Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM -SIGMALUX-

[il Dottore]

Thanks! Shot with a circular polarizer and the raw was processed in Lightroom with some minor adjustments for saturation/vibrance.

OK, looks I need CPL. :)
Many thanks, wonderful shots!

[jbkalla]

Yeah. A CP filter is the only filter I have for every lens.

For some of my lenses, I made the mistake of buying a super-thin filter, which the lens caps don't grip very well. From now on, it's B&W standard CPs for me!

[agphotography]

I've been ever so curious about the Sigma 50mm since it's release. I had such high hopes/expectations for it.

I was never happy with the Canon 50 f/1.4 that I had. I always felt it was just so soft and mushy. But I had bought it used and didn't want to pay to have it calibrated. (I should have just done it.)

Needless to say, I made trades over time and wound up with the 50L. Great lens. Loved it really, but I just didn't use it enough and it's damn expensive to not use it. So I worked a trade, (which is in progress as we speak) I'm getting another 50 f/1.4 and an 85 f/1.8 (plus some $$$) The owner of the 50 said he went through several copies until he found one that was sharp. I hope that's the case. Because I really want to like the canon 50 f1.4, it's so small and portable!

If it's not I'm definitely going to look into getting the sigma. It surely has it's quirks, but it definitely looks like it's capable of exceptional quality.

[il Dottore]

"SigmaLux" meets Zeiss... :D
Canon 5DMkII, 1/50s, f/2.8, ISO400
http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/3420/img0932800.jpg

[thatkatmat]

I've been ever so curious about the Sigma 50mm since it's release. I had such high hopes/expectations for it.

I was never happy with the Canon 50 f/1.4 that I had. I always felt it was just so soft and mushy. But I had bought it used and didn't want to pay to have it calibrated. (I should have just done it.)

Needless to say, I made trades over time and wound up with the 50L. Great lens. Loved it really, but I just didn't use it enough and it's damn expensive to not use it. So I worked a trade, (which is in progress as we speak) I'm getting another 50 f/1.4 and an 85 f/1.8 (plus some $$$) The owner of the 50 said he went through several copies until he found one that was sharp. I hope that's the case. Because I really want to like the canon 50 f1.4, it's so small and portable!

If it's not I'm definitely going to look into getting the sigma. It surely has it's quirks, but it definitely looks like it's capable of exceptional quality.


I hear you......My EF 50/1.4 was very sharp, but sharpness isn't everything, not sure which was sharper, my EF or my EX, but I know my EX is a much nicer lens with better flare and CA control...Add to that, better AF and build and the Sigma wins. If the L doesn't suit you, maybe the Sigma is a nice tweener.

[agphotography]

I hear you......My EF 50/1.4 was very sharp, but sharpness isn't everything, not sure which was sharper, my EF or my EX, but I know my EX is a much nicer lens with better flare and CA control...Add to that, better AF and build and the Sigma wins. If the L doesn't suit you, maybe the Sigma is a nice tweener.

Oh don't get me wrong. I thought the 50L was fantastic, but I didn't LOVE it as much as I loved my 35L (I shed tears thinking about how I let it go.) I'm going to give this new 50 f/1.4 a chance, but if I'm not stoked on it, It's hitting the chopping block and I'm tracking down a sigma 50.

I'm convinced its' sharp and has awesome bokeh, but I'm not thrilled about AF issues. That's the last thing I need lol. I'm perfectly capable of doing manual focus, and I do so regularly, but I would like to be able to rely on AF if I have it.

How bad is the sample variation?

[thatkatmat]

Both mine have been great, so I'm 2 for 2....I think you have to take a chance and send it in to Sigma, which is lame, but necessary....Mine was decent before I sent it in and is top shelf now (after).
I had 3 different 50L's, I love the lens, but the shift cramped my style

[agphotography]

Well. It all boils down to how well my incoming Canon 50mm f/1.4 behaves. If it's solid I wont even bother hehe. I may get the sigma down the road someday.

[dobygot]

I went through 3 copies, last one was the sharpest and closest to perfect, but it still front focused a little. I wanted one that focused wide open as well as I could in live view. All three copies put my focus points in the green fringe area (close-ups), or completely outside the focal plane.

The shop was tired of me coming back, so they let me trade it in for a Zeiss 50 1.4 - While i miss the super smooth isolating bokeh of the sigma, I'm more than happy with the color rendering, contrast, and 3d pop I get from the Zeiss bokeh. Oh and I can get sharp pictures... :)

here's a shot I missed that pushed me over the edge. F@%^ Sigma
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_j2GQhRRyDEg/SikvLUttawI/AAAAAAAAAuY/la4nm9GTaSM/s400/IMG_7192-2.jpg

[syntrix]

Center point AF?

Zeiss ZE's are 100% MF. If you mean MF on the sigmalux, then maybe it's focus shift as it changes aperature. I just want to make sure that we are understanding and talking about the same things.

[dobygot]

Center point AF?

Zeiss ZE's are 100% MF. If you mean MF on the sigmalux, then maybe it's focus shift as it changes aperature. I just want to make sure that we are understanding and talking about the same things.

Actually that shot was cropped slightly, but I use center point when shooting at 1.4. Anyway, it's consistent front focus with center point.

There's definitely a slight front focus tendency with this lens (at least for my 3 copies), and while AF will result in nearly perfect focus (AF puts me in the back end of the focal plane ie green fringe/aberrations area most of the time), you will be able to get an even sharper picture taking the same subject a second time in liveview (MF).

To me, that's unacceptable, I had to focus, and adjust manually, which is such a pain due to how minor of an adjustment it requires along with how small the focus ring travel is- resulting in overadjusting. I might as well be shooting MF all the time. The bokeh alone wasn't worth the sorrow over all the almost-perfect focus pictures.

Zeiss's focus ring travel btw, is large enough that I can actually nail which part of the focal plane I want to be in (the front or back end), which is both good and bad, but mainly a good thing. Zeiss isn't immune from shifting but my keepers with the Zeiss over 2 weeks outnumbered the Sigma's over 3 months. Anyway I'll try to keep the discussion on the "Sigmalux".

I would post more example pictures but I deleted most. Let me try to dig some up.
edit:
focus was on the alpha logo
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_j2GQhRRyDEg/SilB0ZxcoKI/AAAAAAAAAu0/1Fgio4u8emA/s800/IMG_6653.JPG

[syntrix]

Well I never said it was acceptable, just wanted to fully understand the issues that you encountered!

[lz7j]

Can someone with a 'good' working copy of this lens please do me a favour and shoot the sigma box (line '50mm F1.4 EX DG') within MFD & wide open?
Please post the resized image and a 100% crop (preferably on a FF cam)

Thanks in advanced!

