Sincerely one of the best lens reviews on TH-cam. Clear concise information with solid side comparisons. You made my decision so much easier! Thank you!
It seems from past videos, you have a buddy at a local AZ camera store. Maybe you could go there & shoot and release video samples of the Sony a7iv in 4k crop 60fps with Sony 16-55 f2.8 lens. Commentary would be interesting. In addition, if you have the new Tamron aps-c Zoom lenses and the Sigma new aps-c Zoom lenses. Also, do several similar tests with Fuji aps-c prime lenses for Sony e-mount: Fuji 16mm f1.4; Sigma 19mm f/2.8; Sigma 30mm f/1.4; Sigma 56mm f/1.4.
This is literally EXACTLY what I was looking for. Thank you so damn much. No other videos like this online. Really surprised the Sony lens costs so much more with those soft corners, bleck. Fantastic video +1
Lens hoods can be essential for more than just controlling flare. They are also useful for keeping stuff away from the lens if you are walking around with the camera strapped to you in public. I've accidentally gotten sweat on the lens, smudged a finger print or two, or brushed up against something where fabric/dust/debris gets on the lens. If you don't notice these kinds of things and clean the lens right away, your next shot might be ruined due to a dirty front element. I've found using lens hoods significantly reduces how often I need to clean the front element. Usually I can just use a rocket blower to clear any dust and I'm good. I've tried UV filters, but without the hood I have the same problems. So I stick with using hoods and no UV filters unless I'm shooting a 35mm film camera on a hazy day.
Sir, I have a terrible question for you. Get ready :) If you have forced to use either 16-50 3.5-5.6 kit lens or 16 mm 2.8 pancake on a a6000 body, which one would you choose? Kit lens intended to use in 16 mm only.
Love your videos. After a year of using the kit lens (16-50mm) on my Sony, I've decided to finally get good lens for it. After watching your videos, you've convinced me to go Sigma over Sony lens, and at the same time, save tons of money. I just ordered the following direct from Sigma: 30mm F/1.4, 19mm F/2.8, and 60mm F/2.8; and I feel confident with my purchase after seeing your videos.
violian5 Did you know that you will lose many if not all of the automatisms of the camera, like the autofocus points? Buy sony lenses or buy another camera with cheaper lenses.
hi.. u said that one of your 30mm is better then the other 30mm...which one is better...??..is it the one you reviewed on another video or the older one...?? I bought the Art version of 30mm couple of days age along with 60mm...yet to receive them...I bought them online so didn't get the chance to try out before buying...now wondering if I'm getting less sharp copies...or I wonder is it that the newer versions are better then the older ones...what do you think..??
I got the 12mm but I have to tell you I'm not a manual lens guy. I hate focusing manually. Most of my shots have focus issues. The problem is I can't see my subject as easily in the normal view of a6000. I have to zoom in electronically again and again for every shot and it gets very annoying. Plus the perspective is very abnormal. Its ultrawide. I feel like I have limited applications for it. Stretchy corners of the 12mm doesn't help either. I might just sell the 12mm and go for the 19mm.
Thanks for the review. I recently bought the 19mm Sigma Art lens. I have been doing a number of comparison shots of the 16-50 kit lens set to 19mm and the Sigma 19mm using various F-stops. I have specifically been looking at the corners. I do not seen any significant advantage to the Sigma in the corners. The Sigma also had a lot more purple fringing. I shot in raw but then applied lens corrections in Lightroom. I will do some analysis of the center sharpness, but at this point I am not feeling the love...
Lavikka Photography I ran another test. This time of a wall quilt about 4 feet away. Previously I was imagining objects 30-80 feet away for my test. Here the difference were very pronounced, and were especially dramatic in the corners. In the middle of the image at f8-11 showed only marginal differences, but the sharpness in the Sigma at other f stops was noticeably better. I don't know if the shorter distance made a difference or if I just had more issues with focus on the more distant objects...
Hi David, Really like your reviews especially on the Sigma 30&60 on an a6000. I'm just buying camera and lens now. Thanks for your reviews. 1 question: What photo software are you using? I'm struggling to find the best program for my needs. ((Hate Iphoto! Did I say I didn't llike eyephoto?)) Thanks, AM
Alphonse Mattia If you are buying a Sony then you can download Capture One Express for free. I find it way better then lightroom. It does a great job. There are tutorials here on youtube for it.
Sigma 19mm F2.8 DN Lens doesn’t support phase-dectect autofocus, so it won’t be the lens of choice for tracking moving subjects. All the series 30mm, 60mm and 19 mm have the same..."failure". Pls. advise.
Yes it does. Only in zone area. All the lenses track and utilize eye focus along with face detection and tracking. I use tracking almost everyday. Even got it to work on an eos adapter.
Lavikka Photography When you say they work in zone focus area, does it work just in the center zone or can you move the zone to different spots of the screen/viewfinder and it still works? Thanks in advance.
Just in the center zone. Sony doesn't allow third party lens manufacturers to utilize full screen hybrid focus area in intelligent auto or superior auto but it does utilize the full screen with focus tracking and face tracking with continuous focus in manual, A, S and P modes.
I remember you mentioned earlier that the sigma 19mm will be getting revised soon, is that being confirmed somewhere? should i wait for it before buying this one in the video?
Hi, great video, but you should just hit the 100% crop button between the magnifying glass and left arrow. I noticed some of your comparisons were zoomed in at different levels.
Thanks for all your excellent videos! I just shared this one to the a6000 community on G+ hope you're fine with that! This has made my mind up on this Sigma lens, gonna get this one definitely 👍
Excellent review of these two lenses. I have always been a Sigma fan for my Canon dslr cameras. Glad to see they are equally strong on the micro four thirds cameras.
Your review helped me to hone in and make a definite decision!! Thank you so much for your expertise, easy to understand, and precise video!! Definitely subscribing! Also, enjoyed your pet video. I swear, we have identical B&W cats! Yours looks like my Oreo! Thanks again!
Hi Davin. Great reviews, they help me a lot! I'm planning to buy the Sony A6300, body only, and thinking of the Sigma 19mm F2.8 DN instead of the original kit lens. Now I found a great deal on the Sony Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* E 24mm f/1.8 ZA. I actualy don't see much good reviews of this lens and I'm wondering if it would be better than one of the sigma lenses. I want to shoot some city / landscape / travel photo's. Maybe you can help making a choise. Thanks!
Thanks for the review, Lavikka Photography. I've been wondering which lens I should get first between the 19 and 30... it looks like it's a matter of a coin toss now. :)
For some reason the results I get from my Sigma 19mm Art version are different on my A6000. I'm happy with the image quality but it's useless for video because it will hunt repeatedly when recording a stationary subject (ie: myself of object I'm videoing when vlogging). I also tried using it on the weekend to shoot wider angles at an event, stopped down to F11-F16 it just hunted so bad that it was completely unreliable for getting shots. I'm considering dumping it for the Sony 20mm, just not happy with the Sigma's results.. Love your videos though, keep up the good work!
Great video Davin, super helpful! I am shooting on a 6300, looking for a good wide angle for video. So on across this is basically a 28mm? Will this be wide enough to make a good vlogging lens?
Thanks Davin, I will be returning the Fotodiox and get a Fotga. Just took few photos with both minolta and Nikkon using hyperfocal estimation. I view it in the evening on my TV and give you an update-:)
Love your reviews. But I saw many other reviews of this very lens mounted on mft cameras that evidenced a marked, really ugly focus breathing when in AF. This is not the case on a Sony camera, though, as it looks like from your review. Might the problem with mft cameras be ascribed to that format alone? Thank you!
Thanks David, just bought my Sony A6000 liked your review so I went back out and bought the Sigma 19mm. FYI upgraded from my Canon T3I not selling the Cannon but it is going to sit in the bag a Lot!!!
