I've been shooting one of these magnificent creations for months now. I have yet to miss a shot. AF is blazing fast and always spot on with my a7r ii. It has the lowest vignetting of any 85mm I've ever used, very bright, and pristinely sharp from 1.4 upwards. It's a gem of a lens.
My favorite lens by far, I use it on my 90D and RP, and it's performs exceptionally on both, no calibration needed. Mine is razor sharp at 1.4, and rarely shoot stopped down from that.
AF issue is mainly because A. Canon. B. old 6D body. Sigma art series never had a focusing issue on any recent nikon body. This lens is tested in DXOMARK to be the NEW #1 of any lens, beating the former king Otus 85mm
Owen Jiang that is a flawed argument. The 6d Af is amazingly accurate when using the center square. I also own the 20mm & 50mm Art lenses, they both focus well including on that archaic 6D. I tried many copies of the 24mm & 35mm Art lenses and never found one that focused reliably even with the USB dock. Sigmas are just a crapshoot, even first party companies have lemons, believe me I have firsthand experience with them too, Sigma just happens to be worse. But I do love my two art lenses and have had no issues with years (50mm) of use. Current or former owner of D3, D700, D800, 6D, 5Dmk3, and 5Dmk4.
I always take AF Accuracy for lenses with a grain of salt. The Camera body has a lot more to do with it than the lens. I'm pretty sure fewer shots would be missed with 1DXmk2 or a D5.
Daniel Jones Also never noted in this was whether a proper focus calibration was done. It's something I do religiously now that I have the automated version on my 70D from Magic Lantern. I thought my 18-35 had a focus problem until I did that and now it is almost always perfectly pin sharp. I then did it with my Canon 85mm f/1.8 and realized even that copy was off and this did wonders. It's so important to understand the value of such body/lens calibration.
Everyone complaining about the autofocus lol yes the focus is horrible out of the box, this thing needs to be calibrated with the dock, it doesn't take no more than an hour to calibrate it perfectly, once calibrated this thing is brutal, can't beat this lens for the price and the sheer amount of quality, you can easily buy a new one for around $1050 now and the dock is 60 bucks so make it an even 11hundred, calibrate it your self and your done, if you can't calibrate a lens then go buy an original canon or nikon one and spend close to double. You guys hating to much 😑
I went with the Tamron 85 1.8 and I must say I woulnd't wish for anything sharper wide open. My copy was front focusing, but this was easily solved with a simple AF fine tune. You guys considering the Signa should definatly give the Tamron a look.
@DJaySplitSecond In several head to head comparisons, the sigma is just tenny tiny bit sharper. However, the tamron has better chromatic aberrations control and thus better contrast, has image stabilization, better build quality, more heavy duty weather sealing, softer bokeh, better minimum focusing distance. It also focuses more quickly and more accurately. All of that is combined in a smaller, lighter and much cheaper package. So you really can't go wrong with it.
I very rarely have issues with focus with this lens on my Nikon D750. When I do its usually my fault, Focus is fast and very accurate. This is a very sharp lens that renders beautifully, I have no buyers remorse with this lens
Excellent review as always Chris. Really like you testing the AF performance. I spent a couple of thousand dollars on Sigma lenses. Regret it now and have been moving all my kit over to just Canon lenses. Will not make this mistake again..
Biased? He bought the lens with his own money and made an honest review.. Guess both of you were just looking for someone to boost your low self confidence on your buying choices.
Great review as always Chris, I love the sigma 85mm art I was slightly worried about the weight but you really do get used to. I've had no AF issues with this lens on my D810. Infact all my lenses are now sigma
Great review! I've bought this lens recently to pair with my Nikon DSLRs. Although its AF performance isn't perfect, hit rate is far better than what you revealed. Anyway I'm more than happy with this lens and the image quality it offers considering its price.
I used this lens on the Canon 6D Mark II. Although it is a bit of hit and miss with the AF when it got it right it was sharp with amazing bokeh. Now I changed to Sony A7 III with the MC-11 Sigma adapter and all I can say is I'm sooooo glad I did. It's sharp and beautiful 100% of the time. What a combination made in photographers' heaven! Shame it's so heavy...but hey!
On Canon mirrorless all Sigma Art AF's are spot on, you don't miss a beat. I had 50 Art, when it was on the 6D I was missfocussing around 50% of shots, to the point I was ready to sell it for desperation; after switching to R6, I don't remember ever missing focus in thousands of stills. Mirrorless AF is simply perfect, also with old adapted lenses; I have no RF lenses, just adapted lenses, they work even better then they did on DSLR, there's no need to buy RF lenses, the only one I really envy is the 28-70 f2, the others are no better then DSLR alternatives, I then sold the 50 art and bought the 40 Art, which is equal or superior to the RF 50 f1.2 while costing a third of the price.
Hi Chris: I had to send my Sigma "18-35mm F1.8 DC ART" for warranty because, you guessed it; autofocus problems. It was very poor, and undependable. The folks at Sigma U.S.A. in New York had it back in my hands in 11 days. I like the lens, its build quality as-well-as the terrific shots I can get. I'm pleased with Sigma service but if something happens again to the focus, I'll just use it manually. I've done some video with it and it seems well suited in spite of not having IS. I don't think Sigma lenses are over-priced, but I believe the Canon "L" series to be a bit dear for the quality. Anyway, that's my "thruppence."
+Christopher Frost Photography I took a more critical look at my Sigma 50 and I see a bit of AF play (not as much as you showed though, no where near it, only of a few mm at around 10 feet, might not even notice if not for the tell-tale signs of longitudinal CA, I suspect that it is less because of the different body), but I don't think the Sigma is at fault here actually. At least, when testing some similar focal length Canon lenses at as close of an aperture as possible (e.g. 40mm pancake @f/2.8) I got similar results. I think I'm just running up against the limits of the focusing system for fine detail here and noticing it more because it's an f/1.4 lens and that we are scrutinizing it more heavily because it is a Sigma. After all, if it is really the fault of the lens, then how can we explain the perfectly good live view AF? Fault of the lens can be front or back focused, but those can be corrected with the dock (if changing with focal length) or the MFA in camera (all that is needed for most cases, flat shift with focus distance). This sort of random front or back focus points to the AF system accepting things as sharp that are not because it can't tell the difference (and these systems actually do have some extra challenges as they reach very wide apertures).
