Haven't used the Sigma 70mm, but I own both the Sony 90mm Macro and the Sony 50mm Macro. The 90mm Macro is one of the best lenses I've ever used, the 50mm is one of the few lenses I am considering selling - I wouldn't recommend the 50mm. The autofocus is slow and inconsistent, 50mm is pretty close for a macro, and the quality as a non-macro lens isn't particularly good either, especially compared to the new 50mm f/2.5 G from Sony (the small one that came out with the 24mm and the 40mm), which does all of that better and doesn't have much farther of a close focusing distance.
I was casually browsing to learn as much as possible about macro lenses for Sony APSC cameras for a future purchase. Your review was very, very helpful. I really like the fast pace and flow with which you have presented the material. Good technical as well as practical info. Thanks for the excellent educational content of this video.
I have the 85mm 1.4 and the 70-200mm 2.8 for portraits - I'm now shooting most of my portraits on the Sony 90mm macro lens. It is one of the sharpest lenses I have ever used, sharper than both the other two I just mentioned. It is a beast of a portrait lens!
So glad it was you that did this kind of review. Concise and meticulous in delivery as always. I personally love macro video and have been wanting the sony for awhile now. The extending barrel is a real killer for me when it comes to making a purchase.
Thanks for this comment. I'm really glad it was helpful. 😃 Yeah, despite me really loving the image on the Sigma, I hate that external focusing thing as well. The Sony 90mm really is one of the best designed macro lenses ever made. So user friendly. So versatile.
Hey, Gerald, thanks for this and all the other friendly, accessible, informative videos! I watched yours and a few other Sony 90mm f2.8 macro videos and it seemed like this was the lens I wanted. Interestingly, in my old Nikon DSLR system, I had the 105 & 60 macro lenses and like the Sony 90, the Nikkor 105 is sort of the flagship lens. I've found that I often make images like a spoon of tea or herb ingredients handheld, and the shorter 60mm is often more convenient. Nonetheless, the Sony 90mm seems like the best offering so I decided to get it. I looked at B&H and Amazon and both had the lens back-ordered about 2 weeks. I put the lens in my Amazon cart when I suddenly remembered that I didn't go there through your, or anybody else's, affiliate link. So I came back to this video and went through your link so you could get your dollar for this helpful video. Interestingly, when I used your affiliate link, it went to Amazon but through another camera store. Exact same lens, exact same price, but in stock now. In my effort to make sure you got your small commission for making such a helpful video, I wind up getting the lens 2 weeks faster! Win-win! Thanks for everything, Gerald!
Longer macro lenses are also much better for studio work, even on non-live subjects that don't spook, because the lens will actually get in the way of your lights and cast shadows on your scene. Even 100mm macro (such as the Canon 100mm f/2.8 macro IS) is a bit of a limiting focal length. I don't understand why Sony decided to make this a 90mm lens, and I wouldn't even consider buying anything shorter than that. Personally, I would really love to see them come up with an equivalent to the Canon 180mm macro.
You missed the focus point in the comparison pictures (because of different focal lengths and different depth of field) - not a serious matter but it can confuse people thinking about different sharpness levels - actually when I take into account that the focal planes are a little different in the picture and you compare the images on their focus point then I see that the sharpness is very similar. The only difference which is really visible is the emphasis in the different rendering. The Sigma is clearly aimed for maximum edge contrast and texture contrast. Sony seems to prioritize color rendering. Looking back to the Foveon camera line (Quattro H) - which is a contrast beast - the Sigma macro lens makes a lot of sense to prioritize texture contrast for the Foveon sensor - which clearly outperforms the sharpness of the Sony sensor. It seems the Sigma chose the glass elements carefully for this lens - and with fewer correction glasses in between the barrel somehow must come out - otherwise, the lens would be much bigger. It can also be that the Sony has, therefore, more corrections for chromatic aberrations - because the Foveon sensor is free of those there is not really a need to have it in the Sigma lens. - It would be actually really interesting for the upcoming launch of the new full frame Foveon beast in 2020 - to compare the difference in texture quality with true Foveon sensors against high-resolution Bayer sensors. It should be noted that longer focal lengths in macro need more stopping down due to thinner DoF. This means the wider macro lenses can shoot faster with similar results - like your watch picture - the Sigma DoF is more useful since you can see more of the watch - the screw in the 90mm picture is already unsharp - which is not really desired and should be stopped down.
Thank you Gerald for another great video. I own the Sony macro lens. Its just amazing how sharp it is compared to my GM lenses being one third of the price. To me its the best macro lens currently in the market comparing it even to my Hasselblad collection which is no joke. The only issue i have with this particular lens is its weakness to wet conditions. Unfortunately I cannot rely on it too much and forced to carry a backup lens always. Its just a pity Sony does not yet have a dedicated GM macro lens.!! Lastly, this lens really shines when you attach it on a Sony alpha7 R3. The lens sharpness combined with the high mega pickles give astonishing results. Literally mind blowing. Try it out..))))
