Comparative Digital SLR Lens Review: Fast, Wide Aperture Lenses

Field Test Report

Peter Burian tests five lenses with great light gathering ability: the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM, Tamron AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro, Tokina AF 50-135mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro DX, Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX and the Sigma AF 30mm f/1.4 EX HSM DC

Because most digital SLR camera owners demand compact, lightweight lenses, the vast majority of zooms feature a small maximum aperture. A typical kit lens is designated as f/3.5-5.6 indicating that the maximum aperture is quite small at the short end and becomes very small at longer focal lengths. In practical terms, that translates to moderate light gathering ability. The larger the numeral the smaller the opening in the lens and the less light that will reach the camera’s digital sensor.

A wide aperture lens is ideal for fast shutter speeds in low light conditions when you cannot use flash or a tripod. Shooting at f/2.8 allowed me to get many sharp photos at 1/125 sec. during a stage performance, using ISO 1000. With a more typical (smaller) aperture, much higher ISO levels would have been required for the same shutter speed and the images would have been seriously degraded by digital noise. (Nikon 17-55mm at f/2.8.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
A wide aperture lens is ideal for fast shutter speeds in low light conditions when you cannot use flash or a tripod Shooting at f28 allowed me to get many sharp photos at 1125 sec during a stage performance using ISO 1000 With a more typical smaller aperture much higher ISO levels would have been required for the same shutter speed and the images would have been seriously degraded by digital noise Nikon 17 55mm at f28 c 2009 Peter K Burian



On the other hand, some lenses feature a much wider maximum aperture such as f/2.8, an even wider f/1.8 or an incredibly wide f/1.4. These can transmit a great deal more light providing a variety of benefits discussed in a moment. For this Review, I decided to test four very popular models of this type (including a fixed focal length lens) and a one with a maximum aperture of f/4. While f/4 is not a particularly large aperture, it is constant with the Canon EF 70-200m f/4L IS USM lens and does not diminish in size as you zoom.

Wide Aperture Benefits

Most professional photographers and serious photo enthusiasts prefer wide aperture lenses for their greater light-transmitting ability. The amount of light reaching the film or digital sensor is not usually an issue on bright, sunny days. But in low light situations, the wider aperture allows for shooting at a faster shutter speed –such as 1/60 sec. versus 1/8 sec.– without the need to set a very high ISO level. That’s why lenses of this type are called “fast”. They can be valuable in producing sharper photos with less blurring from camera shake and/or subject motion.

While it’s possible to shoot at fast shutter speeds with any lens at a high ISO level, it’s great to do so at a lower ISO level where image quality is not degraded by digital noise. Check out the illustration below, for example, and you’ll appreciate the value of a faster lens at ISO 100. Granted, an image stabilizer can also provide sharper photos at fairly long shutter speeds, but when the subject is moving, a wide aperture lens is still very useful for preventing motion blur.

As these examples -- made at apertures from very wide to moderately wide -- confirm, the shutter speed is substantially faster at f/1.4 than at the more common apertures at any ISO, minimizing the risk of blurring caused by camera shake. (Sigma 30mm f/1.4; ISO 100.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian In addition to that aspect there are three other benefits that are available with many "fast" lenses.
As these examples made at apertures from very wide to moderately wide confirm the shutter speed is substantially faster at f14 than at the more common apertures at any ISO minimizing the risk of blurring caused by camera shake Sigma 30mm f14 ISO 100 c 2009 Peter K Burian



In addition to that aspect, there are three other benefits that are available with many “fast” lenses:

  • Superior Quality: Because most wide aperture lenses are prosumer grade products, they usually feature very rugged construction, superior mechanisms and high-grade optical elements. Often, image quality is excellent at the commonly used f/stops, from about f/4 to f/11.
  • More Effective Focusing: A wide aperture transmits a great deal of light, making manual focusing easier in dark locations, such as a theatre, a cathedral or a castle. Autofocusing is also quicker and more reliable in low light because a “fast” lens transmits more light to the camera’s AF sensor. This can make autofocus possible in situations where the camera would balk if you were using a more typical f/4-5.6 zoom.
  • Shallow Depth of Field: Because very wide apertures (small f/numbers) provide less depth-of-field only the focused area will appear sharp in a photo. Especially at focal lengths of 135mm or longer–particularly in close focusing–it’s possible to render a cluttered background as a soft blur of color. A subject that’s sharply framed against a soft backdrop will immediately attract and hold the viewer’s attention. Be sure to focus very carefully however–on the most important subject element, such as an eye in a portrait–to ensure that it will be sharply rendered.