[dobygot]

Sigma 50mm
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_j2GQhRRyDEg/Sg776UtDPxI/AAAAAAAAAqc/9A7Grx3MmGY/s800/IMG_7571.jpg

Zeiss 50mm ZE
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_j2GQhRRyDEg/Sg776RCG0wI/AAAAAAAAAqg/TFCMuoEgZdY/s800/IMG_7614-2.jpg

Since the perspective distance framing is slightly off posting 100% crop is NOT a good way to compare....but what the hey here it is:

sig
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_j2GQhRRyDEg/Sg776V0w5VI/AAAAAAAAAqk/CSgfSaz7oOk/s800/IMG_7571-2.jpg
ze
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_j2GQhRRyDEg/Sg776lXvC9I/AAAAAAAAAqo/aY6WrDo8TrA/s800/IMG_7614-3.jpg


no sharpening or pp for the above pictures. Notice the drastic difference in color. (possible that it's awb making things weird?)

This was the day I returned my 3rd Sigma (third copy still front focus) and traded up for a Zeiss. I really wanted a good copy, but I'm happier with my Zeiss now than I was with the Sigma. They're both sharp in the center but sigma's sharpness reaches further in the frame wide open, also i think it also controls halation(sp?) better.

Zeiss gives portraiture a great look. The color was something I wasn't expecting being my first Zeiss glass. I hadn't done much research before the trade, so I was pleasantly surprised by it.

[thatkatmat]

My garden is starting to produce some nice flowers. Thought I'd show off f2...

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyU8CRchDI/AAAAAAAALgI/h6sc3FNBOCI/s800/IMG_2446.JPG
aprox 100% crop
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyU3y3_vHI/AAAAAAAALgA/lSPubul2E00/s800/IMG_2446%20100%25%20crop.jpg

Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark II
ISO: 100
Exposure: 1/800 sec
Aperture: 2.0
Focal Length: 50mm

[thatkatmat]

My family, getting used to and making fun of Dads non stop shooting:)
f1.6
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyWQR2afVI/AAAAAAAALhw/2QgGY-hSsmM/s800/IMG_2504.JPG
f2.2
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyWFwlrHMI/AAAAAAAALhg/6TSKBVodhd0/s800/IMG_2496.JPG

[thatkatmat]

All at f2...
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyU_3A1HHI/AAAAAAAALgM/tkUjAS6-oTg/s800/IMG_2447.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyU1JO0X6I/AAAAAAAALf8/euhxuapEPqc/s800/IMG_2445.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyVZXtvjvI/AAAAAAAALgo/J-T2q3gIYO0/s800/IMG_2452.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyVReI2LDI/AAAAAAAALgg/eCubqrkL_j8/s800/IMG_2451%20bw.jpg

last one is at f1.6
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyWOiYjekI/AAAAAAAALhs/nbOFxOYzl-o/s800/IMG_2502.JPG

[dobygot]

Great pictures! Those are great examples of this lens. Did you have to dial in any focus offset in your 5d2 or is it set at 0 for your copy?

[thatkatmat]

Thanks, my copy is outstanding, I find myself very comfortable at f2, if you're very careful, f1.4 to f2 is very nice as well. This lens is not like an EF, when working at higher apertures you really have to take your time, the AF can be jittery (I've said this before) That's really the only fault I see in using this lens.
At first it was +10 or +15 (I think) but I have a 20D too so I sent it in for calibration, came back perfect, it's dialed in at zero on the 5Dmk2...:)

[agphotography]

Ahhh That really does look like solid quality.

I may get it someday. The 50 arrived the other day. It's decent enough. I can't expect perfection at 1.4 but it's usable for sure. I'm gonna go out with it today and try it on both the 5D and 40D and see what happens.

[Jman13]

More of my favorite subject:

Her first TRULY messy dinner...she wanted to feed herself, or not eat. Believe it or not, she got the vast majority of it in her mouth.
@ f/2.2:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_mess.jpg

After getting cleaned up:
@ f/2.0:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_hands.jpg

And knocking over the very nice block pyramid that my wife built for her:
@ f/1.4:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_blocktower.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Great shots, your little girl is beautiful :)

[joove]

Hah. Happy as a pig in a sty.

After going through two 5D's I finally got a 5DII mainly for it's AF micro calibration. Even without calibration, the 5D2 was driving the Sigma so much more accurately and repeatedly so than either of my previous 5Ds. They did something to improve the accuracy of the AF. A more dense AF pixel grid ?

I did spend a couple of hours calibrating the AF for the Sigma (Lensalign lite was used at around 6 ft). Once I got home however, ironically, the shots at the calibrated +7 were not great. So I started adjusting it bit by bit and started shooting things far and near and finally settled on +2. I am elated now. I really do owe sigma an apology. It was the combined tolerance thing.

Pardon the uninteresting photos. I have been real busy lately and have still been shooting around the house.

All Samples below at 1.4. Minor clarity bump and sharpening in LR2.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HisWTUjI/AAAAAAAAB5o/LeItkz86ovg/s800/Sigma50Samples-1.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HjCvEKqI/AAAAAAAAB5w/nBlyxY0knNw/s800/Sigma50Samples-2.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HkQfAv2I/AAAAAAAAB54/FTPKLW3u850/s800/Sigma50Samples-3.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HkwKBzKI/AAAAAAAAB6A/GVWnT0AuFAg/s800/Sigma50Samples-4.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HmAcaUSI/AAAAAAAAB6I/WQIfSTbmalw/s800/Sigma50Samples-5.jpg


http://lh5.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HmoQQRNI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/MMHhNtjYfMQ/s800/Sigma50Samples-6.jpg


http://lh4.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HnwYqQFI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/8XbMg9QNF-k/s800/Sigma50Samples-7.jpg


http://lh5.ggpht.com/_evDAuzH-D_0/Si4HoQA5jMI/AAAAAAAAB6g/D5PGvIB4N1Y/s800/Sigma50Samples-8.jpg

While I don't foresee myself shooting at 1.4 all the time (more like 1.6-2), it is real gratifying to know that a razor thin part of the image will be in superbly sharp focus. And, I feel I have my money's worth now. The focus is spot on for all distances far and near.

I am at peace now. The 5DII is superb and so is the Sigma on it. I am having an unexpected problem with this though. I find the Sigma living on the 5D and the 24-105 languishing in the bag. I purchased the 50 thinking it will be a specialty bokeh monster. Its turning into this versatile everyday lens.

[[Hyuni]]

Friend's wedding last week

During the rehersal
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3327/3609321848_1dfc634d51.jpg?v=0

The reception was extremely dimly lit (you can tell by my exif data) and I was surprised how well the photos came out.

College buddies... haha
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3636/3609422288_2de671f261.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2434/3608598291_25b8ab80e6.jpg?v=0

I love how well the photos turn out wide open for this lens!

[thatkatmat]

Some from last night
Converted from RAW in DPP, no other PP

@1.4
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD-qgKGevI/AAAAAAAAE3c/FS_omQNCWz4/s800/IMG_2764.JPG

@f4
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD5keQXovI/AAAAAAAAEyA/VO8TgVI_vuM/s800/IMG_2679.JPG

@1.4
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD6SBCpF1I/AAAAAAAAEy0/fpPZEE0D9Kk/s800/IMG_2692.JPG

@1.6
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD7PUeRmYI/AAAAAAAAEz4/EIsH5HL5reY/s800/IMG_2710.JPG

@2.8
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD92QPx_NI/AAAAAAAAE2o/Lp0qoM57h-w/s800/IMG_2752.JPG

[thatkatmat]

The flare control is amazing with this lens

@1.4
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD_Dk32-3I/AAAAAAAAE38/POCm_PH1ipw/s800/IMG_2772.JPG

@2.5
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD-I8mLmXI/AAAAAAAAE24/1T9vpLU7sDU/s800/IMG_2756.JPG

[joove]

^^ Love the mood of those photos.

to: thatkatmat: Is DPP your rawconverter of choice ? Also, when do you find yourself taking the Sigma 50 off your camera ? I am having a hard time doing it.