Very useful review and comparison. I particularly liked how you framed the value proposition for the Sigma vis a vis the Sony. Lots to think about but in a good way. Thanks!
I think the Sigma looked sharper in the IQ Lightroom tests. The macro world has plenty of apps where noise or focus speed is not important at all. Sharpness, contrast, geometric accuracy, color accuracy can be the more important than noise chasing creatures or worrying about the external focusing so much. It is lens after all and how well it works as lens in paramount for me. I do not care so much about cost advantages in comparison with sharpness, contrast, CA, and distortion. While I am ragging on you here I have do highest respect for your videos and opinions. I also understand there is a large population of people than chase critters or make movies of creatures which you were addressing. For them the Sony lens is better but more expensive.
Thank you for the comparison. I own a Sony 90mm f2.8 macro, which cost £700 brand new, and firmly believe I made the right choice: the Sigma 70mm f2.8 macro costs £500 from the same camera shop. Having used my 90mm macro for a couple of months on both an A7iii and A7ii, I feel it is as sharp as my old Sigma 180mm f2.8 OS macro, but at half the price.
I impulsively bought the sony over the weekend. as I'm definitely gonna be doing random product photography, and the added benefit of it being a great lens outside of macro shots. compliments my only having the A7III kit lens otherwise lol.
Informative thanks. Well presented! a6600 user here, so with the IBIS, I'll likely go the Sigma route. The final results are quite good on both lenses. Most any other condition, I typically purchase Sony glass. You want a Rolex, you buy a Rolex. Only here, I'm very comfortable buying the Sigma 70mm macro. Not concerned with the focus noise, but excellent noting that. One addition Id note is definately add a lens filter on these macros. Particularly the Sigma with that moving telescooic motion.
The other thing about the Sony not mentioned here is that 90mm also works well for a portrait lens. 70mm would not be as good for that. I own both the Sony 90mm and an old Canon 50mm FD macro lens that has been adapted for Sony. If people are looking for a cheap macro option I would push you to something like that Canon (you will be using manual focus anyway). I believe the Nikkor 55mm Micro is a really good option also. The Sony is definitely big and heavy, but wow, its sharp, quiet, gets you a good distance from subjects, and doubles as a super sharp portrait lens if you don't care about loss in background blur due to the F2.8 aperture. Definitely worth it.
Great points! I have the 85 f1.8 for portraits, but if I didn't have that, I would have favoured the Sony even more so for the versatility in portraiture.
In portrait you would probably have much smaller aperture than f2.8 with that lens. At least it worked like that with Tamron 60mm which i were using for many years (maximum aperture was f2.0, but in portrait it was f2.2). For me problem is that i have 85GM, so 90mm is pretty much same focal lenghts. I would rather go for 60-70mm or something like Sigma 150mm macro.
That's a creative decision. It all comes down to how sharp you want the subject to be vs how much bokeh you want. F2.8 is fine for portraits for most people - which is why a lot of wedding photographers use a 24-70 F2.8 and a 70-200 F2.8.
Have u used either of these macro lenses with 35mm and/or 120 mm slide copy work? If so, did u use a Negative Supply riser and film holder? If so, plz comment on results. Thanks. 😎😎
I would point out that just about anyone into serious macro generally uses nothing but manual focus. This means the lens won't be changing in length, balance, or add any noise. The 2nd is I don't know how you focused for the watch shot but it didn't seem like they were focused on the same point or something. The Sigma seems like a pretty decent lens for the money but I won't be giving up my 90 any time soon.
You're right about the focus point. I was handbombing these lenses, so I had a slightly different focus in the test images. But like you said, I think it still shows that the Sigma's image quality is pretty great. The reason why I talk about the AF is because you can get cheaper lenses without AF, so I assume people will want to know how they perform, but I agree that MF is the way to go for macro. That being said, the Sony is easier to get into 1:1 quickly compared to the Sigma.
Hlo dude even i have camera sony a6300 i have a doubt that fe 90mm f2.8 macro g oss after clicking pictures from sony a6300 does it crop a bit..? Why i am asking this because both the camera and lens sensors are different plzz reply as soon as possible Love from India 🇮🇳🇮🇳
Correction: there isn’t a Nikon version in existence and there isn’t one coming either. According to Sigma the lens design isn’t compatible with the Nikon F mount. Though I expect they’ll be able to make something work for Nikon’s (and probably Canon’s) new mirrorless mounts.
