Sigma News (Page 10)

From Sigma:

Thank you for your purchasing and using our products.

We are pleased to announce the availability of the update of SIGMA Optimization Pro and it is now available for download. Since the version under SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.2.0 does not recognize 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art, we have upgraded it to adapt the new 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art.

Please update your SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.2.0 to latest version.

http://www.sigma-global.com/download/en/

We appreciate your continuing support for our company and products.

B&H carries the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens.

From JerseyShooter's Blog:

"Once in a while, when you are ready to resign things to being just the way they are and give up, the planets align, the clouds part, and the gods smile down, making everything right again. Well, perhaps I’m exaggerating a bit. However, my initial testing of the new firmware Version 1.01 for the Canon mount Sigma 120-300 f2.8 “Sports” lens is complete and things are looking good.

To briefly recap, my issue with the lens and original Version 1.00 firmware was basically two-fold. First, despite all sixteen adjustable focus points available in the Sigma Optimization Pro software being perfectly calibrated using the USB dock, the lens would badly front-focus in between the 200mm and 300mm settings. Second, the lens required completely different Optimization Pro focus parameter settings for the 1D Mark III and 1D Mark IV compared to Canon’s other bodies like the 7D, 5D Mark II and 50D. This meant my lens was either “set up” to work with my 1D bodies, or my other bodies, but never ALL my camera bodies at once. I began my testing with a very methodical approach. I needed to find out first if the new firmware fixed the issue of the different parameter requirements for the different bodies. I also wanted to get a baseline to see how different my new Optimization Pro setting would be from my old ones, and I wanted to do it for all my different camera models."

From the looks of post, JerseyShooter is quite impressed by the new firmware. Check out his full post for all the details.

From Sigma:

SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM F/SIGMA and F/NIKON are scheduled to start the shipment towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens available for preorder.

From Sigma:

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that the “SIGMA Mount Conversion Service” and “SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM/ SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM” won TIPA Awards 2014.

SIGMA Mount Conversion Service

Name of Award: TIPA Awards 2014 Best Photo Service

While photographers might be attracted to a new format or different brand camera, the ownership and investment in legacy lenses of a specific mount may stop them from exploring new options for their image making. The SIGMA Mount Conversion Service offers the opportunity to change the mount on a specific set of SIGMA brand lenses, regardless of the mount, to Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax, Micro Four thirds and Sony E-mount. Pricing depends on the type and focal length of the original lens. Service details are handled by the local SIGMA representative or distributor within each country, worldwide, and takes from two to four weeks to complete.

SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM/ SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM

Name of Award: TIPA Awards 2014 Best Entry Level DSLR Lens

The amazingly compact (2.8 x 3.4 inches) and affordable 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM (27-300mm equivalent) lens is exclusively for APS-C sized sensors. It is smaller and lighter than the previous version and offers a closer focusing distance to boot. It also has a newly incorporated SLD glass element plus 3 aspheric elements among its 16 elements, 13 groups construction. The lens incorporates an optical stabilizer (OS) system for those cameras that do not have OS built-in, with automatic panning detection to shift the OS to one axis. It has a close focusing range of about 1.5 feet throughout the focal length range, making it extremely versatile for close-up photography.

Note: Sigma also received a "Best Design" award for its dp Quattro camera lineup.

B&H carries the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM lens.

From Sigma:

Sigma Releases Optimization Pro v1.2.0 Update

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We are pleased to announce the availability of the new “SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0 for Windows” and “SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0 for Macintosh”, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK which allows customers to update the lens firmware of new product lines, as well as to customize settings such as AF and focusing position.

This download service is for SIGMA USB DOCK Users who are using our interchangeable lenses from 3 product lines (Contemporary, Art, Sports). As a SIGMA USB DOCK user, please be sure to update to SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0, before carrying out any lens firmware updates.

Benefits of the SIGMA Optimization Pro software update:

SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0 for Windows & Macintosh

• New switch feature for Full-time MF setting.

* This customization of Full-time MF function is only available for the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014.
* The Full-time MF function will be available after the SIGMA USB DOCK firmware is updated to Ver1.01 or above.
* The function limits will vary from on the camera you use.

