It’s a pity the new Sigma 14mm f1.4 DG DN Art lens is only available for the Sony mount at present, although it will soon support the L mount as well. For Canon and Nikon owners, well, just sit back and drool at the specifications offered – a super wide angle and a super wide maximum aperture, ideal for capturing stunning interiors and grand night sky vistas!
Specialised astro features include a detachable tripod socket, compatible with Arca-Swiss type mounts. As the Sigma 14mm is heavier on the front, attaching the tripod socket helps it mount on a tripod in a more stable way. The mount shape is designed to prevent interference, even when using a lens heater. Lens heater? Astro photographers will know what that’s all about and although one is not supplied, the lens has been designed to accommodate it with a lip at the front, preventing the heater from protruding into the image. And there’s a switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position – such as infinity for the stars. It prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring and is also useful for long time exposure photography when the focus should be fixed. Finally, a rear filter holder is provided for attaching a sheet-type rear filter – along with a lock mechanism to prevent the filter from falling out.
In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting stars, the Sigma 14mm is equipped with an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water and oil repellent coating, for shooting outdoors in harsh environments. Price $2650.
Read more about the lens on CRK's website - click here.