Sigma 105mm, EX DG OS HSM Macro

The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro is a true 1:1 macro lens made for getting close to small subjects while keeping a comfortable working distance.

At its closest focus of 31.2cm it can reproduce a subject at life size, making it a strong choice for film scanning setups, product photography, flowers, details and other close-up work. The 105mm focal length also makes it useful away from macro work, particularly for portraits and short-telephoto shooting.

Sigma's Optical Stabilizer helps with handheld shooting, while the HSM autofocus system provides autofocus with full-time manual adjustment. A focus limiter on the barrel lets you restrict the focusing range when you don't need the full macro range.

Comes with the original Sigma box and Sigma padded lens case, alongside the lens itself. 

Mount: Nikon F

Best for

Macro and close-up photography, product photography, digitising small objects, flowers, details, portraits and photographers wanting a lens that can move between true 1:1 macro work and general telephoto shooting.

What to expect

This is a substantial macro prime rather than a tiny everyday lens, weighing around 725g. The advantage is a dedicated optical design capable of focusing from infinity all the way down to 1:1 life-size reproduction.

At minimum focus, Sigma quotes a working distance of approximately 142mm, giving you some useful space between the front of the lens and your subject.

The photographs also confirm the barrel has separate AF/M focus control, focus limiter and Optical Stabilizer controls.

Developing

Developing depends on the camera being used.

When fitted to a compatible 35mm film SLR, the film will need to be developed according to the film stock and process used. When fitted to a compatible digital DSLR, no film developing is required.

Note that Sigma states OS compatibility with film bodies is limited. For Canon and Nikon versions, Sigma specifically identifies the Canon EOS-1V and Nikon F6 as film SLRs supporting the Optical Stabilizer function.