Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4 DG A review

A huge thank you to ProFotoSale for providing the Sigma 12-24mm 1:4 DG A lens (for Nikon cameras). They have a wide selection of new and used lenses for various systems, including similar Sigma lenses.

Browse Navigation:

1. In short
2. History
3. Alternatives
4. Main Specifications
5. All original similar Nikon Nikkor lenses
6. Assembly
7. Focusing
8. Image quality
9. Sample Photos
10. My experience
11. All Sigma Art Series Lenses
12. Prices
13. Conclusion
14. User Comments
15. Add your review / comment or question on the lens

In this review, I will refer to the Sigma 12-24mm 1:4 DG A lens as the Sigma 12-24/4 Art . This review shows the version of the lens for Nikon cameras with the Nikon F mount. The Sigma 12-24/4 Art is also available for Canon DSLRs with the EF/EFS mount and Sigma cameras with the SA mount. This is one of the few lenses in the Sigma ART series that has not been converted to Sony/Minolta A, Pentax K, Sony E, or Leica L mounts, nor has this lens been converted to the Sigma CINE version.

Very important: The Sigma 12-24/4 Art should not be confused with the older Sigma 12-24mm 1:4.5-5.6 DG HSM EX (2003) and Sigma 12-24mm 1:4.5-5.6 II DG HSM (2011).

In short

The Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art is a unique wide / ultra wide / ultra wide angle lens for full frame DSLR cameras. Very high resolution in the center of the frame at 12 mm focal length and open aperture, high-quality assembly and fast focusing. The lens deserves due attention.

Most of the potential of the lens can be unleashed by experienced full-frame photographers who know exactly why they need such a wide angle of view.

The image quality obtained with the Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art is quite difficult to describe in a few words, but in general it is at a high level.

There is no wider full-frame autofocus rectilinear lens available for Nikon DSLRs, and previous Sigma 12-24 models have a slower aperture and poorer image quality.

History

Sigma has extensive experience in creating such ultra-wide angle lenses.

Zoom Lenses:

1. Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4.5-5.6 DG HSM EX... Scheme 16/12 (4 SLD, 3 ASP). October 2003 of the year. Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA, Sony A, Pentax K. HSM motor is only available for Canon EF, Nikon F and Sigma SA.
2. Sigma 12-24mm 1:4.5-5.6 II DG HSM... Scheme 17/13 (1 SLD, 4 FLD, 4 ASP). February 2011 of the year. Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA, Sony A. From October 2003 to February 2015 (age 12) the 'EX' and 'II' models were the most wide-angle rectification lenses for full frame cameras with autofocus support.
3. Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4 DG A... Scheme 16/11 (5 FLD, 1 SLD, 3 ASP). November 2016... Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA
4. Sigma 14-24mm 1: 2.8 DG A... Scheme 17/11 (3 FLD, 3 SLD, 3 ASP). February 2018... Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA
5. Sigma 14-24mm 1: 2.8 DG DN A... Scheme 18/13 (5 FLD, 1 SLD, 3 ASP). July 2019... Leica L, Sony E

Fix Lenses:

1. Sigma 14mm 1:3.5 Multi-Coated [MF] / Sigma 14mm 1:3.5 HIGH-SPEED AF / Sigma 14mm 1: 3.5 AF... Scheme 13/11. February 1991... Autofocus versions only for Nikon F, Canon EF, Sony A. First autofocus 14mm prime
2. Sigma 14mm 1: 2.8 APSHERICAL HSM EX... Scheme 14/10 (2 SLD, 2 ASP). August 1998... Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA, Sony A, Pentax K
3. Sigma 14mm 1: 1.8 DG A... Scheme 16/11 (3 FLD, 4 SLD, 4 ASP). December 2017... Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA, Leica L, Sony E

Lenses for cameras with APS-C sensors :

1. Sigma 10-20mm 1:4-5.6 EX DC [+ -HSM, + -D]... Scheme 14/10 (3 ASP, 3 SLD). February 2005... Canon EFS, Sigma SA, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony A, 4/3. Several subversions with external differences
2. Sigma 10-20mm 1: 3.5 EX DC HSM... Scheme 13/10 (4 ASP, 2 ELD, 1 SLD). March 2009... Canon EFS, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sigma SA, Sony A. Several sub-versions with external differences
3. Sigma 8-16mm 1:4.5-5.6 DC HSM... Scheme 15/11 (3 ASP, 4 FLD). February 2010, Canon EFS, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sigma SA, Sony / Minolta A. It is still the widest rectile lens for cropped DSLR cameras with autofocus support.