Finally tried out the dock, turns out I was on 1.00 firmware, current is 1.01, after updating while there are still occasionally slight misses it is crushing my Canon 40mm f/2.8, which is a lens that isn't known for any AF trouble.
i have the 85 art and haven't found the auto focus to miss as much as you have. Mine nails roughly 90%+ . I have the older Sigma 85/1.4 which wasn't great with AF
Sadly it's a known issue on dslrs with older sigma lenses which tend to miss focus rather consistently. The issue is solved however when you move to mirrorless due to the nature of the systems.
I think it was already mentioned, but the AF problem has probably something in common with the 6D you use. Having the older 85/1.4 ex dg I had the same AF precision as you and I thought I will get rid of it soon since it's piece of **** .. however, I updated on 5D4 and now it is one of the most used lens I have with 90% correctly focused images - using the one shot AF, continous doesn't work well in not moving subjects ... And I honestly believe, it will be even better on the Art ...
I don't think that's the issue. The centre focus point of the 6D is excellent - and the camera had no problem focusing accurately with a Canon 85mm f/1.2, Tamron 45mm f/1.8 or indeed most other lenses I've ever tested.
Ok, maybe the problem was that I wasn't using the center point much, but it is still very brave to call the 6D center point excellent ... Let's call it usable ... Sometime ...
@Martin Kusyn Sigma lenses were renowned for their AF issues, this reputation is slowly getting erased by the assistance in AF provided by the mirrorless systems. Aside from that, tamron were always better at reverse engineering the AF from canon and nikon.
Chris, how come you are not reviewing vintage Minolta lens that can be adapted to you Sony A7RII camera. I heard there are some hidden gems out there for amature and hobby photographers.
Hey Chris, can you make a 6D review in 2017, like what do you think of a body that old, i'm planning to change from APS-C to FF in the next 5 months. and i can get a used 6D in my country for about 1070$ and below 20 000k shutter count. Thanks!
thank you very much for this review. i have been waiting to hear about this lens review from you and then decide if i should buy this lens or not. thanks for making this review. i have made up my mind now :) i love your videos. i am watching your channel since 2014 and i love your channel. you have the best photography channel on youtube about lenses :)
Hope you will do a review of the new 135mm Sigma Art lens in the future. This review like your others was very good. I have the Canon 85mm f1.2 already and am happy with it. But the 135 interests me as well as the soon to be released 14mm ART. Thanks again Christopher!
Great Video! I have been wanting to purchase this lens for a long time now.. I just am wondering if the focusing issue would still be the same if I use mirrorless camera? I currently have Eos R and would the focusing problem similar to the DSLR shown on the video? Thank you!
On Canon mirrorless all Sigma Art AF's are spot on, you don't miss a beat. I had 50 Art, when it was on the 6D I was missfocussing around 50% of shots, to the point I was ready to sell it for desperation; after switching to R6, I don't remember ever missing focus in thousands of stills. Mirrorless AF is simply perfect, also with old adapted lenses; I have no RF lenses, just adapted lenses, they work even better then they did on DSLR, there's no need to buy RF lenses, the only one I really envy is the 28-70 f2, the others are no better then DSLR alternatives, I then sold the 50 art and bought the 40 Art, which is equal or superior to the RF 50 f1.2 while costing a third of the price.
Christopher-What disadvantages would you say if this is used on a Canon 70D? Additionally, was it sharp right out the box? Did you have to calibrate it and if so any tips to make the process easier? Thanks!
Calibration is an issue about autofocus when used through the viewfinder. When shooting in liveview it should be fine. To get an idea of its performance on an APS-C camera, like your 70D, look at the APS-C test results :-)
I was longing for your review! It surely is a beast of a lens, in any field. Although the price is steep I do plan to get this lens for awesome portraiture. I would like that Sigma would also bring us a new 17-50 f/2.8 with optical stabilization and the 70-200 f/2.8 optically stabilized. OS is crucial for video work on the go. About the autofocus let's not forget that is still backward engineered to work with Canon or Nikon cameras, but hopefully it's just software issues that might be overcome in the future! Great review as always!
I have noticed that Sigma lenses do need to be calibrated, I use Reikan and that's always fixed any issues. Although my sigma lenses have in the past had focusing issues, after calibration they've never had a problem. Also on my Sony camera the Sigma lenses have never missed focus, although mirrorless cameras are more accurate (when they finally find focus :P).
On Canon mirrorless all Sigma Art AF's are spot on, you don't miss a beat. I had 50 Art, when it was on the 6D I was missfocussing around 50% of shots, to the point I was ready to sell it for desperation; after switching to R6, I don't remember ever missing focus in thousands of stills. Mirrorless AF is simply perfect, also with old adapted lenses; I have no RF lenses, just adapted lenses, they work even better then they did on DSLR, there's no need to buy RF lenses, the only one I really envy is the 28-70 f2, the others are no better then DSLR alternatives, I then sold the 50 art and bought the 40 Art, which is equal or superior to the RF 50 f1.2 while costing a third of the price.
Hey Christopher! Do you know if this lens works well with R5C in video mode? I had issues with the tamrons of this world in the past so wonder if this one works OK. The 160-600 EF seems to work fine, I assume this one as well?
J. Ohara the lens Focusses wide open so it cant improve, you just might not See it as everything seems in focus at f11. with a 5dsr or something though, zooming in, youll always spot inacurracy making high sharpness pretty point less then
Hi Chris, I've recently bought Sigma Art 24 and there were serious AF problems - very similar to these in review (I need to return). I also work on 6D. Isn't it a wider problem with all Art lenses? Or maybe there's something wrong with 6D? By the way - great review - as always! :)
Hello Christopher, could you try to calibrate the lens with Sigma USB Lens Dock? Probably, precise calibration will solve the problem with the focusing... I really hope it will! Also it might help with the 35 and 50 f/1.4 lenses as well. However I read it could take a few hours to calibrate the whole focusing scale precisely, but it definitely worth it if it helps!
Well, I own 35 1.4 Art and when it seems that AF misses completely, the truth is that it's just a heavy front focus, but THERE IS a place where the lens is focused on. Therefore, it's possible to calibrate it with the USB dock. Did you try to place anything in front of focusing area and behind it to see where was the actual focus?
