Sigma APO Macro 150mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HS M £780/$1100 It’s a big lens with extra reach

Big and hefty, the Sigma 150mm weighs 1150g, about 400g more than the Nikon and Sigma 105mm lenses. Build quality and handling are near identical to the Sigma 105mm lens. Features in common include ring-type ultrasonic autofocus, dual-mode stabilization for static and panning shots, and a threeposition autofocus range limiter switch – plenty to play with.

Again, the lens is supplied with both a hood and an APS-C hood converter, plus a padded soft case – brilliant for transporting this big beast. This time, however, a tripod mounting collar is supplied, to better balance the heavier Sigma when using a tripod. The number of SLD optical elements is extended from two to three, the lens gaining an APO (Apochromatic) classification.

Performance

Image quality is impressive in all respects. The nimble autofocus system and effective stabilizer with its switched static and panning modes make the lens ideal for telephoto shooting, as well as for sharp macro photography. The working distance for full magnification is just under 20cm from the front of the lens to the subject, the longest of any lens on test.