When it comes to photographing a person, there are several things one must keep in mind: to capture their essence and to showcase them in good light. While there are many ways one can make appealing portraits, it must also be remembered that it sometimes also relies on the kind of lenses that you are using. While there are multiple lenses to choose from, this model stands out amongst others.
Sigma 135mm f1.4 is one of the popular options, one that offers 13 elements in 17 groups, has a 1.1m close focusing distance and has a 105mm filter size. It is large and not too heavy as it weighs 1,430g. The lens offers a manageable ergonomics, has a tripod collar and has a matte look as well. The Sigma lens is weather sealed, and it can be taken outdoors as well.
The lens is quick, and it is faster than most 135mm lenses out there. The lens is also faster than Leica’s 28mm f2 Apochromatic, which is the fastest L mount lens as well. The other lenses that are quicker than these are “probably” the LUMIX 100mm f2.8 Macro and their 35mm f1.8.
In our review, the lens’ experience has been pretty great. The last time we felt a lens that was great was the Zeiss 135mm f2 Apochromatic. The lens can also focus really close, including both Leica SL2s and the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II.
The lens can also focus in low light, and even when you use human detection to focus on subjects. It also helped to photograph people of color in low light.
The lens offers good image quality, with our favorite images being shot with Panasonic cameras and after a little bit of editing. The lens has good chromatic control, can offer swirly bokeh, and helps one give unique images with ease.
I’ve reviewed almost every 135mm lens that this website has published. And though my favorite is still the Zeiss 135mm f2 Apochromatic, specifically for its rendering, this new Sigma 135mm f1.4 Art is wonderful. In 2017, I reviewed the Sigma 135mm f1.8 for Canon EF mount and liked what that lens could do then. But this is a whole different adventure in the collection of stories about 135mm lenses. It focuses closely, quickly, and accurately. Most importantly, it also does really well in low light with L-mount cameras and people of color with more melanin in their skin tones.
Chris Gampat, The Phoblographer
Overall, the lens is pretty great. You not only get some exciting results, but also great performance in general. The company has done a lot, and it offers amazing results at just $1,899. If you are someone who wants a lens that can shoot for professional assignments, then this lens is for you.