It's only a calibration issue when the lens focuses /consistently/ past where it should, or before. When it hits focus 80% of the time but misses 20%, then that's not a calibration issue.
I've read that it is indeed a calibration issue, as in this case it only misses when focusing on particular distances and hits all the other ones. Anyway, please let me get back to you after I try my usb dock which I've already ordered :)
Nice review. Please make a video comparing this lens with the new Sigma 135mm f1.8 , whenever it is available. Looking forward to see full body shots in landscape mode with this kind of special lenses. Thanks Chris.!
Christopher hello I would buy this purpose but at the moment it is too expensive what do you think of the old 85 mm 1.4 and what are the differences.thanks
Christopher, what do you think of this lens vs the samyang XP 1.2? It's a debate that I've been going back and forth between. interested in your opinion, especially because DXOMARK hasn't tested the XP 85mm 1.2 yet
Hi Chris, The DSLR Version of this lens has auto-focus issues when shooting through optical view finder as you said in the video. Does this lens have the same issues with mirror-less cameras also (e.g. EOS-R, M6 mar ii using adaptor) ???
If you really want to Test what the Sigma 85mm F1.4 can deliver test it on a Body like a 5ds or 5dsr. The lens shines on a 5ds or 5dsr because of that extreme resolution even on DXO Mark the 1.4 Art on a 5dsr has a rating above 85mm f1.2.
i have heard of AF inconsistency with all models of Sigma ART lenses so i dont think this one will be any different ...the Dock often not help as its is random.. sometimes front sometime back focus...most of the time OK ..so you cannot adjust for it ....you can set the speed of AF with the dock...if set slower the more accurate it is ...maybe this lens is set to fast ..but the problem do seem lens dependent ...or some owners not looking close
Actually plenty of real reviewers mention this issue so it's a bit of a sigma thing now. However, not all reviewers are born equal and some will just skip important issues for the sake of headlines.
Try shooting with this lens on a Sony @ Series with internal image stabilization in the camera and multiple focus points. IM sure it will improve your opinion of the lens.
Dear Mr.Frost, I was watched big part of Your great lens reviews during previous months. I have one specific question for You. Does new offical firmwares for Canon DSLR cameras contain previous firmware versions as computer hardware or You must add step by step, firmware by firmware to settle detected errors and bugs ?! I have EOS 5D MkI and EOS ES 650D which still contain original factory softwares 1.00. Canon offers on main website more than 5 newer firmware versions for both models. Same questions applies for offical firmwares for Sigma Art lenses. Thanks in advance for answer !! :-) Best Regards !! Sincerely, Bronislav Radulović journalist
I'm torn choosing between this Sigma and the new Samyang XP. I mainly do manual focus, but am adamant about image quality. Are they neck to neck as far as IQ is concerned?
Your review is much appreciated but regrettably, I'm not convinced that your experience of its auto-focus can be relied upon. Other reports I've read have not identified issues with the auto-focus accuracy. In the test performed by the Photography Blog of November 15, 2016 it was reported - "When it comes to auto-focusing, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM zoom isn't the quickest performer, taking about 0.35 seconds to lock onto the subject when mounted on the Canon EOS 5DS R that we tested it with. We didn't experience too much "hunting", either in good or bad light, with the lens accurately focusing almost all of the time.". My concern is not auto-focus but its cost.
its the AF problems that Sigma have that keep from upgrading my Canon 50mm F1.4usm to the sigma 50 1.4 ART...or any sigma....i did think about the Tamron 45mmF1.8VC but i have the canon 35mm F2IS in i think the FL is just to close ....if only Tamron had made it 50 or 55mm.....i am guessing making a 35 and 45mm it will keep costs down with R&D and common components
An interesting question I must ask when watching this review: Is it better then the 50mm 1.4 Art? What should I buy?? It seems that the 85mm does not worth the extra money, am I right?
I am shooting 5D mark III FF. I am not sure that they are with different purposes. At least not as uncomparible much. I think that in a matter of portraits and for general purposes the 50mm 1.4 is better.. I can buy the 50mm for 720 USD.
But it absolutely looks that the AF of the 85mm is actually bad! 20% not focused?? That is too bad for a lens cost as much as this one. Considering the fact that in 20% of the time it won't focus maybe i should buy a manual focus Samyang 85mm f/1.2 a crazy lens!
Thanks for the review - and the one of the Samy XP. I decided to go for the XP for my Sony a6000 & a6300. I also own the Samy 1.4/35, FE 1.4/50 AF, 1.4/85 and 2.0/135 and love them all.
Hello Christopher, I am enjoying your reviews as I really like your different approach to photography but in this instance I believe you are wrong. I was about to buy the Sigma 85mm and while trying both the Sigma & the Tamron in Yodobashi Camera (Tokyo), I realized that the Sigma was showing extreme chromatic aberration in all my test shots (I was shooting the Nikon logo in other test cameras around). The lens while super sharp as obviously it was already calibrated by the staff, so did the Tamron. You can also notice the green fringing in your chart test. I ended buying the Tamron 85mm VC because of the difference in price, CA, the weight and the more common filter size. Also the difference between f1.4 and f1.8 is not so relevant in my opinion. Perhaps you should take some more photos with high contrast to double check that... I salute you. ps. I own the 35mm f1.4 Art among many other lenses and I consider myself a Sigma fanboy :)
Own one, using it with D750. AF isn't great, in good light 20% about misfocused, but if light gets worse, than even 40-60% misfocused. Sharpness is superb, as dxomark stated, sharpest lens ever! Sold 85mm 1.4G. This is better for me.