[thatkatmat]

Thanks Joove, was a pretty night last night, we live in Seattle so when spring and summer come along we try to get out of the house nearly every night after work.

Yeah, I got used to DPP before I bought LR, CS3 & CS4...About once every 2 or 3 months I try to convert with Bridge and PP in CS4, but I just can't get the results others seem to.....I've never taken a class or had a buddy close by to walk me through their workflow...and....I like the results I get with DPP:)

As far as when do I take this lens off? I'm guessing that was rhetorical, but ...it's my walkaround so it see's the most action. I use my 135L/ in tandom with the EX50 for walks like these sometimes, my 70-200 for sports or when the kids are running around in the yard and find myself using my 17-40 a lot for lanscapes and night shooting...

[LamontSanders]

I hate to say it...but I am parting ways with my Sigma 50. I always said the only reason I would move on would be an 85L...and I found one. I really like the 50 on the crop but I don't care for it on the FF (whereas 85 is about right to me). If anyone is checking the thread thinking about buying, I have a 50 for sale. A sad day indeed, but hopefully someone else can enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed it.

[joove]

As far as when do I take this lens off? I'm guessing that was rhetorical, but ...it's my walkaround so it see's the most action. I use my 135L/ in tandom with the EX50 for walks like these sometimes, my 70-200 for sports or when the kids are running around in the yard and find myself using my 17-40 a lot for lanscapes and night shooting...

Thanks for that. Work and stuff has been real busy and not much chance of shooting photos.I find that for shooting at home, the 50/1.4 never leaves the camera. I am forcing myself to start using the 70-200/2.8 more. It balances better on the 5DII than on the 5D. Since 70 isn't that much more than 50 :-), I am hoping I'll be fine with the focal range.

I hate to sell good glass, especially the ones I got for a great price even if I don't use it often. However, guilt strikes and I force myself to use them all.

[syntrix]

I hate to say it...but I am parting ways with my Sigma 50. I always said the only reason I would move on would be an 85L...and I found one. I really like the 50 on the crop but I don't care for it on the FF (whereas 85 is about right to me). If anyone is checking the thread thinking about buying, I have a 50 for sale. A sad day indeed, but hopefully someone else can enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed it.


I'm kinda in the same boat on FF. I love the SIGMALUX, but I think I would do better with a 24 or 35mm, but that's just my preference.

Unless I need some 70-200 reach, it the sigmalux shares about equal time with the 17-40

[lukeap69]

I was happy using my Sigma 50 on 40D but when I started using it with my 5D, I seem to like it better. Perhaps this is because most of my prime lenses on my film cameras are 50mm.

[markc34]

BUMP...
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3300/3634482968_a6101bcaa3_b.jpg

[joove]

5D MkII, ISO 1600 @ F1.4

[black_sephiroth]

I found an interesting review:

http://www.lenstip.com/177.1-Lens_review-Sigma_50_mm_f_1.4_EX_DG_HSM.html

--
bs

[Jman13]

Two more from over the weekend. First at f/1.4. The second I just thought was funny..I think that's at f/1.8 or so:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_aquarium.jpg

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_cheerio.jpg

[Jman13]

I found an interesting review:

http://www.lenstip.com/177.1-Lens_review-Sigma_50_mm_f_1.4_EX_DG_HSM.html

--
bs

That more or less exactly sums up my experience with this lens. AF is accurate, but does miss occasionally in low light...though far less than my Canon 50 f/1.4 did...and very, very good optics. Still lovin' my Siggy 50 after 3 months and 1200 frames with it.

[lukeap69]

It's almost glued to my 5D.

[Jeff81]

Two more from over the weekend. First at f/1.4. The second I just thought was funny..I think that's at f/1.8 or so:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_aquarium.jpg

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_cheerio.jpg

I love that second shot. Looks like your in the same mode as me where your camera aim is glued towards your child. I have a 3 month old and always seem to be taking pictures of her. They make so many fun expressions! My Sig 50 should arrive Friday. :)

[thatkatmat]

1.4
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ux3BqxhvvGM/SjD8Bw1tE-I/AAAAAAAAE04/fsp_T-mx_gs/s800/IMG_2725.JPG

[dissembled]

I wonder if the 50 for the Nikon Mount has AF issues also. I'm planning on replacing my 5D with the D700 in the future.

I'm guessing so. :'(

[thatkatmat]

I wondered that too, did some searches...it seems most of the problems are with the Canon mounts..

That'll be a sweet setup...D700/EX50

[weezerfan84]

I wonder if the 50 for the Nikon Mount has AF issues also. I'm planning on replacing my 5D with the D700 in the future.

I'm guessing so. :'(


There is or was a D700 and Sigma 50 for sale on this forum.

[thatkatmat]

Handheld, 1/13th @ f2 with my 5Dmk2
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/SiyVCXmaFFI/AAAAAAAALgQ/d-a4-zmxbnM/s800/IMG_2448%20bw.jpg

[Harleypugs]

I wonder if the 50 for the Nikon Mount has AF issues also. I'm planning on replacing my 5D with the D700 in the future.

I'm guessing so. :'(


I have a friend with this set up.....and he loves it. After playing with a D3 for a bit last weekend....I have to say the D700 would be killer...

[Jeff81]

Just received mine today. I'm liking it so far...

[royv]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2427/3637669511_fec168d9a4_o.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Lovely shot, cool how the wheat is leaning so much

[blackwize]

those are beautiful shots :)

[il Dottore]

Canon5DMkII+ "SigmaLux", ISO800, f/1.6, 1/6400s

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/688/img0035acer.jpg

[shimmishim]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2462/3644994461_101fd5df9f_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/shimmishim/3644994461/)

[blackmatch456]

Is this lens better than the canon 1.4?

[Tony-S]

The Canon may have a slight edge on focus speed, but for all other differences the Sigma is better.

[thatkatmat]

Is this lens better than the canon 1.4?

Yes, in most repects...

[thatkatmat]

Just received mine today. I'm liking it so far...

Lets see some more.....You still liking it? Took me a while to get the feel of this lens down....

[S-S]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2462/3644994461_00544e2ca8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/shimmishim/3644994461/)
this one's great but get rid of the blue blob at the bottom

[shimmishim]

this one's great but get rid of the blue blob at the bottom

fixed! thanks ;)

[Jeff81]

Lets see some more.....You still liking it? Took me a while to get the feel of this lens down....

Unfortunately I'm studying for the CA bar and don't have a lot of time to shoot right now. :( I'll try and get more posted soon though.