The Five Contenders

Moving on to specific products, let’s take a look at the four lenses with very wide maximum apertures and the fifth, an f/4 zoom with a built-in image stabilizer. That system can compensate for camera shake to prevent blurring caused by hand and body tremors; hence, there’s less need for an ultra wide aperture for faster shutter speeds.

Not all of the five lenses were available at the same time, but I tested each extensively both indoors and out. In order to take full advantage of their wide maximum apertures, I sought out events taking place in low light as well as others that allowed for shooting at mid-size apertures for optimal image quality. Some of these products are designated as multi-platform: suitable for 35mm film cameras and DSLRs regardless of the sensor size. The others were designed for use with the “smaller” sensors that are used in the vast majority of DSLR cameras.


Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

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Intended for those who find Canon’s f/2.8 model too large, heavy and expensive, the 70-200mm f/4L IS USM zoom Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras is more compact and hence more affordable (under $1200). The maximum aperture is a bit smaller however so you won’t get all of the advantages of a very “fast” zoom discussed in the introduction. Still, f/4 is wider than average in the telephoto zoom category and this lens is equipped with an image stabilizer (IS). By compensating for camera shake, that mechanism minimizes the need to use fast shutter speeds–and hence, high ISO levels–for blur-free photos.

A maximum aperture of f/4 is not very wide, at least when compared to f/2.8, but it does allow for a much smaller/lighter zoom lens. Also, the Image Stabilizer does reduce the need for a fast shutter speed re: blur from camera shake but provides no value in terms of "freezing" motion. (At f/4, 1/200 sec., ISO 1600, 70mm.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
A maximum aperture of f4 is not very wide at least when compared to f28 but it does allow for a much smallerlighter zoom lens Also the Image Stabilizer does reduce the need for a fast shutter speed re blur from camera shake but provides no value in terms of freezing motion At f4 1200 sec ISO 1600 70mm c 2009 Peter K Burian



This multi-platform Canon lens is quite portable although the over-sized hood does make it seem large. The off-white metal barrel is very rugged, beautifully finished and water/dust resistant. The barrel never rotates or protrudes so constant balance is maintained. Rotate the wide rubberized zoom and focus rings and you’ll find very smooth operation with a lot of friction: not a loose, sloppy feel. Thanks to internal focusing and zooming the barrel never protrudes or rotates.

The USM designation indicates an Ultrasonic Motor for super fast, silent autofocus. The designers specified high grade optical components including a piece of (very expensive) fluorite glass and another Ultra Low Dispersion (UD) element. The combination is remarkably effective in correcting chromatic aberration. In practical terms, they force all wavelengths of light to focus on the film or digital sensor, ensuring optimal sharpness–and minimizing “purple fringing” around subject edges–even at f/4. (Full Specifications are available at Canon USA.)

Evaluation: Although Sigma, Tamron and Nikon also make some lenses with stabilizer systems, this was the only one of the five to include a camera shake compensating device. The Canon 70-200mm f/4 zoom provides two stabilizer modes: one is for use with static subjects and another for panning with a subject moving across your line of vision. Even at 200mm–a 320mm equivalent with most EOS cameras–I was able to get many sharp photos at 1/50 sec. No stabilizer can freeze motion however, so a higher ISO level is still required for fast shutter speeds with an f/4 lens versus an f/2.8 lens.

At the commonly used apertures, the Canon lens produced exceptional image quality. As a bonus, its Ultrasonic AF system provided a high success ratio of sharply focused shots in action photography; roughly 90% of my images from this event are sharply focused. (At f/7.1, 1/1000 sec., ISO 400, 121mm; Hoya digitally-optimized Circular Polarizer.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
At the commonly used apertures the Canon lens produced exceptional image quality As a bonus its Ultrasonic AF system provided a high success ratio of sharply focused shots in action photography roughly 90 of my images from this event are sharply focused At f71 11000 sec ISO 400 121mm Hoya digitally optimized Circular Polarizer c 2009 Peter K Burian



Autofocus was equally impressive: lightning fast, nearly silent and very reliable in tracking erratic motion during a triathlon. At every zoom setting and focused distance, my images are sharp across the entire frame. As you might expect from the L designation (for “luxury”) this zoom produced very high resolution of intricate detail even at f/4; the images look great as 12×18″ prints. There’s no obvious softness–or any darkening–even in the corners. Images made at f/5.6 to f/11 are even better, suitable for gallery-quality 15×22″ prints.

