Sigma 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens (Sony E-mount) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The Sigma 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro Art lens is a mid-telephoto macro lens designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras with Sony E-mount. It delivers a high level of optical performance and excellent build quality, making it a versatile tool for photographers seeking life-sized magnification (1:1) and a comfortable working distance.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Sigma 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens.

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your new lens. Please read it thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.

2. Product Features

• SIGMA Art Line Optical and AF Performance: Delivers exceptional image quality and reliable autofocus.
• Life-sized Magnification (1:1): Achieves true macro photography, capturing subjects at their actual size on the sensor.
• Clicked and De-clicked Aperture Ring with Lock Switch: Offers tactile feedback for precise aperture adjustments or smooth, silent changes for video, with a lock to prevent accidental movement.
• Focus Limiter Switch: Allows selection of specific focus ranges (macro, portrait, or full range) to enhance autofocus speed and accuracy.
• Hypersonic Motor (HSM): Provides smooth, quiet, and accurate autofocus performance.

3. Setup and Mounting

3.1 Attaching the Lens to Your Camera

1. Ensure your camera is powered off.
2. Align the white index mark on the lens barrel with the corresponding index mark on your Sony E-mount camera body.
3. Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks securely into place. Do not force the lens.

3.2 Attaching the Lens Hood

The included lens hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting, and also offers physical protection to the front element.

Figure 3.1: Sigma 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens with the lens hood attached.

1. Align the red dot on the lens hood with the red dot on the front of the lens barrel.
2. Attach the lens hood by rotating it clockwise until it locks into position.
3. To reverse the hood for storage, align the red dot on the hood with the red dot on the lens, push it onto the lens, and rotate counter-clockwise until it locks.

4. Operating the Lens

4.1 Focus Mode Switch (AF/MF)

Located on the side of the lens, this switch allows you to toggle between Autofocus (AF) and Manual Focus (MF) modes.

• AF (Autofocus): The camera automatically focuses on the subject.
• MF (Manual Focus): Allows you to manually adjust the focus ring for precise control.

4.2 Focus Limiter Switch

This switch helps to optimize autofocus performance by restricting the focus range. This is particularly useful in macro photography to prevent the lens from hunting for focus across the entire range.

Figure 4.1: Focus Limiter and AF/MF switches on the lens barrel.

• FULL: The lens will focus across its entire range (from minimum focusing distance to infinity).
• 0.295m - 0.5m: Limits focus to the macro range (approximately 0.295 to 0.5 meters).
• 0.5m - ∞: Limits focus to subjects further than 0.5 meters (suitable for portrait or general photography).

4.3 Aperture Ring and Lock Switch

The lens features a dedicated aperture ring for direct control over the aperture setting. The aperture ring lock switch prevents accidental changes to the aperture.

Figure 4.2: Aperture ring and lock switch on the lens.

• Clicked/De-clicked: The aperture ring can be switched between clicked stops (for photography) and de-clicked (for smooth, silent aperture changes during video recording).
• Aperture Ring Lock: Use the lock switch to prevent the aperture ring from moving from its set position.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning the Lens

• Use a blower brush to remove dust from the lens surface.
• For smudges or fingerprints, use a clean, soft microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics, along with a small amount of lens cleaning solution.
• Never use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.

5.2 Storage

• Store the lens with front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• If storing for extended periods, consider using a dehumidifying agent to prevent mold growth.

6. Troubleshooting

• Autofocus Hunting: If the lens struggles to find focus, especially in low light or with complex subjects, try using the Focus Limiter switch to narrow down the focus range. Ensure the AF/MF switch is set to AF.
• Lens Not Attaching Securely: Double-check that the lens is correctly aligned with the camera's E-mount index marks and rotated until it clicks. Ensure no debris is obstructing the mount.
• Image Quality Issues: Ensure the lens elements are clean and free from dust or smudges. Check camera settings for appropriate aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

7. Specifications

8. What's in the Box

• Sigma 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro Art Lens
• Lens Case
• Lens Hood

9. Warranty and Support

This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Sigma website. For technical support, service, or inquiries, please contact Sigma customer service through their official channels.