   
   
19.
Are all Sigma lenses compatible with my AF SLR?
A: Generally, all current Sigma AF lenses are compatible with all current and older models of Canon, Minolta, Nikon (all current Sigma AF lenses for Nikon AF cameras are fully "D" functional), Pentax PZ series and ZX series cameras. In addition, some lenses for Pentax AF may also be compatible with earlier SF series of cameras as well. Please see the Lens Chart for this and other specific lens information. Exception include ADI ("D") type lenses for Minolta Maxxum 7, Maxxum 5, etc, cameras may not be compatible with original 5000, 7000 and 9000 cameras.
     
   
   
20.
What are APO lenses?
A: Apochromatic lenses are telephoto and telezoom type lenses which use special optical designs and optical materials (SLD or ELD glass) to improve their performance. The result is images which have greater contrast, sharpness and color definition than a comparable non-APO type lens . All Sigma apochromatic lenses are identified by the APO designation in their descriptions. Please see the Lens Chart for this and other specific lens information.
     
   
   
21.
What are Aspherical lenses?
A: Many Sigma lenses make effective use of Aspherical lens elements. This technology allows one Aspherical lens element to perform the functions of two or more conventional spherical elements, thus allowing the lens to be made more compact and lightweight, while retaining high levels of performance. In the 20mm f/1.8, 24mm f/1.8,  28mm f/1.8 EX DG lenses, for example, these Aspherical elements eliminate the sagittal coma flare that accompanies large lens diameters. They effectively suppress the flare. In zoom lenses, where the wide angle range is extended - such as the 15-30 f/3.5-4.5 EX DG - distortion control can be enhanced by the use of Aspherical elements.
     
   
   
22.
What are Macro lenses?
A: Macro lenses are those which can focus unusually close, providing large reproduction ratios (e.g. 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, etc.) Sigma offers more lenses with macro capabilities than any other lens or camera maker. The choice of which lens to use depends on the application.

The shorter lenses, 50mm and 105mm provide greater magnification (reproduction ratio) capabilities (1:1 without accessory), and shorter working distances. These are desirable for photographing inanimate or slow moving subjects or for copy work. The 105mm f/2.8 EX Macro lens can also be useful for portraiture.

Longer Macro lenses like the 180mm f3.5 EX APO Macro can allow even greater working distance while still providing up to 1:1 reproduction. Greater working distances are useful when photographing animate subjects which may become evasive or aggressive if approached closely by a photographer.

Sigma offers several zoom lenses (e.g. 28-80mm, 28-135mm, 70-300mm APO and 70-300mm DL) which combine reproduction ratios up to 1:2 with the convenience and versatility of a zoom lens. These can be invaluable for general photography including extreme close-ups, while carrying only one lens around.
     
   
   
23.
Does Sigma make lenses for manual focus cameras ?
A: No. Sigma no longer manufactures lenses for most manual focus camera. However, in some cases (e.g. Nikon and Pentax) AF type lenses can be used for manual focus on the manual focus cameras.
     
   
   
24.
What does HSM stand for and what is it?
A: HSM stands for Hyper Sonic Motor. It is a new type of motor used in some of Sigma’s newer lenses. The technology employed is similar to that used in certain lenses made by other camera manufacturers. The benefits of HSM system are: virtually silent autofocus function, very quick responsive autofocus function. Sigma is the only independent lens maker offering lenses with this technology. We have a number of HSM type lenses for Canon and Sigma AF cameras, and we also have several HSM lenses for Nikon AF cameras (N55, N65, N70, N75, N80, N90, N90S, F100, F4s, F5, D1, D1X, D1H, D100 and D70, as well).
     
   
   
25.
I have heard rumors that Sigma will make a 80-400mm f4.5-5.6 EX OS (Optical Stabilizer) lens. Is this true?
A: Yes, Sigma has recently introduced this new zoom lens. It is already available in the US market. Please visit Sigma web site "LENS" page for the product details.
     
   
 
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