Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Lens for Sony E-Mount Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The SIGMA 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Contemporary lens is an ultra-telephoto zoom lens engineered specifically for full-frame mirrorless cameras. It delivers professional-grade optical performance and comprehensive functionality within a lightweight and compact design. This lens is well-suited for various photographic applications, including wildlife, action, and portraiture. Its short minimum focusing distance, combined with a 1:4.1 magnification ratio, also makes it an excellent choice for capturing detailed close-up subjects.

Image 1.1: The Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS lens, showcasing its compact telephoto design.

2. What's in the Box

Upon opening the product packaging, please ensure all the following items are present:

• Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Lens
• Lens Hood
• Front Lens Cap
• Rear Lens Cap

3. Product Features and Components

Familiarize yourself with the various parts and controls of your Sigma 100-400mm lens.

Image 3.1: Detailed view of the lens control switches, including the AFL button, Zoom lock switch, and OS switch.

• Zoom Ring: Used to adjust the focal length between 100mm and 400mm.
• Focus Ring: Used for manual focusing.
• Focus Mode Switch (AF/MF): Toggles between autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF).
• Focus Limiter Switch (FULL/LIMIT): Restricts the autofocus range to improve focusing speed. 'FULL' uses the entire range, 'LIMIT' restricts it to a closer range.
• Optical Stabilizer (OS) Switch (OFF/MODE1/MODE2): Activates or deactivates the optical stabilization system. Mode 1 is for general photography, Mode 2 is for panning shots.
• AFL Button: An assignable function button that can be customized via your camera's menu.
• Zoom Lock Switch: Locks the zoom ring at the 100mm position to prevent lens creep during transport.
• Lens Hood: Attaches to the front of the lens to reduce flare and provide physical protection.

Image 3.2: The included lens hood, designed to minimize lens flare.

The lens features an advanced optical design to ensure high image quality across its zoom range.

Image 3.3: Optical construction diagram highlighting the FLD and SLD glass elements for aberration correction.

Product Overview Video

Video 3.1: A brief overview of the Sigma 100-400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS lens, showcasing its design and key features.

4. Setup

4.1 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera

1. Ensure both the camera and lens are powered off.
2. Remove the rear lens cap from the lens and the body cap from your camera.
3. Align the mounting index (white dot) on the lens with the corresponding index on your Sony E-Mount camera body.
4. Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks securely into place. Do not force the lens.

4.2 Attaching the Lens Hood

1. Align the lens hood with the front of the lens, matching the alignment mark on the hood with the mark on the lens.
2. Rotate the lens hood clockwise until it locks into position.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Focusing

• Autofocus (AF): Set the Focus Mode Switch to 'AF'. The camera will automatically focus on your subject.
• Manual Focus (MF): Set the Focus Mode Switch to 'MF'. Rotate the focus ring on the lens to manually adjust focus.
• Focus Limiter: For faster autofocus, especially with distant subjects, set the Focus Limiter Switch to 'LIMIT'. This restricts the focus range, preventing the lens from hunting across the full range. Use 'FULL' for subjects at any distance.

5.2 Zooming

Rotate the zoom ring to adjust the focal length from 100mm (wide-angle telephoto) to 400mm (super telephoto). The lens barrel will extend as you zoom towards 400mm.

5.3 Optical Stabilization (OS)

The Optical Stabilizer helps reduce camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths or slower shutter speeds.

• OFF: Disables optical stabilization.
• MODE 1: Suitable for general photography, compensating for vertical and horizontal camera shake.
• MODE 2: Ideal for panning shots, compensating for vertical camera shake while allowing horizontal movement.

5.4 AFL Button

The AFL (Autofocus Lock) button can be assigned various functions through your camera's custom settings menu. Refer to your camera's instruction manual for available customization options.

5.5 Zoom Lock

To prevent the lens barrel from extending unintentionally during transport or when pointing the camera downwards, slide the Zoom Lock Switch to the 'LOCK' position when the lens is set to 100mm.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning the Lens

• Use a soft, clean microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces to gently wipe dust or smudges from the lens elements.
• For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
• Never use abrasive materials, solvents, or harsh chemicals.

6.2 Cleaning the Lens Body

• Wipe the lens body with a soft, dry cloth.
• Avoid getting moisture into the switches or moving parts.

6.3 Storage

• Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Attach both front and rear lens caps when not in use to protect the optical elements.
• If storing for extended periods, consider using a dehumidifying cabinet to prevent mold growth.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Autofocus Not Working

• Ensure the Focus Mode Switch on the lens is set to 'AF'.
• Check your camera's focus settings to ensure autofocus is enabled.
• Verify that the lens is securely mounted to the camera body.
• In very low light conditions or with low-contrast subjects, autofocus may struggle. Try switching to manual focus or using an external light source.

7.2 Blurry Images

• Check if the Optical Stabilizer (OS) is enabled (Mode 1 or Mode 2) if shooting handheld, especially at longer focal lengths.
• Ensure your shutter speed is fast enough to prevent motion blur, particularly with moving subjects.
• Verify that the lens and camera sensor are clean.
• Confirm that the lens is properly focused on your subject.

7.3 Lens Creep

• If the lens barrel extends unintentionally, use the Zoom Lock Switch to secure the lens at the 100mm position when not actively zooming.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

This product is covered by Sigma's warranty policy. For specific warranty details and registration, please refer to the official Sigma website or the warranty card included with your product.

For returns or issues with defective/damaged products purchased through Amazon, please consult Amazon's help pages regarding returns and refunds. General return policies allow for product returns within 30 days of receipt if you change your mind. Specific conditions may apply for marketplace purchases.

For further assistance, you may visit the Sigma Store on Amazon or contact Sigma customer support directly.