[thatkatmat]

Bar shmar, get to shootin"



:pKidding, good luck!

[sukceno]

crop

[agphotography]

Ok. So my canon 50 is sold pending payment, and I've decided to get the sigma.

I wouldn't mind getting a used one as I could save money. But if I buy new, are most of the dealers getting good copies these days? I'd probably order from B&H or Amazon

[weezerfan84]

Dealers probably don't test out the copies. You'll just have to get the lens and do your own testing. I got my Sigma for $400 as MS cashback; however, if you got through Amazon it will cost you $499. This lens is a gem and I enjoy it.

[shimmishim]

Ok. So my canon 50 is sold pending payment, and I've decided to get the sigma.

I wouldn't mind getting a used one as I could save money. But if I buy new, are most of the dealers getting good copies these days? I'd probably order from B&H or Amazon

I got mine about 5 months ago from 47th street camera and mine had a front focusing issuing that microadjustment couldn't fix. i sent mine into sigma and it's a whole lot better.

[weezerfan84]

^^ Got mine from there probably 3 or so months ago. I don't particularly see any issues yet. Haven't shot with it nearly as much as you guys have, but what I've shot I'm satified with. It's a nice walkaround prime that I use.

[jbkalla]

Both my 30mm & 50mm were fine, but I sent them in anyway. I'll probably sell the 30mm eventually, whenever I can afford a full-frame camera, and I figured it probably wouldn't hurt to have paperwork proving that Sigma had checked it.

[Harleypugs]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3414/3661128828_68ef3833ee_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3354/3661129124_37dc1a35b4.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Wow...Jon, you got one? That first shot is gorgeous...So...Whataya think?

[Harleypugs]

Yeah...got one. Still playing around.

Jon

[versedmb]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2427/3637669511_fec168d9a4_o.jpg

Love this shot.

[Photo13]

Heres two from yesterday

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3364/3663533492_e1f3173141_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3381/3663533100_26fa0d660a_o.jpg

[Yamaha451]

I just decided to give this lens another go, the first copy had issues with focus and softness wide open. But ever since I have been wondering if I had dismissed it too soon, without giving it a fair chance. There is something about the images that I can't explain...

Here's to hoping that my next copy blows me away!

[thatkatmat]

I like your style, the city shots in your Zenfolio are really nice (my town too :) )....Lets see some more with this lens...:)


Heres two from yesterday

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3364/3663533492_e1f3173141_o.jpg

[Dorman]

Yes more shots - I will probably try another copy of this lens as no other 50mm options are attractive. I was an early adopter and had an awful copy of the lens, but lately this thread is looking great.

[Yamaha451]

Just got my second copy of this lens. First one front focused 3mm, second one looks like it is more like 6mm FF. :cry: I've decided its not my camera, as my 85 1.8 is dead on accurate. Now I just have to decide if it is worth sending it, along with my camera, in to Sigma for calibration.

Why can't all lenses be perfect? It is a mystery.

[agphotography]

Im going to pick up the lens when I get back from my trip. It's from a member of FM, he says it's in perfect shape and has no focus issues. I'm so anxious to try it out with my 5D2!!!

[shimmishim]

Just got my second copy of this lens. First one front focused 3mm, second one looks like it is more like 6mm FF. :cry: I've decided its not my camera, as my 85 1.8 is dead on accurate. Now I just have to decide if it is worth sending it, along with my camera, in to Sigma for calibration.

Why can't all lenses be perfect? It is a mystery.

Just send the lens in. They don't need the camera body.

[aerosmith9110]

just bought mine a few hours ago.
1st copy was front focusing by 1 inch.
2nd copy the same
3rd copy a lot better prob off by 5mm
4th copy better than 3rd. to hard to call
Will be back at the distributor this sat to calibrate it to my body.

1st post btw.. :D
will try to post pictures later..

[Yamaha451]

Just send the lens in. They don't need the camera body.

Just ordered my 3rd lens to do a back to back comparison with #2. The better of the two will be sent to Sigma for a little TLC. Unless, of course, #3 is perfect. Muahaha. (I'm not holding my breath).

just bought mine a few hours ago.
1st copy was front focusing by 1 inch.
2nd copy the same
3rd copy a lot better prob off by 5mm
4th copy better than 3rd. to hard to call
Will be back at the distributor this sat to calibrate it to my body.

1st post btw..
will try to post pictures later..

I hope it works out for you. Post some pics when you get a chance!

[aerosmith9110]

Is this normal for a 3200 iso f1.4 on a low light environment? shutter speed at around 1/80 or 1/60
canon 40d
Just resized no PP /etc
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2656/3687535131_063c5bde96_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2564/3687527379_674fde7d25_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2675/3688328682_c44d836d39_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2462/3687515899_83712ecd9c_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2488/3687513401_ac2be819ec_o.jpg

[weezerfan84]

Where in the world did you focus on these. I think you shot well outside MFD, very high ISO, and WIDE OPEN. Shooting wide open like that looks pretty tough. You would have been better off pairing it up with a flash and stopping down a tad. I hardly ever shoot my Sigma wide open just because the DOF is very shallow.

[sukceno]

from live of bee
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2601/3687374329_e161a1c72f_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3635/3688172478_46e9a22c0b_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2512/3688093864_2a42757678_o.jpg

[aerosmith9110]

MFD? minimum docusing distance? i'm about 10 ft from them, yes shot 1.4 at very high ISO 3200/1600 i think

but so is this using 1/100 f1.4 iso 1600 but its kinda shop unlike those. but this had Florescent lights

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3659/3688758937_3cefe4d19f_o.jpg

does this mean brighter light sharper pictures? that big of a difference?

BTW, Sukceno nice.... ext tubes?

[shimmishim]

I think the problem with your earlier pictures is motion blur more so than anything else. You were shooting 1/30 to 1/80 which is at or below the shutter speed you should have been shooting at (typical rule of thumb is 1/ (crop factor x focal length) as the minimum speed). In your case, 1/80 should be the absolute minimum you should use. Even though you may have used it, it's obvious there's a lot of action / movement in the photos above, hence why 1/60 to 1/80 was not enough.

Also the depth of field is so narrow at 1.4 that if you don't focus perfectly, it'll be noticeable.

[thatkatmat]

I think the problem with your earlier pictures is motion blur more so than anything else. You were shooting 1/30 to 1/80 which is at or below the shutter speed you should have been shooting at (typical rule of thumb is 1/ (crop factor x focal length) as the minimum speed). In your case, 1/80 should be the absolute minimum you should use. Even though you may have used it, it's obvious there's a lot of action / movement in the photos above, hence why 1/60 to 1/80 was not enough.

Also the depth of field is so narrow at 1.4 that if you don't focus perfectly, it'll be noticeable.

I agree, for action you'll need to be up at 1/200th or 1/250th at the very least. That said, the sigmalux isn't the best lens to be shooting action with wide open, the HSM can be a bit jumpy and with the DOF so thin (about 6 inches at 10 ft.) you can expect a lot of OOF shots. How is it stopped down a bit? When I shoot my kids running around I stop it down to at least f2-2.8 and I get decent results.
When the light is as low as the conditions you were shooting, either bump up the ISO a little more so you can stop down or rock a flash:)

[aerosmith9110]

tnx guys ... newb here :)

[aerosmith9110]

above Pictures posted by me the siggy is front focusing...

