Sigma recently announced 3 new Contemporary lenses as part of the I Series, a collection of lenses for full-frame, mirrorless cameras. Thanks to Sigma, we were given early access to the new lenses, which include a 24mm f/3.5, a 35mm f/2, and a 65mm f/2. Here’s our Sigma 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary lens review.
Build
Sigma’s I Series is all about compact, high quality lenses. The 35mm f/2 DG DN Contemporary lens exemplifies this. The lens has a compact, metallic build that looks and feels great, as well as a ridged focus ring and aperture ring. There’s a switch on the side for toggling between autofocus and manual focus, but no lock switch or click switch for the aperture ring like you can find on some of Sigma’s Art lenses.
The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lensy doesn’t have a lock switch or click switch either, although it does have a wider aperture. However, at 665g (23.5 oz), the 35mm Art lens is over twice as heavy as the new 325g (11.5 oz) Contemporary lens.
Internally, the 35mm f/2 lens uses aluminum parts like Sigma’s Cine lenses. SLD glass and high-refractive index elements help to correct chromatic aberration, while three glass-molded aspherical elements suppress flare, field curvature, and other types of aberration.
Performance
The lens is incredibly versatile. The wide 35mm focal length means you can use this lens for a variety of styles, from landscape to portrait photography. The 9-blade diaphragm and f/2 aperture means the lens also works well in low-light and delivers pleasing bokeh.
Using the lens with a Sony a7 III, we found it worked well with the camera’s fast autofocus. The lens’ minimum focusing distance is just 27cm, so you can also get pretty close to your subject without losing focus. The imagery we captured was sharp, detailed, and vividly colored.
Shooting into the sun at one point, we did get a small lens flare. However, the lens generally does a good job of suppressing it. We didn’t notice any other issues with aberrations, ghosting, or field curvature.
Summary
Overall, the Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary is a great all-rounder lens that will pair well with any full frame L-mount or E-mount camera. The robust performance capabilities of the lens means it’s suitable for multiple different styles, while its compact build makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go. You can pre-order the lens now for $639.
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Regular price: $639.00 -
Regular price: $639.00