Alternatives

Below are all the rectilinear ultra-wide-angle lenses [NOT FISHEYS] with a focal length of 12mm and shorter for full-frame cameras.

Autofocus for SLR cameras:

1. Canon Zoom Lens EF 11-24mm 1: 4 L USM UltrasonicCanon EF
2. Sigma 12-24mm 1:4.5-5.6 DG HSM EX, Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA, Sony A, Pentax K
3. Sigma 12-24mm 1:4.5-5.6 II DG HSM, Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA, Sony A
4. Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4 DG A, Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA

Autofocus for mirrorless cameras:

1. Canon Lens RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM, Canon RF. Yes, this is a full-frame zoom lens. It's a record-breaking zoom lens. It has a 130° angle of view at 10mm.
2. Sony FE 2.8 /12-24 GGM,Sony E
3. Sony FE 4 /12-24 G,Sony E
4. Tamron 12-20mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A084), Sony E, Nikon Z
5. laowa 10 mm 1:2.8 ZERO-D Auto Focuss C&D-Dreamer FF II, Sony E, Nikon Z. Record-breaking lens among primes
6. LAOWA 12 mm 1:2.8 D-Dreamer Zero-D, Sony E, Nikon Z
7. Brightin star 12 mm F2.8, Sony E, Nikon Z

Manual for SLR cameras:

1. IRIX 11/4 Firefly + IRIX 11/4 Blackstone, Canon EF, Nikon F, Pentax K
2. SAMYANG / ROKINON 10/3.5, Canon EF, Nikon F
3. LAOWA 12 mm 1:2.8 D-Dreamer Zero-D, Canon EF, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony A + Sony E

Manual for mirrorless cameras:

1. LAOWA 9 mm 1: 5.6 W-Dreamer RL FF, Nikon Z, Leica M, Leica L, Sony E. Yes, this is 9 mm for full frame and it’s not a phish. Record-breaking lens. Viewing angle 135°
2. 7Artisans 9mm F5.6, Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L, Canon R. Viewing angle 132°
3. 7Artisans 9 mm F5.6 Rear Filter, Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L, Canon R. 132° Angle of View
4. Brightin star 9 mm F5.6, Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L, Canon R. Viewing angle 132°. Clone copy 7Artisans 9mm F5.6
5. LAOWA 10-18mm 1:4.5-5-6 C-Dreamer Ultra Wide Zoom, Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L
6. laowa 10 mm 1:2.8 ZERO-D C&D-Dreamer FF II, Leica L, Canon RF
7. LAOWA 11 mm 1: 4.5 C-Dreamer RL FF, Nikon Z, Leica M, Leica L, Sony E, Canon RF
8. LAOWA 11 mm 1:4.5 C-Dreamer RL FF+, Nikon Z, Leica M, Leica L, Sony E, Canon RF, DL, lite version
9. LAOWA 12 mm 1:2.8 D-Dreamer Zero-D, Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z, Leica L
10. Laowa FF II 12-24mm F5.6 C-Dreamer, Leica M, Sony FE, Nikon Z, Canon RF
11. Voigtlander HELIAR-HYPER WIDE 10 mm F5.6 ASPHERICAL, Sony E, Leica M
12. Voigtlander Ultra-Wide Heliar 12 mm F5.6 ASPHERICAL, M39+ version II, Leica M+ version III, Leica M, Sony E
13. IRIX 11/4 Firefly + IRIX 11/4 Blackstone, Sony E + Canon EF, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony A

Lenses are named according to the markings found on their barrels. A list of all ultra-wide-angle lenses with autofocus support for APS-C sensor cameras is available here.