So would you recommend this over the kit lens on the a5000 for city photography? Would it even be worth the purchase to accompany the kit lens? Thanks!
Hi, I just got my Sigma 60mm and love it! So glad I took your advice on that lens.... I am now considering a wide angle - I am curious what your thoughts are on the Rokinon 12mm F2.0 NCS CS Ultra Wide Angle Lens Sony E-Mount (NEX) (Black) (RK12M-E)..... Its a lot wider that the Sigma 19mm obviously...... Thanks....Hope to come see you soon.
Curious if you know who performs better in low light? And also who performs better for astrophotography? I don't expect any of them to perform exceptionally but it would be considered into my purchase.
this one is ok for Astrophotography but you have to shoot at f4. Rokinon 12mm is better. for low light this does as well as sony. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 and 28mm F2 are better.
I don't imagine myself doing astrophotography all that much so would rather not spend money on a dedicated lens for that. I'd like a more versatile lens so I'll be getting the Sigma. Thanks!
We are planning on going to Scotland in a month and looking to pick up the a6000. Would the Sony or Sigma be best for HD video and action shots over the KIT Lens? Also on the wide angle Landscape Fisheye type lenses with Auto focus which lens would you recommend?
William Nix Sigmas work just fine but the Sony 28mm f2 is worth looking into. Af fisheye? You don't need af with a fisheye. Just get a Rokinon 8mm. It goes from 3ft to infinity in a 10th of a turn. Just use peak focusing.
Lavikka Photography So would you recommend the Sony 28mm f2 for street photographs and a traveling lens over the Sony or Sigma 20mm/19mm????I'm just getting into this platform and I know nothing about photography as I only own point and shoots your reviews are awesome.Thanks for your help.
I watched your video and was convinced, until I realized that Sigma isn't compatible with the hybrid AF. But then I read your description. So... Sigma *is* fully compatible with hybrid AF in A, S, and P modes? What about M? And is it really bad that it doesn't have IS?
+Theta Sigma It isn't fully compatible in auto mode aka the twinkling boxes. It does it, but only in the center focus. in M A S and P you can get it to work in zone but it doesn't show the boxes. It does focus tracking and face tracking. It also focuses pretty fast.
Thanks for another interesting review. Almost convinced to switch to Sony (from Nikon). Would be interested in comparisons with the expensive FF alternatives. Will start with a6000, but might buy a7xx etc later. Would e.g. Sigma art 50/1.4 or Sony 55/1.8 be noticeably better already on the a6000?
The sigma 50 1.4 ( had one on my Nikon) would resolve 3700 lines of resolution and have a slight barrel distortion with no ca's or flaring. You would have to use an eos adapter so it would auto focus slower. The 55 1.8 should test close to the sigma 50mm.
Your best choice for A6000 in 50 mm range is Sony 50 f1.8 OSS (SEL50F18), unless you are planning to move up to full frame E mount cameras. Native mount APS-C lens with fast AF and optical stabilization.
ObelixCMM The 50mm f1.8 was the first lens that I got for the a6000 and also the first one I got rid of. Its soft in the corner and ghosts really bad thru f2.8. Its on par with the 35mm oss 1.8 I did a review on. These two lenses have an exaggerated shallow depth of field.
Hey! I am planning to put my cash down for the Sigma 19mm. The only thing keeping me back is the AF. I need it for low light event photography on a6000. I need to use zone focus area with face rec. in AF-C. Will it work? Should I worry about the AF? Please give your advise! Thx! PS - great reviews!
i really enjoy all your reviews. Very helpful. I am really torn between the two. The sigma is a winner, however, I really like the sony for its size and wondering if it will be worth it at the end.
Just looking for a decent compact walk around lens - no miracles required. Iif it checks out I'll keep it. If not, B&H is always there to take it back.
I asked u for the 60mm now I have it. Is excellent. Now I have sigma 30 and 60mm, I'm thinking to buy the 19 because the 30 is perfect for me but in certain situations is difficult to have all frame (architectural, persons in the street,...) should I buy or is not justified with 30mm. Many thanks
Am I correct in thinking that the Sony works better when you are using the focus tracking feature to photograph or take videos of moving objects/people?
Thank you, that was very informative. When you dont have a clue, you're stuck wondering why one lens is double the price...is there something to it ? But your video clearly demonstrated the differences between the two. It's a 5 year old video, so Ill keep the Sigma in mind. Any new competitors in that price range I should be looking at ?
I have been waiting for this review and I don't expect to get it today, so earlier than your plan before. I really appreciate your effort. I got a SEL55-210mm and may get this one or the 30mm EX DN non Art. Could you tell me which one should has more usages? Thanks!
I did reviews on all of the Sigma DN lenses and they are worth it. The 30 DN is really versatile. It just depends on what you are going to do with it. I probably use the 19mm outside but use the 30mm and the 60m more for product. 30 for groups shots and 60 for portrait. etc
Lavikka Photography Thank you for your quick answer. So I may try to get both the 19mm and the 30mm. Where did you get them (both old version)? Best wishes for the new year!
Lavikka Photography Thank you. I forgot to mention that I really like the comparison. It helps us to see the differences between them directly. Keep up this way if possible.
Hi Lavikka. Thanks for sharing. Very informative and helps me decide even more to purchase the other 2 versions, the 30mm and 60mm for my EM-1. Yes, I know your review is for the A6000, yet I presume the elements for the micro four thirds have the same properties. My 19mm is in transit now, purchased online. I have a Fuji XE-2, and no doubt their lenses are superb instruments, but seemed my budget can't cope with their 56mm 1.2 nor even the 10-24 f/4. For micro four thirds, I could cover these 3 focal lengths for f/2.8 for just around USD600, with nearly the same if not exactly what I should be getting with Fuji lenses that nearly a USD1000 each! Got my EM-1 around 55% discount sale. Had a laugh playing with your black cat! Regards :)
Lavikka Photography Thank you. Is there any wider lens around this price on the market for this camera except the sony SEL16F28? By the way, I've not seen on your videos that you have something to carry your camera. So, let me recommend you this product: Peak Design Capture V2. You may find it very useful for you. I love mine. :)
I use a quick release for my strap. Even did a video on it. As a matter a fact it's the first video I did for my channel. The sony16 is awful by the way.
MrTomadevil It would work fine for that but you should also look at the Rokinon 16mm f2. I prefer manual focus lenses for that as they stay locked at infinity.
Buying my first serious camera system. Which combination will be better body + dual kit + sigma 30mm 1.4 or Body + sigma 19mm + sigma 30mm 1.4 . Please advice. I'm leaning more towards the first combination since i have to buy 55-210 anyway as it's the only tele option on e mount and buying as a kit with the body i get 16-50 also along with the 55-210 at the price of 55-210 only. But concerned how bad the 16-50 is compared to 19mm.
What would you prefer for Street, Landscape, daily uses photography is it the Sigma 19mm F2.8 or Sigma 30mm F2.8? In my local camera store they have both the same price. Thanks a lot.
+garylparas The 19mm is a normal wide and the 30mm is normal focal length. I pretty left the 30 on mine for a few months but I did mostly video with it.
+Lavikka Photography I don't really take videos, so i might go with 19mm because of it's extra wide than 30mm. What do you think? Do they have also the same image quality, because that's all matters to me. Thank you.
I own a6500. Looking for a wider lens then my Sony 35mm to take family pictures of my children. I'm just a mom who wants great shots of her children. Which do you recommend. Sony 20 or sigma 19 for someone like me. Not a photographer, but learning slowly I hope. Thanks
Hi,Davin! I need your advice. i'm in trap. Lots of people say that if you have a6000 you should sell your sigma,because a6000 has 24mp and with sigma you wiil not be able to reveal all the quality and picture will be not so sharp and great. They say that better to use rokinon 16 or 12mm.I really don't know. Please,i'm waiting forward to your reply.