This was my favourite of the five tested because it’s a fine all-around performer in terms of autofocus, optical quality and the effectiveness of its stabilizer. If the price exceeds your budget, check out the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM model Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras without the IS designation. That older zoom does is not equipped with a stabilizer and it’s not as weather-resistant but provides almost the same level of performance for about $400 less. Those appreciate the significant benefit provided by a stabilizer system will want to save up in order to buy the newer IS-designated version.

Pro’s and Con’s: Several factors make this a very desirable lens: the stabilizer, ultrasonic AF, the pro caliber optical formula and the tough, weather-resistant construction. On the other hand, the Canon zoom is expensive for an f/4 model and the tripod mounting collar is an extra cost option. Opteka makes an affordable tripod mount, but I cannot vouch for the quality of that accessory.

The Canon version (A II W) is excellent of course, but it adds $150 to the price of the lens.



Tamron SP AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro

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Replacing a larger, heavier 70-210mm f/2.8 Tamron model, this multi-platform Tamron Di zoom (Tamron AF 70-200mm f/2.8 Di LD IF Macro Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras) benefits from much closer focusing ability and a “clutch” that allows for quickly switching from AF to manual focus. Extensive use of multiple layers of chemical coatings plus an over-sized lens hood minimize flare from a highly reflective digital sensor and also from external light sources. Three large low dispersion (LD) elements correct optical aberrations which would otherwise degrade image quality especially at f/2.8 and at f/4.

The wide f/2.8 aperture was very useful for fast shutter speeds -- such as 1/160 sec. to freeze motion -- during a stage performance where flash and tripods were prohibited. For this shot I used ISO 800. With a "slower" lens, a much higher ISO level would have been required: ISO 1600 at f/4 or ISO 3200 at f/5.6. (At 70mm, f/2.8.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
The wide f28 aperture was very useful for fast shutter speeds such as 1160 sec to freeze motion during a stage performance where flash and tripods were prohibited For this shot I used ISO 800 With a slower lens a much higher ISO level would have been required ISO 1600 at f4 or ISO 3200 at f56 At 70mm f28 c 2009 Peter K Burian



A high-grade product, this zoom features a very rugged barrel finished in matte black and a (removable) metal tripod mounting collar. It’s compatible with Tamron’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverter, accessories that can extend the focal length into super telephoto category. The extra wide rubberized focusing and zoom rings provide a solid, familiar feel, with plenty of friction. Because the lens barrel does not protrude during zooming or focusing, weight distribution always remains constant. That’s particularly important when this hefty lens is used on a tripod.

Evaluation: The advanced optical formula provided images with snappy contrast as well as remarkably high sharpness across the entire frame. Optimal performance was provided in the 70mm to 140mm range at f/8 but I never hesitated to shoot at f/2.8 at any focal length for fast shutter speeds. By f/4, edge sharpness–and edge brightness–were excellent; the photos are suitable for making 14×21″ prints of stunning quality. Even images made at f/2.8 allowed me to make very good 12×18″ prints. That’s a fine achievement for a relatively affordable ($800) lens, qualifying this Tamron model as a “best value” in its category.

The Tamron zoom produced very high image quality at f/8 at all apertures and focal lengths. Autofocus (with an EOS 40D) was quite fast and reliable with action subjects; roughly 70% of my photos from this event were sharply focused. (At 200mm, f/8, ISO 400; Hoya digitally-optimized Circular Polarizer.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
The Tamron zoom produced very high image quality at f8 at all apertures and focal lengths Autofocus with an EOS 40D was quite fast and reliable with action subjects roughly 70 of my photos from this event were sharply focused At 200mm f8 ISO 400 Hoya digitally optimized Circular Polarizer c 2009 Peter K Burian



This lens can provide an impressive 0.32x magnification in close focusing at 200mm. In images of colorful blossoms, sharpness was excellent, particularly in the f/5.6 to f/16 range. While an ultrasonic motor might make autofocus even faster, I was able to get many sharp photos during a marathon and a horse jumping event. Autofocus failed occasionally but the overall performance was fine. In low light, AF remained reliable because the wide aperture transmitted a lot of light to the autofocus sensor.