Hmmm. How could the sharpness vary in the center from FF to DX? The DX/FX comparison is only useful in the corners because DX crops off the corners. There must be a calibration issue with your DX camera.
hello, thanks for the review. I just took 2 test pics on my newly 85mm art. I notice pretty heavy chromatic aberration on my subjects. I am using canon 5Div. first picture is a car. there is heavy purple casting on black trims. 2nd pic is a gold plated fan. the purple casting appeared right on the focus point. this is my first sigma lens so I bit disappoint
+samsaint11 Yes, but it is not an EF mount camera. Within EOS Canon currently maintains 3 different mounts, EF, EF-S, and EF-M. EF mount is their FF cameras and FF lenses. EF-S are their APS-C DSLR cameras and lenses, the lens side includes a blocking piece of plastic that prevents mounting them on EF (FF) mount camera bodies, the camera side is almost the same as EF but is adjusted to allow those lenses to be mounted, it has the same flange distance as EF mount. EF-M is Canon's mirrorless APS-C mount, the M3 has this mount, it is used for their M camera line and lenses. This mount has a shorter flange distance and thus requires an adapter to use EF or EF-S lenses. Viable combinations of mounts are listed below. EF Body + EF Lens EF-S Body + EF-S Lens EF-S Body + EF Lens EF-M Body + EF-M Lens EF-M Body + Adapter + EF Lens EF-M Body + Adapter + EF-S Lens The adapter passes through the electrical signals and maintains AF and electronic aperture control, etc.... More info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lens_mount en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF_lens_mount en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF-S_lens_mount en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF-M_lens_mount en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EOS
Some ART lenses need to be corrected and calibrated with the Sigma USB dock. Very rarely there are also ART lenses with bad focus like my Sigma 35mm f1.4 A in the beginning. Only sending it back to Sigma will solve this issue. Old cameras can be an issue, too.
Hi Christopher, thank you very much for your amazing channel. I would like to ask you for some advices, maybe a video on how to do manual focus appropriately. Cheers!
Hi Christopher, 6D is crap on AF. You should try it on 5D Mk III, IV or 1Dx, is flawless! I was a little confused after i watched your review, my copy of the lens was on the way, but i got so relaxed after i tested the beast on my cameras. Few days ago i got a brand new 6D, it was really cheap, and now i understand your problem, AF system seems very similar with the old 5DMkII, which was crap. You made me curious so i tried 24mm 1,4 art, 35mm 1.4 art and 50mm, all suffer of the same stuff on 6D and flawless on everything else. Hope this is useful! Cheers!
No, the 6D is not 'crap on AF' at all. It may not be fast to AF, and it may not have many AF points. But its central autofocus point is as sensitive and accurate as anything on any other camera.
Christopher Frost Photography because is cross-type and sensitive at 5.6, not really at 2.8? On paper Christopher, we are all equal, you might be right. It was just my opinion, you might be absolutely right. Cheers!
Christopher Frost Photography Cool, thanks for the advice. I will definitely treasure your opinion, from now on, when I will buy a new lens. Keep doing a great job reviewing lenses! Cheers!
I check your reviews anytime I'm looking at a lens. Thank you so much for all you do. Much appreciated
I have bought this lens its very sharp, the results in RAW are stunning. wow !! thanks for the initial review.
I've been shooting one of these magnificent creations for months now. I have yet to miss a shot. AF is blazing fast and always spot on with my a7r ii. It has the lowest vignetting of any 85mm I've ever used, very bright, and pristinely sharp from 1.4 upwards.
It's a gem of a lens.
My favorite lens by far, I use it on my 90D and RP, and it's performs exceptionally on both, no calibration needed. Mine is razor sharp at 1.4, and rarely shoot stopped down from that.
Can i use the lens of the canon 77d body?
@jhmishu6226 yes you can, as long as it's the EF mount
Does it need an adapter on an RP?
@zakessa4070 yes it does
AF issue is mainly because A. Canon. B. old 6D body. Sigma art series never had a focusing issue on any recent nikon body.
This lens is tested in DXOMARK to be the NEW #1 of any lens, beating the former king Otus 85mm
never had a problem with 35mm art for 3 years. optically delicious, AF snap-on. I cant say much about new 85mm tho.
Owen Jiang did they test the samyang 1.2 85?
Owen Jiang that is a flawed argument. The 6d Af is amazingly accurate when using the center square. I also own the 20mm & 50mm Art lenses, they both focus well including on that archaic 6D. I tried many copies of the 24mm & 35mm Art lenses and never found one that focused reliably even with the USB dock. Sigmas are just a crapshoot, even first party companies have lemons, believe me I have firsthand experience with them too, Sigma just happens to be worse. But I do love my two art lenses and have had no issues with years (50mm) of use. Current or former owner of D3, D700, D800, 6D, 5Dmk3, and 5Dmk4.
I always take AF Accuracy for lenses with a grain of salt. The Camera body has a lot more to do with it than the lens. I'm pretty sure fewer shots would be missed with 1DXmk2 or a D5.
Daniel Jones Also never noted in this was whether a proper focus calibration was done. It's something I do religiously now that I have the automated version on my 70D from Magic Lantern. I thought my 18-35 had a focus problem until I did that and now it is almost always perfectly pin sharp. I then did it with my Canon 85mm f/1.8 and realized even that copy was off and this did wonders. It's so important to understand the value of such body/lens calibration.
Everyone complaining about the autofocus lol yes the focus is horrible out of the box, this thing needs to be calibrated with the dock, it doesn't take no more than an hour to calibrate it perfectly, once calibrated this thing is brutal, can't beat this lens for the price and the sheer amount of quality, you can easily buy a new one for around $1050 now and the dock is 60 bucks so make it an even 11hundred, calibrate it your self and your done, if you can't calibrate a lens then go buy an original canon or nikon one and spend close to double. You guys hating to much 😑
I did not have a problem with the auto focus out of box
What dock are you talking about ?
I went with the Tamron 85 1.8 and I must say I woulnd't wish for anything sharper wide open. My copy was front focusing, but this was easily solved with a simple AF fine tune.
You guys considering the Signa should definatly give the Tamron a look.
I have a Tamron 70-200 and it’s my most fav lens, so you saying the Tamron 85 1.8 may be better than the Sigma 85 1.4?
@DJaySplitSecond In several head to head comparisons, the sigma is just tenny tiny bit sharper. However, the tamron has better chromatic aberrations control and thus better contrast, has image stabilization, better build quality, more heavy duty weather sealing, softer bokeh, better minimum focusing distance. It also focuses more quickly and more accurately. All of that is combined in a smaller, lighter and much cheaper package. So you really can't go wrong with it.
I miss some of your weird lenses reviews. I have a suggestion for you about vintage lenses, pentacon 29mm f/2.8 or even zeiss Jena 50mm 2.8
Wow, thanks Chris, just saw this lens on DXO today it tops their lens chart. Now I am watching you reviewing it, what a treat.