+Veaceslav S. The sigma 19mm is pretty sharp but the Rokinon 12mm is sharper, especially in the center. If image quality is your first concern and you don't care about af then get the rokinon 12mm or 16mm. If you want af then the Sigma is the next best thing. Way better then the Sony 20mm f2.8.
Sandun Abeysinghe While I am really impressed with the performance of this lens (especially for the price), I do find the AF slower on a a6000. It's most noticeable in video mode and is slower than even the crappy 16-50mm kit lens. Also for photography, in low light it struggles more than any of my Sony lenses. AF fast & accurate is good light though. Optically it is really impressive...much sharper than the 18-55mm and WAY sharper than the 16-50mm. AF is also very quiet.
That's an awful lot to say for someone that hasn't heard of a paragraph, or spells 'by' with a 'u' in the middle. Your clumsy self has a lot to learn about photography, specifically image quality loss when using a UV or any filter for that matter.
Will be going to Rome this fall. Can you recommend a single prime (maker/model) that would be good for taking photos of ruins and other buildings where not much space to back up? Would nice if this was also something that could be used w/o a flash in museums (providing they allow cameras) as well. Thanks (oh, I have a Nex-6)
Hi, can i ask what you lose if you use the sigma on the A6000? I know you still get focus and aperture, but do you get the eye focus tricks the A6000 does, or only if you use a sony lens?
Quick question. I just got the 19mm Sigma Art lens for my Nex-5 but it won't fit. Are the mounts different since it's a older Nex? seems like Sigma has a smaller mount
Hey man great video! I was wondering, I like to record gym footage would this be a good lends for that? I'm currently using the stock 16-50 and don't mind it but what would be my best option in your opinion? I'm kind of a noob when it comes to photography also lol
+Steezymanny ! I would recommend you use the Sigma 30mm f2.8. It gives your workouts a decent portrayal closer to the 'human eye' perspective, without capturing too many distractions as in a wide angle lens such as the 19mm. Basically you want the viewer to focus on you, vs stuff in the background.
Talking about video deparment here: I want to mount an a6000 on a flycam and shoot cosplays in various positions and situations, both far and close. Sometimes I won't be able to stand too far from them, so I was looking into wider lenses. I only have the body, would you say this is a better choice over the kit lens (I could try to buy a kit one for a lower price but I don't really know if it's worth the hassle)? I was checking both the sigma 30mm and the sony prime 35mm 1.8 but both would get around 50mm focal length in the end.
Lavikka Photography PersonalBD I use steadycam with Sony a6000. First and foremost, you need a wide lens if you use any kind of steady system. Otherwise, unless you use DJI Ronin, your footage will look like it is shot by your grandma's shaky hands. So not Sigma 30 mm and definitely not Sony 35 mm 1.8. Because the steady shot option (OSS) does not give you extra on a steadycam. Most people turn off OSS while using steadycam. I use kit lens for now on a steady system. I tried 16mm 2.8 by Sony and this lens is, excuse my language here but, pretty fucked up. Image even worse than kit lens and has a terrible autofocus. So, I decided to buy Sigma 19mm, but the Mr. Awesome lens inspector suggests Sony 20mm pancake. I am a little confused. Is Sigma bad on autofocus? I want to use it wide open 2.8 because most of the time I have bad lightning, run&gun. Also, I want to shoot with zone auto focus. Not only centered. It is possible with Sigma 30 mm in manual mode, continuous AF as Davin teaches one of his videos. Is it not possible with 19 mm? I am confused with some comments here. As far as weight goes, 19 mm Sigma is around 140 grams. Sony 20 mm pancake is 70 grams. But a6000 is a light camera. On a mount, this extra 70 grams wont make much difference I believe, most of the time people need extra weight & such to balance it correctly.
The Sigma 19mm is sharper and it focuses fine with the zone and c-af. in manual and it also tracks fine too. If you are into video then the pancake is a little better because the af isn't as fast making it look more natural. If you get the 19mm then put the af speed on slow for video. Almost all of my videos are done with the sigma 19mm and 30mm.
Hey ! What lens would you recommend if i want to take macro photography? Im currently using the a6000 and i have the 16-50 kit lens and the 50mmf1.8 lens. im a student and im on a budget, so im thinking whats a good lens for macro photography? or should i get some extension tubes instead?
+Dante Takeshii 30mm macro is the only sony e apsc size lens and its very good. My favorite though is adapting the Nikon 55mm micro f2.8 with a fotga adapter. Check out my macro videos.
Hi! thanks for the info. Using the Sigma 19mm on a Sony ilce-5000 for interior photography and architecture, would it make a lot of distortion? right off the camera (no image correction). Thanks!
Valeria Valencia Valle No distortion. Its equal to 28mm so just a normal wide. 12mm is a little better for interiors. Like a Rokinon or a touit. The Sony 10-18 f4 lens is also good.
Hi, first of all, many thanks for posting such informative and comprehensive reviews. I am sure they go a long way in helping viewers make correct and well informed decisions. Besides, it would be really nice if you can give me some advice to help me remove my confusion. I own a Sony a6000 and am looking for a wide angle lens preferably with wide aperture so that i can use it in low light conditions as well. I was considering two options Sigma 19mm f2.8 and Rokinon 12mm f2.0. I was leaning towards Rokinon after reading some really nice words about it on some reviews on some blogs. However, after checking your reviews on both the lenses I have got confused about which one to choose between the two. What I would like to know is that If I have to choose between the two purely from the point of view of getting better images under various conditions (as I cannot afford to buy too many lenses) with a bias towards clicking more landscapes, which lens do you think I should go ahead with? Also considering that , I already own the two kit zoom lenses and SEL 35mm f1.8. Also, is there a possibility that with the future firmware updates (like the recent firmware 2.0 for sony a6000), as i am considering this for a long term usage, the performance of Rokinon can improve on sony a6000. Thanks!
+Lavikka Photography Thanks for the reply, Lavikka. I'm pretty tech savvy and a fast learner, but I'm new to photography. What does "tighter frame" mean in photography? If I'm not mistaken that means the FOV isn't as wide at 30mm, right? Also I'm thinking of selling the kit lens to offset the cost. Do you think that's a bad idea/I'd miss out on certain kinds of shots?
Toss the kit lens. It may not seem bad with JPG but try it raw. Yes tighter or narrower field of view. The 19mm has a 73 degree angle of view and the 30mm is 50.
+Lavikka Photography Thanks for the clarification. I have one last question for you. I'm currently reading how focal length can distort/exaggerate facial features. Would you say shooting 19mm on a a6000 (Thus 29.5mm) would exaggerate/uglify facial features? I ask because my room isn't large enough for me to use a 50mm (Thus 75mm) focal length and capture what I need to. But at the same time, I'd hate to buy the 19mm lens to accommodate the space whilst making my features look exaggerated.
28mm eqv is a very normal wide so not much distortion. If you do decide to go with the 19mm then make sure the af speed is turned down. The af of the 19mm is so fast it can pulse.
You may have answered this question, but which of these (sigma 19mm or sony 20mm) would be better for video? (i.e. af feature/speed, as well as lens noise)
I am using an a6300 with a Meikon Underwater case for some video work and the case is compatible with the 16-50, the 19mm Art f2.8, and Sony 20mm. Would you recommend the sony 20mm overall for smooth video work? Is the 20mm a wide angle? Thanks!
+Lavikka Photography Thanks! Do you think it is a drastic enough improvement to justify the difference in price? If the Sigma has smooth autofocus that works well with the a6300 then I will just grab it instead.
If i already have 50 1.8 for a6000 would this sigma 20mm be a good replacement for kit lens (16-50) that i have or better go for sony 28mm 2 or sony 35 1.8. Which one should be next?