Just had it calibrated... will try to post again as soon as a low light opportunity occurs.. :D

[thatkatmat]

above Pictures posted by me the siggy is front focusing...

Just had it calibrated... will try to post again as soon as a low light opportunity occurs.. :D

Must have been FF an awful lot, nothing is in focus in most of those shots....But, now that it's calibrated, keep the other issues in mind as you shoot and you should have a great performer.

[aerosmith9110]

hehe, most probobly my technique is flawed but the FF wouldn't also help.. :))

[Jman13]

Little hands learning from big hands (my 14 month old daughter and my wife):

@ f/1.4:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/piano_hands.jpg

[thatkatmat]

This is a beautiful shot Jordan^^

[thunnus]

f/1.4
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v687/thunnus/EOS%202009/IMG_6142_copy.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Crispy sharp at 1.4....very nice^^

[thunnus]

Crispy sharp at 1.4....very nice^^

Thanks! This my fourth copy of the Sigma. I posted my earlier results at the begining of the year which resulted in three returned copies due to various focus issues. At the time, I had not considered sending it in to Sigma for calibration but after reading some positive experiences with that, I decided to take another chance with this lens. Initially, I found this particular copy to be front-focusing but the halation that I had seen in previous copies was not so prevalent. I thought it was a good candidate for calibration and I mailed it in to Sigma along with my body. After calibration, it's still exhibiting slight front-focus but the results have been positive enough for me to stick with this lens. It may need one more trip back to Sigma to get it "just right".

[jbkalla]

Man, I love my Sigmas in all other ways, but why is there so many focus issues? I wonder what the percentage is? Both mine were fine, but I guess I never tested them with a guide, so who knows? In any case, you'd think accurate calibration at the factory would be less expensive than having even 2% get sent to the shop for recalibration. Or maybe not...

[zincozinco]

f/1.4
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v687/thunnus/EOS%202009/IMG_6142_copy.jpg

oh man when i see a photo like that I know why I love this lens. I just need to trust it. and look at this photo any time I want that 50L :) great shot!!!

[thatkatmat]

Well, to be honest and tongue and cheek at the same time....If that was shot with the 50L, her ears would be in perfect focus because of the shift in focus...

[[Hyuni]]

Don't know if I shared this one already, but I thought the bokeh was beautiful.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3327/3609321848_1dfc634d51.jpg

[Simply Ravishing]

Just bought this lens, super stoked about it
*subsrcibed*

[zincozinco]

Well, to be honest and tongue and cheek at the same time....If that was shot with the 50L, her ears would be in perfect focus because of the shift in focus...

Why is it that on the 50L it is "shift focus". Every other lens its just called "bad focus" back or front.... :)

[liclic]

really want to get one now

[Canonised]

I just bought this lens about two days ago.
It was a long way to get to this point. Sold my EF50mm f1.4 because it was just too soft wide open - that's where I shoot it all the time. Was contemplating a 50L until someone very kindly advised me to try the Sigma. BUT I tried several used ones and they were all awful in focussing. About 1 in 4 or 2 in 5 were just completely off focus. So I almost gave up until my fav retailer told me that a new shipment arrived which had solved that problem. Not believing him, I took my time to visit him. When I did, I was blown away by how much better the new shipment is compared to the older version of the lens. This time, its all spot on. No kidding. So this lens is a keeper and I have been shooting non stop the last few days with it - continually mesmerised with the accuracy AND the IQ. The bokeh is quite unusual. If you hit the sweet spot of the distance of subject from lens, the bokeh at f1.4 can be truly magical.

Check out these for size taken today. BTW Every single shot I made of the 50plus captures - was spot on sharp.

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s132/horolographer/IMG_7401web.jpg



http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s132/horolographer/IMG_7386web.jpg



http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s132/horolographer/IMG_7378web.jpg


http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s132/horolographer/IMG_7357web.jpg



Check out the bokeh on this
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s132/horolographer/IMG_7331web.jpg

[Aldo]

Just got this guy in the mail yesterday, here are some sample shots. Looks to me like I got a good copy, what do you guys think?

I just went outside to do some test shots and its really bright, both shots were at 1.4 my shutter speed maxed out at 1/8000th so they were very overexposed. I tried to fix it in Lightroom but I'll get some better shots later.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b146/crzyasco/IMG_0692.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b146/crzyasco/IMG_0695.jpg

Edit: Just found out my WB was still on Tungsten from another night hahaha, which is why the WB is so bad.

[agphotography]

Im going to pick up the lens when I get back from my trip. It's from a member of FM, he says it's in perfect shape and has no focus issues. I'm so anxious to try it out with my 5D2!!!

Ok to quote myself is a little strange, but I wanted to make mention of a frustrating ordeal.

The guy I mentioned on that post above decided to sell the lens to someone else before I could pick it up, needless to say I wasn't too thrilled at that point, but wound up finding another one that was also in mint condition. It just arrived today and is definitely front focusing wide open, I only have my 40D w/ me this weekend so that's all I have to test it on, but by the time I stop down to f/2.5 or f/2.8 it is sharp, and keeps getting sharper from there on out. between 1.4-2.2 (my most used range on a lens like this) I'm going to try doing a micro-adjustment on my 5D when I get it back.

Should I send it in to sigma? The guy I bought it from gave me the original receipt and it was only purchased in mid-May of this year.

[thunnus]

f/1.4
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v687/thunnus/EOS%202009/IMG_6485_copy-1.jpg

[lz7j]

More dogs... wide-open

http://nikkophotography.com/24L_temp/images/_MG_0594.jpg

http://nikkophotography.com/24L_temp/images/_MG_0596.jpg

http://nikkophotography.com/24L_temp/images/_MG_0641.jpg

http://nikkophotography.com/24L_temp/images/_MG_0663.jpg

[philcozz]

More dogs... wide-open

Nice quality to these. I've got my Sigma 50mm on its way. It seems that (optically speaking) it sits between Canon's 1.4 and 1.2 (and perhaps closer to the 1.2). I'll post some when I get it.

[zincozinco]

Great dog shots guys!! Gotta love the lens!!

[lz7j]

Nice quality to these. I've got my Sigma 50mm on its way. It seems that (optically speaking) it sits between Canon's 1.4 and 1.2 (and perhaps closer to the 1.2). I'll post some when I get it.


Just make sure there's a Sigma repair depot near you. It will probably require calibration. Mine needed 2... but the effort was worth it.

I also own the 50L, and yes, the sig 50 is closer to the L. I prefer the 50L but not by much.

[Yamaha451]

More dogs... wide-open



^ I hope my lens comes back looking like yours! Everything seems spot on. Great pics.

[aerosmith9110]

More dogs... wide-open





http://nikkophotography.com/24L_temp/images/_MG_0641.jpg

http://nikkophotography.com/24L_temp/images/_MG_0663.jpg

nice dogs.. but did you use the 50mm sigma on both this pictures? my exif viewer seems a bit off or I'm interpreting it wrong...


