Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens User Manual

Introduction

The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens is a high-performance lens designed for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts. It offers a constant aperture of F2.8 across the entire zoom range, making it ideal for low-light conditions and achieving beautiful background blur (bokeh).

Key features include:

• 70-200mm Focal Length: Versatile telephoto zoom range.
• F2.8 Constant Maximum Aperture: Excellent for low light and shallow depth of field.
• Optical Stabilizer (OS): Provides approximately 4 stops slower shutter speeds for sharp handheld shots.
• Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM): Ensures quiet and high-speed autofocus with full-time manual focus capability.
• FLD and SLD Glass Elements: Two FLD ("F" Low Dispersion) and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements for superior aberration correction and high image quality.
• Super Multi-Layer Coating: Reduces flare and ghosting for high-contrast images.
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm: Creates attractive bokeh.

Figure 1: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Lens with lens hood.

Setup

Attaching the Lens

1. Ensure both the camera body and the lens are clean and free of dust.
2. Align the mounting index (usually a white or red dot) on the lens barrel with the corresponding index on your camera body's lens mount.
3. Gently insert the lens into the camera's mount.
4. Rotate the lens clockwise (for Canon EF mount) until it clicks into place, indicating it is securely locked.
5. If using with a mirrorless camera, ensure the appropriate adapter (e.g., Canon EF to RF adapter) is securely attached to the camera body first, then attach the lens to the adapter.

Figure 2: Side view of the lens, highlighting the AF/MF and OS switches.

Attaching the Lens Hood

The lens comes with a dedicated lens hood to reduce flare and ghosting caused by extraneous light. Align the lens hood with the front of the lens and twist until it locks securely. For APS-C cameras, an extender for the lens hood is included to optimize performance.

Figure 3: The included lens hood and its extender for APS-C cameras.

Operating the Lens

Autofocus (AF) and Manual Focus (MF)

The lens features an AF/MF switch on the barrel.

• Set the switch to AF for automatic focusing. The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) provides fast and quiet autofocus.
• Set the switch to MF for manual focusing. Rotate the focus ring to adjust focus. Full-time manual focus override is available even in AF mode by simply turning the focus ring.

Optical Stabilizer (OS)

The Optical Stabilizer (OS) function helps to minimize camera shake, allowing for sharper images, especially at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths. The OS switch has three positions:

• OFF: Turns off the optical stabilizer. This should be used when the camera is mounted on a tripod to prevent unintended blur.
• MODE 1: Ideal for general photography, compensating for vertical and horizontal camera shake.
• MODE 2: Designed for panning shots, compensating for vertical camera shake while allowing for horizontal movement to follow a subject.

Note: When using the OS function of this lens with a camera which incorporates a stabilizer unit, please turn the camera's stabilizer unit off to avoid conflicts.

Zooming and Aperture Control

Rotate the zoom ring to adjust the focal length between 70mm and 200mm. The lens maintains a constant F2.8 aperture throughout this range. Aperture control is managed via your camera body's settings.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your lens.

• Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Dust Removal: Use a blower brush to remove dust from the lens elements and barrel. Avoid using compressed air, which can damage coatings.
• Storage: Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use the provided lens caps and the soft case (Figure 4) to protect it from dust and physical damage.
• Handling: Always handle the lens by its barrel, avoiding direct contact with the glass elements.

Figure 4: The soft carrying case provided with the Sigma 70-200mm lens for protection and transport.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your lens, consider the following common solutions:

• Autofocus Not Working:
  • Ensure the AF/MF switch on the lens is set to AF.
  • Check if the camera body is set to autofocus mode.
  • Clean the lens and camera electrical contacts with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Ensure sufficient light for the autofocus system to operate effectively.
• Images Are Blurry/Unsharp:
  • Check if the Optical Stabilizer (OS) is set to the appropriate mode (Mode 1 for general, Mode 2 for panning) or OFF if on a tripod.
  • Verify that the shutter speed is fast enough for the lighting conditions and focal length.
  • Ensure the lens is securely mounted to the camera body.
  • Check if the lens elements are clean.
• Lens Not Recognized by Camera:
  • Remove and reattach the lens, ensuring it clicks into place.
  • Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens and camera body.
  • Ensure your camera's firmware is up to date, as compatibility issues can sometimes arise with older firmware versions.

If problems persist, consult the Sigma customer support or a qualified technician.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

This Sigma lens typically comes with a four-year US warranty. For specific warranty details, registration, and support, please refer to the official Sigma Corporation of America website or contact their customer service directly.

For further assistance, you may visit the Sigma Global Support Page.