Thank you very much Davin, last week I got a Minolta W.rokkor-x 28f28 $36 and nikkor 24f28 $120 and 24f28 is having a blue kind of circle when I focus on light bulb. but minolta do not get this. is nikkor like this because of the fotodiox pro adapter $60?. I'm thinking of returning the nikkor and get a Sigma for this price. please guide me on what to get as my best use for a6000. Once again thank you for all the help you are doing in your review.
Hi Davin, are there any SLR lens that would give the same focal length as this but sharper? Price is something to consider though. If it was more expensive than the sigma, id go with the sigma if the sharpness isn't that much different. Maybe even wider actually. I'm already picking up the canon 24mm FD to get a 35mm equivalent but would like something a bit wider too.Thanks
Would this be a good lens for vlogging inside the car, per say, or would the 30mm be better? I would be holding the camera at arms length and filming myself most of the time. :) I have the a5100.
+Pathological Buyer Not really. It would be a little tight. I would recommend you look at the Sony 20 f2.8 pancake lens SEL20f28. It works great for video. at wider angles.
+Pathological Buyer I thought its was the 30mm you were looking at. Anyway still stick with the 20mm because this lens has af that is too fast for video. Makes it look like the video look like it twitches in the corners. So see it in some of my reviews. You can turn the af speed down but it still does it just a bit.
Hi Lavikka, I just got sigma 19mm and want to use it with some astrophotography shots. Can you show me how to focus to infinity or focus in sigma 19mm for astrophotography? Thank you.
Thank you! I tested some shots and noticed the image is heavily CA, is there any problem with the lense and should i return it? I have to defringe with amount of 20 in LR in order to remove CA.
:) just use occasionally for astrophotography, and want to get a wide angle lense for normal usage in budget. So, would you recommend to keep this lense or get Nikkor AIS 24mm f2.8?
i have heard that on sony cameras it's not 19 mm but like 28 mm instead, i'm a bit confused because i'm gonna buy the Sigma, 19mm f/2.8 DN Art for my a6000 ?
+Lavikka Photography would it be good or atleast okay for landscape photography, i'm kinda new to photography and i only have the kit-lens (which i can't stand) for my a6000.
what lens would you recommend. I want a good lens to take landscape picture with. i got the stock lenses, but i want to try something different. i have the 16-50mm and 55-200mm
Thanks! IS the Rokinon the same as SAMYANG 12MM F/2.0 ? Because i can find Rokinon brand in denmark. I can find a SAMYANG 12MM F/2.0 when i serching for Rokinon... :(
I really hope you mean as a guest not as the official photographer! Don’t think of risking a couple’s once in a lifetime experience because you haven’t a clue what you are doing.....
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Sincerely one of the best lens reviews on TH-cam. Clear concise information with solid side comparisons. You made my decision so much easier! Thank you!
I see the lens hood as protection for minor drops and bumps
Your reviews rule. Don't change! :)
It seems from past videos, you have a buddy at a local AZ camera store. Maybe you could go there & shoot and release video samples of the Sony a7iv in 4k crop 60fps with Sony 16-55 f2.8 lens. Commentary would be interesting. In addition, if you have the new Tamron aps-c Zoom lenses and the Sigma new aps-c Zoom lenses. Also, do several similar tests with Fuji aps-c prime lenses for Sony e-mount: Fuji 16mm f1.4; Sigma 19mm f/2.8; Sigma 30mm f/1.4; Sigma 56mm f/1.4.
This is literally EXACTLY what I was looking for. Thank you so damn much. No other videos like this online. Really surprised the Sony lens costs so much more with those soft corners, bleck. Fantastic video +1
Purgarus
You bought the camera first and then you had the big surprise that it needs also lenses in order to work? Big mistake!
Lens hoods can be essential for more than just controlling flare. They are also useful for keeping stuff away from the lens if you are walking around with the camera strapped to you in public. I've accidentally gotten sweat on the lens, smudged a finger print or two, or brushed up against something where fabric/dust/debris gets on the lens. If you don't notice these kinds of things and clean the lens right away, your next shot might be ruined due to a dirty front element. I've found using lens hoods significantly reduces how often I need to clean the front element. Usually I can just use a rocket blower to clear any dust and I'm good. I've tried UV filters, but without the hood I have the same problems. So I stick with using hoods and no UV filters unless I'm shooting a 35mm film camera on a hazy day.
Sir, I have a terrible question for you. Get ready :)
If you have forced to use either 16-50 3.5-5.6 kit lens or 16 mm 2.8 pancake on a a6000 body, which one would you choose?
Kit lens intended to use in 16 mm only.
Kit lens
Love your videos. After a year of using the kit lens (16-50mm) on my Sony, I've decided to finally get good lens for it. After watching your videos, you've convinced me to go Sigma over Sony lens, and at the same time, save tons of money. I just ordered the following direct from Sigma: 30mm F/1.4, 19mm F/2.8, and 60mm F/2.8; and I feel confident with my purchase after seeing your videos.
violian5
Did you know that you will lose many if not all of the automatisms of the camera, like the autofocus points? Buy sony lenses or buy another camera with cheaper lenses.
Not with the 30mm 1.4/
hi..
u said that one of your 30mm is better then the other 30mm...which one is better...??..is it the one you reviewed on another video or the older one...?? I bought the Art version of 30mm couple of days age along with 60mm...yet to receive them...I bought them online so didn't get the chance to try out before buying...now wondering if I'm getting less sharp copies...or I wonder is it that the newer versions are better then the older ones...what do you think..??
I'm split between Sigma 19mm and Rokinon 12mm... Anyone have any opinion? To me the most important property of lens is its image quality.
Gaurav P In my opinion have the sigma the better image quality
Rokinon 12mm f2 hand down, in therm of sharpness its compared or better over the zeiss 16-35mm f4 there some test over the net
Max P what did you finally get? Im stuck between those too
I got the 12mm but I have to tell you I'm not a manual lens guy. I hate focusing manually. Most of my shots have focus issues. The problem is I can't see my subject as easily in the normal view of a6000. I have to zoom in electronically again and again for every shot and it gets very annoying. Plus the perspective is very abnormal. Its ultrawide. I feel like I have limited applications for it. Stretchy corners of the 12mm doesn't help either. I might just sell the 12mm and go for the 19mm.
Thanks for the review. I recently bought the 19mm Sigma Art lens. I have been doing a number of comparison shots of the 16-50 kit lens set to 19mm and the Sigma 19mm using various F-stops. I have specifically been looking at the corners. I do not seen any significant advantage to the Sigma in the corners. The Sigma also had a lot more purple fringing. I shot in raw but then applied lens corrections in Lightroom. I will do some analysis of the center sharpness, but at this point I am not feeling the love...
That's odd. Maybe you got a bad copy. Feel free to send me a raw file.
Lavikka Photography I ran another test. This time of a wall quilt about 4 feet away. Previously I was imagining objects 30-80 feet away for my test. Here the difference were very pronounced, and were especially dramatic in the corners. In the middle of the image at f8-11 showed only marginal differences, but the sharpness in the Sigma at other f stops was noticeably better. I don't know if the shorter distance made a difference or if I just had more issues with focus on the more distant objects...
try the same test with manual focus.
Hi David, Really like your reviews especially on the Sigma 30&60 on an a6000. I'm just buying camera and lens now. Thanks for your reviews. 1 question:
What photo software are you using? I'm struggling to find the best program for my needs. ((Hate Iphoto! Did I say I didn't llike eyephoto?)) Thanks, AM
Alphonse Mattia If you are buying a Sony then you can download Capture One Express for free. I find it way better then lightroom. It does a great job. There are tutorials here on youtube for it.
Sigma 19mm F2.8 DN Lens doesn’t support phase-dectect autofocus, so it won’t be the lens of choice for tracking moving subjects.
All the series 30mm, 60mm and 19 mm have the same..."failure".
Pls. advise.