Main technical characteristics of Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4 DG A:

Review Instance Name	The lens barrel bears the following inscriptions 'Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4 DG A MADE IN JAPAN 016'
Basic properties	DG - Lens designed for DSLR cameras with full frame sensor A (Art) - a line of modern Sigma lenses aimed at maximum optical quality 016 (2016) - lens year marker HSM (Hyper Sabout nothing Motor) - ultrasonic focusing motor, in this case it is analogous to 'Nikon SWM'. AF / MF - simple focus mode switch IF (Iinternal Focusing) - internal focus Full-Time MAnnual Pass Focus - continuous manual focus control, analog Nikon 'M / A' Super Multi-layer Coating - super multicoated optics ASP (Aspenherical) - aspherical elements in the optical scheme FLD – (Fluorite-like Low Dispersion) - special low-dispersion elements in the optical scheme with characteristics close to fluorite SLD (Special Low Dispersion) - low dispersion elements in the optical scheme USB Dock Compatibility - compatible with Dock Station for flashing and / or reprogramming (adjust focus, etc.) No aperture ring, analogue 'Nikon G / E' Electromagnetic iris control, analogue to 'Nikon E' Built-in hood Protective coating of the front and rear lenses Important: lens from a third-party manufacturer, which imposes some restrictions on its practical use
Front Filter Diameter	does not use
Focal length	12-24 mm EGF for Nikon DX cameras is 18-36 mm Angle of view at 12mm is 122 degrees diagonally across the frame
Zoom ratio	2 x
Designed by	for digital cameras Nikon FX, There are also options for: Canon EF / EFS (namely the EF lens mount) Sigma sa
Number of aperture blades	9 rounded petals
Tags	window with a scale of focusing distance in meters and feet bayonet mount mark
Diaphragm	F / 4 to F / 16 The lens does not have an aperture control ring; control is via the camera controls (similar to Nikon G/E type lenses )
MDF	0.24 meters, maximum magnification ratio 1:4.9
The weight	1150 grams According to my measurements 1134 (Nikon F version, lens without caps)
Optical design	16 elements in 11 groups: 3 ASP aspherical elements 1 SLD (Special Low Dispersion), it is not known where he is in the diagram 5 FLD - (Fluorite-like Low Dispersion) Image of optical circuit clickable
Lens hood	Built-in
Manufacturer country	MADE IN JAPAN (Lens made in Japan)
Production period	From 22 November 2016
Price	Look at AMAZON

The Sigma ART line also includes two interesting wide-angle solutions: Sigma 14/1.8 ART and Sigma 14-24/2.8 ART.

Original autofocus lenses

Nikkor F for SLR cameras:

1. Nikon 14 mm 1: 2.8D AF
2. Nikon 16 mm 1: 2.8D Fisheye AF
3. Nikon 18 mm 1: 2.8D AF
4. Nikon 20 mm 1:2.8 AF
5. Nikon 20 mm 1: 2.8D AF
6. Nikon 20 mm 1: 1.8G N AF S
7. Nikon 8-15mm 1: 3.5-4.5E Fisheye AF S
8. Nikon 14-24mm 1: 2.8G N AF S
9. Nikon 16-35mm 1: 4G VR N AF S
10. Nikon 17-35mm 1: 2.8D AF S
11. Nikon 18-35mm 1: 3.5-4.5D AF
12. Nikon 18-35mm 1: 3.5-4.5G AF S
13. Nikon 20-35mm 1: 2.8D AF

Nikkor Z for mirrorless cameras:

1. Nikon 20 mm 1:1.8 S
2. Nikon 14-24 1:2.8 S
3. Nikon 14-30mm 1:4 S
4. Nikon 17-28mm 1:2.8

Assembly

All Art series lenses are made exclusively in Japan, and even all accessories (caps, case, etc.) are also made in Japan. Although the lens belongs to the highest-quality ART series , the Sigma 12-24/4 Art does not have full dust or moisture protection. However, it does have a rubber bayonet seal, and the front and rear elements have special protective coatings.

Overall, the lens is well-built. The Sigma 12-24/4 Art has a metal bayonet mount . The focus and zoom rings are fairly narrow, rubberized, and a bit stiff. The barrel is primarily made of a special composite called TSC — Thermally Stable Composite — which is less sensitive to temperature changes than regular polycarbonate. This composite prevents the barrel from warping with large changes in ambient temperature. Sigma uses this material for all its 'ART' series lenses.

The Sigma 12-24/4 Art weighs about 1200 grams . It feels well-made in your hands. I've prepared a short video about the dimensions of Sigma lenses on my YouTube channel.

The design of the Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art is reminiscent of other lenses in the Sigma Art range. The glossy surfaces on the lens barrel are quite easily soiled.

When changing focal length, the front lens moves in the center of the lens barrel. When decreasing focal length, the front lens extends forward.