Download: SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0

SIGMA USB DOCK Firmware Update

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We are pleased to inform you the SIGMA USB DOCK Firmware Update is now available.

This firmware update allows you to use the SIGMA USB DOCK with the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014. If you have the products mentioned below, please start up SIGMA Optimization Pro and then operate lens firmware update.

Benefits of this firmware update

• It will be compatible with SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014.

Applicable products

• SIGMA USB DOCK SIGMA
• SIGMA USB DOCK CANON
• SIGMA USB DOCK NIKON

* Please update SIGMA Optimization Pro to Ver1.2.0 in addition to updating the SIGMA USB DOCK Firmware to Ver1.01 before using it with SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.

In order to update the USB Dock firmware, please connect the device to your computer using the USB cable and then open Sigma Optimization Pro.

B&H carries the Sigma USB Dock and has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder.

Do you want a huge focal range with a wide, f/2.8 constant maximum aperture? Don't feel like spending $25,999.00 on a new lens?

Well, you're in luck! LensAuthority (the outlet for LensRentals' used inventory) has a used Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 EX DG APO Lens for Canon (affectionately named "Sigzilla") available for more than $11,000 off the retail price – now just $14,995.00.

The condition of the 34.54 lb behemoth is rated at 9.5 out of 10. The LensRentals logo has been removed since this product photo was taken.

From Sigma:

New, prime Art lens on US shelves for $949 in late April

RONKONKOMA– April 11, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, is pleased to announce that the newest addition to its Global Vision Art camera lens lineup, the 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, will be available late April for the street price of $949.

The much anticipated 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is a pro-level performer for full-frame DSLRs and is ideal for many types of videography and photography, including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been redesigned and re-engineered with SLD glass and has been optimized for rich peripheral brightness, with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups.

Other updates to this new lens include an optimized autofocus algorithm for smoother focusing and a floating focusing system to reduce lens movement while focusing. Under the Global Vision line, it features a new matte finish, an updated AF algorithm and every lens undergoes Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” testing before being shipped. It has 13 elements in eight groups, compared to the previous eight elements in six groups, and it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6.

“Our Art lenses, such as the 35mm F1.4, 24-105mm F4 and 18-35mm F1.8 have been incredibly well received to date, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the excitement around the news of this upgraded 50mm F1.4,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Clearly, the industry is hungry for reasonably priced, powerful, high-quality, multi-purpose lenses – and they’ve seen the image quality that’s being produced by our new Global Vision lenses. There are no sacrifices with these products, and the new 50mm F1.4 is sure to be another star in our lineup.”

The 50mm F1.4 was first announced at the Consumer Electronics Show this year. It incorporates Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed auto focus. In addition, it includes Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and to ensure the highest-quality images. The 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lens is also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and the company’s Mount Conversion Service.

The Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG will be available in Sigma, Sony (D), Nikon (D), and Canon mounts.

B&H has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder. I submitted my preorder at 2:15am CDT. ;-) [Sean]

From Sigma:

Along with the launch of SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM, the Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that we are going to update SIGMA Optimization Pro very shortly.

The version will be 1.2.0, and it will offer following additional customization when it is used with the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.

[Setting Full-time MF Function]

It is possible to select the Full-time MF Function ON / OFF.

1. Full-time MF will be in operation when it focused in the Single Shot AF mode.
2. Regardless of the AF modes of the camera, Full-time MF is activated by rotating the focus ring if auto focusing in operation.
3. It is possible to adjust the timing to operate Full-time MF function.

* This customization of Full-time MF function is only available for the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.
* There may be limitations in the function depending on cameras.

Expected Date of Service:
From April 18, 2014

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download

B&H has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder. They also carry the Sigma USB Dock (review).

From Sigma USA:

LAS VEGAS– Feb. 27, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, will be exhibiting at the Wedding & Portrait Photography International Conference + Expo (WPPI) at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas at booth 521 from March 3-5.

At the booth, Sigma will be showcasing its entire camera and lens product lineup, including several recently announced lenses and accessories from the manufacture’s Global Vision Line like the improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses, as well as the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART lenses and USB Dock.

