Sigma AF 24-70mm f2.8 DG DN Art Lens MK II Review

Sigma has recently released the latest in their Art Lens series, the Sigma AF 24-70mm f2.8 Lens MK II. The next generation of the renowned Sigma AF24-70mm f2.8 DG DN Art Lens with improved optical performance and increased resolution throughout the entire zoom range. I had the opportunity to try out this latest Sigma lens while the Gloucester Dragon Boat Race was on.

The glorious sunshine made an appearance throughout the whole weekend, which meant it was a fantastic time to go out and get photos. I paired the Sigma AF 24-70mm lens with the Sony a7R IV, featuring a 33MP EXMOR R CMOS back-illuminated sensor allowing for an incredible amount of detail to be captured.

1/200 sec, f/13, ISO 320

Thoughts before using the lens

I will admit, I had some preconceptions and a few concerns before setting off with the camera and lens. It was my first time using a Sony system and a Sigma lens so there were a few teething issues to start off with while I got used to the layout of the camera. The size and weight of the setup were also a concern. The full-frame camera set-up dwarfed my usual micro four-thirds camera and I worried that the strain on my wrists and neck would become very noticeable.

This combination of camera and lens was something I hadn’t worked with before, but nonetheless, I was determined to go out and push myself out of my comfort zone and really see what this lens was capable of.

Sigma AF 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art Lens Mk II

Dual Function Buttons

The Sigma AF 24-70mm has been designed with dual-function buttons, positioned on the side and on top of the lens, these can be set within the camera along with the Sony’s own fn buttons. The positioning allows you to access them in both landscape and portrait orientation. I found it really easy to set up the function buttons from the camera menu, and the positioning of my fingers naturally rested against them in landscape and portrait mode.

Stunning Subject Separation

I was incredibly impressed with the subject separation this lens was capable of, while I took photos of the event I noticed what I think was a Cellar spider crawling along one of the railings next to the dock. I will apologise now to anyone who also has an aversion to eight-legged creatures, however, I think this is one of the most effective images to demonstrate the level of detail this lens was able to capture.

1/250 sec, f/11, ISO 50

Moving on from the arachnid from my current nightmares, I was able to use the camera set-up successfully as I moved up and down the docks, exploring possible angles. Although I had concerns regarding the set-up's weight, I could use the camera and lens consistently throughout the weekend without the weight impacting my experience.

1/400 sec, f/8, ISO 50

Getting Close

I couldn’t resist trying out the 17cm minimum focusing distance, so I headed a little further up the dock to Lianthony Secunda Priory which has a wonderfully maintained historical garden. The flowers were blooming and the insects and bees were all out, of course, I attempted to get the obligatory photo of a bee on a flower. While the Bees were feeling uncooperative, flying off every 2 seconds to the next flower, the lens did not disappoint. I am amazed at the amount of detail it was able to pick up of the individual flowers.

1/800 sec, f/4.5, ISO 50

Fast Auto Focus

The Sigma AF 24-70mm MK II lens features a high-output HLA linear motor enabling faster and smoother operation than its predecessor. The autofocus locked in and tracked subjects as they moved through the frame extremely efficiently, which impressed me.

1/500 sec, f/13, ISO 320

Using Manual Focus

I switched in and out of manual focus via the switch on the side of the lens. I used the manual focus system to experiment more with the focal point in the background and the foreground, both the focus ring and aperture ring moved smoothly allowing me to adjust the exposure and focus without taking my eye away from the shot. The aperture ring also features an aperture ring click switch, when engaged the aperture ring provides feedback as you turn the ring which is ideal when making precise adjustments. Videographers might prefer to switch this feature off to allow for a more consistent and vibration-free operation.

1/25sec, f/22, ISO 64 - 1/25sec, f/22, ISO 50

Fantastic Build Quality

The careful thought and design that has gone into the creation of the lens is undeniable, with the zoom extension and operating ring constructed out of metal, providing a sturdy and robust feel when using the Sigma 24-70mm MK II.

1/125 sec, f/11, ISO 50

Final Thoughts

The Sigma AF 24-70mm f2.8 DG DN Art Lens MK II was brilliant to work with. Thanks to its construction it is 10% lighter than its predecessor and its ergonomic design makes it super comfortable and easy to handle. The focal range makes it a fantastic, versatile lens to use in a number of different situations. Although I didn’t use the Sigma 24-70mm in a studio or portrait setting, I believe this lens would be in its element almost anywhere.

What to know more?

Take a closer look at Sigma AF 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art Lens MK II

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By Emma Lawson
20 May 2024