Yes it does. Only in zone area. All the lenses track and utilize eye focus along with face detection and tracking. I use tracking almost everyday. Even got it to work on an eos adapter.
Lavikka Photography When you say they work in zone focus area, does it work just in the center zone or can you move the zone to different spots of the screen/viewfinder and it still works? Thanks in advance.
Just in the center zone. Sony doesn't allow third party lens manufacturers to utilize full screen hybrid focus area in intelligent auto or superior auto but it does utilize the full screen with focus tracking and face tracking with continuous focus in manual, A, S and P modes.
I remember you mentioned earlier that the sigma 19mm will be getting revised soon, is that being confirmed somewhere? should i wait for it before buying this one in the video?
I only can find a aluminium body version, are those the same lens?..maybe just an update model? thank you very much....
Hi, great video, but you should just hit the 100% crop button between the magnifying glass and left arrow. I noticed some of your comparisons were zoomed in at different levels.
Thanks for all your excellent videos! I just shared this one to the a6000 community on G+ hope you're fine with that! This has made my mind up on this Sigma lens, gonna get this one definitely 👍
Thank you for this review been looking at the Sigma lens lately and this was first review I have seen that was not a unboxing video.
Excellent review of these two lenses. I have always been a Sigma fan for my Canon dslr cameras. Glad to see they are equally strong on the micro four thirds cameras.
It's a 1.5 crop apsc
I really enjoyed this video! Great review, lovely pets and nice music! Congrats my friend :)
Your review helped me to hone in and make a definite decision!! Thank you so much for your expertise, easy to understand, and precise video!! Definitely subscribing! Also, enjoyed your pet video. I swear, we have identical B&W cats! Yours looks like my Oreo! Thanks again!
Hi Davin. Great reviews, they help me a lot! I'm planning to buy the Sony A6300, body only, and thinking of the Sigma 19mm F2.8 DN instead of the original kit lens. Now I found a great deal on the Sony Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* E 24mm f/1.8 ZA. I actualy don't see much good reviews of this lens and I'm wondering if it would be better than one of the sigma lenses. I want to shoot some city / landscape / travel photo's. Maybe you can help making a choise. Thanks!
Thanks for the review, Lavikka Photography. I've been wondering which lens I should get first between the 19 and 30... it looks like it's a matter of a coin toss now. :)
For some reason the results I get from my Sigma 19mm Art version are different on my A6000. I'm happy with the image quality but it's useless for video because it will hunt repeatedly when recording a stationary subject (ie: myself of object I'm videoing when vlogging). I also tried using it on the weekend to shoot wider angles at an event, stopped down to F11-F16 it just hunted so bad that it was completely unreliable for getting shots. I'm considering dumping it for the Sony 20mm, just not happy with the Sigma's results..
Love your videos though, keep up the good work!
Great video Davin, super helpful! I am shooting on a 6300, looking for a good wide angle for video. So on across this is basically a 28mm? Will this be wide enough to make a good vlogging lens?
Yes it works for that if you are hand holding. Most of the time I use the Sony e macro 30mm on a tripod for my videos.
Sounds good, thanks! I ordered it - again, great video!
Thanks Davin, I will be returning the Fotodiox and get a Fotga. Just took few photos with both minolta and Nikkon using hyperfocal estimation. I view it in the evening on my TV and give you an update-:)
Love your reviews. But I saw many other reviews of this very lens mounted on mft cameras that evidenced a marked, really ugly focus breathing when in AF. This is not the case on a Sony camera, though, as it looks like from your review. Might the problem with mft cameras be ascribed to that format alone? Thank you!
+Daniele. Pianciola I haven't seen that issue at all.
Thanks David, just bought my Sony A6000 liked your review so I went back out and bought the Sigma 19mm.
FYI upgraded from my Canon T3I not selling the Cannon but it is going to sit in the bag a Lot!!!
Do you need the lens adapter when using the sigma for a6000?
+alisufian ruslan No. Make sure you get the Sony version though.
So would you recommend this over the kit lens on the a5000 for city photography? Would it even be worth the purchase to accompany the kit lens? Thanks!
Eric Timmer Yes.
Very good review with no bullshit around. Thank you for for reviewing these tow lenses, I've just ordered Sigma. I like your cats :)
Hi, I just got my Sigma 60mm and love it! So glad I took your advice on that lens.... I am now considering a wide angle - I am curious what your thoughts are on the Rokinon 12mm F2.0 NCS CS Ultra Wide Angle Lens Sony E-Mount (NEX) (Black) (RK12M-E)..... Its a lot wider that the Sigma 19mm obviously...... Thanks....Hope to come see you soon.
Its sharp lens. Has some ca's in the corners but good for the price. Really wide.
Curious if you know who performs better in low light? And also who performs better for astrophotography? I don't expect any of them to perform exceptionally but it would be considered into my purchase.
this one is ok for Astrophotography but you have to shoot at f4. Rokinon 12mm is better. for low light this does as well as sony. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 and 28mm F2 are better.
I don't imagine myself doing astrophotography all that much so would rather not spend money on a dedicated lens for that. I'd like a more versatile lens so I'll be getting the Sigma. Thanks!
We are planning on going to Scotland in a month and looking to pick up the a6000. Would the Sony or Sigma be best for HD video and action shots over the KIT Lens?
Also on the wide angle Landscape Fisheye type lenses with Auto focus which lens would you recommend?
William Nix Sigmas work just fine but the Sony 28mm f2 is worth looking into. Af fisheye? You don't need af with a fisheye. Just get a Rokinon 8mm. It goes from 3ft to infinity in a 10th of a turn. Just use peak focusing.
Lavikka Photography So would you recommend the Sony 28mm f2 for street photographs and a traveling lens over the Sony or Sigma 20mm/19mm????I'm just getting into this platform and I know nothing about photography as I only own point and shoots your reviews are awesome.Thanks for your help.
The 19 and 20 are a little wider but the 28mm is a good general purpose lens.
I watched your video and was convinced, until I realized that Sigma isn't compatible with the hybrid AF. But then I read your description. So... Sigma *is* fully compatible with hybrid AF in A, S, and P modes? What about M? And is it really bad that it doesn't have IS?
+Theta Sigma It isn't fully compatible in auto mode aka the twinkling boxes. It does it, but only in the center focus. in M A S and P you can get it to work in zone but it doesn't show the boxes. It does focus tracking and face tracking. It also focuses pretty fast.
great in depth review, I am in the market and right away was leaning to whatever was more expensive or within brand. Thanks!
Thanks for another interesting review. Almost convinced to switch to Sony (from Nikon). Would be interested in comparisons with the expensive FF alternatives. Will start with a6000, but might buy a7xx etc later. Would e.g. Sigma art 50/1.4 or Sony 55/1.8 be noticeably better already on the a6000?
The sigma 50 1.4 ( had one on my Nikon) would resolve 3700 lines of resolution and have a slight barrel distortion with no ca's or flaring. You would have to use an eos adapter so it would auto focus slower. The 55 1.8 should test close to the sigma 50mm.
Your best choice for A6000 in 50 mm range is Sony 50 f1.8 OSS (SEL50F18), unless you are planning to move up to full frame E mount cameras. Native mount APS-C lens with fast AF and optical stabilization.
ObelixCMM The 50mm f1.8 was the first lens that I got for the a6000 and also the first one I got rid of. Its soft in the corner and ghosts really bad thru f2.8. Its on par with the 35mm oss 1.8 I did a review on. These two lenses have an exaggerated shallow depth of field.
Hey! I am planning to put my cash down for the Sigma 19mm. The only thing keeping me back is the AF. I need it for low light event photography on a6000. I need to use zone focus area with face rec. in AF-C. Will it work? Should I worry about the AF?
Please give your advise! Thx!
PS - great reviews!