“We look forward to the opportunity every year to interact with wedding and portraiture shooters at WPPI,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Attendees who stop by our booth will get a first look at some of our new Global Vision products like the 50mm F1.4 and 24-105mm F4 lenses, and learn how Sigma is bringing the most innovative gear to the market.”

Sigma is also pleased to be sponsoring the WPPI University event taking place on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1. Two of Sigma’s Pro Photographers, Lindsay Adler and Jennifer Rozenbaum, will share their photography tips and tricks during a speaking session on Friday afternoon, and event attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in our shooting station during the hands-on workshops, and interact and work with Lindsay and Jennifer on their photography skills.

Sigma Corporation of America’s WPPI activities will include:

• WPPI In-Show Lens Giveaway: Enter for a chance to win one of four different lenses throughout the show. Sigma fans that visit the booth and participate in the Sigma Shooting studio each day will be entered for a chance to win a different lens each day of the show, including either the 85mm 1.4 EX DG HSM, 35mm 1.4 DG HSM Art, 24-105mm f4 DG HSM OS Art or 50mm 1.4 EX DG HSM. Attendees must participate at the shooting station each day for a chance to win, and one winner will be chosen randomly each day. Three lenses will be given away, one each day, plus a grand finale winner on the last day. Stop by the booth to learn which lens is being given away each day.
• WPPI Online Lens Giveaways: For Sigma fans that are unable to attend the show, Sigma will be offering them a chance to win a different lens each day by entering online. Fans can enter by submitting their best wedding and/or portrait photos to Sigma’s Facebook page using the hashtag #WinSigma or on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #WinSigma. The hashtag must be used in order to account for all entries, and a winner will be judged and selected for each day of the show plus a grand finale winner. Submission period begins March 3 9am PST and end March 5 4pm PST. Winner names will be announced March 21, 2014. For more information, visit our social channels or website each day to see which lens will be given away!

B&H carries Sigma lenses.

A little more than a year ago, Sigma gave us our first glimpse of their Aizu Manufacturing Facility.

This time, they bring us the appropriately titled, "Sigma Aizu, Chaper II."

From Sigma:

Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM for Sigma, Canon and Nikon fittings are scheduled to start the shipment towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lens available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation of America to Release Two MTF Charts for Measurement of Lenses

Company releases the data of Geometric and Diffraction MTF charts for Global Vision Lenses

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., — February 3, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced that the company will now release a Geometrical MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) chart in addition to a Diffraction MTF chart when measuring the performance of all new Global Vision lenses.

MTF charts are important because they help photographers better understand the optical quality of lenses. Sigma has traditionally released Diffraction MTF data because it takes the diffraction quality of light into consideration, which can dramatically affect the data outcome. Diffracted light exists at every aperture, giving photographers a more accurate measurement of how the lens will perform in real life. Although Geometric MTF data is easier to measure and calculate since it does not consider the diffraction quality of light, it tends to show higher values in the graph and less defined results.

“As a family-owned organization, we hold ourselves and the products we design to a very high standard,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Our customer’s expect high quality products and by sharing both MTF charts for all our new lenses, we are able to help guide them in making the most informed purchase decisions based on how our lenses will perform in actual photography situations.”

As a leader in technology and innovation, Sigma Corporation is committed to showing the true value and quality standards of all Sigma Global Vision lenses. Every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped from the factory in Japan. By making both MTF charts available, Sigma is providing its customers with accurate measurements of its lenses and giving photographers a chance to see the full potential of Sigma’s lenses.

B&H carries Sigma lenses.

From Sigma:

The SIGMA 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM F/SIGMA with F/NIKON fittings are scheduled to scheduled to start shipping towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM lens for Nikon available for preorder.

From Sigma USA:

LAS VEGAS– Jan. 6, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced the launch of two new Global Vision lenses from the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

The improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are the latest additions to Sigma’s Global Vision lineup. Both lenses’ availability and pricing have yet to be announced.