Exif Sub IFD

* Exposure Time (1 / Shutter Speed) = 1/1000 second = 0.001 second
* Lens F-Number/F-Stop = 14/10 = F1.4
* Exposure Program = aperture priority (3)
* ISO Speed Ratings = 100
* Exif Version = 0221
* Original Date/Time = 2009:07:08 15:26:40
* Digitization Date/Time = 2009:07:08 15:26:40
* Shutter Speed Value (APEX) = 9965784/1000000
Shutter Speed (Exposure Time) = 1/1000 second
* Aperture Value (APEX) = 970854/1000000
Aperture = F1.4
* Exposure Bias (EV) = 0/1 = 0
* Max Aperture Value (APEX) = 625/1000 = 0.63
Max Aperture = F1.24
* Metering Mode = pattern / multi-segment (5)
* Flash = Flash did not fire, compulsory flash mode
* Focal Length = 85/1 mm = 85 mm
* Original Subsecond Time = 46
* Digitized Subsecond Time = 46
* Focal Plane X-Resolution = 5616000/1459 = 3849.21
* Focal Plane Y-Resolution = 3744000/958 = 3908.14
* Focal Plane X/Y-Resolution Unit = inch (2)
* Custom Rendered = normal process (0)
* Exposure Mode = auto exposure (0)
* White Balance = auto (0)
* Scene Capture Type = standard (0)

? * Focal Length = 85/1 mm = 85 mm
? Max Aperture = F1.24


on the 2nd ..


Exif Sub IFD

* Exposure Time (1 / Shutter Speed) = 1/250 second = 0.004 second
* Lens F-Number/F-Stop = 12/10 = F1.2
* Exposure Program = aperture priority (3)
* ISO Speed Ratings = 100
* Exif Version = 0221
* Original Date/Time = 2009:07:08 15:38:03
* Digitization Date/Time = 2009:07:08 15:38:03
* Shutter Speed Value (APEX) = 7965784/1000000


* Exposure Bias (EV) = 0/1 = 0
* Max Aperture Value (APEX) = 625/1000 = 0.63
Max Aperture = F1.24
* Metering Mode = pattern / multi-segment (5)
* Flash = Flash did not fire, compulsory flash mode
* Focal Length = 85/1 mm = 85 mm
* Original Subsecond Time = 96
* Digitized Subsecond Time = 96
* Focal Plane X-Resolution = 5616000/1459 = 3849.21
* Focal Plane Y-Resolution = 3744000/958 = 3908.14
* Focal Plane X/Y-Resolution Unit = inch (2)
* Custom Rendered = normal process (0)
* Exposure Mode = auto exposure (0)
* White Balance = auto (0)
* Scene Capture Type = standard (0)


? * Lens F-Number/F-Stop = 12/10 = F1.2

? * Aperture Value (APEX) = 526069/1000000
Aperture = F1.2

? * Focal Length = 85/1 mm = 85 mm

? * Max Aperture Value (APEX) = 625/1000 = 0.63
Max Aperture = F1.24

[syntrix]

I read 85mm on the first

Camera Make: Canon
Camera Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Image Date: 2009:07:08 15:26:40
Flash Used: No
Focal Length: 85.0mm
CCD Width: NaNmm
Exposure Time: 0.0010 s (1/1000)
Aperture: f/1.4
ISO equiv: 100
White Balance: Auto
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: aperture priority (semi-auto)


Probably just an honest sorting mistake!

[aerosmith9110]

prob he used the 85L mk2 on some of the shots.. :D thought my exif viewer is wrong..

Just curious ... Do you guys crop the pics you post here? because the 1.4 dof is very thin if your at 15 ft. but its hard to auto focus on that distance already...

[lz7j]

prob he used the 85L mk2 on some of the shots.. :D thought my exif viewer is wrong..

Just curious ... Do you guys crop the pics you post here? because the 1.4 dof is very thin if your at 15 ft. but its hard to auto focus on that distance already...

Whoops, my bad! The IQ on both of these lenses are so similar that I often get confused. :o

Here are some more
http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_19.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_23.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_38.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_41.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_42.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_79.jpg

These are definitely shot /w the 50. EXIF is intact & images are straight from the camera /w default sharpening

[thatkatmat]

Wow, excellent work^^^

[aerosmith9110]

nice.
how far are those taken? are these cropped? because here is a sample of my F2 dof is too thin unlike yours its at 1.4.
or is this about right?



http://images.aerosmith9110.multiply.com/image/1/photos/8/1200x1200/254/IMG-3876.jpg?et=x8pJpadxdke%2CP2pgZZI8yg&nmid=268877143

[lz7j]

The images I posted are uncropped. I mainly use this lens on a full-frame camera, which gives it the illusion of 'more' bokeh.

It's my bread & butter lens... I have this lens on the Nikon mount as well.. where it's a little bit more accurate due to the multi-cam 3500FX af module ;)

Here are a couple more snapshots from this wonderful lens... 1.4-1.6

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/sig50/liz-1.jpg
(I can't get this lens to flare for the life of me)

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/sig50/mich1-3.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/sig50/temp-1-3.jpg

http://www.nikkophotography.com/ct/images/ct_56.jpg

[aerosmith9110]

how about your sharpening?

do the picture I posted above seem right to you in terms of DOF? also uncropped.

[lz7j]

how about your sharpening?

do the picture I posted above seem right to you in terms of DOF? also uncropped.

What do you mean exactly?

Use this http://www.dofmaster.com/dofjs.html

Are you wondering why the bottle is out of focus?

----
Sharpening is default in lightroom. When I export, I have sharpen for 'screen' set to minimal (for web) or 'glossy' set to standard (for print).

[aerosmith9110]

not wondering that th bottle is OOF but it seems you have more of the subject in focus at 1.4 compared to my f2! :D
update:

yes it is indeed more dof accd to DOF master..
Guess I know which body to buy on my next body upgrade!

[jacobsen1]

OK, I "broke down" and went for the canon 1.4 -> sigmalux upgrade!

only shot with it so far:
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0209.jpg

seems to be nice and sharp, especially for being wide open. I love the feel of this lens though. I know that doesn't effect the images at all, but this and my 24L feel very similar which makes me happy... :lol: I picked it up from adorama and go a free lens cap keep, cleaning kit and UV filter (non of which I'll use, but for free why not?). I did however forget to order a spare canon rear cap for it though (I was too excited I guess)... I just don't like how the siggy cap fits canon lenses when you start swapping gear around. They seem loose.

and one shot OF it:
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0215.jpg

[aerosmith9110]

1/60 so not so sharp... f1.4 on 40d
WB not adjusted
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/3688341554_7b74395f78_o.jpg

[Stealthy Ninja]

Despite me telling myself I wouldn't (I knew in my heart I would... darn heart :lol: ).

I went and "ordered" one of these today (the shop will get it in in about an hour and a half).

Just sold my 50mm 1.4 (CANON) which was pretty good, but I didn't like the bokeh that much. Went to the shop for a look... and something came over me, I had to get the Sigma.