+Ernests Karlsbergs It will but only in manual mode not in intelligent mode.
i really enjoy all your reviews. Very helpful. I am really torn between the two. The sigma is a winner, however, I really like the sony for its size and wondering if it will be worth it at the end.
These are fantastic and informative videos. Keep up the good work!
Just looking for a decent compact walk around lens - no miracles required. Iif it checks out I'll keep it. If not, B&H is always there to take it back.
I asked u for the 60mm now I have it. Is excellent. Now I have sigma 30 and 60mm, I'm thinking to buy the 19 because the 30 is perfect for me but in certain situations is difficult to have all frame (architectural, persons in the street,...) should I buy or is not justified with 30mm. Many thanks
+Younes Mahrach I heard Sigma might revise the 19mm too. You might want to wait.
+Lavikka Photography Ok!! Many Thanks. That's great I hope that is better than the actual with the same price.
is it hard to get a clear shot since it doesn't have autofocus built in and the a6000 doesnt have autofocus built in either?
It does have full af. Just PDaf is limited to the center.
Am I correct in thinking that the Sony works better when you are using the focus tracking feature to photograph or take videos of moving objects/people?
The 20mm does work but not because pdaf. The 19mm af is a little too fast. The 19mm can track just as well.
Thank you, that was very informative. When you dont have a clue, you're stuck wondering why one lens is double the price...is there something to it ? But your video clearly demonstrated the differences between the two. It's a 5 year old video, so Ill keep the Sigma in mind. Any new competitors in that price range I should be looking at ?
The Sigma 16mm and 56mm lenses are your best bet for image quality.
I have been waiting for this review and I don't expect to get it today, so earlier than your plan before. I really appreciate your effort. I got a SEL55-210mm and may get this one or the 30mm EX DN non Art. Could you tell me which one should has more usages? Thanks!
I did reviews on all of the Sigma DN lenses and they are worth it. The 30 DN is really versatile. It just depends on what you are going to do with it. I probably use the 19mm outside but use the 30mm and the 60m more for product. 30 for groups shots and 60 for portrait. etc
Lavikka Photography Thank you for your quick answer. So I may try to get both the 19mm and the 30mm. Where did you get them (both old version)?
Best wishes for the new year!
I got one off of Amazon, ebay and adorama
Lavikka Photography Thank you. I forgot to mention that I really like the comparison. It helps us to see the differences between them directly. Keep up this way if possible.
Hi Lavikka. Thanks for sharing. Very informative and helps me decide even more to purchase the other 2 versions, the 30mm and 60mm for my EM-1. Yes, I know your review is for the A6000, yet I presume the elements for the micro four thirds have the same properties. My 19mm is in transit now, purchased online. I have a Fuji XE-2, and no doubt their lenses are superb instruments, but seemed my budget can't cope with their 56mm 1.2 nor even the 10-24 f/4. For micro four thirds, I could cover these 3 focal lengths for f/2.8 for just around USD600, with nearly the same if not exactly what I should be getting with Fuji lenses that nearly a USD1000 each! Got my EM-1 around 55% discount sale. Had a laugh playing with your black cat! Regards :)
How big of an impact is the lack of OSS compared to the Sony Lens?
OSS is only 1.5 stops so not much.
get gymbal
I'm about to buy a Sony A6000 for landscape and astrophotography. Would you recommend this Sigma 19mm lens for me?
MrTomadevil Definitely. It should work well Sony is also releasing a 28mm f2 at the end of April.
Lavikka Photography Thank you. Is there any wider lens around this price on the market for this camera except the sony SEL16F28?
By the way, I've not seen on your videos that you have something to carry your camera. So, let me recommend you this product: Peak Design Capture V2. You may find it very useful for you.
I love mine. :)
I use a quick release for my strap. Even did a video on it. As a matter a fact it's the first video I did for my channel. The sony16 is awful by the way.
MrTomadevil It would work fine for that but you should also look at the Rokinon 16mm f2. I prefer manual focus lenses for that as they stay locked at infinity.
Buying my first serious camera system. Which combination will be better body + dual kit + sigma 30mm 1.4 or Body + sigma 19mm + sigma 30mm 1.4 . Please advice. I'm leaning more towards the first combination since i have to buy 55-210 anyway as it's the only tele option on e mount and buying as a kit with the body i get 16-50 also along with the 55-210 at the price of 55-210 only. But concerned how bad the 16-50 is compared to 19mm.
I would go with the later. the 55-210 aint' all that. You would be better off with the sigma 60mm.
What would you prefer for Street, Landscape, daily uses photography is it the Sigma 19mm F2.8 or Sigma 30mm F2.8? In my local camera store they have both the same price. Thanks a lot.
+garylparas The 19mm is a normal wide and the 30mm is normal focal length. I pretty left the 30 on mine for a few months but I did mostly video with it.
+Lavikka Photography I don't really take videos, so i might go with 19mm because of it's extra wide than 30mm. What do you think?
Do they have also the same image quality, because that's all matters to me. Thank you.
they do pretty much have the same quality.
I own a6500. Looking for a wider lens then my Sony 35mm to take family pictures of my children. I'm just a mom who wants great shots of her children. Which do you recommend. Sony 20 or sigma 19 for someone like me. Not a photographer, but learning slowly I hope. Thanks
Sigma 16mm DC DN is your best bet.
Hi,Davin! I need your advice. i'm in trap. Lots of people say that if you have a6000 you should sell your sigma,because a6000 has 24mp and with sigma you wiil not be able to reveal all the quality and picture will be not so sharp and great. They say that better to use rokinon 16 or 12mm.I really don't know. Please,i'm waiting forward to your reply.
+Veaceslav S. The sigma 19mm is pretty sharp but the Rokinon 12mm is sharper, especially in the center. If image quality is your first concern and you don't care about af then get the rokinon 12mm or 16mm. If you want af then the Sigma is the next best thing. Way better then the Sony 20mm f2.8.
Lavikka Photography Thanks,Davin! It helps me :)
Hello would you recommend this for Astrophotography or spend a bit more and go Rokinon/Samyang?
It should work fine. if you want to wider though go with the rokinon 12mm f2.
Excellent comparison. Do you notice a slow down with autofocus due to the PD autofocus points restriction Sony has placed on non Sony lenses? Cheers
Not at all These focus very fast.
Thanks!
Sandun Abeysinghe While I am really impressed with the performance of this lens (especially for the price), I do find the AF slower on a a6000. It's most noticeable in video mode and is slower than even the crappy 16-50mm kit lens. Also for photography, in low light it struggles more than any of my Sony lenses. AF fast & accurate is good light though.
Optically it is really impressive...much sharper than the 18-55mm and WAY sharper than the 16-50mm. AF is also very quiet.
I had to turn the af speed down on mine. hmm.
That pancake line got me. :D Great video. I'm convinced. Thanks.
Thanks for the review. Any suggestions on a portrait lens for my a5100? keeping in mind that i'm open for any brand or mount type.
If you want auto focus then the Sigma 60 dn art. If you don't care about autofocus then the Nikkor Micro 55mm f2.8 ai or the 55mm Nikon f1.2 ai.
Do both the Sony fisheye converters fully work on this lens?
Thanks!
You should use the lens hood instead of a filter. It protects your lens without having a crap piece of glass in front of it.
That's an awful lot to say for someone that hasn't heard of a paragraph, or spells 'by' with a 'u' in the middle. Your clumsy self has a lot to learn about photography, specifically image quality loss when using a UV or any filter for that matter.
graphicism
They are already can't buy sony lenses and instead search in other manufacturers. At least leave them protect their lenses.
the 19 mm dont miss the focus sometimes?
Will be going to Rome this fall. Can you recommend a single prime (maker/model) that would be good for taking photos of ruins and other buildings where not much space to back up? Would nice if this was also something that could be used w/o a flash in museums (providing they allow cameras) as well. Thanks (oh, I have a Nex-6)
Paul DiCarlo The Sigma 19mm. If you don't care about af then the Rokinon 12mm f2
Lavikka Photography Thank you for the reply/advice. Would the DMF digital zoom feature work with either of those lenses?
