The contrast between the sharp and the blurred is often overlooked by still photographers as a creative tool, but it's often used very effectively by cinematographers.

This is an in-depth review of the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM prime lens that was announced on March 18, 2008 for Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony mounts. The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM is a professional-grade lens for enthusiasts and pros that need a high quality lens for portraiture and...

This high-specification Sigma prime comes with a price-tag to match, but does image quality meausure up? Read the WDC Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM review to find out

Imposing presence

Distinctly heavy

One of the nicest things about Sigma lenses is that they come with a padded pouch, instantly suggesting that the manufacturer feels the lens is worth protecting. Sigma's 50mm f/1.4 is no exception, boasting an enormous front element and a .

Imposing presence

Distinctly heavy

This telephoto macro lens was the first lens I purchased for my DSLR. It was intended for insect macrophotography, and has not disappointed. At around f8, the lens is very sharp; it is softer wide open, but this is not a problem for macros as the depth of field at f2.8 is too shallow anyway.

Sharp image and 1:1 magnification

Clunky focusing system

If you are looking for a new lens for your Canon DSLR camera, whether it be a full frame (like the C

Big glass that lets in lots of light!

A bit on the heavy side; but really no problem

Let me start by explaining my score of 4 on image quality. If I had the option I would give it a 4.8 rather than a perfect 5. When the aperture is wide open at f/1.4 images get 'creamy all over'. But with the right light this effect can be absolutely stunning!

Bokeh; Focus Speed; Sharpness

77mm filters

What a whopper! Sigma's 50mm f/1.4 is twice the size and weight of other similar lenses and has a colossal front element promising superior peripheral brightness (reduced corner shading) and improved contrast at wider lens apertures. The finish and the controls are rock-solid.

Performance & handling Prime lenses are about as simple as can be in terms of handling. You have just two controls – the focus ring and (depending on your lens mount) the AF/MF switch.

I also have the 30mm 1.4 Sigma and I just love these 2 lenses they behave similarly but the 50mm Is probably sharper. Obviously I use the 50 as an 80mm small tele on DX format Nikons. I am a regular newegg customer but I did not buy this lens from newegg, I should have...

Very well built, SUPER SHARP, fast AF (HSM), perfectly balanced on D300; It is soo much better than the Nikkor 50mm 1.4 that I traded the Nikkor away; The Bokeh` is (to me) Gorgeous, so just run and get this gem!!

NONE; well OK perhaps didn't need to be a 77mm filter tread..