Are you a photographer looking for a high-quality wide-angle lens to take your landscape, architecture, or interior photography to the next level? Look no further than the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens, designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras. In this review, we will explore the features, performance, and overall value of this lens.
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN is a wide-angle zoom lens designed for Sony E-mount cameras. It was introduced in 2021 as part of Sigma’s Contemporary line of lenses, which are designed to offer a balance of performance, portability, and affordability. With a focal length range of 16-28mm and a maximum aperture of f2.8, this lens is ideal for landscape, architecture, and interior photography, as well as other creative uses.
Design and Build Quality
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens is well-designed and built to last. It features a metal mount, a weather-sealed construction, and a high-quality finish. The lens is compact and lightweight, weighing in at just 610 grams. It is 89.5mm long and has a diameter of 75mm, making it easy to handle and carry around.
The lens features a zoom mechanism that operates smoothly and precisely, allowing for easy framing and composition. The focus ring is also well-designed, with a smooth and accurate manual focus action.
Optical Performance
Sharpness and Contrast
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens delivers excellent sharpness and contrast throughout its zoom range. At 16mm, the lens is sharp and detailed across the frame, with minimal distortion and vignetting. As you zoom in, the sharpness remains excellent, with only a slight drop-off towards the edges of the frame. Overall, the lens produces images with excellent clarity and detail, even at wider apertures.
Distortion and Vignetting
Like many wide-angle lenses, the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN exhibits some distortion and vignetting, especially at wider focal lengths. However, these issues are easily corrected in post-processing, and the lens includes built-in correction profiles for popular Sony E-mount cameras.
Chromatic Aberration
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN exhibits minimal chromatic aberration, even in challenging lighting conditions. This is thanks to the lens’s advanced optical design, which includes several special elements that minimize color fringing and other types of distortion.
Autofocus and Manual Focus
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN features a fast and accurate autofocus system, making it easy to capture sharp and detailed images. The autofocus is also quiet and smooth, which is useful for video recording. The lens also features a manual focus override function, which allows you to make precise adjustments to the focus even when using autofocus.
Compatibility and Accessories
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN is compatible with all Sony E-mount cameras, including full-frame and APS-C models. It also features a built-in filter holder that accepts gel filters up to 150mm in size. Additionally, Sigma offers a range of accessories for this lens, including lens hoods and caps
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent optical performance with high sharpness and contrast
- Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around
- Weather-sealed construction for added durability and protection against the elements
- Fast and accurate autofocus system, suitable for both photo and video shooting
- Built-in filter holder for added convenience
Cons
- Some distortion and vignetting at wider focal lengths, although easily corrected in post-processing
- No image stabilization, which may be a drawback for some users
- Higher price point compared to other wide-angle zoom lenses
Conclusion
The Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a high-quality wide-angle zoom lens for their Sony E-mount cameras. With its excellent optical performance, compact and lightweight design, and weather-sealed construction, this lens is suitable for a wide range of photographic applications, including landscape, architecture, and interior photography.
While it is priced higher than some other wide-angle zoom lenses, the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN’s performance and build quality justify the investment for serious photographers who demand the best.
FAQs
- Is the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens compatible with all Sony E-mount cameras?
- Yes, the lens is compatible with all Sony E-mount cameras, including full-frame and APS-C models.
- Does the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens have built-in image stabilization?
- No, the lens does not have built-in image stabilization.
- Is the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens weather-sealed?
- Yes, the lens is weather-sealed for added protection against the elements.
- Can the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens accept filters?
- Yes, the lens has a built-in filter holder that accepts gel filters up to 150mm in size.
- Is the Sigma 16-28mm f2.8 DG DN lens a good choice for landscape photography?
- Yes, the lens is an excellent choice for landscape photography, thanks to its wide-angle focal length range and excellent optical performance.