For those with a high-end DSLR, an entourage of lenses is always a good investment. usually, you end up being biased to one of these, even though it might not be ideal for all types of photography. Prime lenses, usually the 50mm ones, lend themselves to be the pet in the camera kit of many serious photographers. In a way, 50mm is versatile as you can use it for a wider range of shots from portraits to landscapes. Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM The Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM is primarily meant for full frame cameras. On a smaller APS-C sensor it will give you a tighter crop and will have a different 31 mm crop. This particular lens is large and heavy in comparison to the closest equivalent from Canon or Nikon. It is also much more expensive because it offer better optics. Incidentally, there is no true equivalent from the top camera makers for this lens and that is why Sigma charges a premium for it. This is also the reason why it might not be a good pick for amateurs. Disclaimer: I tested the lens with a Canon mount on a Canon 1200D. What is good? The results are stunningly good. The lens gives a very sharp focus and everything beyond goes slightly out of focus. This helps give even my shots a very professional feel, hard to achieve on slower lenses. With f1.4 this is a fast lens that performs exceptionally well in low light. In fact, it is so good that you have to use obscenely high shutter speeds in normal light to avoid burn outs. However, this means the lens gives you the ability to to use high shutter speeds in low lights and capture some stunning images in the process. The lens is perfect for those who indulge in portraiture. A high level of detail can be achieved even in relatively low light. What is not that good? This is one of the heaviest lenses you will use. This means those low light shots that we spoke about will need really steady hands. It is also double the size of other 50mm lenses. The Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM is a very expensive lens when you compare that the closes Canon competitor could be half price. So this is strictly for serious photographers who have the specific needs that this lens will fulfill. Should you buy? Of course, if you have a good full frame camera. This is too expensive to be recommended for those who are not serious photographers. But indulge yourself if you have the money. There is nothing to lose from owning a powerful lens like this. Price: Rs 51,152.00
