Image: Front view of the Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye Lens, showcasing its compact design and integrated petal-type lens hood.
1. Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the proper use and care of your Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye Lens. This lens is designed to produce a diagonal fisheye effect, capturing a wide field of view across the entire frame of a full-frame camera. It is compatible with Canon SLR cameras and is ideal for creative photography, offering unique perspectives not visible to the human eye.
Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
2. Product Features
- Diagonal Fisheye Design: Captures a distorted, ultra-wide perspective across the entire image frame.
- Close Focusing Distance: Allows for focusing as close as 5.9 inches (0.15 meters), enabling unique close-up shots with exaggerated backgrounds.
- Bright f/2.8 Aperture: Provides excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field capabilities.
- DG Lens Design: Optimized for digital SLR cameras, minimizing flare and ghosting.
- Integrated Lens Hood: Fixed petal-type lens hood helps to reduce flare and protect the front element.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye Lens
- Front Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap
- Fitted Padded Carrying Case
- Gelatin Filter Holder (at the rear of the lens)
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to attach the lens to your Canon SLR camera body:
- Prepare the Lens and Camera: Ensure both the camera and lens are powered off. Remove the rear lens cap from the Sigma lens and the body cap from your camera. Avoid touching the lens elements or the camera's sensor.
- Align Mounting Marks: Align the red index mark on the lens barrel with the corresponding red index mark on your Canon camera's lens mount.
- Attach the Lens: Gently insert the lens into the camera's mount. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place, indicating it is securely locked.
- Remove Front Cap: Remove the front lens cap before use.
Image: Rear view of the Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye Lens, highlighting the Canon EF mount and electrical contacts for secure attachment to the camera body.
To detach the lens, press the lens release button on your camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it disengages. Replace both lens and body caps immediately after removal to protect the components.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Focus Mode Selection
Image: Side view of the Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye Lens, indicating the AF/M switch for selecting autofocus or manual focus mode.
The lens features an AF/M switch on its barrel to select between Autofocus (AF) and Manual Focus (M) modes.
- Autofocus (AF): Slide the switch to 'AF'. The camera will automatically focus on your subject.
- Manual Focus (M): Slide the switch to 'M'. Rotate the focusing ring on the lens barrel to adjust focus manually. This mode is useful for precise focusing or in situations where autofocus struggles.
5.2. Understanding the Fisheye Perspective
Image: The highly curved front element of the Sigma 15mm fisheye lens, reflecting a wide, distorted view of trees, illustrating the unique perspective captured by the lens.
This is a diagonal fisheye lens, meaning it projects a highly distorted, ultra-wide image that fills the entire rectangular frame of a full-frame sensor. Straight lines near the edges of the frame will appear curved. This effect is intentional and is a key characteristic of fisheye photography.
To utilize the fisheye effect creatively:
- Exaggerate Perspective: Place subjects close to the lens to emphasize their size and create dramatic distortion.
- Curved Horizons: Tilt the camera up or down to intentionally curve the horizon line for artistic effect.
- Wide Interiors/Landscapes: Capture expansive scenes or entire rooms in a single shot.
5.3. Aperture and Depth of Field
Image: Side view of the Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye Lens, displaying the aperture ring and focus distance scales in both feet and meters.
The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, allowing for photography in low light conditions and control over depth of field. The aperture is controlled via your camera body. Refer to your camera's manual for specific instructions on adjusting aperture settings.
Due to the ultra-wide focal length, this lens inherently provides a large depth of field, meaning more of the scene will appear in focus even at wider apertures.
6. Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning Lens Elements: Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical lenses. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
- Cleaning Lens Body: Wipe the lens barrel with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use organic solvents like paint thinner or benzene.
- Storage: When not in use, always attach the front and rear lens caps. Store the lens in its padded carrying case in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing near mothballs or chemicals that can damage lens coatings.
- Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the lens to strong impacts. Do not attempt to disassemble the lens, as this will void the warranty and may cause damage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your lens, consider the following common solutions:
- Lens not attaching securely: Ensure the red index marks are aligned and the lens is rotated fully until it clicks. Check for any obstructions on the camera mount or lens mount.
- Autofocus not working:
- Verify the AF/M switch on the lens is set to 'AF'.
- Ensure your camera's focus mode is set to autofocus.
- Check for sufficient light and contrast in your subject.
- Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens and camera body with a clean, dry cloth.
- Image quality issues (e.g., blur, dust):
- Ensure the lens elements are clean and free of dust or smudges.
- Check that the lens is securely mounted to the camera.
- Verify that the camera's shutter speed and aperture settings are appropriate for the lighting conditions.
If problems persist, consult your camera's instruction manual or contact Sigma customer support.
8. Specifications
| Model Number | 476101 |
| Lens Type | Diagonal Fisheye Lens |
| Focal Length | 15mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Compatible Mountings | Canon EF |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 5.9 inches (0.15 meters) |
| Product Dimensions | 2.56 x 2.91 x 2.91 inches |
| Item Weight | 13.1 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Sigma Corporation of America |
| Date First Available | June 17, 2003 |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sigma Corporation of America website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Sigma Corporation of America Contact Information:
- Website: www.sigmaphoto.com
- Refer to the product packaging or official website for current contact details.