Hope it turns out to be the right choice. :confused:

[Stealthy Ninja]

Update. Now I'm confused.

I tried it in the store. It seemed rubbish. Quite soft on my 5D.

Now I'm wondering if it's the 5D screen playing tricks on me.

I'll post a sample the shot was focused on the の Looks OK doesn't it back focusing maybe, but I could have slightly moved.... But then (sorry see next post)...

[Stealthy Ninja]

I focused on the Leica (both 100% crops, same photo, one with no sharpening one with - done in LR).

Is this too OOF for a prime? On the LCD of the 5D they looked bloomed quite a bit.

[ThomasOwenM]

Despite me telling myself I wouldn't (I knew in my heart I would... darn heart :lol: ).

I went and "ordered" one of these today (the shop will get it in in about an hour and a half).

Just sold my 50mm 1.4 (CANON) which was pretty good, but I didn't like the bokeh that much. Went to the shop for a look... and something came over me, I had to get the Sigma.

Hope it turns out to be the right choice. :confused:

I would have hung onto the Canon so that you can compare them side by side. I own them both, and so far prefer the Canon. The Sigma front focused BADLY when I first got it. It's a lot better after calibration, but my copy still doesn't do so hot from 1.4 to 1.8 like other people have claimed. It also sometimes fails to focus and instead makes a clanking noise. It's going back to Sigma one more time. I think I have a bad copy and am going to try to convince them to send another one. For any shoot that's mattered I've trusted the Canon 50 1.4 far more than the Siggy. This bums me out because I bought it hoping it would be an upgrade. It still might be depending on what Sigma does with my warranty claim. If the one I get back isn't better than the one I have now, the Siggy is going to be the fish I throw back.

Update. Now I'm confused.

I tried it in the store. It seemed rubbish. Quite soft on my 5D.

Now I'm wondering if it's the 5D screen playing tricks on me.

I'll post a sample the shot was focused on the の Looks OK doesn't it back focusing maybe, but I could have slightly moved.... But then (sorry see next post)...

It might be front or back focusing. This lens is known to do that. It was front focusing badly on my 20D before I sent the lens back for calibration.

[aerosmith9110]

went through 3/4 copies all front focusing.. then I had the last one calibrated to my body...

[jacobsen1]

I just go mine. Few issues.

First, is the hood loose for everyone? Mine doesn't click into place at any point and I found it cocked 30º at one point last night. Plus, it's a pedal hood, so 30º should have put it in the frame, but it didn't (hinting the hood is smaller than it could be).

Second, does the aperture SOUND loud when you guys stop down? It's actually a cool mechanical noise IMHO, but it's MUCH different than any other lens I've ever used... If it's fine, I like it, but it does make me wonder.....

third, mine front focused slightly. Basically, at 1.4, the back edge of the plane in focus was what I focused on. Once the shots are processed/sharpened they look OK (but you can tell it's sharper in front, you just might not pick up on the image being not perfectly sharp on the subject, ie you guys could tell, a mother couldn't ;)). But I have micro adjust, so I dialed in +10 and it's working much better now. Basically, what I focus on now is at the 1/3 mark, not centered, but some lenses/FLs do it that way anyway... I might dial it down to ~7ish if it's an issue, but now at least what I'm aiming at is nailed down.

It's just a bit of a bummer to get a lens you know is great optically, but have to wonder about it's AF calibration FROM THE FACTORY.... Why? Can't they test these better? The front element is sexy as hell though and their boxing/caps/case are all nice than they were a few years ago.

(don't mind the color on these, my work computer isn't setup for 5Dii RAWs and LR did something with the profiles, the background is sharpened and bordered, the 100% crop is untouched)

focused on sarasa which IS sharp, it's just at the very back edge of the DOF...
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0218.jpg

focused on the tip of the cube, which is again sharp, but JUST....
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0227.jpg

focused on his face, see how the arms of the chair are slightly sharper?
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0255.jpg

focused on her ear, her hand and hair are better, ear is at the back edge, maybe past.
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0262.jpg

for these last two, focus is on his face which looks sharp, but notice how his shirt/chest is ever so slightly sharper...
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0264.jpg

http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/wp-content/gallery/sigma-50mm-1-4/img_0267.jpg

so, like I said, it's just slightly off. With the adjustment I'm hoping it's better but I'll have to wait to test it some more.

[thatkatmat]

Send it in, it looks to be front focussing, mine did that on my 5Dmk2 as well, almost the exact same situation, I had mine dialed in with microadjust a littl better than yours....But I own a 20D too and wanted it to be spot on for both...Sent it in....You can see the results I posted earlier in this thread....And my flickr folder for the calibrated copy (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7740778@N02/sets/72157612255946931/)

An example wide open after calibration
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3393/3259476410_322d4630b1_b.jpg

and 100% crop
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3387/3258647393_65f01cfd82_b.jpg

Focussed on the edge of the loopy thing that holds the bar

[jacobsen1]

those examples are all BEFORE I adjusted it... my only reason for sending it in would be for resale purposes or if I were to let my wife use it (on the XSi)?

and what about your hood/aperture, any of the same issues?

[thatkatmat]

Ahhh, I see....No, my aperture doesn't make a sound that I've noticed and the hood snaps on tight....Good luck Ben, Love your work

[shimmishim]

my hood is fine... but i just recently noticed something.

can someone look at their sigma and focus on an object that's beyond infinity and then check to see if the distance window actually says infinity? i noticed that mine does not focus to infinity but half a centimeter or so before infinity.

i also noticed that the focus seems to be hit or miss at infinity but tack sharp when within the MFD to infinity.

Not sure if it's the lens... pretty sure it's not the body.

[thunnus]

My hood works properly but it does take a firm twist to lock it into place.

[agphotography]

My hood snaps on very snugly, there is no play at all. Also my apertures make no noise whatsoever.

My copy requires about a +13 or 14 (still adjusting) to get anything remotely sharp at f/1.4
I'm likely to send it in to sigma however because it's absolutely unusable on my 40D.

[jacobsen1]

:lol: @ my hood comment... I wasn't going far enough to actually snap it in place. It's quite nice how firm it snaps on once I realized that.... :confused:

[lz7j]

You shouldn't have to 'micro-adjust' this lens (or any lens for that matter).
Send it in!

Ben, your lens is FF by a tad... not as bad compared to mine before. That lady's nose would have been sharp instead. lol.

[syntrix]

You shouldn't have to 'micro-adjust' this lens (or any lens for that matter).
Send it in!

Ben, your lens is FF by a tad... not as bad compared to mine before. That lady's nose would have been sharp instead. lol.

Agreed! Dunno if you saw my prior comments... 100% spot on, 1D series, 40D and two 5D bodies. I got my 5D2 and had to dial in 10 microfocus (can't remember if it was + or -)

[jacobsen1]

yeah, those shots are all PRE adjustment. It's NOW spot on. I'll have to test it on my wife's XSi to see how it does there. If it's ALSO FFing there, I'll send it in I guess, but if not I'll let the camera that can adjust adjust, and the one that can't be good...