The lens supports firmware updates and adjustments using a USB station, which can be purchased separately or adjusted at certified centers. My review sample did not have the station.

The Sigma 12-24/4 Art cannot use standard filters that screw into the threads near the front element (there's no thread). Unfortunately, the Sigma 12-24/4 Art also cannot use filters that attach behind the rear element, known as gelatin filters.

The Sigma 12-24/4 Art has a built-in petal-shaped lens hood that protects the front lens from mechanical damage and also helps with side and backlighting.

The front protective cap has no latches ; it simply fits snugly against the lens barrel. The inside of the cap is lined with fabric.

Focusing

The lens uses a dedicated ring-type ultrasonic focusing motor (HSM) for focusing . This is similar to the Nikon SWM/Canon USM/Pentax SDM/Sony DDSSM motors. In this regard, the Sigma 12-24/4 Art lens is similar to an AF-S lens in Nikon terms.

The lens will automatically focus on all Nikon DSLR cameraseven on amateur series models Nikon DXthat do not have a built-in focus motor: D40, D40x, D60, D3000, D3100, D3200, D3300, D3400, D3500, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600as well as mirrorless cameras Nikon Z with adapter FTZ / FTZ II.

During autofocus, the motor performs its work quite quietly.

The autofocus speed of the lens is fast (closer to very fast). The focusing speed is sufficient for comfortable work in most photographic tasks. The speed may slightly depend on the camera used and the firmware of the lens itself, as well as the shooting conditions (poor lighting, etc.).

I didn't have any particular issues with the autofocus Nikon D4 and D40 . However, it's still better to fine-tune focus using a docking station and the SIGMA Optimization Pro utility (Russian language support available). You can rent a docking station in large cities. There are many reviews online about the front and back focus with this lens, especially for Nikon and Canon DSLRs.

The focus ring is rubberized and rotates approximately 90 degrees in manual focus mode. When reaching its extreme positions, the ring does not stop but continues to rotate freely. Manual focusing is not very convenient. The direction of rotation of the focus ring and zoom ring does not match that of the original Nikon 14-24/2.8GN AF-S . In automatic focus mode, the focus ring does not rotate, and you can hold the lens by it.

Important : the range of distances is very 'off' within the limits from a meter to infinity, which makes manual focusing inconvenient and difficult.

The lens has internal focusing , the front lens remains stationary during focusing.

The lens has a window with a focusing distance scale in meters and feet. The number of values ​​on the scale is small, and the scale itself is not very useful. There are only values ​​for 0.24, 0.3, 0.4, 0.6, 1 meter and infinity mark. There is no depth of field scale.

The minimum focusing distance is 24 cm and the maximum zoom ratio is 1: 4.9, which is quite good for a lens like this.

The lens barrel features a focus mode switch , 'AF | MF Focus' (autofocus/manual focus). The lens supports full-time manual focus control (Full-Time Manual Focus). This feature is reminiscent of Nikon's native 'M/A' or 'A/M' functions . It's more similar to Canon's FTM or to the 'A' mode for some Nikon DX lenses, which are described in detail here . In short, convenient manual focusing in 'AF' mode (the switch position on the lens) is only possible if the camera is using ' AF-S ' or 'AF-A' focus mode and only after successful automatic focus acquisition. In ' AF-C ' mode, the camera can counteract manual focus control. The Sigma 12-24/4 Art doesn't disable autofocus when you start turning the focus ring manually, which can lead to various issues. Nikon's original 'M/A' lenses immediately disable autofocus entirely and respond exclusively to manual focus ring control. However, if you focus using the AF-ON button (or a button programmed for this function, or a remote control), you might not even notice the lack of a full-fledged Nikon 'M/A' or Nikon 'A/M' mode . This is a rather subtle detail that only becomes quickly apparent through practice.

Interesting : The Sigma 12-24/4 Art has a pronounced 'Focus Breathing' effect (changes in the angle of view during focusing). When focusing toward the center of focus, the angle of view increases. At a 12mm focal length, when focusing at the center of focus, the angle of view is approximately the same as an 11mm lens. When focusing at the center of focus, the angle of view is incredibly wide.

Important : Focus Shift is present at the 24mm focal length. Focus Shift is completely absent at the 12mm focal length. The problem is most pronounced at the 24mm focal length. In some cases, it's better to use Live View with focus at the selected aperture to avoid focusing errors. Personally, I wouldn't have noticed Focus Shift if I hadn't accidentally learned about it from a friend.