“These two lenses are among our most popular, and we’re pleased to reintroduce these products by adding them to our Global Vision lineup,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The 18-200mm, in particular, is an exciting new lens as it now has macro functionality, updated optics and a Global Vision design, making it a fantastic alternative to the kit lens. As has been the case with our recent Global Vision lenses, we expect an array of photographers to gravitate to their technically advanced features and slick new look.”

The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens, designed specifically for APS-C DSLRs, is the successor to the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM, which was launched in 2011. The smaller and lighter lens (15.2 ounces and 2.8x3.4 inches versus 17.3 ounces and 3x3.5 inches) now macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 15.4 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, as opposed to the lens’ earlier minimum focusing distance of 17.7 inches and max magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Its minimum working distance is 14.7 inches, which makes the lens suitable for close-up shooting with natural light, keeping shadows of the camera and lens out of the image.

The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 Macro has also been updated to incorporate Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index and can correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto-end. Moreover, aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, will ensure a compact size and excellent correction of distortion.

The new Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art has been reengineered and redesigned to set a new standard of performance in the Art line. A staple focal length, the new Sigma 50mm F1.4 Art is a pro level performer for full-frame DSLRs great for many different types of photography including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been updated to include SLD glass and optimized for rich peripheral brightness with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups. Other updates include an optimized autofocus algorithm for smoother focusing and a floating focusing system to reduce lens movement while focusing. Under the Global Vision line, it features a new matte finish, improved AF on/off switch and guarantees every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped. Now with 13 elements in 8 groups compared to the previous 8 elements in 6 groups, it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6

Both lenses incorporate Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed auto focus. In addition, they include Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and to ensure high-quality images throughout the entire zoom range. The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and the company’s Mount Conversion Service.

Other recently announced lenses and accessories such as the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART and USB Dock will be on display at Sigma’s CES booth. Visit Sigma at CES 2014 at booth 10431in Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 7 to 10.

From Sigma:

Thank you very much for purchasing and using Sigma products.

We have found that the current firmware of our Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses may not work properly with the Nikon Df camera's OS and Auto Focus functions. This is similar to the phenomena described in "Information Regarding the Nikon D5300 Cameras" that we have announced on November 19th.

However, for the Nikon Df cameras, it includes those lenses that do not have an internal AF motor, and the following products will require a firmware update.

For those customers who use Sigma lenses in Nikon mount with the Nikon Df camera, we are going to provide a free firmware update. Please note that all the products we dispatch from the factory will have the latest firmware.

Phenomenon
Without the latest firmware, the OS and Auto Focus functions do not work properly when it is used with the Nikon Df cameras.

Concerned Products
Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses not yet updated for the Nikon D5300 camera. It includes the following lenses that do not have an internal AF motor:

• 8mm F3.5 EX DG CIRCULAR FISHEYE
• 15mm F2.8 EX DG DIAGONAL FISHEYE
• 20mm F1.8 EX DG ASPHERICAL RF
• 24mm F1.8 EX DG ASPHERICAL MACRO
• 28mm F1.8 EX DG ASPHERICAL MACRO
• MACRO 50mm F2.8 EX DG
• MACRO 70mm F2.8 EX DG

* For some discontinued products, we may not be able to offer the firmware update due to the discontinuation of related repair parts. Please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for further details.
* Please refer to the link below for further information on the firmware update for the Nikon D5300
http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/new/new_topic.php?id=402

Support
For those customers in need of the latest firmware, we are going to provide a free firmware update from December 4th. For discontinued products, please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for further details. Also, for lenses that are compatible with the SIGMA USB DOCK, it is possible to update the firmware via SIGMA Optimization Pro.

Local Service Center
You can contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for the firmware update. Details of your nearest authorized Sigma distributor can be found on the following web page.
http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/network/index.html

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce that we have updated the firmware of the SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware enables our Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses fully functional with the Nikon D5300 camera. For those customers who own following products, please update the firmware of the lens via the SIGMA Optimization Pro.

• 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012 NIKON
• 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013 NIKON
• 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A013 NIKON
• 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM A013 NIKON
• 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM S013 NIKON

Please update SIGMA Optimization Pro Software to Ver. 1.1 before attempting firmware update.

