1. Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the safe and effective use of your Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens, designed specifically for Sony E-Mount cameras. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure proper operation and to maximize its performance.
The Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens offers a versatile focal range and a constant F2.8 aperture, making it suitable for various photographic applications. Its compact and lightweight design enhances portability.
2. Product Overview
The Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens is engineered for high optical performance within a compact form factor. Key features include:
- Small and Light Design: Optimized for portability and ease of handling.
- Versatile Focal Range: Covers a wide to short telephoto range (18-50mm) with a constant F2.8 aperture.
- Optical Quality: Designed to deliver sharp images with good contrast.
- In-Camera Aberration Correction: Compatible with camera functions for correcting optical aberrations.
Figure 2.1: Front view of the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens. This image displays the lens barrel, zoom ring, focus ring, and the front element with its protective cap.
Figure 2.2: The Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens held in a hand, illustrating its compact size and lightweight design.
Figure 2.3: The included lens hood for the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens. The hood helps to reduce flare and protect the front element.
3. Setup
3.1 Attaching the Lens to the Camera
- Ensure both the camera and the lens are powered off.
- Remove the rear lens cap from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
- Align the mounting index (usually a white dot or line) on the lens with the corresponding index on the camera body.
- Insert the lens into the camera's lens mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
- Remove the front lens cap.
3.2 Attaching the Lens Hood
The included lens hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting. It also offers physical protection to the front element.
- Align the mark on the lens hood with the mark on the front of the lens.
- Rotate the hood clockwise until it locks securely into position.
- To store the hood, reverse its orientation and attach it to the lens by rotating counter-clockwise until it locks.
Figure 3.1: The Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary lens attached to a Sony E-Mount camera body, demonstrating its compact profile when mounted.
4. Operating the Lens
4.1 Zooming
To adjust the focal length, rotate the zoom ring on the lens barrel. The focal length markings (18, 24, 28, 35, 50mm) indicate the current setting. This lens maintains a constant F2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range.
4.2 Focusing
This lens supports autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes, controlled by your camera settings. The lens features a fast and quiet autofocus motor, suitable for both still photography and video recording.
- Autofocus: Set your camera to AF mode. The lens will automatically focus on your subject.
- Manual Focus: Set your camera to MF mode. Rotate the focus ring on the lens barrel to adjust focus manually.
4.3 Aperture Control
The aperture (F2.8) is controlled via your camera body. Refer to your camera's instruction manual for details on adjusting aperture settings.
4.4 In-Camera Aberration Correction
This lens is designed to work with in-camera aberration correction functions available on compatible Sony E-Mount cameras. Enabling these functions can further enhance image quality by correcting phenomena such as vignetting, chromatic aberration, and distortion. Consult your camera's manual for specific settings.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Use a blower brush to remove dust from the lens surface.
- For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe the lens surface in a circular motion.
- Never use abrasive materials or strong chemical cleaners on the lens.
5.2 Storage
- When not in use, attach both the front and rear lens caps.
- Store the lens in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid storing the lens in areas with high humidity to prevent mold growth.
6. Troubleshooting
- Lens not attaching to camera: Ensure the lens and camera mounting marks are aligned and rotate until a click is heard. Do not force.
- Autofocus not working: Check if the camera is set to AF mode. Ensure the lens contacts are clean. Restart the camera.
- Image quality issues (softness, aberrations): Verify focus settings. Ensure lens elements are clean. Check camera's in-camera aberration correction settings.
- Lens not recognized by camera: Ensure the lens is securely mounted. Update camera firmware if necessary.
If problems persist, consult your camera's instruction manual or contact Sigma customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sigma |
| Model Number | 585965 |
| Focal Length | 18-50mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F2.8 (constant) |
| Lens Type | Standard Zoom |
| Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
| Product Dimensions | 2.9 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 10.2 ounces |
| First Available Date | October 19, 2021 |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Sigma website. For technical support, product inquiries, or service, please contact Sigma customer service.
An official user manual in PDF format is available for download: Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN User Manual (PDF)
9. Safety Information
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Always handle the lens with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the lens, as this may cause damage and void the warranty.
