Secondhand superstar
Q I’d really like to get an ultrawide-angle zoom for my D610 but I’m on a tight budget. What would you go for?
Joe Davis
Matthew recommends... A
My first choice in the secondhand market would be the Mark II edition of the Sigma 12-24mm. I used one of these for a long time with my D750 and really enjoyed it.
RELEASED: 2011 PRICE NEW: £600/$950 SECONDHAND PRICE: ‘Excellent’ £400/$520 ‘Good’ £360/$470
For a rectilinear rather than fisheye lens, this Sigma goes extra-large on viewing angle. Taking over from where a 24-70mm standard zoom leaves off, it’s great for everything from architectural interiors to sweeping landscape vistas, as well as for getting creative with perspective effects. The Mk II represents a worthy update to Sigma’s original 12-24mm zoom but lacks the constant-aperture design of the subsequent ‘Art’ edition of the lens. As such, the widest available aperture shrinks from f/4.5 to f/5.6 as you extend through the zoom range, but there’s no shortage of build quality and optical performance.
Key points
1. Premium optical design
The optical path has three glass moulded, one SLD (Special Low Dispersion) and four FLD (‘Fluorite’ Low Dispersion) elements.
2. Integral hood
The integral lens hood is permanently fixed in place, giving protection to the protruding front element.
3. Autofocus system
HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) autofocus is a ring-type ultrasonic system, giving fast and quiet performance.
Elements/groups: 17/13 Diaphragm: 6 blades Angle of view (diagonal): 122-84 degrees Min focus distance: 0.28m Max magnification: 0.16x Autofocus: Ring-type ultrasonic Dimensions: 87x120mm Weight: 670g