1. Introduction
The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary lens is designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras, including Sony E-mount systems. It features a wide F1.4 aperture, making it suitable for low-light conditions and achieving shallow depth of field. Its compact size enhances portability, and the stepping motor ensures fast and accurate autofocus, beneficial for both photography and video recording.
Image 1.1: The Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary DC DN Lens. This image displays the lens from a side profile, highlighting its compact design and the textured focus ring.
2. Product Features
- Mount Compatibility: Specifically designed for Sony E-mount cameras.
- Aperture: Features a large F1.4 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance and creative depth of field.
- Diaphragm Blades: Equipped with nine rounded aperture blades for smooth and pleasing bokeh.
- Autofocus System: Utilizes a stepping motor for fast, quiet, and precise autofocus, ideal for both still photography and video.
- Optical Design: Incorporates high-quality optical elements, including aspherical and high-refractive index elements, to ensure sharp images with minimal aberrations.
- Compact Design: Part of Sigma's Contemporary line, balancing high image quality with a portable and lightweight form factor.
3. What's in the Box
Upon opening the product packaging, verify that all the following items are included:
- Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary DC DN Lens
- Lens Hood
- Front Lens Cap
- Rear Lens Cap
4. Setup
4.1 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera
- Ensure your camera is powered off before attaching or detaching any lens.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN lens and the body cap from your camera.
- Align the white index mark on the lens barrel with the corresponding index mark on your camera's lens mount.
- Gently insert the lens into the camera's mount.
- Rotate the lens clockwise (when viewed from the front) until it clicks into place. This indicates the lens is securely locked.
- Attach the lens hood by aligning its mark with the mark on the front of the lens and twisting until it locks.
4.2 Detaching the Lens from Your Camera
- Power off your camera.
- Press and hold the lens release button on your camera body.
- While holding the button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it detaches from the camera body.
- Immediately attach the rear lens cap to the lens and the body cap to your camera to protect the sensor and lens elements from dust.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Autofocus (AF) and Manual Focus (MF)
This lens supports both autofocus and manual focus modes. The focus mode is typically controlled via your camera's settings.
- Autofocus: When your camera is set to AF mode, the lens will automatically adjust focus. The stepping motor provides quick and quiet focusing.
- Manual Focus: When your camera is set to MF mode, you can manually adjust the focus by rotating the focus ring on the lens barrel. The focus ring operates smoothly, allowing for precise adjustments.
5.2 Aperture Control
The aperture (F-number) controls the amount of light entering the lens and the depth of field. This lens features a maximum aperture of F1.4.
- Aperture settings are controlled through your camera body. Refer to your camera's instruction manual for specific details on changing aperture.
- A wider aperture (smaller F-number like F1.4) allows more light and creates a shallower depth of field, blurring the background.
- A narrower aperture (larger F-number) allows less light and creates a greater depth of field, keeping more of the scene in focus.
5.3 Using the Lens Hood
The included lens hood helps to block extraneous light, reducing flare and ghosting, and also provides physical protection for the front element of the lens.
- Attach the lens hood by aligning the red dot on the hood with the red dot on the front of the lens, then twist clockwise until it locks.
- For storage, the lens hood can be reversed and mounted onto the lens.
6. Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning the Lens Surface: Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical lenses. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning solution applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
- Removing Dust: Use a blower brush to gently remove dust from the lens elements and body. Avoid wiping dry lens surfaces as this can cause scratches.
- Storage: When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using a dehumidifying cabinet if you live in a humid environment.
- Avoid Impact: Protect the lens from drops and impacts, which can damage internal optical elements or the focusing mechanism.
- Water and Moisture: This lens is not waterproof. Avoid exposing it to rain, splashes, or high humidity. If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately with a soft cloth.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Lens not recognized by camera | Improperly mounted lens; dirty electrical contacts. | Ensure the lens is securely attached and clicked into place. Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens and camera with a clean, dry cloth. |
| Autofocus is slow or inaccurate | Low light conditions; camera focus settings; dirty lens elements. | Ensure sufficient light for autofocus. Check camera's AF mode and settings. Clean the front and rear lens elements. Switch to manual focus if necessary. |
| Images appear blurry | Incorrect focus; camera shake; dirty lens. | Verify focus point. Use a faster shutter speed or tripod to prevent camera shake. Clean lens elements. |
| Lens hood does not attach securely | Misalignment; obstruction. | Ensure the alignment marks on the hood and lens are matched before twisting. Check for any debris preventing proper attachment. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sigma |
| Model Number | 302965 |
| Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
| Lens Type | Wide Angle, Prime |
| Focal Length | 30 millimeters |
| Maximum Aperture | F1.4 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 (Rounded) |
| Product Dimensions | 2.9 x 2.6 x 2.6 inches (73.7 x 66 x 66 mm) |
| Item Weight | 9.3 ounces (265 grams) |
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Manufacturer | SIGMA |
| Date First Available | February 23, 2016 |
Image 8.1: Technical specifications and dimensions of the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN lens. This image provides a visual representation of the lens's physical measurements and key optical data.
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, service, and technical support, please refer to the official Sigma website or contact your regional Sigma distributor. Warranty terms may vary by region and purchase location.
Online Resources:
- Sigma Global Website
- Sigma USA Service & Support (if applicable to your region)