I don't think so but I would have to test.
Hi, can i ask what you lose if you use the sigma on the A6000? I know you still get focus and aperture, but do you get the eye focus tricks the A6000 does, or only if you use a sony lens?
koolerking You get eye focusing and focus tracking just not in automatic af. You have to use continuous focus.
Thanks for the reply.
Would this lens work for indoor convention hall shooting for full-body or 3/4 body portraits? Or should I be looking at a 35mm prime lens instead?
Darkrukiaz at 28mm it's good for groups or full body.
Quick question. I just got the 19mm Sigma Art lens for my Nex-5 but it won't fit. Are the mounts different since it's a older Nex? seems like Sigma has a smaller mount
+Cassidycaj It sounds like you got the version for Micro four thirds.
Thanks for the review. Sigma just have great lenses anyway. Love this lens.
Hey man great video! I was wondering, I like to record gym footage would this be a good lends for that? I'm currently using the stock 16-50 and don't mind it but what would be my best option in your opinion? I'm kind of a noob when it comes to photography also lol
+Steezymanny ! I would recommend you use the Sigma 30mm f2.8. It gives your workouts a decent portrayal closer to the 'human eye' perspective, without capturing too many distractions as in a wide angle lens such as the 19mm. Basically you want the viewer to focus on you, vs stuff in the background.
+Steezymanny ! This is assuming you are using one of Sony's e mount cameras, like the A6000, A5100, NEX line etc.
+LieLuo I just bought the Sony sel35f18 which is pretty similar just a bit more close up, what do you think?
Never used that one, but should be in the same focal length range. Your video compositions look good!
+LieLuo yeah I'm using the a5100 and thanks man!
Talking about video deparment here: I want to mount an a6000 on a flycam and shoot cosplays in various positions and situations, both far and close. Sometimes I won't be able to stand too far from them, so I was looking into wider lenses. I only have the body, would you say this is a better choice over the kit lens (I could try to buy a kit one for a lower price but I don't really know if it's worth the hassle)? I was checking both the sigma 30mm and the sony prime 35mm 1.8 but both would get around 50mm focal length in the end.
PersonalBD If I were you I would look into the 20mm Pancake. It's not as sharp as this lens but the af is excellent and its lighter..
Lavikka Photography PersonalBD I use steadycam with Sony a6000. First and foremost, you need a wide lens if you use any kind of steady system. Otherwise, unless you use DJI Ronin, your footage will look like it is shot by your grandma's shaky hands.
So not Sigma 30 mm and definitely not Sony 35 mm 1.8. Because the steady shot option (OSS) does not give you extra on a steadycam. Most people turn off OSS while using steadycam.
I use kit lens for now on a steady system. I tried 16mm 2.8 by Sony and this lens is, excuse my language here but, pretty fucked up. Image even worse than kit lens and has a terrible autofocus.
So, I decided to buy Sigma 19mm, but the Mr. Awesome lens inspector suggests Sony 20mm pancake. I am a little confused. Is Sigma bad on autofocus? I want to use it wide open 2.8 because most of the time I have bad lightning, run&gun.
Also, I want to shoot with zone auto focus. Not only centered. It is possible with Sigma 30 mm in manual mode, continuous AF as Davin teaches one of his videos. Is it not possible with 19 mm? I am confused with some comments here.
As far as weight goes, 19 mm Sigma is around 140 grams. Sony 20 mm pancake is 70 grams. But a6000 is a light camera. On a mount, this extra 70 grams wont make much difference I believe, most of the time people need extra weight & such to balance it correctly.
The Sigma 19mm is sharper and it focuses fine with the zone and c-af. in manual and it also tracks fine too. If you are into video then the pancake is a little better because the af isn't as fast making it look more natural. If you get the 19mm then put the af speed on slow for video. Almost all of my videos are done with the sigma 19mm and 30mm.
Got it, thank you sir!
I'm a beginner in a6000. Do i need to buy the adapter when using this sigma lens?
+alisufian ruslan No. Make sure you get the Sony version though.
Have you got a chance to dig the Hasselblad LF 16mm f/2.8 Lens. Looks like the Sony but cheap think it's any good
+Matthew Teeter I looked into it. It really is just the 16mm pancake with Hasselblad label on it. Not very good.
Hey ! What lens would you recommend if i want to take macro photography? Im currently using the a6000 and i have the 16-50 kit lens and the 50mmf1.8 lens. im a student and im on a budget, so im thinking whats a good lens for macro photography? or should i get some extension tubes instead?
+Dante Takeshii 30mm macro is the only sony e apsc size lens and its very good. My favorite though is adapting the Nikon 55mm micro f2.8 with a fotga adapter. Check out my macro videos.
Would you say this is better than the sony kit lens? Just want a basic wide angle lens that isn't garbage.
+E. Hernandez Yep
Hi! thanks for the info.
Using the Sigma 19mm on a Sony ilce-5000 for interior photography and architecture, would it make a lot of distortion? right off the camera (no image correction).
Thanks!
or would you recommend another lense?
Valeria Valencia Valle No distortion. Its equal to 28mm so just a normal wide. 12mm is a little better for interiors. Like a Rokinon or a touit. The Sony 10-18 f4 lens is also good.
Thanks a lot!
Just subscribed. Why? Because of your pancake joke. Keep up the good work in all seriousness.
On the Sigma, what would you consider the f-stop sweet spot? f5.6? f8.0?
F5.6
Okay, thanks. Informative video! I was debating between the Sony 20mm and the Sigma 19mm. I'm going to purchase the Sigma.
Hi, please give me an advise, I'm deciding between sigma 19mm or zeiss 24mm for my a6000, which one is better?
The Zeiss 24mm is better but if you are on a budget the 19mm will get you by.
Hi, first of all, many thanks for posting such informative and comprehensive reviews. I am sure they go a long way in helping viewers make correct and well informed decisions.
Besides, it would be really nice if you can give me some advice to help me remove my confusion. I own a Sony a6000 and am looking for a wide angle lens preferably with wide aperture so that i can use it in low light conditions as well. I was considering two options Sigma 19mm f2.8 and Rokinon 12mm f2.0. I was leaning towards Rokinon after reading some really nice words about it on some reviews on some blogs. However, after checking your reviews on both the lenses I have got confused about which one to choose between the two.
What I would like to know is that If I have to choose between the two purely from the point of view of getting better images under various conditions (as I cannot afford to buy too many lenses) with a bias towards clicking more landscapes, which lens do you think I should go ahead with? Also considering that , I already own the two kit zoom lenses and SEL 35mm f1.8.
Also, is there a possibility that with the future firmware updates (like the recent firmware 2.0 for sony a6000), as i am considering this for a long term usage, the performance of Rokinon can improve on sony a6000.
Thanks!
Wouldn't you say the 19mm Sigma be better than the 30mm Sigma for small bedroom vlogging and piano videos? Or am I mistaken?
+Sheldon Cooper either one will work. 30mm is a tighter frame and that's what I mainly use.
+Lavikka Photography Thanks for the reply, Lavikka. I'm pretty tech savvy and a fast learner, but I'm new to photography. What does "tighter frame" mean in photography? If I'm not mistaken that means the FOV isn't as wide at 30mm, right? Also I'm thinking of selling the kit lens to offset the cost. Do you think that's a bad idea/I'd miss out on certain kinds of shots?
Toss the kit lens. It may not seem bad with JPG but try it raw. Yes tighter or narrower field of view. The 19mm has a 73 degree angle of view and the 30mm is 50.
