About Sigma Lenses

The Sigma Corporation of America manufacturers single lens reflex camera lenses, in addition to cameras and flash units, for photography purposes. Known for high quality lens optics, lightweight internal-focusing lenses and ability to produce camera gear with the latest technologies, Sigma is a trusted name in the photography profession. Since the 1960's, this global company has been producing interchangeable lenses with a variety of base-mounts, compatible with both Sigma and other brands of single lens reflex cameras.

Sigma lenses are known for their high quality lens optics and lightweight internal-focusing elements.

Types

Sigma offers several types of lenses, including wide, standard and telephoto zoom lenses. The ability to zoom at various ranges, shoot easily a variety of compositions from one position and an all-in-one portable lens style are key components to Sigma's zoom lenses. Fixed focal length wide angle, standard, macro and telephoto lenses are also manufactured by Sigma. Offering sharper optics in a lightweight lens are key factors for Sigma's non-zoom lenses.

Features

Reducing blur caused by camera shake is a key feature of Sigma lenses equipped with the Optical Stabilization System. Shooting at low shutter speeds with other telephoto lens often translates into blurry images. Using Sigma lenses, with the OS System, increases the sharpness of images shot up to four stops slower than without the OS System. According to Sigma, as of October 2009, the company offers eight lenses with this stabilizing technology. The zoom lenses available with the OS System range from an 18-50mm to a 150-500mm lens.

Function

Integrating technology advances with smooth operational features is how Sigma envisions the functionality of their lenses. Using aspherical lenses reduces the weight, and size of Sigma telephoto lenses. Putting low dispersion glass in their lenses reduces color aberrations and produces sharp images. Quieting the auto focus function is the job of Sigma's Hyper-Sonic Motor. Reduction of lens noise is also attributed to Sigma's internal focusing mechanism.

Production

Producing high-performance Special Low Dispersion Glass for lenses is a source of pride for Sigma. The company also creates its own lens surface treatments, including resins and metals. Development, production and sales of Sigma products are focused in the U.S., Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Benelux countries, Hong Kong and Singapore.

History

Production of fixed focal length lenses, zoom lenses and single lens reflex cameras with a level of reliability for both amateur and professional photographers in began in 1961 at Sigma. Claiming it was one of the first companies to produce interchangeable lenses, Sigma now serves photography consumers on a global level.

References

• Sigma Corporation of America: Lenses Page
• Lens Rentals: The Sigma Saga