Focus Features:

1. Important: The quality of focusing operation of the Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art in Live View mode strongly depends on the camera used and on the lens firmware, as well as on the system used for which the lens is made.
2. The Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art does not have a hard infinity mechanical stop, which allows you to accurately and quickly focus the lens to infinity under any external temperature conditions. For accurate aiming at infinity, you cannot just bring the focusing ring to its extreme position.
3. The lens transmits the distance to the subject in the camera and is Nikon D-lens equivalent... Focus distance transmission affects metering performance, especially when using flash.
4. Important: The Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art is a third party lens. It may happen that it will not work correctly with some cameras. Details on this issue have been reviewed by me here
5. Unknown compatibility with Nikon FTZ / FTZ II adapter for Nikon Z mirrorless cameras
6. Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art supports docking station, with which you can update the lens firmware, as well as adjust / fix the focus

Diaphragm

The lens's diaphragm consists of nine rounded blades that form a smooth opening. The aperture stops down to f/22. A maximum aperture of f/4 is available throughout the entire focal length range.

Important : The Sigma 12-24/4 Art uses electromagnetic aperture control . Theoretically, only certain Nikon digital cameras will work correctly with this lens:

The exact list of digital cameras that support working with 'E'-type lenses:

Nikon D3, D3s, D3x, D4, D4s, D5, D6, Df, D600, D610, D700, D750, D780, D800, D800E, D810, D810a, D850, D300, D300s, D500, D7000, D7100, D7200, D7500, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D3100, D3200, D3300, D3400, D3500

+ Nikon Z FX , Nikon Z DX with Nikon FTZ / Nikon FTZ II adapter.

+ Nikon 1 CX with Nikon FT-1 adapter

The exact list of cameras that do not support working with 'E'-type lenses:

Nikon D1, D1h, D1x, D2x, D2h, D2xs, D2hs, D40, D40x, D50, D60, D70, D70s, D80, D90, D100, D200, D3000

+ Fujifilm FinePix S1 Pro , S2 Pro , S3 Pro , S3 Pro UVIR, S5 Pro , IS Pro

+ Kodak DCS PRO 14n and Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n

'E' type lenses on the cameras in this list will always shoot at full aperture. Other features of the work are possible.

Electromagnetic aperture control has several advantages over the older method of controlling aperture using mechanical levers on the camera and lens:

1. increases aperture value accuracy
2. increased response speed, which is important for high-speed shooting
3. As far as I know, the old aperture lever mechanism (Non-G, G lenses) was designed for a maximum speed of 10 frames per second. The electromagnetic diaphragm can easily operate at higher speeds
4. simplifies iris operation during movie shooting
5. the mechanism is quieter (at least there is no noise from the aperture control mechanisms built into the camera)
6. simplifies the design of the camera itself, as well as macro rings, teleconverters and other adapters. This is very critical for telephoto lenses with a focal length greater than 500 mm.
7. third-party lens design is simplified for Nikon / Canon and many other systems, especially mirrorless ones. The manufacturer does not need to globally change the design of the lens for different aperture control mechanisms on different cameras. For all, an electromagnetic diaphragm is used without additional mechanical parts. Let me remind you that, for example, all lenses for cameras Canon EOS equipped with an electromagnetic diaphragm since 1987
8. most likely there are other positive features, less obvious, such as improved power consumption or the possibility of having a huge number of aperture blades

An accurate list of all Nikon Nikkor electromagnetic diaphragm lenses:

• E:
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 28mm 1: 1.4E ED
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 105mm 1: 1.4E ED
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 300mm 1: 4E PF ED VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 400mm 1: 2.8E ED FL VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 500mm 1: 5.6E ED PF VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 500mm 1: 4E ED FL VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 600mm 1: 4E ED FL VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 800mm 1: 5.6E ED FL VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 8-15mm 1: 3.5-4.5E ED Fisheye
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 16-80mm 1: 2.8-4E ED VR DX
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm 1: 2.8E ED VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm 1: 2.8E FL ED VR
• Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm 1:4.5-5.6E ED VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 120-300mm 1: 2.8E FL ED SR VR
• Nikon N AF-S Nikkor 180-400mm 1: 4E FL ED VR TC 1.4
• Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm 1: 5.6E ED VR
• PC-E:
• Nikon N PC-E Nikkor 24mm 1: 3.5D ED
• Nikon N PC-E Nikkor 45mm 1: 2.8D ED Microphone
• Nikon N PC-E Nikkor 85mm 1: 2.8D Microphone
• PC, E:
• Nikon N PC Nikkor 19mm 1: 4E ED
• Z, E:
• All lenses Nikon Nikkor Z FX + Nikon Nikkor Z DX
• 1, E.
• All lenses Nikon Nikkor 1