You can download the latest version of the software from the following page:
http://www.sigma-global.com/download/

Adorama carries the Sigma USB Dock (necessary to upgrade firmware).

From Sigma:

Thank you very much for purchasing and using Sigma products.

We have found that the current firmware of our Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses may not work properly with the Nikon D5300’s OS and Live View Auto Focus functions.

For those customers who own Sigma lenses in Nikon mount, we are going to provide a free firmware update service.

Please note that all the products we dispatch from the factory will have the latest firmware.

Phenomenon

Without the latest firmware, the OS and Live View Auto Focus functions do not work properly when it is used with the Nikon D5300.

Concerned Products

Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses that incorporate an internal motor

* Firmware upgrade cannot be applied to the lenses that do not have an internal motor.

* For some discontinued products, we may not be able to offer the firmware update due to the discontinuation of related repair parts. Please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for the further details.

Support

For those customers in need of the latest firmware, we are going to provide free firmware update from November 20th. For discontinued products, please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for the further details.

For lenses that are compatible with the SIGMA USB DOCK, it is possible to update them via SIGMA Optimization Pro.

From Sigma:

Versatile and stabilized standard zoom lens starts shipping in November for street price of $899

NEW YORK, NY — Oct. 25, — Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today from PhotoPlus Expo 2013 announced the pricing and availability of its new 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM Art lens.

This new Art lens was developed as part of the company’s Global Vision and will be on shelves next month, starting with Canon mounts, for the street price of $899. The full frame lens, which will also work with APS-C sensor cameras with an effective increase in focal length, will be available in Nikon and Sigma mounts in December, and Sony mounts will soon follow. All but the Sony mounts will incorporate Sigma’s proprietary Optical Stabilizer (OS) technology to compensate for camera shake. This functionality is omitted from Sony mounts to accommodate for that manufacturer’s in-camera image stabilization system.

The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM covers the basic shooting range from wide to medium tele with an inner focusing system that eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens stability and allowing the use of circular polarizing filters. Moreover, it was designed to surpass the required quality inspection of every Global Vision lens with Sigma’s own modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system to create a new optical standard to align with the high-spec cameras on today’s market.

“This is a top-notch lens in its design and image quality. Our engineering team in Japan continues to wow the industry with the caliber of the new lenses we’re producing and we expect Sigma users to be just as pleased with this new 24-105 F4,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America.

The lens offers the largest possible fixed aperture to zoom ratio that will maintain optimal integrity for many kinds of photography, including landscapes, architecture, portraiture and still-life. With a minimum focusing distance of 45cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.6, this lens is also excellent for close-up photography.

High-performance glass elements, including SLD and FLD, which is equal to fluorite, and glass-molded single- and double-sided aspheric lenses have been included into the optical system to prevent aberration, field curvature, distortions and color aberration. The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM lens is also able to suppress chromatic aberration very effectively at the telephoto-end, and can achieve superior image quality throughout the zoom range. Unlike lenses with similar specifications, this lens overcomes low peripheral brightness. Although it is designed for full frame cameras, it also works with APS-C sensors, giving an increase to focal length.

The lens’ Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed auto focus function and enables full-time manual focusing capability. The 24-105mm is also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock allowing photographers to update its firmware and change focus parameters using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s recently announced Mount Conversion Service.

Adorama has the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Lens for Canon available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation of America Brings Sigma Safari Experience to PhotoPlus Expo 2013

Manufacturer offers hands-on photography demos, streams live video tutorials from show floor

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., Oct. 21, 2013 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, will kick off the Sigma Safari Experience on Thursday, October 24, the first day of PhotoPlus Expo (PPE) at the Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Visitors of Sigma’s PPE booth 537 this week will have an opportunity to test Sigma’s cameras and lenses as they photograph professional models who have been dramatically transformed with high-end makeup and styling to resemble safari animals. Sigma Pros Jennifer Rozenbaum, Kevin Ames and Lindsay Adler will be on hand to interact with shooters and teach live sessions from the Sigma Safari Experience area at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. ET each day of the show, Oct. 24, 25 and 26. These sessions cover lighting, posing and exposure, and will be live streamed to the Sigma website at http://www.sigmaphoto.com/sigma-safari-experience.

