SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens

SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens: Ultra Wide-Angle Brilliance in a Compact Design

The SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is a game-changer in ultra-wide-angle photography, offering a blend of high performance, remarkable versatility, and sleek portability. Engineered specifically for APS-C mirrorless cameras, this lens is a powerhouse, providing an equivalent focal range of 15-27mm that’s perfect for capturing everything from sprawling landscapes to the intricate details of architectural interiors.

At the heart of this lens's appeal is its constant f/2.8 aperture, which maintains consistent exposure settings across the entire zoom range. This feature is a boon for photographers and videographers alike, particularly when working in challenging light conditions. The wide aperture not only facilitates stunning low-light performance but also enables the creation of rich bokeh effects and impressive depth of field, making it an excellent choice for expressive, creative photography.

The optical construction of the SIGMA 10-18mm is nothing short of meticulous. It includes 13 elements in 10 groups, which incorporate three FLD glass elements and one SLD glass element. These are specifically designed to reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing, ensuring maximum resolution and clarity. Additionally, the inclusion of four aspherical lenses aids in minimizing distortion, which is particularly crucial in ultra-wide photography where straight lines and perspectives need to be preserved.

Weighing just 255 grams and measuring only 72.2 x 64 mm, this lens is currently the smallest and lightest ultra-wide-angle zoom lens of its class as of October 2023. This compact form factor does not come at the expense of durability, however. The lens boasts a dust and splash-resistant design, making it a reliable option for adventurous photographers who find themselves shooting in various outdoor conditions.

The autofocus performance of the SIGMA 10-18mm is enhanced by a stepping motor that ensures fast, accurate, and, importantly, quiet operation. This is particularly advantageous for videographers who require stealthy focusing during filming to avoid disrupting the auditory integrity of their footage. While the lens lacks built-in image stabilization, its wide aperture and compatibility with camera-based stabilization systems ensure that users still enjoy a reduced burden of camera shake, thereby maintaining image quality.

Ideal for travel photography, vlogging, or capturing family moments, the SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens is not merely a tool, but a portal to creativity. It invites photographers and videographers to explore dynamic perspectives and capture breathtaking vistas with ease. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a passionate enthusiast, adding this lens to your gear bag promises to elevate your creative capabilities and expand your visual storytelling potential. With its superior construction, exceptional versatility, and user-friendly features, the SIGMA 10-18mm lens stands as a testament to SIGMA’s commitment to high-quality, innovative photographic equipment.

Features:

Expansive Focal Range for Versatile Shooting

The SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens offers a 15-27mm equivalent focal range on APS-C cameras, making it exceptionally versatile for a variety of photography genres. This range is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes, detailed architectural shots, and even intimate interior scenes where space is limited. The ability to switch from ultra-wide to mild wide-angle without changing lenses is a significant advantage for photographers looking to capture diverse subjects with minimal gear.

Constant f/2.8 Aperture for Enhanced Low Light Performance

A standout feature of the SIGMA 10-18mm is its constant f/2.8 aperture, providing consistent light throughput across the entire zoom range. This large aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and greater control over depth of field. Photographers can achieve beautiful bokeh effects in their backgrounds, which is unusual for such a wide-angle lens, enhancing its utility in creating visually compelling images under varied lighting conditions.

Advanced Optical Design for Supreme Image Quality

Constructed with an advanced optical arrangement of 13 elements in 10 groups, the lens includes three FLD (F Low Dispersion) glass elements and one SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element, alongside four aspherical lenses. This sophisticated design reduces chromatic aberrations and color fringing, ensuring superior clarity and color fidelity. The lens is engineered to deliver edge-to-edge sharpness, making it ideal for high-resolution photography where detail is paramount.

Compact and Lightweight: The Traveler's Companion

At just 255 grams and dimensions of 72.2 x 64 mm, the SIGMA 10-18mm lens is celebrated as the world's smallest and lightest ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for APS-C cameras as of its release in 2023. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers and videographers who prioritize portability and often travel with their gear. The lens’s compact size does not compromise on quality, making it an essential tool for capturing high-quality images on the move.

Durable Build with Dust and Splash Resistance

Designed to withstand the challenges of outdoor photography, the SIGMA 10-18mm lens features a dust and splash-resistant construction. This resilience allows photographers to shoot in less than ideal weather conditions, from dusty landscapes to misty seascapes, ensuring that the lens remains protected against the elements. The use of Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material further enhances its durability, maintaining performance across varying temperatures and conditions.

Fast and Quiet Autofocus System

Incorporating a stepping motor, the autofocus system of the SIGMA 10-18mm lens is both fast and quiet, making it suitable for capturing spontaneous moments without disturbing the scene, especially important in wildlife and event photography. This feature is also advantageous for videographers who require silent operation to ensure that autofocus noise does not interfere with audio recordings during shoots.