The close focusing ability of the Tamron zoom was useful for frame filling images of moderately large nature subjects. Image quality was very good at f/11 and f/16, apertures that I often used for adequate depth of field. (At 200mm, f/11, ISO 400.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
The close focusing ability of the Tamron zoom was useful for frame filling images of moderately large nature subjects Image quality was very good at f11 and f16 apertures that I often used for adequate depth of field At 200mm f11 ISO 400 c 2009 Peter K Burian



The f/2.8 aperture and solid construction do make this lens somewhat large and heavy at 41 oz. (Full specifications are provided at Tamron; the model for Nikon includes a built-in focus motor.)

Many families would prefer the more portable 19.5 oz. Tamron 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical IF Macro model (about $630) Tamron AF 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical IF Macro Zoom Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras–with built-in image stabilizer–in spite of its much smaller maximum apertures. Although not intended for everyone, Tamron’s 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom will certainly satisfy demanding photographers. Considering its level of performance–and the surprisingly affordable price–it offers excellent value. Used with serious shooting techniques, the lens will pay dividends in terms of professional caliber images.

Pro’s and Con’s: This rugged Tamron lens offers excellent value for an f/2.8 tele zoom and it provides higher magnification than average in close focusing. On the other hand, it’s larger/heavier than the EF 70-200mm f/4 zoom, but that’s relevant only to owners of Canon SLR’s. (Only one other current telezoom of a major brand features a constant maximum aperture of f/4, the huge Sigma APO 100-300mm f/4 EX DG HSM lens Sigma 100-300mm f/4 EX DG IF HSM APO Fast Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras.) While autofocus would be faster if the Tamron lens included an ultrasonic motor, AF performance is fine as is, except for serious sports photographers.


Tokina AF 50-135mm f/2.8 AT-X Pro DX

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Designed strictly for DSLR cameras with the typical “small” sensors, this 50-135mm zoom ($530) does not provide as much “reach” as the 70-200mm models but it does include some shorter focal lengths. It’s quite compact and not very heavy but still meets pro standards in terms of all-metal construction and the quality of the focus/zooming mechanisms. A “clutch” allows for quickly shifting between AF and manual focus by moving the focus ring about one centimeter. The metal tripod mounting collar is not removable so its weight is reflected in the specifications for the lens.

While a longer 70-200mm zoom is more useful for some purposes, the 50-135mm Tokina lens provided an 80-216mm equivalent on an EOS digital SLR; that's plenty for many types of subjects. The wide f/2.8 aperture allowed me to shoot at ISO 1000 even when I needed to use a shutter speed of 1/250 sec. in low light; my letter size prints are excellent. (At 62mm, f/2.8.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
While a longer 70 200mm zoom is more useful for some purposes the 50 135mm Tokina lens provided an 80 216mm equivalent on an EOS digital SLR thats plenty for many types of subjects The wide f28 aperture allowed me to shoot at ISO 1000 even when I needed to use a shutter speed of 1250 sec in low light my letter size prints are excellent At 62mm f28 c 2009 Peter K Burian



This f/2.8 Tokina zoom is equipped with three Super Low Dispersion (SD) glass elements to correct for chromatic aberrations and to focus all colors of light accurately at the sensor plane. Note too, that Tokina employs a new type of coating on the front element; this makes it very easy to remove fingerprints and water droplets. Extensive use of multi-layer chemical coatings plus an over-sized lens hood combine to minimize flare for snappy contrast even in strong side-lighting. (Check the full Specs at THK Photo Products, Inc.. This lens is available in EOS and Nikon mount.)

This is another lens with internal focusing and zooming; the front element does not rotate and the barrel never protrudes. This design–and the very wide maximum aperture–helps to accelerate autofocus. While it’s not equipped with an ultrasonic AF motor, I found that autofocus was quite quick and reliable. This 80-216mm equivalent zoom is too short for most action photography but it is compatible with the Kenko Pro 1.4x and 2x teleconverter; those accessories would make it more versatile.

