Sigma EX 30mm F1.4 DC HSM Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Sigma and the lens was released 2005.
The lens belongs to the category standard prime lenses, a normal lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Sigma

At launch 2005 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma EX 30mm F1.4 DC HSM:

"This Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM lens, built for professional use, is a high quality prime lens suitable for professional use delievering outstanding optical performance for the discerning photographer. As a large aperture standard lens for digital cameras with a fast 1.4 aperture makes handheld shooting in dim light possible. 30mm corresponds to the diagonal of the imaging sensor found on most small ship cameras and as such, functions as a “normal” lens closely replicating the human eye’s field of vision.

For use with smaller chip APS-c and 4/3 cameras only

HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet & high-speed auto focus

Aspherical glass elements offer correction for distortion

Special Low Dispersion (SLD) & ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion)glass provides optimum color correction & sharpness

A lens hood, front/rear lens cap and carrying case are included with the lens."


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon cameras, but there are two different versions of this lens (one for each brand and mount) so it is important that you ask for and choose the right version when bying the lens.

This lens is designed and meant for Canon and Nikon cameras with a smaller sensor (often referred to as 'APS-C') which means that the lens does not fit all camera models. By clicking on the link below you can make sure that the lens works with your camera model and you should do an additional check with your local dealer as well, before you buy the lens just to be sure.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 30 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 48 mm if you have a Canon camera or 45 mm if you have a Niko camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/1,4.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is extremely bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 62 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "LH715-01 300".

Images of Sigma EX 30mm F1.4 DC HSM

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The price (more info)
  • The lens brightness, f/1,4
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • Light weight (430 gr)
  • Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Sigma EX 30mm F1.4 DC HSM.

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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