I very rarely have issues with focus with this lens on my Nikon D750. When I do its usually my fault, Focus is fast and very accurate. This is a very sharp lens that renders beautifully, I have no buyers remorse with this lens
It would be nice to see review of tamron 85mm 1.8 vc...
It has heavy vignetting up to f/2.8 which is terrible. That's the reason why I did not buy it.
Excellent review as always Chris. Really like you testing the AF performance. I spent a couple of thousand dollars on Sigma lenses. Regret it now and have been moving all my kit over to just Canon lenses. Will not make this mistake again..
no, it is horrible review
+xmeda kinda biased wasn't it.....evaluation wasn't thorough.
Biased? He bought the lens with his own money and made an honest review.. Guess both of you were just looking for someone to boost your low self confidence on your buying choices.
+Joe's Photo & Video Channel smiles....your assertion is laughable at the least but truly respect your position per your posting....!!
+Joe's Photo & Video Channel I don't think he did buy it, most of the gear he borrows, though he has bought some.
Great review as always Chris, I love the sigma 85mm art I was slightly worried about the weight but you really do get used to. I've had no AF issues with this lens on my D810. Infact all my lenses are now sigma
cyberchickgeek did you calibrate it with the Sigma dock?
Great review! I've bought this lens recently to pair with my Nikon DSLRs. Although its AF performance isn't perfect, hit rate is far better than what you revealed. Anyway I'm more than happy with this lens and the image quality it offers considering its price.
Great video! Are you reviewing the Tamron 85mm F/1.8 VC as well?
Just Do it! :D
I used this lens on the Canon 6D Mark II. Although it is a bit of hit and miss with the AF when it got it right it was sharp with amazing bokeh. Now I changed to Sony A7 III with the MC-11 Sigma adapter and all I can say is I'm sooooo glad I did. It's sharp and beautiful 100% of the time. What a combination made in photographers' heaven! Shame it's so heavy...but hey!
Dustin Abbot had similar AF issues with 5D Mark IV, so it would seem it's not just the 6D some commentary has suggested.
yea alot of the SIGMA lenses unfortunately have problems with AF particularly canon mounts. My buddy had a 18-35 and had similar issues with AF.
One of the best lenses' reviewers. Keep it up, Chris.
Is this autofocus issue present in mirrorless full frame cameras through the evf?
On Canon mirrorless all Sigma Art AF's are spot on, you don't miss a beat. I had 50 Art, when it was on the 6D I was missfocussing around 50% of shots, to the point I was ready to sell it for desperation; after switching to R6, I don't remember ever missing focus in thousands of stills. Mirrorless AF is simply perfect, also with old adapted lenses; I have no RF lenses, just adapted lenses, they work even better then they did on DSLR, there's no need to buy RF lenses, the only one I really envy is the 28-70 f2, the others are no better then DSLR alternatives, I then sold the 50 art and bought the 40 Art, which is equal or superior to the RF 50 f1.2 while costing a third of the price.
@@ritrattoaziendale Great insight, thanks.
can u pls post some comparison portrait shots against canon 85 f1.2
Hi Chris: I had to send my Sigma "18-35mm F1.8 DC ART" for warranty because, you guessed it; autofocus problems. It was very poor, and undependable. The folks at Sigma U.S.A. in New York had it back in my hands in 11 days. I like the lens, its build quality as-well-as the terrific shots I can get. I'm pleased with Sigma service but if something happens again to the focus, I'll just use it manually. I've done some video with it and it seems well suited in spite of not having IS. I don't think Sigma lenses are over-priced, but I believe the Canon "L" series to be a bit dear for the quality. Anyway, that's my "thruppence."
+Christopher Frost Photography I took a more critical look at my Sigma 50 and I see a bit of AF play (not as much as you showed though, no where near it, only of a few mm at around 10 feet, might not even notice if not for the tell-tale signs of longitudinal CA, I suspect that it is less because of the different body), but I don't think the Sigma is at fault here actually. At least, when testing some similar focal length Canon lenses at as close of an aperture as possible (e.g. 40mm pancake @f/2.8) I got similar results. I think I'm just running up against the limits of the focusing system for fine detail here and noticing it more because it's an f/1.4 lens and that we are scrutinizing it more heavily because it is a Sigma. After all, if it is really the fault of the lens, then how can we explain the perfectly good live view AF? Fault of the lens can be front or back focused, but those can be corrected with the dock (if changing with focal length) or the MFA in camera (all that is needed for most cases, flat shift with focus distance). This sort of random front or back focus points to the AF system accepting things as sharp that are not because it can't tell the difference (and these systems actually do have some extra challenges as they reach very wide apertures).
Finally tried out the dock, turns out I was on 1.00 firmware, current is 1.01, after updating while there are still occasionally slight misses it is crushing my Canon 40mm f/2.8, which is a lens that isn't known for any AF trouble.
Mr.chris! I wait this lens and your review. Thank you! and Happy new year!
Hello Christ, Could you please comparison video between this Sigma Art 85 1.4 and Canon RF 85 1.2 ??
I was considering this lens over canon 85mm 1.4 but you just changed my mind.
Thank you so much.
This Sigma lens is meant to be sharper but the Canon's image stabilization is a big asset IMO
I'm thinking about getting an 85mm lens should I go with the sigma or samyang???
i have the 85 art and haven't found the auto focus to miss as much as you have. Mine nails roughly 90%+ . I have the older Sigma 85/1.4 which wasn't great with AF
Sadly it's a known issue on dslrs with older sigma lenses which tend to miss focus rather consistently. The issue is solved however when you move to mirrorless due to the nature of the systems.
I think it was already mentioned, but the AF problem has probably something in common with the 6D you use. Having the older 85/1.4 ex dg I had the same AF precision as you and I thought I will get rid of it soon since it's piece of **** .. however, I updated on 5D4 and now it is one of the most used lens I have with 90% correctly focused images - using the one shot AF, continous doesn't work well in not moving subjects ... And I honestly believe, it will be even better on the Art ...
I don't think that's the issue. The centre focus point of the 6D is excellent - and the camera had no problem focusing accurately with a Canon 85mm f/1.2, Tamron 45mm f/1.8 or indeed most other lenses I've ever tested.
Ok, maybe the problem was that I wasn't using the center point much, but it is still very brave to call the 6D center point excellent ... Let's call it usable ... Sometime ...
@Martin Kusyn Sigma lenses were renowned for their AF issues, this reputation is slowly getting erased by the assistance in AF provided by the mirrorless systems. Aside from that, tamron were always better at reverse engineering the AF from canon and nikon.
Chris, how come you are not reviewing vintage Minolta lens that can be adapted to you Sony A7RII camera. I heard there are some hidden gems out there for amature and hobby photographers.
please review the Tamron 70-200 f/2.8
im gonna save for this lens, big time love my Sigma 35mm f1.4 Art (canon) no backfocus or AF issues
Hey Chris, can you make a 6D review in 2017, like what do you think of a body that old, i'm planning to change from APS-C to FF in the next 5 months. and i can get a used 6D in my country for about 1070$ and below 20 000k shutter count. Thanks!
Can I use for canon 1500d?
I just got this lens AND WOW! its absolutely fantastic !!
thank you very much for this review. i have been waiting to hear about this lens review from you and then decide if i should buy this lens or not. thanks for making this review. i have made up my mind now :) i love your videos. i am watching your channel since 2014 and i love your channel.
you have the best photography channel on youtube about lenses :)
Image at 01:07 Why is the background so ugly on the left. What's happening? Looks like a mirage effect.
Hope you will do a review of the new 135mm Sigma Art lens in the future. This review like your others was very good. I have the Canon 85mm f1.2 already and am happy with it. But the 135 interests me as well as the soon to be released 14mm ART. Thanks again Christopher!
Great Video! I have been wanting to purchase this lens for a long time now..
I just am wondering if the focusing issue would still be the same if I use mirrorless camera?
I currently have Eos R and would the focusing problem similar to the DSLR shown on the video?
Thank you!
On Canon mirrorless all Sigma Art AF's are spot on, you don't miss a beat. I had 50 Art, when it was on the 6D I was missfocussing around 50% of shots, to the point I was ready to sell it for desperation; after switching to R6, I don't remember ever missing focus in thousands of stills. Mirrorless AF is simply perfect, also with old adapted lenses; I have no RF lenses, just adapted lenses, they work even better then they did on DSLR, there's no need to buy RF lenses, the only one I really envy is the 28-70 f2, the others are no better then DSLR alternatives, I then sold the 50 art and bought the 40 Art, which is equal or superior to the RF 50 f1.2 while costing a third of the price.
Christopher-What disadvantages would you say if this is used on a Canon 70D?
Additionally, was it sharp right out the box? Did you have to calibrate it and if so any tips to make the process easier? Thanks!
Calibration is an issue about autofocus when used through the viewfinder. When shooting in liveview it should be fine. To get an idea of its performance on an APS-C camera, like your 70D, look at the APS-C test results :-)
May i use this lens with r6 mark ii ?
Nice review as usual Chris, thanks !
I was longing for your review! It surely is a beast of a lens, in any field. Although the price is steep I do plan to get this lens for awesome portraiture.
I would like that Sigma would also bring us a new 17-50 f/2.8 with optical stabilization and the 70-200 f/2.8 optically stabilized. OS is crucial for video work on the go. About the autofocus let's not forget that is still backward engineered to work with Canon or Nikon cameras, but hopefully it's just software issues that might be overcome in the future!
Great review as always!
I have noticed that Sigma lenses do need to be calibrated, I use Reikan and that's always fixed any issues. Although my sigma lenses have in the past had focusing issues, after calibration they've never had a problem. Also on my Sony camera the Sigma lenses have never missed focus, although mirrorless cameras are more accurate (when they finally find focus :P).
Is the problem with AF through the viewfinder still an issue on mirrorless systems?
Shouldn't be the case as mirrorless tend to correct AF issues by the way they function.
On Canon mirrorless all Sigma Art AF's are spot on, you don't miss a beat. I had 50 Art, when it was on the 6D I was missfocussing around 50% of shots, to the point I was ready to sell it for desperation; after switching to R6, I don't remember ever missing focus in thousands of stills. Mirrorless AF is simply perfect, also with old adapted lenses; I have no RF lenses, just adapted lenses, they work even better then they did on DSLR, there's no need to buy RF lenses, the only one I really envy is the 28-70 f2, the others are no better then DSLR alternatives, I then sold the 50 art and bought the 40 Art, which is equal or superior to the RF 50 f1.2 while costing a third of the price.
hello there I plan to buy the sigma f/1.4 to mount on the body of the nikonn d810 what do you think? please give some thoughts, thanks
Sounds good to me. See my reviews to find out what I think of lenses
Hey Christopher! Do you know if this lens works well with R5C in video mode? I had issues with the tamrons of this world in the past so wonder if this one works OK. The 160-600 EF seems to work fine, I assume this one as well?
how about Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM?
How bad was the AF when stopped down? Just as bad or better?
J. Ohara the lens Focusses wide open so it cant improve, you just might not See it as everything seems in focus at f11. with a 5dsr or something though, zooming in, youll always spot inacurracy making high sharpness pretty point less then
Hi Chris, I've recently bought Sigma Art 24 and there were serious AF problems - very similar to these in review (I need to return). I also work on 6D. Isn't it a wider problem with all Art lenses? Or maybe there's something wrong with 6D? By the way - great review - as always! :)
Hai chris. Which one the sharp one?? Sigma 85mm or Samyang 85mm??
Hello Christopher, could you try to calibrate the lens with Sigma USB Lens Dock? Probably, precise calibration will solve the problem with the focusing... I really hope it will!
Also it might help with the 35 and 50 f/1.4 lenses as well. However I read it could take a few hours to calibrate the whole focusing scale precisely, but it definitely worth it if it helps!
It wasn't a calibration issue, I'm afraid, but a consistency one.
Well, I own 35 1.4 Art and when it seems that AF misses completely, the truth is that it's just a heavy front focus, but THERE IS a place where the lens is focused on. Therefore, it's possible to calibrate it with the USB dock. Did you try to place anything in front of focusing area and behind it to see where was the actual focus?
It's only a calibration issue when the lens focuses /consistently/ past where it should, or before. When it hits focus 80% of the time but misses 20%, then that's not a calibration issue.
I've read that it is indeed a calibration issue, as in this case it only misses when focusing on particular distances and hits all the other ones. Anyway, please let me get back to you after I try my usb dock which I've already ordered :)
Did the dock help?