[Stealthy Ninja]

Like the guy said in the shop I was testing it in:

95% of customers have to send it to Sigma to get it fixed.


It's a VERY common problem according to this dude (and Kinefoto is a very good/popular shop in Hong Kong).

This is TERRIBLE. I don't care HOW "good" a lens is, if you have to send it in to get fixed right after buying it, what the heck is the point?!

I'd rather save and get a 50L just to boycott Sigma's terrible QQ issue with this lens.

Sure you can use AF micro adjust, but I want to be able to get it reasonably sharp on my 5D, not have to bring out my 5Dmkii with me all the time.

Shame Sigma, shame.

Well, I really wanted a 35L anyway :rolleyes: :lol:

[lz7j]

Like the guy said in the shop I was testing it in:



It's a VERY common problem according to this dude (and Kinefoto is a very good/popular shop in Hong Kong).

This is TERRIBLE. I don't care HOW "good" a lens is, if you have to send it in to get fixed right after buying it, what the heck is the point?!

I'd rather save and get a 50L just to boycott Sigma's terrible QQ issue with this lens.

Sure you can use AF micro adjust, but I want to be able to get it reasonably sharp on my 5D, not have to bring out my 5Dmkii with me all the time.

Shame Sigma, shame.

Well, I really wanted a 35L anyway :rolleyes: :lol:

The 50L is not that much better and has its own quirks as well (the reason why I got a sig 50 as well). At least these 'issues' with the sig is correctable. Turn around for the repair was 4 days the first time and 1 hour the second (repair center is 5mins away from where I work). Like I said, worth the effort.

[Stealthy Ninja]

The 50L is not that much better and has its own quirks as well (the reason why I got a sig 50 as well). At least these 'issues' with the sig is correctable. Turn around for the repair was 4 days the first time and 1 hour the second (repair center is 5mins away from where I work). Like I said, worth the effort.

Yeah, but the "effort" shouldn't be necessary right?! If most people have to repair it to get it to focus correctly... you get what I mean. :)

Oh and you're lucky you work 5 minutes from the repair centre. :lol: Also... you got it repaired twice?! What's up with that?! ???


:)


BTW what's the 50L quirks?

[philcozz]

Mine's due today. I'll post some samples when it arrives.

[lz7j]

Yeah, but the "effort" shouldn't be necessary right?! If most people have to repair it to get it to focus correctly... you get what I mean. :)

Oh and you're lucky you work 5 minutes from the repair centre. :lol: Also... you got it repaired twice?! What's up with that?! ???


:)


BTW what's the 50L quirks?


First time, it was front focusing at close distances. When I got it back, I tested it there and it couldn't focus beyond 20' - infinity.

50L quirks, well, first off, I've tried 6 copies of this lens (I have friends on this forum who can vouch for all the hassles I had to go through)... It took me 3 months to finally get a decent working copy straight from Canon. Due to the 50L's inherent design, it has 'focus shift' issues when used near MFD-4' and the lens stopped down past 1.8-2.0. That to me is ridiculous.
I trust the sig's AF over the Canon. On the other hand, my other Canon primes are superior to the sig 50... maybe I'm just an anti-50L

[Stealthy Ninja]

First time, it was front focusing at close distances. When I got it back, I tested it there and it couldn't focus beyond 20' - infinity.

50L quirks, well, first off, I've tried 6 copies of this lens (I have friends on this forum who can vouch for all the hassles I had to go through)... It took me 3 months to finally get a decent working copy straight from Canon. Due to the 50L's inherent design, it has 'focus shift' issues when used near MFD-4' and the lens stopped down past 1.8-2.0. That to me is ridiculous.
I trust the sig's AF over the Canon. On the other hand, my other Canon primes are superior to the sig 50... maybe I'm just an anti-50L

It seems annoyingly hard to get a good 50mm prime.

85 you can choose the 85 1.8 or 85L (both are good, one is obviously more expensive). 24mm has it's choices and 35mm has the 28 1.8 (close) 35 f/2 and 35L. All of which are OK (35 f/2 isn't great, but whatever). Then 100mm you have the 100 f/2, 100 2.8 macro and the 135L (a bit longer, but still in that range IMHO). Then at 200 you have the 200 2.8L (great lens) 200 2.8L IS and the ol' 200 1.8.

50 is Canon's weak spot IMHO. The Nifty is OK and cheap, but sucks in quality. The 50 1.4 is good, but the bokeh is a bit ugly. Now the 50L has problems too. Time for a new 50mm lens Canon. ;)

[philcozz]

Well, using a focus test chart my new Sigma 50mm required +18-20 adjustment for front-focusing. Just a couple of wide-open shots from around the house (post-adjustment) shot as RAW with basic exposure, WB, and levels in Aperture (no sharpening added):

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/5953/img7114.jpg

100%:
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/2252/screencaptureqxw.jpg

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/2272/img7108.jpg

100%:
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/2104/screencapture1.jpg

Seems ok to me, as I imagine with a standard amount of sharpening added, these f/1.4 shots would be quite fine. Too bad about the +20 adjustment (I guess), but this seems to be a pretty common adjustment number.

[jacobsen1]

so of you owners with a camera that has the adjustment... would you send it in to be adjusted or just use the adjustment you have available in camera? I'm not worried about it at all on my 5Dii (the body I'll be using it with most of the time) but eventually I plan on getting a 1Dii'N' and what then? Also, what if I ever want to sell it? Sure my shots will be sharp.... but only because of the adjustment?

How hard is it to send it in?
Where does it go, how expensive is it, and who picks up the shipping?

[agphotography]

I'm going to send it in personally because I can't use the lens on my 40D, I too was thinking of picking up a 1DmkIIN eventually so that would also be a problem.

I contacted sigma and they instructed me to send it to the NY center. It looks like I'll be paying shipping, I'm not sure there will be any cost involved for calibrating the lens as it is under warranty.

[thatkatmat]

If it's under warranty it should be gone about a week and shipped back. The only cost will be the cost of sending it to NY (which is where I shipped mine) It's totaly worth it....Is it lame that you have to do this? ......He!! yes....but what you get back is a great 50mm prime....More useful to me than any of the 50L's I've owned:):)

[jacobsen1]

someone post up the phone number? (yes I'm that lazy today)

[agphotography]

If it's under warranty it should be gone about a week and shipped back. The only cost will be the cost of sending it to NY (which is where I shipped mine) It's totaly worth it....Is it lame that you have to do this? ......He!! yes....but what you get back is a great 50mm prime....More useful to me than any of the 50L's I've owned:):)

a Week? I hope that is the case. The whole reason I'm delaying it is because sigma quoted me a 4-6 week turn-around time. Not fun.

[93octane]

I just got mine and it needs +15 on my 5D II. On my 5D it terrible everything is out of focus, which means I won't be able to use it on my 5D.

I don't want to blame the camera because my 5D II performs awesome with most of my lenses, but this Sigma at +15 the out of focus rate is much higher. I'm going to keep on tweaking it and hopefully get it dialed in.

at normal view the pictures at 1.4 - 2.8 are wicked sharp, once I zoom in to %50 the pictures start to get soft.