Introducing a newlarge-aperture
APS-C format standard zoom lens.
Once again,
SIGMA sets a new standard.

World’s first* lens offering F1.8
throughout the zoom range.

Image quality until now found only in a fixed focal length lens. The definitive large-aperture APS-C format standard zoom lens.

A large-aperture fixed focal length lens is great for achieving expressive bokeh effects and enjoying ultra-high optical performance. On the other hand, photographers often need to change the angle of view to properly capture the scene that presents itself. To solve this decades-long dilemma, SIGMA proudly introduces the 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM next-generation large-aperture APS-C format standard zoom lens for digital SLR cameras. Taking on the challenge of creating the world’s first* wide-aperture lens to offer an aperture of F1.8 throughout the zoom range, SIGMA has succeeded in creating a zoom lens that offers the same high optical performance of a fixed focal length lens. These outstanding performance characteristics are especially apparent in an APS-C format camera, since it has a slightly greater depth of focus than a full-frame camera. This is a revolutionary lens that overturns preconceptions while expanding the range of photographic expression.

* For interchangeable lenses for digital SLR cameras (as of April 2013)

Features

This lens features the latest SIGMA technologies to offer F1.8 throughoutthe zoom range
and ultimate performance

Exemplifying SIGMA’s design know-how
and advanced production technologies,
this innovative lens offers
the highest level of craftsmanship.

To develop a large aperture zoom lens with a maximum aperture of F1.8, it was necessary to solve a variety of technical challenges. As the f-number decreases, so does the depth of focus, making it extremely difficult to minimize spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration, astigmatism and field curvature. To minimize astigmatism across the zoom range, SIGMA leveraged its extensive experience in reducing optical aberrations and designing advanced structural elements. SIGMA gained this know-how when it developed such super wide angle zoom lenses as the SIGMA12-24mm F4.5-5.6 II DG HSM and SIGMA 8-16mm F4.5-5.6 DC HSM. Ongoing technological innovation at SIGMA’s Aizu Factory has also contributed to further enhancements in lens production. Advanced production technologies have made possible a large-diameter molded glass aspheric lens, which teams up with SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements to optimize power distribution and minimize axial chromatic and spherical aberration and field curvature. Thanks to its hard-earned knowledge of lens design and advanced lens manufacturing techniques, SIGMA has succeeded in creating a lens that offers F1.8 throughout the zoom range, as well as exceptional image quality at wide open aperture.

Lens construction

  • SLD glass
  • Aspherical lens

Vignetting

The x-axis represents image height (distance from center of image in mm), and the y-axis represents the relative illumination at the edge of the image (with illumination at the center of the image defined as 100%). When relative illumination is low, the corners of the image appear dark, resulting in vignetting.

F1.8
F4.0
F8.0

Distortion

Rounded diaphragm

When photographing with point light sources such as electric lights or reflections on a body of water in the background, the rounded 9-blade diaphragm helps produce an attractive bokeh effect—even at large-aperture settings.

Advanced flexibility and convenience
expand photographic freedom

Covering the angles of view offered
by multiple large-aperture,
fixed focal length lenses,
this lens combines advanced flexibility
with uncompromising performance.

Zoom lenses are extremely convenient, providing a wide range of angles of view with just a twist of the zoom ring. The downside, however, is that F2.8 has been the limit of zoom lens brightness, forcing photographers to select fixed focal length lenses for brighter f-numbers. Although fixed focal lenses have been superior to zoom lenses in terms of f-number brightness and overall performance, they offer only a fixed angle of view, requiring photographers to carry several with them and change lenses as necessary. The 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM next-generation large-aperture standard zoom lens is the world’s first* to deliver F1.8 brightness throughout the zoom range. Its bright viewfinder makes it easy to confirm focus and compose perfect shots. As compared to a F2.8 lens in the same photographic conditions, it allows the photographer to use a shutter speed that is one stop faster, reducing the influence of camera shake. In addition, the shallower depth of field makes possible a beautiful bokeh effect in the background, expanding photographic creativity. From wide open to standard apertures, this lens is highly flexible, covering the angles of view offered by multiple large-aperture, fixed focal length lenses.