The first such lens (not counting the PC-E) was the Nikon 800/5.6 E , announced in 2013.

Image quality

The Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art has a mixed picture quality score. The quality is highly dependent on the selected focal length and the part of the frame. In general, the image quality is high.

Sharpness

• in the center of the frame at F / 4 in terms of resolution, the lens is very good in the range from 12 to 16-20 mm, with closing the aperture to F / 8, the sharpness increases
• there is a significant drop in sharpness by 12 mm and f / 4, however, even the far edges of the frame are quite bearable
• in the range of 16-24 mm, with increasing focal length at f / 4, the resolution decreases
• in the 16-24mm range, good resolution in the center of the frame is achieved after f / 5.6
• small coma, coma is significantly reduced with diaphragm

Distortion

• there is a noticeable complex distortion of 12 mm (more barrel-shaped in nature)
• with increasing focal length, the distortion turns into a pincushion

Vignetting

• in general vignetting is well corrected and at a fairly low level
• vignetting is enhanced with focusing towards the MDF
• vignetting almost disappears at values ​​after f / 8 (over the entire focal length range)
• vignetting is easily fixable in the editor

Aberration

• chromatic aberration well corrected (even in the far corners and edges of the frame)
• aperture slightly reduces chromatic aberration

Rest

• the lens can catch a small amount of glare in backlight
• you can easily get the effect of an 18-ray star (example)

The Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art has a lens profile in popular RAW converters, which makes it easy to automatically correct some distortions.

Sample photos on Nikon D4 (FX, Full Frame)

Converting original RAW files with the original Nikon Capture NX-D v 1.4.6 utility.

You can download/view the original photos in RAW (.NEF) format at this link (45 files, Google Drive gallery). What would a review be without examples from the Nikon D40 (APS-C, Nikon DX, 6 MP CCD )? A few photos from the Nikon D40 are here.

My experience

It's simple - if you have the money, then for Canon cameras there is the king 11-24/4 L USM.

For Nikon SLR cameras there is Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art. Original Nikon Nikkor rectile lenses for full frame cameras do not have the ability to use 12mm focal length and all autofocus alternatives for Nikon DSLR cameras are reduced to Sigma lenses. The difference between 12mm and 14mm focal length is quite large. The shorter the focal length, the stronger every millimeter is felt.

Choosing a lens like this is always very difficult. But the Sigma 12-24/4 Art is so interesting that I would even prefer it to the old 'king' of wide-angle lenses, the Nikon 14-24/2.8G.

Personally, I really like the idea of ​​buying a manual IRIX 1 1/4 Firefly or IRIX 1 1/4 Blackstone . Cheap, cheerful, wide, and quite high-quality. The same goes for the LAOWA 12mm 1:2.8 D-Dreamer Zero-D . Both the IRIX and LAOWA are compatible with full-frame DSLRs with the Nikon F mount.

I had a lens on review for a long time, but it was quite difficult to search for scenes for its very wide viewing angle.

Sigma A (Sigma ART)

DG

For full-frame DSLR cameras ( DG series ) with Nikon F, Canon EF, and Sigma SA mounts. Originally designed for DSLR cameras, many of these lenses were eventually converted for mirrorless cameras with Sony E and Leica L (+- E, +- L) mounts. Some were converted for Pentax K and Sony A/Minolta A [+- PK, +- A] mounts. Some were converted for Sigma CINE [+- Cine] cinema lenses.