Nice review. Please make a video comparing this lens with the new Sigma 135mm f1.8 , whenever it is available. Looking forward to see full body shots in landscape mode with this kind of special lenses.
Thanks Chris.!
It'll be a while until that video comes but I might compare the sharpness, yes
Christopher hello I would buy this purpose but at the moment it is too expensive what do you think of the old 85 mm 1.4 and what are the differences.thanks
Haven't tried the older version unfortunately. I hear it's nice but the autofocus accuracy is apparently even more of a problem
Christopher, what do you think of this lens vs the samyang XP 1.2? It's a debate that I've been going back and forth between. interested in your opinion, especially because DXOMARK hasn't tested the XP 85mm 1.2 yet
aftter actually watching the video, i'd say i have my answer. thanks for the review chris!
please review the new Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM
i like that you get it straight to the point :)
Your videos are always very good. Does this lens have Vibration Control or stabilization control?
Nope
Oh well, it’s a pretty high tag and no VR dam.
Hey, great channels for lenses :made me get my sigma 17-50 2.8. But what about your bodys? 70D/6D /M3? Could be a good video idea!
Thanks for your review. Your videos are always helpful.
Why they make the filter size so big. All my filter is 82mm.
Great review as always thanks for posting
Hi Chris,
The DSLR Version of this lens has auto-focus issues when shooting through optical view finder as you said in the video.
Does this lens have the same issues with mirror-less cameras also (e.g. EOS-R, M6 mar ii using adaptor) ???
No. With mirrorless cameras it will be accurate
Nice images good review -thanks for your efforts.. Best wishes!
If you really want to Test what the Sigma 85mm F1.4 can deliver test it on a Body like a 5ds or 5dsr. The lens shines on a 5ds or 5dsr because of that extreme resolution even on DXO Mark the 1.4 Art on a 5dsr has a rating above 85mm f1.2.
Great idea! Now all I need is for you to buy and send me a 5Ds, and I can test it.
I am a Fan of your channel and trust me if i were in UK i would have gladly given you my camera. That would have been a honor for me.
Ah thanks! I am in the middle of deciding what new FF camera to buy. It really is just a question of money for me. All the best
I wonder if the AF inaccuracies are copy specific. I've not heard any other reviewer mention this. Thanks Chris!
i have heard of AF inconsistency with all models of Sigma ART lenses so i dont think this one will be any different ...the Dock often not help as its is random.. sometimes front sometime back focus...most of the time OK ..so you cannot adjust for it ....you can set the speed of AF with the dock...if set slower the more accurate it is ...maybe this lens is set to fast ..but the problem do seem lens dependent ...or some owners not looking close
Actually plenty of real reviewers mention this issue so it's a bit of a sigma thing now. However, not all reviewers are born equal and some will just skip important issues for the sake of headlines.
question, Chris: do you do lens calibration on your canon cameras for each lens you test to make sure it's not front or back focusing?
If there's an AF issue then I'll investigate. But if the AF is inconsistent, then it's not an issue with calibration.
Try shooting with this lens on a Sony @ Series with internal image stabilization in the camera and multiple focus points. IM sure it will improve your opinion of the lens.
Love the review! Would you go for this or the canon 85mm f/1.4L? The L is around £500 more so not a huge difference in price.
Sigma, definitely; cheaper and sharper.
Dear Mr.Frost,
I was watched big part of Your great lens reviews during previous months.
I have one specific question for You. Does new offical firmwares for Canon DSLR cameras contain previous firmware versions as computer hardware or You must add step by step, firmware by firmware to settle detected errors and bugs ?! I have EOS 5D MkI and EOS ES 650D which still contain original factory softwares 1.00. Canon offers on main website more than 5 newer firmware versions for both models. Same questions applies for offical firmwares for Sigma Art lenses.
Thanks in advance for answer !! :-)
Best Regards !!
Sincerely,
Bronislav Radulović
journalist
can you please review the new canon ef 70-300mm f/4-5.6 is ii usm
Any chance to see your Tamron 85 review?
Not yet although I do hope to do one
any info on the bokeh ball quality and micro-contrast specifications?
For Wedding Cinematography Which one will be better..
6D Vs 80D...
Do I should Go for 6D cuz its Full frame...
I'm torn choosing between this Sigma and the new Samyang XP. I mainly do manual focus, but am adamant about image quality. Are they neck to neck as far as IQ is concerned?
John Ros please do yourself a favor and consider the Tamron, it's phenomenal really
The Tamron 85 1.8? I don't really need image stabilization but I'll look into the reviews.
Would you recomend sigma 85mm 1.4 over canon 85mm 1.4 for video ? Thanks
The Canon has IS so for video I think it's better because gitters are way more visible at 85mm than 35 for example :/
@@whosjozikolnik Ok thanks 👍
Which is sharper samyang xp 85mm or sigma Art 85mm
is it compatible with canon 90D?
All pics of Cardigan and surrounds... Do you live there? I know the place very well :)
Your review is much appreciated but regrettably, I'm not convinced that your experience of its auto-focus can be relied upon. Other reports I've read have not identified issues with the auto-focus accuracy. In the test performed by the Photography Blog of November 15, 2016 it was reported - "When it comes to auto-focusing, the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DG HSM zoom isn't the quickest performer, taking about 0.35 seconds to lock onto the subject when mounted on the Canon EOS 5DS R that we tested it with. We didn't experience too much "hunting", either in good or bad light, with the lens accurately focusing almost all of the time.". My concern is not auto-focus but its cost.
Well, that was just my experience. Maybe other people had better copies of the lens to test - who knows.
Hi Christopher, could you please make a review for the 'new' Tamron 90 mm f2.8 macro? That'd be great!
its the AF problems that Sigma have that keep from upgrading my Canon 50mm F1.4usm to the sigma 50 1.4 ART...or any sigma....i did think about the Tamron 45mmF1.8VC but i have the canon 35mm F2IS in i think the FL is just to close ....if only Tamron had made it 50 or 55mm.....i am guessing making a 35 and 45mm it will keep costs down with R&D and common components
An interesting question I must ask when watching this review: Is it better then the 50mm 1.4 Art? What should I buy?? It seems that the 85mm does not worth the extra money, am I right?
