Considering Sigma 50mm f/1.4 for Canon

LongLensPhotography

LongLensPhotography

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I need a fast prime, as f/2.8 doesn't cut it sometimes, or the picture is not as sharp as I would like it to be. I also need a lightweight lens when I may need a camera but don't want to lug the brick. [I have to rule out Canon 50mm f/1.2L due to price, and the cheaper ones due to old design and serious construction flaws :nono:. I am not interested in them at all, I'd get 85/1.8 instead.]

What are the experiences with Sigma on Canon? Is it well built, how many do have focus problems :thinking:? It will be used on 40D, and potentially - 5D or 1D(s) series - when I upgrade.

Please bear in mind I do pixel peep, and the lens would be used mostly at f/1.4-2.8.

Thank you for any feedback.
 
I have a Sigma 50mm f1.4 and I use it on my 20D, I'm very happy with it. It seems to be well built and it's fast to focus, HSM and all.

It is quite large for a 50mm, larger than the Canon 50mm f2.5 I also have but it's still manageable.
 
I've also been looking at getting this lens. From what I've read it's definitely better than the canon f1.4.

I fact I think I might treat myself for christmas!:D
 
One of my friends uses it on a 400d and is very happy with it, and uses it almost exclusively.
 
"You need full frame to get the full DoF benefit though."

I'm sure you're right but even on APS-C f1.4 can be pretty shallow and there's certainly enough scope for me to play with. I've used mine for lots of very shallow DoF stuff.
 
Though I have no experience with the sigma, I have recently upgraded my 50mm f/1.8 to a canon 50mm f/1.4.... And I have found the build quality very good (in comparison to the 1.8) Although not L quality its still a well built lens IMO. I find the AF fast on my 40D and does very well in low light. IQ wise, well TBH I wasn't expecting a huge jump from the f/1.8 but so far i have been very impressed with it!
As of now its hardly off my camera.
Not to mention it is slightly cheaper than the sigma at the moment.

Here are some images to give you an idea of what it can do:

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4096110180_125ca4a500.jpg
 
Very pleased with the Sigma and it is 'supposed' (DPR) to be the best 50/1.4 out there.

The only thing I would say is purchase from the UK - just in case you have 'Sigma QC issue' - My first copy fell to bits in the shop - the front element wasn't properly attached (and it fell out, bounced off the table, and smashed on the floor)

But, the second copy I got is very very good - and as sharp as my CZ85/1.4 (although the colours are not as good as the CZ). AF Speed is very fast and silent.

As for price, the Sigma was more expensive than a Sony 50/1.4 but I thought it was worth paying that little bit extra. Another nice thing is 77mm filters, which for some who have standardised on 77mm's is a joy. Others might find the larger size as a negative point of the lens.
 
I suppose that one thing to think about is the design philosophy of the Sigma, as mentioned in reviews.

Many lenses are optimised for centre performance accepting that this will lead to a drop off at the periphery. The Sigma, so I've read, is designed to offer a more consistent performance across the frame.
 
I had a brief play with both the Canon and Sigma F/1.4's when I purchased my 7D. I did not retain any pictures for IQ examinations but I did note the following.

*Canon 50mm has faster and quieter AF (Sigma was not bad, just not as good).
*Build quality of Sigma seemed much better. The weight and size made it feel much more robust.
*The Sigma felt much better balanced on the 7D due to size and weight.
*Sigma came with a nice lens hood and pouch. Canon came with a box and instructions:).
*Micro focus adjustment is possible with the 7D and Canon 50mm but third party lenses are not supported. This may be vital if either lens front or back focuses.

Out of the two I would have chosen the Sigma based upon feel and handling. Unfortunately I had just spent £2k on the 7D and a 17-55mm so did not have enough pennies left. Most reviews indicate IQ is similar between the two with Sigma being slightly sharper at the centre and Canon providing slightly better edge results. Either will be great for indoor/low light portraits, parties etc.
 
Owned and briefly used the sigma 50mm 1.4.

Absolutely Gorgeous lens. Better in every department than the Canon 50mm 1.4 except it's not as good as the canon when using the OUTER AF points. But I always used the centre point, so this was never an issue.

Brilliant, brilliant lens. It also comes with the hood. Takes 77mm filter.
 
I'm considering this lens, my other choice would be a Nikon 50mm 1.4. Can anyone give a comparison of the two? I had a look at the DP reviews and am tipping towards the Sigma, but it's an extra £100...
 
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