Sigma 65mm f2 DG DN Contemporary First Impressions:
Sigma makes some wonderful lenses, and they recently established the I Series system. These are lenses that are supposedly great in the optics department, well-made, and have autofocus all while being compact, which make them perfect for mirrorless systems. They introduced the 45mm f2.8 a while back, which is now included in the I Series. I reviewed that lens when it was released and absolutely loved it. Now, they have released three more, and I’m happy to report that I have them all here to review. The first one I want to discuss here is the Sigma 65mm f2 DG DN Contemporary lens.
In my eyes, the Sigma 65mm f2 is a little bit of an odd ball because of its focal length but out of all three of these new lenses, it has definitely intrigued me the most because I’m primarily a boudoir and street fashion photographer. As some of you know, the 50mm is my number one choice of focal length. If you look on my Instagram, nearly all my shoots are taken with just a Summilux-SL 50mm f1.4 ASPH. It’s my go-to for my boudoir and street fashion shoots period. The 65mm peaks my curiosity because it’s a little bit longer than a 50mm, which helps for taking photos of people yet it’s not so long where I’m venturing in short tele territory like say a 75mm or 90mm. I still have that flexibility of a shorter focal length, which is what I like.
↑ The Sigma 65mm f2 DG DN Contemporary lens attached to the Panasonic S5.
So, let’s take a closer look at this lens, and start off with the build, which is rock solid. The Sigma 65mm f2 DG DN Contemporary lens retails for $699, which isn’t cheap but the price is definitely not outrageous. The build is excellent overall. Since this is an I Series lens, the 65mm has a manual aperture ring, which I love, and the barrel is all metal. Overall, the lens feels real solid, and there’s a nice weight to it making it feel like a high quality product but at 405 g, it still isn’t a heavy lens that’ll weigh you down at the end of a busy day. There’s also a brass bayonet, and rubber sealing to make this lens dust and weather resistant. I’ve been testing this lens on the Panasonic S5 (which I’m also in the process of reviewing), and I love this set up so much. As some of you know, the S5 is very compact, so with this lens, it’s like a match made in mirrorless heaven.
↑ This was taken with 100 ISO at f5.6.
↑ Here’s a shot taken with 100 ISO and f5.6 as well.
↑ This was taken with 100 ISO with the lens set at f2.
Enough of the build for now, since I will go into that more detail in my full review; let’s talk about the autofocus real quick. The Sigma 65mm f2 uses a stepping motor that is not only near silent, it is very smooth, and fast. In other words, I am quite happy with the responsiveness of it overall on the S5. I have also tried face detection with it, and it locks on extremely well. I don’t think I’ve had a miss yet. I will be testing this lens more during a model shoot I have scheduled, so expect me to report back in my full review about it.
↑ I used 640 ISO and f4 to capture this image.
↑ This was taken with 100 ISO and the lens set at f5.6.
↑ This was also taken with 100 ISO and f5.6.
Let’s take a closer look at the image quality now, and like every other Sigma lens I’ve reviewed so far, I am very impressed. The 65mm f2 DG DN Contemporary lens is incredibly sharp; there’s no question about that, and color rendering is nice. I haven’t had any issues with flare, and it’s worth noting that I haven’t use the lens hood much. With lenses being so good these days, especially ones from Sigma, I rarely carry a lens hood with me. I’m sure some will think this is a big no no but it’s the way I shoot. I take anywhere from 400-3000 shots, if not more per week, and I rarely run into a problem. Getting back on topic, image quality is excellent. Bokeh is also absolutely beautiful at f2. I just love the look. As I mentioned, I will be using these lenses during an upcoming shoot I have scheduled, so expect some images from that as well in my full review.
↑ This was captured with 100 ISO and the lens set at f2.
↑ Here’s another wide open shot taken with 100 ISO.
So, the Sigma 65mm f2 has definitely been impressing me. The build is excellent, and I just love the focal length. On top of all that, it’s a compact lens that is also light. Lastly, optics are top notch. Expect my full review soon. I almost forgot; I’ll probably give this lens along with the other I Series lenses a try on the Leica CL too. These lenses are compact enough that I think they would make great companions to the CL. Stay tuned!
For those interested in purchasing the Sigma 65mm f2, you can check out the link below:
Hi Patrick. I am considering a portrait lens for my Leica CL. After reading your Sigma 56 DC DN review I thought I was home, but I am wondering if this lens might also give excellent results on the CL? I am relaxed as to whether the EFOV is 80mm or 100mm. The 65 DG DN has been so well regarded everywhere it is giving me second thoughts.
Hi Rob,
Thanks for reaching out! The 65mm f2 is one of my favorite lenses, and while you lose one stop when compared to the 56mm, you do gain more range in terms of focal length, which might be slightly more beneficial to you for portraits. The decision is up to you, of course, but 65mm is one a fantastic lens. Plus, if you ever do decide to go full frame, you have an extra lens :). Let me know if you have any other questions,
Best,
Patrick
Thanks Patrick. Appreciate the quick response. I wanted to purchase via your links to retailers but cannot see one for a retailer in the UK. Is there any way you can provide one?
Cheers
Hi Rob,
That is so kind of you, thank you! I don’t have a UK affiliate now but I plan to in the future. I know B&H ships to the UK but I understand that probably won’t work for you. I really do appreciate the thought of it though :). Let me know how that lens works out for you,
Best,
Patrick
Im interested in which lens you’d prefer over the other when it comes to the 65mm f2 and panasonic 85 1.8 in terms of portraiture, street, and detailed shots
Hi jc,
Thanks for leaving a comment! Funny you mention the Panasonic 85mm f1.8 because I have actually just finished testing it, and will post my first impressions of it tomorrow :). I will post the final full review soon.
As for which one I prefer, it really depends because the focal lengths are quite different. But if I had to choose between the two, I’d lean more towards the Sigma 65mm f2. Focal length wise, it is closer to what I prefer, which is a 50mm lens. Also, I just found the 65mm to be phenomenal optically. It is one of my all time favorite lenses. I hope this helps!
Best,
Patrick