* For interchangeable lenses for digital SLR cameras (as of April 2013)

The finest in materials,
usability and functionality

A refined, integrated design made with
the photographer in mind.

All lenses in SIGMA’s new Art line come with a hood with a high-quality rubberized connector and feature a newly designed lens cap and AF/MF switch, and are designed for intuitive use and superior functionality. Inside, HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) delivers high AF speed and extremely quiet performance. An enhanced algorithm offers even smoother automatic focusing. Full-time manual focus override is another key feature that leaves the artistic touches in the photographer’s hands. The brass mount combines high precision with rugged construction. Its treated surfaces and enhanced strength contribute to the exceptional durability of the lens. In both the external and internal parts, the optimized use of TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), an excellent match for metal parts, further contributes to the high-precision construction of the lens.

HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor)

HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) delivers high AF speed and extremely quiet performance. An optimized algorithm offers even smoother automatic focusing, and full-time manual focus override is another key feature.

Incorporating an Inner Focus system

The lens incorporates a rear focus system that prevents focus-dependent variation in aberration, making high-level image quality possible throughout the entire image. With their unchanging barrel length, these lenses also enhance balance and stability for the photographer. Furthermore, since the front of the lens does not rotate, polarizing filters can be used with extra convenience.

TSC (Thermally Stable Composite)

A first for the industry, the barrel of the lens features a new TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) that offers minimal thermal shrinkage combined with exceptional hardness. It also offers 25% greater elasticity than polycarbonate. Since its thermal shrinkage is low, TSC matches well with metal parts, further contributing to the high-precision construction of the lens. TSC also makes possible slimmer forms for parts like zoom rings and scaling rings.

Flare and ghosting reduction

From an early stage in the lens design process, flare and ghosting have been measured to establish an optical design resistant to strong incident light sources such as backlighting. SIGMA’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting to help photographers produce sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions. The included lens hood can be attached to block out extraneous light, which can have a negative effect on rendering performance.

High-precision,
rugged brass bayonet mount

The brass mount combines high precision with rugged construction. Its treated surfaces and enhanced strength contribute to the exceptional durability of the lens.

ESSENTIALS

You’ll find our philosophy and craftsmanship
in every product

Our new lineup fully expresses our approach to lenses and photography itself. All of our lenses belong to one of three lines—Contemporary, Art, or Sports—all of which share our development philosophy and advanced manufacturing system. High performance, high quality, and high end in every respect, these lenses give people who love photography lasting value and consistent, exciting results. The secret is our passion for craftsmanship that we put into every production process and every product.

Specifications

Lens Construction

  • SLD glass
  • Aspherical lens

Lens Construction

  • 17 elements in 12 groups

Angle of View

  • 76.5° – 44.2°

Number of Diaphragm Blades

  • 9 (Rounded diaphragm)

Minimum Aperture

  • F16

Minimum Focusing Distance

  • 28cm/11.0in.

Maximum Magnification Ratio

  • 1:4.3

Filter size

  • φ72mm

Dimensions (Diameter × Length)

  • SIGMA SA-Mount
    φ78mm × 121mm / φ3.1in. × 4.8in.
  • *The length of a lens is measured from the filter surface to its mount.

Weight

  • SIGMA SA-Mount
    810g / 28.6oz.

Edition Number

Supplied Accessories

  • Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.

Corresponding AF Mounts / Barcode No.

