Sigma 20mm f/1.8 EX DG Aspherical RF

[Eddie the Gnat]

This is a cracking little lens - large max. aperture, fast focusing and not too expensive. Unfortunately I have only really used this lens in difficult, low-light situations, so my shots don't really show the max resolution - I'll try to remedy this soon.

Eddie.


1/250 @ f2.8

[Eddie the Gnat]

1/180 @ f2.4

[Eddie the Gnat]

As with any other lens used in adverse conditions this lens does flare - and it's obviously going to happen with stage lighting. Personally I don't mind it as long as I'm aware that it could happen, because it can be deliberately used to good effect. The most important thing is to keep it scrupulously clean and to use it without filters. The only other problem is its inevitable softness when wide open, but I'm prepared to sacrifice critical sharpness if it means I have a better chance of capturing interesting moments.

Here's a nice flarey example:

1/180 @ f2.4

[Eddie the Gnat]

By the way, this lens belongs to a friend of mine, but I will be buying one for myself as soon as I can afford it. I really do like it, warts and all!

A friend once described the performance of his Pentax SMC 50mm f1.2, when wide open, as "like a dream - hazy and indistinct"! I suppose it's a price we nocturnal photographers have to pay:)

[S_Leeper]

I had the sigma 20mm f1.8. Now I got the sigma 20-40 f2.8.

A heads up... with the 20mm I often used/tried to use at f1.8. The images were very soft... However, at f2.8 the images were reasonably sharp & at f4.0 & up the clarity was excellent... Which is why I ended up with the 20-40, which is relatively similar... just doesn't tempt me with an f1.8.
To say another way the 20mm is a Very good lens, but would suggest not using at f1.8.

I also have the nikkor 50mm f1.4, which I love. I generally use at f1.7-f4.0, but have no problem using at f1.4.

[Sneakyracer]

Heres an example, using the sigma 24-70 f2.8 @f4

http://www.s2pro.com/forums/attachment.php?s=&postid=11020

Flare wasnt a problem, which surprised me.