In addition to the hands-on testing and live tutorials, Sigma will offer show attendees and home viewers a chance to win several prizes through the event.

“This is our second year of offering a hands-on shooting experience in our booth and we are pleased to say that the models and level of engagement will be even better this year. Our Sigma Pros are eager to share their expertise and we’re really excited to be able to share the experience with audiences at the show and at home,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America.

Here’s a schedule of the live streaming #SigmaSafari tutorials:

Thursday, Oct. 24

• 11a.m. ET – Kevin Ames: “Long Lens – Close up!”
• 1 p.m. ET – Lindsay Adler: “Lighting for Mood”
• 3 p.m. ET – Jennifer Rozenbaum: “Posing to Flatter Every Woman”

Friday, Oct. 25

• 11 a.m. ET – Jennifer Rozenbaum: “Posing vs. Editing”
• 1 p.m. ET – Kevin Ames: “Making Bokeh”
• 3 p.m. ET – Lindsay Adler: “The One-Two Punch”

Saturday, Oct. 26

• 11 a.m. ET – Lindsay Adler: “Analyze to Get the Shot!”
• 1 p.m. ET – Jennifer Rozenbaum: “Posing Flow”
• 3 p.m. ET – Kevin Ames: “Exposing Exposure”

Win prizes at Sigma’s booth (or online) each day of the show:

• #SigmaSafari Sweeps: Two lucky Sigma fans – one at the show and one at home – will win a 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens each day of the show! Fans can enter for a chance to win by testing gear at the Sigma Safari Experience shooting station in the Sigma booth and by registering their email address online, during the live broadcasts.

Sigma will have more than 45 products on display at PPE this year. Stop by the booth to see the latest lenses from the Global Vision line, including the recently announced 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM and the 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART lenses. Sigma’s new USB Dock will also be available at the booth.

To find out more about Sigma’s Safari Experience, please visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com/sigma-safari-experience.

Sigma has officially announced the 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM lens that they inadvertently posted to their website on Monday. Oddly enough, they don't mention a suggested retail price for it.

From Sigma:

RONKONKOMA, NY — October 16, 2013 — Sigma Corporation of America a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced its newest addition to the Sigma Art line of lenses for full-frame cameras, the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM.

True to its categorization as a Sigma Art lens, the new 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM is designed for artistic expression and top-notch image quality. This versatile lens covers the basic shooting range from wide to medium tele with an inner focusing system that eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens stability and allowing the use of circular polarizing filters. It also boasts a constant aperture of F4, and contains Sigma’s proprietary Optical Stabilizer (OS) technology to compensate for camera shake. Moreover, it was designed to surpass the required quality inspection of every Global Vision lens with Sigma’s own modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system to create new optical standard to align with the high-spec cameras on today’s market.

“For many years, Sigma users have been seeking a standard zoom lens in this range,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM is yet another example of Sigma listening to its users and delivering new and innovative products with the highest image quality.”

Amir-Hamzeh added that this new lens combines the largest possible fixed aperture to zoom ratio that will maintain optimal integrity for many kinds of photography, including landscapes, architecture, portraiture and still-life. With a minimum focusing distance of 45cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.6, this lens is also excellent for close-up photography.

High-performance glass elements, including SLD, FLD, which is equal to fluorite, and glass-molded single- and double-sided aspheric lenses have been included into the optical system to prevent aberration, field curvature, distortions and color aberration. The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM lens is also able to suppress chromatic aberration very effectively at the telephoto-end, and can achieve superior image quality throughout the zoom range. Unlike lenses with similar specifications, this lens overcomes low peripheral brightness. Although it is designed for full frame cameras, it also works with APS-C sensors, giving an increase to focal length.

The lens’ Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed auto focus function and enables full-time manual focusing capability. The 24-105mm is also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock allowing photographers to update its firmware and change focus parameters using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s recently announced Mount Conversion Service.

Lens Specifications: