New Gear
The latest Nikon-fit kit, including a gorgeous wide-angle prime, pocket-sized storage and some stunning studio lights
Wide-angle prime
£799, $849
www.sigmaphoto.com
Sigma has announced a new 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM | A lens, which will join its high-end A (Art) range of lenses. It's been designed for full-frame cameras, but will also be fully compatible with all DX-format Nikons such as the new D7200 (see page 94). The 24mm focal length will provide a wide, 84.1-degree angle of view on FX-format bodies, making it ideal for landscapes, while the wide f/1.4 maximum aperture should appeal to photographers who want to get artistic bokeh effects. The 30mm, 35mm and 50mm lenses in the Art range have already proved to be excellent in terms of both build quality and optics, so we expect great i mage quality from this wide-angled version.
The lens has 15 elements in 11 groups, which include low dispersion glass that reduces distortion and chromatic aberration. The minimum focusing distance is 25cm, and the lens features the popular 77mm filter mount. The overall finish matches the rest the of the Art line, making the most of a combination of metal and thermally stable composite with a brass bayonet. The result is a durable, high quality lens.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS: If its optical quality matches that of the other recent Sigma Art lenses, then the new 24mm will be extremely desirable.