SIGMA 8-16mm f/4.55.6 DC HSM

For outright viewing angles, this Sigma rules

Unlike other branded APS-C cameras, Canon DSLRS have a 1.6x crop factor. This makes them better for magnifying telephoto reach, but more restrictive for wide viewing angles. This Sigma overcomes all limitations, delivering the shortest focal length of any Canon-compatible wide-angle zoom at 8mm at its widest. The maximum viewing angle stretches from the usual 108 degrees to 121 degrees.

Like most similarly ‘ultrawide’ lenses for full-frame cameras, the Sigma has a built-in lens hood, which precludes the easy use of filters. However, the two-part lens cap does at least enable you to use 72mm filters at the long end of the zoom range.

Build quality is impressive overall, with a sturdy feel and smoothly operating zoom and focus rings. The optical path includes four top-quality FLD (Fluorite-grade Low Dispersion) elements and Sigma’s usual Super Multilayer Coatings. There’s a fast and whisper-quiet ultrasonic autofocus system but no image stabilizer, and the lens also lacks any weather seals.

Performance

Sigma has done a very good job of retaining sharpness towards the edges and corners of the image frame. The lens also beats both the Canon APS-C format zooms for centre-sharpness at minimum zoom settings. Colour fringing is impressively minimal throughout the zoom range, and even barrel distortion is good. Ultimately, there’s no real sacrifice in image quality.