Sigma is transforming portrait photography with the introduction of the world’s first AF 135mm F1.4. Say hello to the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG | Art! This lens delivers unmatched expressive capabilities, with its wide aperture creating remarkable background blur and crystal-clear resolution. It brings out every detail with incredible clarity, adding a unique depth and dimension to your portraits. The 135mm focal length offers a natural perspective and an ideal shooting distance, and when paired with the bright F1.4 aperture, it ensures the subject takes centre stage in ways unmatched by standard 135mm F1.8 lenses. Drawing from years of expertise in developing top-tier F1.4 prime lenses, this innovation from Sigma redefines the possibilities in portrait photography.
The defining characteristic of the new Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG | Art is its remarkably large bokeh. The lens’s wide aperture diameter results in breathtaking background blur, surpassing the capabilities of the Sigma 105mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art, famously dubbed the “Bokeh Master,” and reaching levels comparable to the Sigma 200mm F2 DG OS | Sports. The distinctive view of the 135mm focal length, along with its standout background rendering, emphasizes the subject and creates layered portraits achievable exclusively with this lens. Comprehensive correction of chromatic aberration, a frequent issue in telephoto lenses, ensures crisp, clear bokeh without colour bleeding. Additionally, a 13-blade diaphragm maintains a circular bokeh shape, while exceptional precision in aspherical lens processing further enhances its smoothness, and the design reduces corner shading, producing smooth, nearly circular bokeh all the way to the edges, maximizing the benefit of the lens’s open aperture.
The lens employs four large FLD glass components paired with precisely positioned high-dispersion glass elements to tackle axial chromatic aberration, which is more apparent in large-aperture telephoto lenses. This ensures stunning subject detail remains intact even at wide-open settings, maximizing the unique shallow depth of field provided by the 135mm F1.4. Its floating focus system allows two focusing lens groups to operate separately, preserving outstanding resolution across the full focus range. By addressing flare and ghosting with advanced simulation techniques and Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating, the lens delivers uncompromized quality in any lighting scenario. It boasts superior backlight resistance, ensuring clear and sharp results in a wide variety of lighting situations.
The Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG | Art features two focus groups, each powered by a separate High-response Linear Actuator (HLA), creating what’s known as a dual HLA system. The use of two different HLAs, designed specifically for the range of movement in each focus group, enables the delivery of powerful thrust for large-aperture telephoto lenses alongside quick, accurate autofocus. This makes it highly effective for reliably capturing quick movements and brief expressions.
The lens includes an AFL button in two separate positions, which can be customized through the menu on certain cameras for different functions. Alongside the aperture ring, the lens features an aperture ring lock switch and a click switch, allowing you to turn the clicking sound on or off. It also has a lightweight yet strong tripod socket made from magnesium alloy that works with Arca-Swiss clamps. This design offers stability for studio photography and longer shoots, enabling photographers to maintain their creative workflow. The tripod socket can also be removed and replaced with the provided protective cover. Furthermore, the lens hood comes with a button-style locking system for secure attachment and easy removal. The hood is made from CFRP, a carbon-fibre-reinforced polycarbonate material, ensuring durability while remaining lightweight.
Designed with exceptional strength and lasting durability, the Art line is built for consistent performance in creative applications. Materials like aluminum and magnesium alloys are paired with advanced engineering plastics, such as TSC, carefully distributed within the construction. This ensures a durable framework to support the optical system of a large-diameter lens, while maintaining a lightweight feel for easy handling. Additionally, the lens features a dust- and splash-resistant design, along with a water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element, offering peace of mind during outdoor shoots in tough conditions.
Click here for more information and to pre-order the new Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG | Art!
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Sigma Art 135mm f1.4 DG - L-Mount
