I expected so much but got even more! It is a total game-changer for me
In short: phenomenal, dependable lens, incredible monochrome images, and stellar low-light performance. I am using with with M50 mark II and 5D classic. On both bodies it focuses very fast and precisely. This is my first "serious" lens, so far I have used the nifty fifty, the Ef-M 22mm, the EF 28mm F1.8 USM, and an array of manual vintage lenses (Helios, Super Takumar, etc). I expected so much from this lens to step up from the nifty fifty and EF-M, and the lens gave even more!! On paper there is not much difference between the F1.8 of the EF 28mm and F1.4 of the SIgma. However, in practice the Sigma is vastly better in low light! For videos, wIth the EF-M 22mm lens I am using 800ISO, with the EF 28mm F1.8 an ISO of 250, and the Sigma ISO 100!!!!! With this lens I feel there is no need to upgrade from the M50 to the R series, as at ISO100 is has super picture, the problems start when you go past ISO200. Then, the image gradually falls apart. On the M50 with the adapter this lens is an absolute monster. However, I am using the Viltrox adapter and that has a foot mount, and attach the mount plate there. Like that, it is stable enough that I can keep it on my shelf and it's nice and balanced, and I shoot my videos like that. So, weight is not an issue. When taking handheld shots, it feels really lens-heavy, so I need to hold the lens and not the camera to feel comfortable. So, for practical reasons, it might be too heavy for a super compact mirrorless, but if you want low light capability, and to STEP UP image quality for the M series - this will totally change your world. I was set to change to the R or RP, and then after I started using this lens, I feel absolutely no need to change body! On the 5D DSLR it feels incredibly well balanced, like they were designed for each other. What a joy to shoot with it! And the photos are all fantastic, even wide open it is very sharp, and the focus is very very good. I never used high end cameras, but this lens focuses just infinitely better than the nifty fifty or the EF 28mm USM. So, if you have an 5D or an M50 and you feel you have outgrown them, or are struggling with sharpness, ISO noise or focus issues, then give this lens a try before you decide to change camera bodies.
One more thing to share about the weight: The heavy weight of the lens helps a LOT to stabilize the camera! My issue with the M50 was that it is so light, and when I add more weight it makes it much easier to take clear shots. Although the 5D classic is much heavier, but the shutter makes a very strong vibration, so the extra weight is very much useful there as well. So, if you are ok with weight and size, then this is a true dream lens. Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
