Sigma EX 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS APO HSM Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Sigma and the lens was released 2011.
The lens belongs to the category
telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Sigma
At launch 2011 Sigma wrote this regarding Sigma EX 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS APO HSM:
"This latest version of the Sigma APO 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is pleased to announce the inclusion of Optical Stablization(OS) which is critical to equipment sporting this focal range allowing for hand-held tele-photography and the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Sigma´s new splash-proof feature is also included preventing dust and precipitation from getting inside the lens. One SLD and two FLD glass elements provides maximum correction of chromatic aberrations. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting, and the lens design incorporates an inner focusing and inner zooming system to ensure sharp images throughout the entire zoom range. Improved optical performance provides excellent correction of sagittal coma flare and ensures ultra-high resolution, comparable to a fixed focal length lens. The HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor ensures quiet and high speed AF, while allowing full-time manual focus override. A truly unique product which is a rarity in the photo industry, this lens is the only lens of its kind on the market; a professional zoom lens that also features a fast aperture. Most professionals own the standard 300mm 2.8, but they also have to carry a shorter zoom lens for those times when the subjects move closer. That means fumbling around switching lenses or carrying a second camera body. The amazing Sigma zoom lens let you instantly determine the picture composition you want without having to change your vantage point. Imagine photographing courtside at a college basketball game and having the versatility to zoom in on a player´s face or hand and then instantly zoom back to capture the entire player making his shot. You can do it with the Sigma APO 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM. The aperture remains constant at F2.8 throughout the entire zoom range. The addition of the optional APO tele converter produces an ultra telephoto zoom lens with AF
Designed for use with full frame digital SLR cameras. May also be used with smaller APS-c size sensors
Splash-proof feature protects the lens from the effects of harsh weather conditions
Offers Sigma’s OS System (Optical Stabilization) allowing handheld photography even in low-light situation
HSM (Hyper-Sonic Motor) ensures a quiet & high-speed auto focus
FLD glass elements with performance equal to fluorite glass for compensate for color aberration"
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 constructed to fit all models of Canon and Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 120-300 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Sigma EX 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS APO HSM
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/2,8.
This aperture value indicates that the lens is very 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. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.
A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 120 mm or at 300 mm the aperture value can be f/2,8.
Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 105 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 "LH1128-01".
Tripod Mount
This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.
Images of Sigma EX 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS APO 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 lens brightness, f/2,8
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- An impressive focal range
- Works on all sensor types
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- A tripod mount is included
- The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
- Heavy (2950 gr)
- The price (more info)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Sigma EX 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS APO HSM.
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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