Quick Facts

Retail  : INR 72,900-79,900

Date introduced : September 2016

Maximum format size : 35mm full frame

Focal length : 85mm

35mm equivalent focal length  (APS-C) : 136 mm

The Press Release

The Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG HSM Art is the latest addition to the world renowned Sigma Global Vision Line. Designed and engineered for unparalleled image quality, the Sigma 85mm 1.4 Art employs a completely new optical design and premium components. 2 FLD (performance equal to fluorite) glass elements and 1 element boasting a high rate of anomalous partial dispersion and high refraction achieve a class leading level of performance. The highly anticipated 85mm 1.4 Art is an ideal lens for a variety of photographic subjects, particularly portrait photography, both in-studio and on-location. The newly updated Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) allows for 1.3X the torque of previous generations for fast and efficient autofocus. Through rigorous testing, the Sigma 85mm 1.4 Art ushers in a new era of quality and performance for this popular fast prime focal length. A 9 blade rounded diaphragm creates beautiful background bokeh to isolate and accentuate the subject. Full Time manual focus can be engaged by rotating the focusing ring, even when shooting continuous autofocus and a state-of-the-art electronic diaphragm is included for lenses in the nikon mount. 

Auto Focusing Performance 7/10

in AF mode the Sigma 85mm f1.4 Art is moderatley quick but very accurate in acquiring focus in normal available light situations and studio conditions and works well even less than ideal conditions.The Autofocus performance of this lens is among the best in class when compared to other f1.4 AF lenses.

Sharpness  9/10

This lens produces sharp images even from wide open at f1.4. And not surprisingly is very sharp between f5.6 and f8.0 the sweet spot for most lenses. Stopping down beyond f11 does not given any increase in sharpness. The image contrast and colour rendition are also very good.

Bokeh  8/10

 The wide f1.4 Aperture allows one to create smooth background blur(BOKEH) on a full frame camera. I find the bokeh to be very nice and pleasing 

Build Quality 9/10 

The 85mm f1.4 Art lens seems to be built solidly and designed for the rigours of professional use.But only time will tell. This is a big heavy lens but balances fairly well with my Canon 5D IV body. The lens gives me the confidence to use it as a workhorse in portrait shoots.

Value for Money 10/10

At INR 79,000 retail this lens might feel expensive compared to say a canon f1.8 but the Image quality, performance and build quality along with the added light capturing ability at f1.4 makes this a solid choice for professional portrait photography.

You can use the quick links above to shop for this lens.