Are you shooting FF or APSC?
Kfir Luzon they're different focal lengths with different purposes.
I am shooting 5D mark III FF. I am not sure that they are with different purposes. At least not as uncomparible much. I think that in a matter of portraits and for general purposes the 50mm 1.4 is better.. I can buy the 50mm for 720 USD.
Kfir Luzon if you want an all around lens get the 50mm. If need something to primarily shoot portraits get the 85mm.
But it absolutely looks that the AF of the 85mm is actually bad! 20% not focused?? That is too bad for a lens cost as much as this one. Considering the fact that in 20% of the time it won't focus maybe i should buy a manual focus Samyang 85mm f/1.2 a crazy lens!
Is there any 85mm 1.8 good and sharp lens for apsc cameras only?
Like sigma 18-35..
Thanks for the review - and the one of the Samy XP. I decided to go for the XP for my Sony a6000 & a6300. I also own the Samy 1.4/35, FE 1.4/50 AF, 1.4/85 and 2.0/135 and love them all.
Hello Christopher, I am enjoying your reviews as I really like your different approach to photography but in this instance I believe you are wrong. I was about to buy the Sigma 85mm and while trying both the Sigma & the Tamron in Yodobashi Camera (Tokyo), I realized that the Sigma was showing extreme chromatic aberration in all my test shots (I was shooting the Nikon logo in other test cameras around). The lens while super sharp as obviously it was already calibrated by the staff, so did the Tamron. You can also notice the green fringing in your chart test. I ended buying the Tamron 85mm VC because of the difference in price, CA, the weight and the more common filter size. Also the difference between f1.4 and f1.8 is not so relevant in my opinion. Perhaps you should take some more photos with high contrast to double check that... I salute you.
ps. I own the 35mm f1.4 Art among many other lenses and I consider myself a Sigma fanboy :)
Own one, using it with D750. AF isn't great, in good light 20% about misfocused, but if light gets worse, than even 40-60% misfocused. Sharpness is superb, as dxomark stated, sharpest lens ever!
Sold 85mm 1.4G. This is better for me.
Hmmm. How could the sharpness vary in the center from FF to DX? The DX/FX comparison is only useful in the corners because DX crops off the corners. There must be a calibration issue with your DX camera.
It's because there's a huge difference in pixel density between FX and DX
great review (as always). any chance you could review the samyang 24mm tilt-shift lens sometime?
Everyone how you think this lens and tamron 85.8vr lens? what is better than the other?
By the way excellent review
super presentation congratulations , keep it up
why in live view focus every time?
hello, thanks for the review. I just took 2 test pics on my newly 85mm art. I notice pretty heavy chromatic aberration on my subjects. I am using canon 5Div. first picture is a car. there is heavy purple casting on black trims. 2nd pic is a gold plated fan. the purple casting appeared right on the focus point. this is my first sigma lens so I bit disappoint
Why are you using an adapter for the Canon M3?
How else would you put it on an M3?
Isnt the M3 an EOS camera
+samsaint11 Yes, but it is not an EF mount camera. Within EOS Canon currently maintains 3 different mounts, EF, EF-S, and EF-M. EF mount is their FF cameras and FF lenses. EF-S are their APS-C DSLR cameras and lenses, the lens side includes a blocking piece of plastic that prevents mounting them on EF (FF) mount camera bodies, the camera side is almost the same as EF but is adjusted to allow those lenses to be mounted, it has the same flange distance as EF mount. EF-M is Canon's mirrorless APS-C mount, the M3 has this mount, it is used for their M camera line and lenses. This mount has a shorter flange distance and thus requires an adapter to use EF or EF-S lenses. Viable combinations of mounts are listed below.
EF Body + EF Lens
EF-S Body + EF-S Lens
EF-S Body + EF Lens
EF-M Body + EF-M Lens
EF-M Body + Adapter + EF Lens
EF-M Body + Adapter + EF-S Lens
The adapter passes through the electrical signals and maintains AF and electronic aperture control, etc....
More info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lens_mount
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF_lens_mount
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF-S_lens_mount
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF-M_lens_mount
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EOS
Thank you! I got confused with the M5. Thats a EF-S mount right?
No issues with AF on my Nikons.
Df, D500 and D750
Some ART lenses need to be corrected and calibrated with the Sigma USB dock. Very rarely there are also ART lenses with bad focus like my Sigma 35mm f1.4 A in the beginning. Only sending it back to Sigma will solve this issue.
Old cameras can be an issue, too.
Hi Christopher, thank you very much for your amazing channel. I would like to ask you for some advices, maybe a video on how to do manual focus appropriately. Cheers!
A few people have been asking that - maybe I will :-)
Wooow Finally thank you Christopher 😊😊
Hello Chris.
Any chance you will review Samyang 20mm f/1.8 ED AS UMC?
Thank you. :)
Hopefully sometime in the next few months
I'm looking forward to it. Thanks for reply, have a nice day! :)
Will it fit on cannon 70 d????
Yes. All Canon mount lenses made since 1987 will work on your Canon APS-C digital SLR camera, except EF-M lenses
Thank u
Hi Christopher, 6D is crap on AF. You should try it on 5D Mk III, IV or 1Dx, is flawless! I was a little confused after i watched your review, my copy of the lens was on the way, but i got so relaxed after i tested the beast on my cameras. Few days ago i got a brand new 6D, it was really cheap, and now i understand your problem, AF system seems very similar with the old 5DMkII, which was crap. You made me curious so i tried 24mm 1,4 art, 35mm 1.4 art and 50mm, all suffer of the same stuff on 6D and flawless on everything else. Hope this is useful! Cheers!
No, the 6D is not 'crap on AF' at all. It may not be fast to AF, and it may not have many AF points. But its central autofocus point is as sensitive and accurate as anything on any other camera.
Christopher Frost Photography because is cross-type and sensitive at 5.6, not really at 2.8? On paper Christopher, we are all equal, you might be right. It was just my opinion, you might be absolutely right. Cheers!
It's extra sensitive at f/2.8. Check out the specs, and you'll see it's one of the most accurate Canon produce :-)
Christopher Frost Photography Cool, thanks for the advice. I will definitely treasure your opinion, from now on, when I will buy a new lens. Keep doing a great job reviewing lenses! Cheers!