Evaluation: The mechanical and optical materials are really first-rate so there’s no need to use specific apertures or focal lengths for optimal image quality. This level of consistency is a sign of a very well designed lens. While there is a bit of shading (darkening at the corners), that’s noticeable only at f/2.8 and f/3.5. Clarity, sharpness and resolution of fine detail are all very good, particularly from f/4 to f/11. My best images made for richly-detailed 12×18″ prints that look great even under close scrutiny.

The Tokina zoom produced very fine image quality at f/4 to f/11 at any focal length, so the resulting images made for excellent prints in sizes up to 12x18". While this lens is not equipped with a focus motor, that's a problem only for owners of certain Nikon DSLRs. (At 62mm, f/10, 1/200 sec., ISO 400; flash.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
The Tokina zoom produced very fine image quality at f4 to f11 at any focal length so the resulting images made for excellent prints in sizes up to 12x18 While this lens is not equipped with a focus motor thats a problem only for owners of certain Nikon DSLRs At 62mm f10 1200 sec ISO 400 flash c 2009 Peter K Burian



The manufacturer of Tokina lenses (the Tokina, Hoya, Kenko consortium) is not as prolific as Sigma and Tamron in introducing many new products each year. The 50-135mm f/2.8 zoom, for instance, was released in November 2006 and the model for Nikon does not include the motor required for autofocus with the D40, D40x, D60, D5000 and future affordable Nikon DSLRs. (Some of the newer Tokina lenses are equipped with the focus motor so they provide AF with any DSLR.) In all other aspects the Tokina brand definitely deserves your consideration. Like every AT-X zoom I have tested since 1999 the 50-135mm lens should certainly satisfy many serious shooters.

Pro’s and Con’s: This lens’ strong points include an all metal barrel, three high-grade SD elements and a high degree of consistency at all apertures/focal lengths. Drawbacks include the lack of ultrasonic AF and the AF motor necessary with some Nikon cameras; note too, that the tripod mounting collar is not removable as it is with the longer zooms, so it always adds slightly to the weight of the lens. Still, the Tokina 50-135mm f/2.8 zoom is relatively compact/lightweight, especially when compared to a 70-200mm lens.


Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX

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A “standard” zoom with a wide maximum aperture, this lens Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX Nikkor Zoom Lens was designed to attract professional photographers who often shoot in low light. Built to withstand extensive use under difficult conditions, the rugged all-metal barrel includes three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements plus three aspherical to correct all types of optical aberrations and distortion. An over-sized lens hood plus extensive multilayer coating provide very effective protection against flare.

Fit and finish are first-class in all respects. The wide, rubberized focus and zoom rings provide buttery-smooth operation with lots of friction. The internal barrel does protrude slightly at the 17mm zoom setting but does not rotate during focusing. Rubber seals provide protection against moisture, extreme humidity and dust. Internal focusing plus an ultrasonic Silent Wave Motor (SWM) enable unusually fast autofocus; manual override is possible in AF mode. Particularly when used with a high-end DSLR (with a superior AF system), this wide aperture lens provides instant focusing even in low light.

Even at the maximum aperture required for fast shutter speeds in low light, the Nikon zoom provides unusually high sharpness/resolution in the central 2/3 of the image area. In fact, at wide apertures, this is one of the best "standard" zoom lenses that I have ever tested. (At 26mm, f/2.8, 1/180 sec., ISO 1600.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
Even at the maximum aperture required for fast shutter speeds in low light the Nikon zoom provides unusually high sharpnessresolution in the central 23 of the image area In fact at wide apertures this is one of the best standard zoom lenses that I have ever tested At 26mm f28 1180 sec ISO 1600 c 2009 Peter K Burian



Evaluation: As you might expect from a lens used by numerous photojournalists and other professionals, this one can provide superlative image quality. Particularly in the 28-55mm range, sharpness is very high in the central two-thirds of the image area even at f/2.8. In the f/4 to f/11 range, edge sharpness and brightness are excellent as well; the images would be perfect for making 16×24″ outputs for publication or for wall decor. Even at the shorter focal lengths, the Nikon lens provides fine performance; images made at 17mm to 27mm at f/4 to f/11 produced very good 13×19″ inkjet prints.

