Introduction
The Sigma 150mm f/2.8 AF APO EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens is a high-performance telephoto macro lens designed for Canon Digital SLRs. It is engineered to capture intricate details with exceptional clarity and offers a versatile focal length suitable for both extreme close-up photography and portraiture. This lens incorporates advanced optical and mechanical features to deliver superior image quality and user experience.
Key Features
- Optical Stabilization (OS): Provides approximately 4 stops of shake correction, enabling sharper handheld shots at slower shutter speeds, especially beneficial for macro photography.
- 1:1 Magnification Ratio: Achieves life-size reproduction of subjects, revealing fine details often unseen by the naked eye.
- Internal Focusing (IF): Maintains a constant lens length during focusing, which is advantageous for close-up work and prevents the front element from rotating.
- Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM): Ensures quiet, high-speed, and precise autofocus performance.
- APO (Apochromatic) Design with SLD Glass Elements: Three Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements minimize chromatic aberrations, delivering high contrast and sharpness across the entire image.
- Super Multi-layer Coating: Reduces flare and ghosting, enhancing image clarity and color fidelity, particularly in backlit conditions.
- Focus Limiter Switch: Allows selection of specific focusing ranges (macro, portrait/distance, or full range) to optimize autofocus speed and prevent unnecessary focus hunting.
- Flat Field Front Lens Element: Designed to produce tack-sharp images of flat subjects, such as artwork or documents, from edge to edge.
Compatibility
This lens is designed for use with Canon Digital SLRs. It is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C (cropped sensor) cameras. When used with an APS-C sensor, the effective focal length is approximately 225mm, providing an even greater reach for distant subjects.
Setup
Attaching the Lens
- Ensure both the camera and lens are powered off.
- Align the mounting index on the lens barrel with the corresponding index on your camera body.
- Rotate the lens clockwise (for Canon EF mount) until it clicks securely into place. Do not force the lens.
Using the Tripod Collar
The lens includes a removable tripod collar for enhanced stability, especially during macro photography or when using a tripod. The collar allows for easy rotation between landscape and portrait orientations without re-positioning the tripod.
Attaching the Lens Hood
The two-piece lens hood is designed to reduce flare and protect the front element. Attach it by aligning the hood with the front of the lens and twisting until it locks. For APS-C cameras, the smaller inner hood can be used for a more compact setup.
Figure 1: The Sigma 150mm f/2.8 AF APO EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens. This image displays the lens with its tripod collar attached, showcasing the focus distance window and various control switches.
Operating the Lens
Autofocus (AF) and Manual Focus (MF)
The lens features a Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM) for fast and quiet autofocus. To switch between autofocus and manual focus, use the AF/MF switch located on the lens barrel. In AF mode, you can still fine-tune focus manually without switching to MF, thanks to Sigma's full-time manual override.
Focus Limiter Switch
The focus limiter switch allows you to restrict the autofocus range, which can significantly speed up focusing, especially when shooting macro subjects. The available settings typically include:
- FULL: Allows focusing across the entire range from 1:1 magnification to infinity.
- 0.38m - 0.53m: Dedicated macro range for close-up subjects.
- 0.53m - ∞: For portraiture and more distant subjects.
Optical Stabilization (OS)
The Optical Stabilizer (OS) function helps to minimize camera shake, allowing for sharper images when shooting handheld. This is particularly useful in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. The OS switch on the lens barrel typically offers different modes:
- OFF: Disables optical stabilization.
- MODE 1: General stabilization for static subjects.
- MODE 2: Designed for panning shots, stabilizing vertical movement while allowing horizontal movement.
It is recommended to turn off OS when the camera is mounted on a tripod to avoid potential interference.
Video 1: Overview of the Sigma 150mm f/2.8 AF APO EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens. This video highlights the lens's key features, including its optical stabilization, 1:1 magnification, and suitability for both macro and portrait photography.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Lens
To maintain optimal performance, keep the lens elements clean. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a specialized lens cleaning solution. Avoid touching the glass surfaces directly with your fingers. For dust, use a blower brush before wiping.
Storage
Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Always attach the front and rear lens caps when not in use. The included lens case provides additional protection during transport.
Figure 2: The protective carrying case for the Sigma 150mm Macro Lens. This case helps safeguard the lens from dust, moisture, and physical impact during storage and travel.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Autofocus is slow or hunts excessively. | Low light conditions, low contrast subject, or focus limiter set to FULL for a close subject. | Ensure adequate lighting. Use the focus limiter switch to narrow the focusing range. Try manual focus for very challenging subjects. |
| Images appear blurry when shooting handheld. | Optical Stabilization (OS) is off, or shutter speed is too slow. | Ensure OS is enabled (Mode 1 or 2). Increase shutter speed or use a tripod for maximum sharpness. |
| Audible noise from the lens during operation. | Normal operation of the Optical Stabilizer (OS) or Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM). | A slight sound from the OS or HSM is normal. If the noise is excessive or unusual, contact customer support. |
Specifications
- Model Number: 106101
- Focal Length: 150mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Lens Type: Macro
- Compatible Mountings: Canon EF
- Optical Stabilization: Yes (OS)
- Autofocus Motor: Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM)
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.38m (15 inches)
- Maximum Magnification Ratio: 1:1
- Filter Size: 72mm
- Dimensions (Diameter x Length): Approximately 3.15 x 5.91 inches (80 x 150 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 2.6 pounds (1.18 kg)
- Manufacturer: Sigma Corporation of America
Figure 3: Side view of the Sigma 150mm Macro Lens, illustrating its physical dimensions. The image shows the lens length of 6.4 inches (16 cm).
Warranty and Support
This Sigma lens comes with a 4-year US warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment. For warranty claims, technical assistance, or any product-related inquiries, please contact Sigma Corporation of America directly. Refer to your product registration or the official Sigma website for the most current support information and contact details.