+Lavikka Photography Thanks for the clarification. I have one last question for you. I'm currently reading how focal length can distort/exaggerate facial features. Would you say shooting 19mm on a a6000 (Thus 29.5mm) would exaggerate/uglify facial features? I ask because my room isn't large enough for me to use a 50mm (Thus 75mm) focal length and capture what I need to. But at the same time, I'd hate to buy the 19mm lens to accommodate the space whilst making my features look exaggerated.
28mm eqv is a very normal wide so not much distortion. If you do decide to go with the 19mm then make sure the af speed is turned down. The af of the 19mm is so fast it can pulse.
You may have answered this question, but which of these (sigma 19mm or sony 20mm) would be better for video? (i.e. af feature/speed, as well as lens noise)
+Alex Young (iAlexYoung) The Sony 20mm
+Lavikka Photography thanks for the quick reply! Love how in depth your reviews are! Keep it up.
Hello what u think about the Mitakon Speedmaster f0.95... 55mm? (In the a6000) please :P
I am using an a6300 with a Meikon Underwater case for some video work and the case is compatible with the 16-50, the 19mm Art f2.8, and Sony 20mm. Would you recommend the sony 20mm overall for smooth video work? Is the 20mm a wide angle? Thanks!
+Michael Mueller The 20mm is a little better for video. It equals 28mm or normal wide.
+Lavikka Photography Thanks! Do you think it is a drastic enough improvement to justify the difference in price? If the Sigma has smooth autofocus that works well with the a6300 then I will just grab it instead.
No the 20mm is better for video. The 19mm af is too fast and can sometimes pulse in video. You can turn the af speed down on the camera though.
+Lavikka Photography thanks good to know! At this point the 35mm 1.8 is the only one at that size with good OSS so I my just have to go with that.
Watch my review on that lens...
Is this considered as a wide angle lens? I'm using a 16-59mm kit lens. Was wondering if Sigma 19mm can take wider areas
Yes but not super wide. Take your kit lens a and go to it's widest setting then zoom in just a little. That's how wide this lens is.
Lavikka Photography I see. Cos I'm also considering getting the 16mm or 20mm lens and pair it with the Ultra Wide Converter
Hi!
I love to shoot city landscapes. Would this lense be the best due to its sharpness or your recommend another one? -Sony A6000
Thanks
if you are looking for a normal wide then yes it will work.
Thanks a lot!
If i already have 50 1.8 for a6000 would this sigma 20mm be a good replacement for kit lens (16-50) that i have or better go for sony 28mm 2 or sony 35 1.8. Which one should be next?
MrAnkank I would go with 28 f2. Then the Sigma 19mm.
Thank you very much Davin, last week I got a Minolta W.rokkor-x 28f28 $36 and nikkor 24f28 $120 and 24f28 is having a blue kind of circle when I focus on light bulb. but minolta do not get this. is nikkor like this because of the fotodiox pro adapter $60?. I'm thinking of returning the nikkor and get a Sigma for this price. please guide me on what to get as my best use for a6000. Once again thank you for all the help you are doing in your review.
+Anandan Baskaran A blue circle? that's odd. Is the adapter a focal reducer?
This was incredibly helpful, thank you!
Hi Davin, are there any SLR lens that would give the same focal length as this but sharper? Price is something to consider though. If it was more expensive than the sigma, id go with the sigma if the sharpness isn't that much different. Maybe even wider actually. I'm already picking up the canon 24mm FD to get a 35mm equivalent but would like something a bit wider too.Thanks
Will Holdcroft Not for the price. The Sony 28mm f2 is the next closest price wise. Here are my lens recommendations. www.lavikkaphotography.com/blog
Thanks Davin...Had a look. Very helpful!
Hi! Put sigma 19 mm on my sony a5100 and got only 5 (FIVE!) instead of 179 AF points and only in center! Is it OK? Thank you!
Yes thats normal with non-Sony lenses. Enable face tracking and use spot focusing if you want to go out of the center.
I just want to say: thank you for the great reviews! Greetings from Poland :)
Would this be a good lens for vlogging inside the car, per say, or would the 30mm be better? I would be holding the camera at arms length and filming myself most of the time. :) I have the a5100.
+Pathological Buyer Not really. It would be a little tight. I would recommend you look at the Sony 20 f2.8 pancake lens SEL20f28. It works great for video. at wider angles.
+Lavikka Photography thanks so much for the speedy reply!!
+Pathological Buyer I thought its was the 30mm you were looking at. Anyway still stick with the 20mm because this lens has af that is too fast for video. Makes it look like the video look like it twitches in the corners. So see it in some of my reviews. You can turn the af speed down but it still does it just a bit.
+Lavikka Photography --- thank you so much!!
+Lavikka Photography I've been checking prices of lenses. Would the sony 16mm work for handheld self vlogging? :)
which one u feel is better rokinon 12mm or the 19mm sigma????
Sharpness wise they are close. Just depends on how wide you want to go. The 12mm is really wide.
Hi Lavikka,
I just got sigma 19mm and want to use it with some astrophotography shots. Can you show me how to focus to infinity or focus in sigma 19mm for astrophotography? Thank you.
When you have it set to manual focus just look at the back of the screen. you should see a progress bar and the end is infinity.
Thank you! I tested some shots and noticed the image is heavily CA, is there any problem with the lense and should i return it? I have to defringe with amount of 20 in LR in order to remove CA.
I'm not sure if its the best lens for astrophotography. The Coma is little high.. Try stopping it down to f3.5 or f4.
:) just use occasionally for astrophotography, and want to get a wide angle lense for normal usage in budget. So, would you recommend to keep this lense or get Nikkor AIS 24mm f2.8?
i have heard that on sony cameras it's not 19 mm but like 28 mm instead, i'm a bit confused because i'm gonna buy the Sigma, 19mm f/2.8 DN Art for my a6000 ?
+poisoncobra7 Yes equal to 28mm on full frame.
Lavikka Photography oh on full frame only, so for my a6000 APS-c sensor it will still be 19 mm ?
No. its equal to a 28mm.
+Lavikka Photography would it be good or atleast okay for landscape photography, i'm kinda new to photography and i only have the kit-lens (which i can't stand) for my a6000.
Yes it would work.
hi. should i get sigma 19mm or 30mm f2.8 for my sony a6000? thanks
Depends on what your doing. I seen to use my 19mm more.
only use it for family party and sometimes traveling, can i sometimes shoot portrait by 19mm on A6000 . thank you
It would be a little wide but yes you can.
Lavikka Photography
what lens would you recommend. I want a good lens to take landscape picture with. i got the stock lenses, but i want to try something different. i have the 16-50mm and 55-200mm
Rokinon 12mm f2 is good landscape lens. So is this Sigma but it's not as wide.
Thanks! IS the Rokinon the same as SAMYANG 12MM F/2.0 ? Because i can find Rokinon brand in denmark. I can find a SAMYANG 12MM F/2.0 when i serching for Rokinon... :(
Yes it is.
what do u recommend in street photography sigma 19mm or sony 20 mm lens for crop sensor
The 19mm is sharper but you do a lot of video then the 20mm is a little better.
would the sigma 19mm be good for wedding photography?
+snake Yes especially for group shots
Lavikka Photography
thanks so much davin!!! i am gonna buy the sigma 19mm and use it , till i can afford the ziess 16-70 or 16-35.
I really hope you mean as a guest not as the official photographer! Don’t think of risking a couple’s once in a lifetime experience because you haven’t a clue what you are doing.....
thanks for this... Can you choose the autofocus speed for video in some of those??
Yes you can and with this lens you have to slow it way down.
Excellent practical review!
Would this be good for enviromental portraits? With the A6000
+pierosa Yes it would and I use it mainly just for that.
+Lavikka Photography Thanks
thank you...very helpful ...ordered the sigma 19 for my Sony a6000...
Gd video , just clarifying, the sigma's auto focus on a a6300 for video is usable ?
Yes.