Stopping down to the f/4 to f/11 range allowed the Nikon lens to provide impressive quality across the entire frame at short focal lengths, and even better in the 28-55mm range. (At 17mm, f/f/10, 1/20 sec. Hoya digitally-optimized Circular Polarizer.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
Stopping down to the f4 to f11 range allowed the Nikon lens to provide impressive quality across the entire frame at short focal lengths and even better in the 28 55mm range At 17mm ff10 120 sec Hoya digitally optimized Circular Polarizer c 2009 Peter K Burian



This Nikon zoom is large/heavy but well-balanced when used with a hefty camera like the D300. Unless you need a pro-calibre f/2.8 zoom, you might be just as happy with Nikon’s AF-S DX 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR II. That lens costs about half as much and is smaller/lighter, more versatile and includes an image stabilizer; it’s also capable of providing very fine image quality. On the other hand, an aperture of f/2.8 is valuable in low light, for faster shutter speeds that will more effectively “freeze” a moving subject without the need for a higher ISO level.

Pros and Cons: Aside from the size/weight this Nikon zoom is just about perfect in terms of construction, optical technology and autofocus. Considering the upscale price (about $1400) however, I would also have appreciated a Vibration Reduction stabilizer. Optical performance could be even better at short focal lengths, I suppose, but that’s probably nitpicking.


Sigma AF 30mm f/1.4 EX HSM DC

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One of the relatively few f/1.4 lenses designed exclusively for DSLRs with “small” sensors, this 30mm model Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras features a huge maximum aperture; it’s two stops wider than f/2.8. That’s interesting but consider the practical value: when using the same ISO level, this lens allows for shooting at a shutter speed that’s four times faster. Compare this Sigma lens to one with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 and the f/1.4 lens allows you to shoot at a shutter speed that’s sixteen times faster. That’s great for low light photography when a tripod or flash is prohibited or impractical.

As with any f/1.4 lens, depth of field is extremely shallow at f/1.4 in close focusing so only the focused plane is really sharp. That's due to an optical characteristic and is not a performance issue. Granted, the Sigma lens does provide better results at smaller apertures, but f/1.4 can be very useful in low light photography. (At 26mm, f/2.8, 1/180 sec., ISO 1600.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
As with any f14 lens depth of field is extremely shallow at f14 in close focusing so only the focused plane is really sharp Thats due to an optical characteristic and is not a performance issue Granted the Sigma lens does provide better results at smaller apertures but f14 can be very useful in low light photography At f14 c 2009 Peter K Burian



Photographers who use film camera often own a wide aperture 50mm lens and this 30mm lens is roughly equivalent to that because of the smaller DSLR sensors. Optical aberrations can seriously degrade image quality at f/1.4 to f/2 so this lens includes two pieces of Special Low Dispersion glass plus two Aspherical elements. In order to maximize autofocus speed, Sigma installed their Hyper Sonic Motor for very fast, silent autofocus with Canon, Nikon or Sigma DSLRs. Because the huge aperture transmits a great deal of light to the camera, autofocus is reliable even in dark locations.

Note: A nearly identical model is available in Sony/Maxxum and Pentax mounts but does not include the Hypersonic AF motor so autofocus is not as fast or as quiet. (The full Specs are available at Sigma)

Although this lens with metal barrel is larger/heavier than you would expect, it’s still very portable when compared to most zooms. The wide, rubberized focus ring has a smooth action and the front element does not rotate. Manual focus override is possible in AF mode, convenient for quickly making minor changes when necessary. Because of the unusually wide lens aperture, the viewfinder provides a particularly bright view of a subject even in low light and autofocus remains quite fast.

Evaluation: In order to maximize the lens’ primary feature, I often worked at f/1.4 to f/2 while taking photos at various indoor events. At these f/stops, image quality is highly acceptable but not perfect. Sharpness in the central 60% of the frame is very good but there’s some obvious softness at the edges. Darkening at the corners is noticeable in photos of light-toned subjects but it’s not really visible with more typical scenes. After some work in Photoshop, my best shots made for very nice 8×10″ glossies.