• Landscape Photography: The ultra-wide lens captures expansive landscapes with ease. Think big skies and wide terrains. It lets photographers pack every inch of nature's majesty into a single frame, from rugged mountains to peaceful plains. This lens brings the scene closer to you, making each image a story in itself.
• Architectural Photography: When it comes to buildings, this lens is a must-have. It tackles the tight spots and towering heights of cityscapes like a pro. Straight lines stay straight, preserving the true essence of architectural beauty. From ancient structures to modern marvels, it captures every detail vividly.
• Travel Photography: For the globetrotters, this lightweight lens is perfect. It takes in the vast cultures and environments of the world in one go. Busy streets or serene landscapes, the ultra-wide lens handles it all, making sure no part of the journey is missed.
• Street Photography: This lens shines on the streets. It captures wide scenes with a richness that pulls you right into the heart of the city. Day or night, its quick aperture adjusts to any light, snapping vivid street life in real time.
• Astrophotography: Stars and skies are the limits for this lens. With its f/2.8 aperture, it grabs the galaxy in low light, bringing celestial sights down to earth. Quick shutter speeds mean sharper images, turning every stargazer into a cosmic photographer.
• Video Production: For vloggers and filmmakers, the ultra-wide angle lens adds drama to every shot. Its smooth autofocus keeps videos crisp and clear without disrupting the scene, ensuring professional results every time.
• Event Photography: At events, this lens works wonders. It’s great for capturing large groups without missing a beat. From dimly lit dinners to vibrant concerts, it ensures no moment is lost.

Pros

• Wide Focal Range: With a 15-27mm equivalent focal length, this lens captures everything from vast landscapes to intricate interiors with ease. No need to piece together images, a big plus for efficient, quality-focused photographers.
• Constant f/2.8 Aperture: It keeps the aperture wide open at f/2.8 across all zoom levels. This means steady exposure settings as you zoom. Great for low light, it helps speed up shutter times without losing image stability. Plus, it blurs the background nicely, making subjects pop.
• Compact and Lightweight: It’s the smallest and lightest ultra-wide zoom for APS-C cameras. Easy to pack and light to carry, it’s perfect for travel and long shoots.
• Advanced Optical Design: Features like FLD and SLD glass elements reduce chromatic aberrations and sharpen images. This leads to clear, vibrant photos, even in tricky light.
• Dust and Splash Resistance: With solid weather-sealing, this lens is ready for all conditions. Ideal for landscape photographers who face the elements.
• Quiet Autofocus System: A stepping motor makes autofocus smooth and silent. This is key for videographers and wildlife photographers who need to stay unnoticed.

Cons

• No Image Stabilization: Without stabilization, low light or fast-moving shots get tricky. This may require a tripod unless your camera has stabilization.
• Manual Focus Ring: The focus ring is narrow, making quick, precise adjustments hard, especially with gloves on.
• No Physical Aperture Ring: Missing a tactile aperture control might frustrate some, especially Fujifilm users who like manual handling.
• Performance at Wide Apertures: Sharpness drops at the edges when fully open, particularly at wider angles. This could be an issue for those needing consistent sharpness.
• Vignetting and Flaring: These are mostly under control but can appear in certain lights. Fixable in post-processing, but worth noting for perfectionists.

• Focal Length: 10-18mm
• 35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 15-27mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Lens Mount: Available in Sony E, Canon RF, Leica L, and Fujifilm X
• Format Compatibility: APS-C
• Angle of View: 109.7° to 76.5°
• Optical Design: 13 elements in 10 groups
• Diaphragm Blades: 7, rounded
• Focus Type: Autofocus
• Image Stabilization: No
• Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
• Minimum Focus Distance: 4.6" / 11.7 cm
• Maximum Magnification: 0.25x
• Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:4
• Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.5" / 72.2 x 64 mm
• Weight: 9 oz / 255 g

• Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens (Sony E)
• Sigma Lens Hood for 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens
• Front Lens Cap
• Rear Lens Cap
• Limited 4-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Frequently Asked Questions about the SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN

What camera mounts are compatible with this lens?

The SIGMA 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN is available for L-mount, Sony E-mount, and Fujifilm X-mount cameras.

Is this lens suitable for low-light photography?

Yes, with its bright F2.8 constant aperture, the lens performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions.

How does the stepping motor autofocus system benefit videographers?

The stepping motor provides fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus, making it ideal for video recording without capturing motor noise.

What's the weight of the lens?

The lens weighs 260g (9.2oz), making it lightweight and travel-friendly.

Can I use standard filters with this lens?

Yes, the lens has a filter size of 62mm, allowing you to use standard filters of this size.