1. Sigma 14 mm 1: 1.8 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 16/11, December 2017 [AMAZON]
2. Sigma 20 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 15/11, October 2015 [AMAZON]
3. Sigma 24 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 15/11, February 2015 [AMAZON]
4. Sigma 28 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 17/12, September 2018 [AMAZON]
5. Sigma 35 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +A, +PK, +Cine, 13/11, November 2012 [AMAZON]
6. Sigma 40 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 16/12, September 2018 [AMAZON]
7. Sigma 50 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +A, +Cine, 13/8, January 2014 [AMAZON]
8. Sigma 70 mm 1: 2.8 DG MACRO | | | A (Art), +L, +E, 13/10, February 2018 [AMAZON]
9. Sigma 85 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 14/12, September 2016 [AMAZON]
10. Sigma 105 mm 1: 1.4 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 17/12, February 2018 [AMAZON]
11. Sigma 135 mm 1: 1.8 DG | A (Art), +L, +E, +Cine, 13/10, March 2017 [AMAZON]
12. Sigma 12-24mm 1: 4 DG | A (Art), 16/11, November 2016 [AMAZON]
13. Sigma 14-24mm 1: 2.8 DG | A (Art), 17/11, February 2018 [AMAZON]
14. Sigma 24-35mm 1: 2 DG | A (Art), +Cine, 18/13, January 2015 [AMAZON]
15. Sigma 24-70mm 1: 2.8 DG OS | | | A (Art), 19/14, February 2017 [AMAZON]
16. Sigma 24-105mm 1: 4 DG OS | | | A (Art), +A, 19/14, October 2013 [AMAZON]

DG DN/DG NEW

For full-frame mirrorless cameras ( DG DN/DG NEW series) with Leica L and Sony E mounts :

1. Sigma 14 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art), 19/15, June 2023 [AMAZON]
2. Sigma 15 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art) Fisheye, 21/15, February 2024 [AMAZON]
3. Sigma 20 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art), 17/15, August 2022 [AMAZON]
4. Sigma 24 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art), 17/14, August 2022 [AMAZON]
5. Sigma 35 mm 1: 1.2 DG DN | A (Art), 17/12, July 2019 [AMAZON]
6. Sigma 35 mm 1:1.2 II DG NEW | A (Art), 17/13, September 2025 [AMAZON]
7. Sigma 35 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art), 15/11, April 2021 [AMAZON]
8. Sigma 35 mm 1:1.4 DG II NEW | A (Art), 15/12, February 2026 [AMAZON]
9. Sigma 50 mm 1: 1.2 DG DN | A (Art), 17/12, March 2023 [AMAZON]
10. Sigma 50 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art), 14/11, February 2023 [AMAZON]
11. Sigma 85 mm 1: 1.4 DG DN | A (Art), 15/11, August 2020 [AMAZON]
12. Sigma 85 mm 1:1.2 DG NEW | A (Art), 17/12, September 2026 [AMAZON]
13. Sigma 105 mm 1: 2.8 DG DN MACRO | A (ART), 12/7, October 2020 [AMAZON]
14. Sigma 135 mm 1:1.4 DG NEW A | (ART), 17/13, September 2025 [AMAZON]
15. Sigma 14-24mm 1: 2.8 DG DN | A (Art), 18/13, July 2019 [AMAZON]
16. Sigma 24-70mm 1: 2.8 DG DN | A (Art), 19/15, November 2019 [AMAZON]
17. Sigma 24-70mm 1:2.8 DG DN II | A (Art), 19/15, May 2024 [AMAZON]
18. Sigma 28-45mm 1: 1.8 DG DN | A (Art) +CINE, 18/15, June 2024 [AMAZON]
19. Sigma 28-105mm 1: 2.8 DG DN | A (Art), 18/13, September 2024 [AMAZON]

DC

For cropped SLR cameras ( DC series ) with Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA mounts, some were converted to Pentax K and Sony A/Minolta A [+- PK, +- A] mounts, some were converted to Sigma CINE [+- Cine] cinema lenses::

1. Sigma 30 mm 1: 1.4 DC | A (Art) +PK, +A, 9/8 [1 ASP], January 2013 [AMAZON]
2. Sigma 18-35mm 1: 1.8 DC | A (Art) +PK, +A, +Cine, 17/12 [5 SLD, 4 ASP], April 2013 [AMAZON]
3. Sigma 50-100mm 1: 1.8 DC | A (Art) +Cine, 21/15 [4 SLD, 3 FLD, 1 HRI], February 2016 [AMAZON]

DC NEW

For cropped mirrorless cameras ( DC NEW series ) with Sony E (APS-C), Fujifilm X (APS-C), Canon RF-S (APS-C), Leica L (APS-C) mounts:

1. Sigma 17-40mm 1:1.8 DC NEW | A (Art), 17/11 [4 ASP, 4 SLD], June 2025 [AMAZON]

DN

For cropped mirrorless cameras ( DN series ) with MFT (Micro 4/3) and Sony E mount:

1. Sigma 19 mm 1:2.8DN | A (Art), black/silver, 8/6 [3 ASP], January 2013 [AMAZON]
2. Sigma 30 mm 1:2.8DN | A (Art), black/silver, 7/5 [2 ASP], January 2013 [AMAZON]
3. Sigma 60 mm 1:2.8DN | A (Art), black/silve, 8/6 [1 ASP, 1 SLD], January 2013 [AMAZON]

Abbreviations :

• +L means that there is a version of the lens adapted to work on mirrorless cameras with a bayonet mount Leica l
• +E means that there is a version of the lens adapted to work on mirrorless cameras with a bayonet mount Sony E/Sony FE
• +Pentax/PK means that there is a version of the lens with a Pentax K mount (rare)
• +A means that there is a version of the lens with Sony A mount (rarity)
• + Cine means that there is a version of the lens adapted for video shooting, usually CINE versions are released simultaneously for ARRI PL, Canon EF and Sony E
• black / silver - case available in black (black) and silver (silver)
• 19 / 15, 7 / 5 and similar designations indicate the number of optical elements and groups in the optical scheme of the lens

You can also view all SIGMA CONTEMPORARY (C) lenses and all SIGMA SPORTS (S) lenses . Here 's a short video about Sigma lens lineups and markings.

Price

You can see the price on AMAZON.

Conclusion

Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art is interesting and challenging. At 12 mm, it is generally very good. There are very few such solutions. In general, the Sigma 12-24 / 4 Art deserves due attention.

10 main advantages:

1. very good resolution already from f / 4 to 12 mm in the center of the frame and quite good at the corners and edges of the frame
2. the ability to work with the dock-station (firmware update, focus adjustment, etc.)
3. There is a built-in HSM focusing motor (critical for owners of Nikon DX cameras from the younger line)
4. internal focusing, fixed focus ring during auto focus
5. continuous manual focus control, focusing quiet, focus mode switch and focusing distance scale, small MDF
6. Focus Breathing effect allows for an even wider angle of view when focusing on MDF
7. protective coating of the front and rear lenses, bayonet seal
8. nine aperture blades, electromagnetic iris control
9. the lens belongs to the Sigma Art line with very high image quality and build criteria
10. a rare lens with the ability to shoot at full frame and 12 mm focal length (for Nikon F SLR cameras there is only two other alternative similar autofocus solutions: Sigma 12-24 EX [2003] and Sigma 12-24II [one])

10 main disadvantages:

1. high enough price tag, big enough weight
2. no built-in image stabilizer (e.g. Tamron 15-35 / 2.8 VC he is)
3. there is no possibility to use light filters from the bayonet side
4. the zoom and focus rings are too tight, the continuous manual focus control does not work as logical and convenient as the original mode 'M / A' у Nikon 14-24 / 2.8G
5. only F / 4 (Sony has, for example, 12-24 / 2.8 G GM with f / 2.8)
6. only 12 mm (Canon has, for example, 11-24 / 4 L USM from 11 mm)
7. there is no full all-weather protection (there is, for example, in 11-24 / 4 L USM)
8. resolution varies greatly depending on the focal length and the part of the frame
9. for this lens in modern cameras there is no profile that allows you to automatically correct some types of distortion (vignetting, distortion, chromatic aberration)
10. so far there is no adaptation or upgrade of the lens for Sony E, Leica L mirrorless cameras (for example, a SLR version Sigma 14-24 / 2.8 DG A, received a mirrorless analogue Sigma 14-24 / 2.8 DG DN A)

A huge thank you to ProFotoSale for providing the Sigma 12-24mm 1:4 DG A lens (for Nikon cameras). They have a wide selection of new and used lenses for various systems, including similar Sigma lenses.

Comments on this post do not require registration. Anyone can leave a comment.

This material was prepared by Arkady Shapoval . The greatest support for the site is if you use links on this site, such as Amazon , when purchasing anything . It costs you nothing, but for this site, and therefore for my family, it's the main source of support.