The Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens is a wide-angle lens designed for use with digital cameras. It is specifically created to produce a unique visual effect known as the fisheye effect. This lens offers a wide field of view, capturing a 180-degree angle of view diagonally, which results in a distorted, curved, and rounded perspective. This creative distortion adds a distinctive look to photographs and videos, making it a popular choice among photographers and filmmakers who want to experiment with unique and eye-catching visuals.
**Features and Specifications**
The Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens boasts several notable features and specifications:
1. Fisheye Effect: This lens’s primary feature is its ability to create the fisheye effect, which results in a rounded and exaggerated perspective.
2. Optical Construction: It comprises 12 elements in 7 groups, including one Extraordinary Low Dispersion (ELD) glass element to minimize chromatic aberration and ensure sharp and high-contrast images.
3. Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM): The lens is equipped with Sigma’s HSM technology, enabling quick and quiet autofocus performance.
4. Maximum Aperture: The lens has a maximum aperture of F2.8, allowing for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
5. Minimum Focus Distance: It has a minimum focus distance of 13.5cm, enabling close-up shots with a unique fisheye perspective.
6. Compatibility: The Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens is available for various camera mounts, including Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, and Sigma SA mounts, making it compatible with a wide range of digital cameras.
**Release Date and Price**
The Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens was initially released in November 2005. At the time of its launch, the lens retailed for around $700. However, please note that prices may vary depending on the region and any subsequent product updates or revisions.
**Personal Experience with the Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens**
As a photographer, I had the opportunity to use the Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens on my Canon DSLR, and it was an incredibly fun and creative experience. The lens’s fisheye effect allowed me to capture a wide perspective and add a unique distortion to my images. It was particularly effective when used in architectural photography, capturing sweeping panoramic shots or emphasizing the curvature of a building.
I also found the lens to be well-built and easy to handle. The autofocus was quick and accurate, ensuring that I could capture sharp images even in challenging lighting conditions. The wide aperture of F2.8 was especially useful for shooting in low-light environments, enabling me to maintain a fast shutter speed and prevent motion blur.
Overall, the Sigma 10mm F2.8 EX DC Fisheye HSM Lens is a fantastic choice for photographers and videographers looking to experiment with the fisheye effect and add a creative twist to their visual storytelling. Its high-quality construction, excellent optical performance, and wide compatibility make it a reliable and versatile lens for digital camera enthusiasts.
Please note that the information provided here is based on my personal experience and research, and it’s always recommended to refer to official sources and conduct your own research before making any purchasing decisions.