At the most commonly used apertures, the Sigma lens produced excellent image quality; in fact, it's better than many zoom lenses in this respect. (At f/9, 1/50 sec., ISO 100; Hoya digitally optimized Circular Polarizer.) (c) 2009 Peter K. Burian
At the most commonly used apertures the Sigma lens produced excellent image quality in fact its better than many zoom lenses in this respect At f9 150 sec ISO 100 Hoya digitally optimized Circular Polarizer c 2009 Peter K Burian



Switching to f/4 provides more even brightness and sharpness across the frame. Optimum quality is available at f/8, suitable for making very good 13×19″ glossies. While some of the Sigma EX-series zooms provide even better results — and greater versatility in focal lengths — none feature an aperture wider than f/2.8. And that’s what makes an f/1.4 lens preferable as a problem solving tool. If you often shoot in dark locations where flash and a tripod are not practical, this compact Sigma lens deserves a spot in your camera bag.

Pro’s and Con’s: This is a fine lens particularly at the most commonly-used apertures and autofocus is very fast in the models equipped with the HSM motor. While edge sharpness/brightness could be better at very wide apertures, the Sigma f/1.4 model offers good value for the price (under $450), considering it’s high-grade construction and optical elements.

The Bottom Line

Not everyone needs a large, heavy and pricey “fast” lens because many zooms–and some DLSR bodies–incorporate an image stabilizer. That system reduces the need for fast shutter speeds to prevent blurring from camera shake. Granted, the faster shutter speed provided by a wide aperture is valuable in a lens that will be used for action photography. In any event, I’ll summarize my findings briefly, as follows.

The Tokina 50-135mm f/2.8 zoom is too short for that purpose unless used with teleconverters and those are not inexpensive. Still, this would be a fine choice for anyone who appreciates the focal length range available with this rugged, reasonably affordable and compact f/2.8 lens.

The Tamron and Canon 70-200mm models are fine performers with the latter holding an edge in terms of portability, AF speed/reliability, some aspects of image quality and its built-in stabilizer. But the Tamron zoom’s f/2.8 aperture is more attractive for low light photography and for those who often use a teleconverter.

The Nikon 17-55mm zoom and the Sigma 30mm lens are not directly comparable to any of the others and they’re not “mass market” products. But if you often shoot indoors without flash or a tripod, the Sigma model might be worth considering. While image quality is best at smaller apertures, the ability to shoot at f/1.4 can be a valuable problem-solver in some situations. As suggested earlier, a more affordable Nikon zoom with Vibration Reduction stabilizer might be more appealing to many shooters than the expensive f/2.8 model that I tested. The pro grade zoom certainly has merits of course and it would be a fine choice for those who need tank-like construction and often photograph moving subjects in low light.

This Post Has 4 Comments

  1. I can’t help thinking that, particularly for a review focusing on “great light gathering ability,” it’s REALLY stretching it even to call these lenses comparable!

    Most of my photography is under conditions that require a wide-aperture lens… and I can hardly think of any situations in which I might approach a situation thinking, “Let’s see, should I use my 70-200mm f/4 IS or my 30mm f/1.4?” Or where I’d have a choice between a 17-55/2.8 and a 70-200/2.8. Et cetera.

    Usually the situation would dictate one or another, rendering the idea of a “comparison” dubious. For example, under conditions in which you need an f/1.4 lens, an f/4 lens isn’t going to cut it — IS or no IS.

  2. I think Canon 70-200mm f4 is not a fast aperture lens. IS help a bit to control hand shake but it is basically useless if you use it for school dance performance and indoor sports.

    I also think 50-135mm and 50-150mm (sigma) is more suitable for DX in many occasions. Because in DX, most of the wide zoom lens ends 50mm, such as 18-55, 17-55mm and 16-50mm. So the 50-150mm complement it better than 70-200mm.

    Unless you’re doing bird photography or other field photography, 50-135mm will serve u better in less weight and price. I’m pretty surprise that there are only third party lens maker make these lenses: Sigma 50-150mm and Tokina 50-135mm.

  3. Ranger: I guess you disagree with the “comparative” word in the title. That was an editorial decision.

    But hopefully, the article will be food for thought for photo hobbyists who have been thinking of replacing an f/5.6-6.3 zoom.

    Cheers! Peter

  4. Thanks for the post! I’m going to purchase the 30mm f1.4 Sigma now unless there is something better for the money.

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