  • SIGMA SA-Mount
    00-85126-21056-4
  • Nikon F Mount
    00-85126-21055-7
  • Canon EF Mount
    00-85126-21054-0
  • Sony A-Mount
    discontinued
  • Pentax Mount
    discontinued

Technologies

  • High-precision, rugged brass bayonet mount

    The brass mount combines high precision with rugged construction. Its treated s…

  • Inner Zoom

    The lens incorporates an inner zoom. With their unchanging barrel length, these…

  • HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor)

    The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) is an original SIGMA development that uses ultrason…

  • Rounded diaphragm

    The polygonal shape of a conventional iris dia phragm causes out-of-focus light…

  • Exclusive low-dispersion glass

    The degree to which light is refracted by glass depends on the light’s waveleng…

Performance / Data

MTF Chart

The MTF chart gives the result at the wide-open aperture
Spatial frequency S:Sagittal Line M:Meridional Line
10lp/mm
30lp/mm

MTF chart guide

Distortion

Vignetting

F1.8
F4.0
F8.0

F1.8
F4.0
F8.0

Vignetting guide

Product Lineup

18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art

Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.

  • SIGMA SA-mount

    Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.
    00-85126-21056-4
  • Nikon F mount

    Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.
    00-85126-21055-7
  • Canon EF mount

    Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.
    00-85126-21054-0
  • Sony A-mount

    Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.
    discontinued
  • Pentax mount

    Case and Petal Type Lens Hood (LH780-06) included.
    discontinued

FAQ

 

Contact

For more information please contact your nearest service center.

Accessories

Supplied Accessories

LENS HOOD LH780-06

Barcode
00-85126-93012-7

FRONT CAP LCF-72mmⅢ

Barcode
00-85126-92963-3

REAR CAP LCR Ⅱ

* The image is for SIGMA.

  • SIGMA SA-mount

    00-85126-92949-7
  • Nikon F mount

    00-85126-92950-3
  • Canon EF mount

    00-85126-92951-0
  • Pentax mount

    00-85126-92953-4
  • Sony A-mount

    00-85126-92952-7

Separately Sold Accessories

WR CERAMIC PROTECTOR 72mm

With many applications in aerospace and other industries, glass ceramics is an extremely tough type of crystallized glass that serves as the foundation for Clear Glass Ceramics. While featuring the high transmittance required of optical devices, this advanced new material combines greater hardness than chemically strengthened glass and greater flexibility than sapphire crystal glass. These qualities make Clear Glass Ceramics the ideal material for protective lens filters.

* Thinner frame wide type.

Barcode
00-85126-93181-0

PROTECTOR 72mm

Protector is developed to protect the lens surface from dirt and dust as well as scratches. It is an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so does not affect color reproduction.

* Thinner frame wide type.

Barcode
00-85126-93108-7

WR PROTECTOR 72mm

Water-repellent, Antistatic type. Protector is developed to protect the lens surface from dirt and dust as well as scratches. It is an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so does not affect color reproduction.

* Thinner frame wide type.

Barcode
00-85126-93095-0

WR UV FILTER 72mm

UV Water-repellent, Antistatic type. UV filter prevents the bluish tone that generates when the weather is fine, by absorbing ultraviolet rays. It is effective in most situations, such as landscape, portrait and general photography on a sunny day. It is also an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so does not affect color reproduction.

* Thinner frame wide type.

Barcode
00-85126-93069-1

WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 72mm

PL Water-repellent, Antistatic type. Circular PL filter removes the reflection of water surface and glass windows, and increases the contrast in landscape photography.

* Thinner frame wide type.

Barcode
00-85126-93082-0

MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11

The SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 allows you to use your SIGMA SA mount and SIGMA EOS mount interchangeable lenses with the Sony E-mount camera body.

  • SIGMA SA-E SIGMA SA-mount

    00-85126-93251-0
  • CANON EF-E Canon EF mount

    00-85126-93250-3

MOUNT CONVERTER MC-21

The SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-21 allows SIGMA SA mount and SIGMA’s CANON EF mount interchangeable lens owners to use their lens investment on L-Mount camera bodies.

  • SIGMA SA-L SIGMA SA-mount

    00-85126-93724-9
  • CANON EF-L Canon EF mount

    00-85126-93723-2

Catalogs / Resources

Manuals / Brochures