Performance
Overall, the performance of the Sigma 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens was very good. Sharpness was good throughout the focal range, at the centre as well as sides. Distortion was very well-controlled at all marked focal length settings, except at 100mm, where, if you indeed looked for it, there was a hint of pin-cushion distortion. Darkening of corners was well-controlled too; corner darkening could be seen at f/1.8 and f/2, and became imperceptible by f/2.8. Strong flare was noticeable in shots that included the sun and strong blueviolet fringing was visible at edges of opaque objects. The lens created very nice bokeh, which will be loved by wedding and portrait photographers.
Value for Money
The 50-100mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens is available at an MRP of Rs.95,900. At first look it appears expensive but we need to consider that this is an Art lens and that it has a maximum aperture of f/1.8 at all focal lengths. Add to that the excellent build quality and the great performance and suddenly, the price seems reasonable. |SP
FINAL SCORE 83%
Design and Build Quality 18/20
Key Features 16/20
Ergonomics 16/20
Performance
Autofocus 4/5
Sharpness 4/5
Distortion control 5/5
Aberrations 4/5
Darkening of corners 4/5
Extra features 4/5
Sub-Total 25/30
Value for Money 8/10
PLUS
• Overall, Great performance
• Quick AF (but that depends on the camera body too)
• Fast f/1.8 aperture available at all focal lengths
• Excellent control over distortion
MINUS
• Heavy
• No image stabilisation
• No weather sealing
• Strong blueviolet
colour fringing
VERDICT
If most of your photography calls for focal lengths between 50-100mm (equivalent of 80-160mm in the 35mm format), then you must consider this Art lens. Portraits and wedding photographers as well as photojournalists now have a lens which is very ‘fast’, which can throw the background out of focus for beautiful bokeh. Personally, I wish the focal length was from 24-100mm, but then, that’s my wishful thinking! Best Buy!
Rohinton Mehta