Yes, good catch. Sigma was the third mount, not Nikon. I just naturally assumed Nikon. I was surprised to learn there wasn't one. Thanks for the comment. 😃👍
I have a question on the 70mm Sigma lens. What happens if you leave the lens in manual mode, then power off. Will the lens retract? Or stay? Thank you.
will the sigma 70mm macro art for sony work with 3rd party electronic macro extensions by companies like meike/neewer to gain more magnification? asking coz of the wired by focus thing. if anyone knows or have seen this lens work with extension tube please help me out with this info. TIA
Thanks for an informative and entertaining video! I set the focus hold button on the 90mm G to DMF (hold or toggle, can't remember). I can be walking around with AF on and hit that button on the lens and half-press the shutter button and it will switch to manual focus and zoom in for a crazy close focus area with the sony's manual focus peaking highlights. As soon as i take the picture and release the shutter button it jumps back to auto focus. It's so nice and i use it on the sony 85mm 1.8 focus hold button also. Try it out!
I'm new to video and photography. Can you explain in a nutshell what is that selector the sony macro lens has? The one for infinity or meters that you mentioned? How do I use that feature? When do I use the infinity option vs half the meter etc. I'm confused with that button
Absolutely, and thanks for the comment. 😃 Basically autofocus can be made easier and quicker if you limit the range in which it is allowed to operate. An analogy would be telling someone to find something in an entire house vs inside a specific drawer. The second search would be faster. So, that selector allows you to limit the distances that will be considered when focusing. You can usually set it to close, far, or everything. "Full" means it will have the entire range of the lenses capabilities to find focus. "0.28 - 0.5m" will only bother looking in the very close distance. Ideal for macro. "0.5m - infinity" will look for focus outside the macro range, and won't bother with stuff extremely close. The numbers are the distances from the focal plane mark. So in the last example it would start about half a meter in front of your camera to as far as the eye can see.
Since I'm a Fuji guy but I'm also going to get a Sony A7 mimosa desired lens is the Fuji XF 80mm macro but it seems that Sony 90mm macro is a really popular lens. Did you ever compared them?
I would have liked to see some better sample shots, as we know the Sigma does not have OS, and hand holding both while shakily hovering over your work bench does not seem like a very accurate way to measure overall optical performance.
thanks i consider buying one meanly for portrait and i thought about these two lenses as 2 in 1 solution for portrait and ocationally for macro . what is the best for portrait in term of image quality and focus speed
The Sony 90mm focuses a bit faster in my experience. But I think you should ask yourself which focal length you'd prefer for portraits. A lot of people like the 85mm area, which would be closer to the 90mm, but 70mm is a bit looser and can be nice as well. Figure out how tight you want the portraits to be. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Great, great review. I've been searching for this topic for quite a while now. Glad you tackled it. Other videos only covered the Sigma lens for Canon. Now I know the AF is better on the Sony. You have a new subscriber!
"Great" job... I was thinking about doing a video on this as well, you did a better job already. Thanks for saving me the time. Maybe compare the Sony 50mm macro vs the Sigma 70mm since they are closer in price?
Haha. Thanks! Appreciate your kinds words. That's a fair suggestion about the 50mm, but the truth is the lens just doesn't excite me. You know the feeling when you don't really want to make a video on something because you just don't care that much about the product? That's how I feel about that 50mm. It's decent at a lot of things, but not really standout at anything in particular.
Great comparison. I am looking for a macro lens to use on my Sony a6400 and I do food photography on cruises I go to. Would the Sigma 70mm be a good option for me? I was also looking at the Sony 50mm as well
I have the Sigma. It's sharp AF. It's significantly cheaper than the Sony. The A6400 has no stabilization, but if you will be working off of a tripod, or expect to have enough light to be able to crank the shutter speed, not having OSS shouldn't be a problem.
Thanks for nice comparison, although I would have liked to see a more detailed comparison of image quality. A question, if the Sigma retracts when turning the camera off, does it remember the focus/magnification it had when you turning the camera on again, or do you have to manually refocus to get it to 1:1 every time you turn it on? If so it seems like fairly slow process if you want 1:1 most of the time...
Thanks for the comment. You're correct and it is a little slow to get back to 1:1. The Sony version is easier in that way, because you can just put the ring to 1:1 then clutch to manual and it focus jumps instantly there, the Sigma requires some wrist turning. 3-4 turns approx.
Thanks for the reply and explanation! Would seem usability is better for the Sony then, and its focus ring solution seems much preferable. If the image quality is as good on the Sigma, which I suspect it is, then it's a question if the usability is worth twice the price for the Sony. But at least your video and reply has made me more informed now, so thanks!
Excellent comparison review, sir! As a landscape and product STILLS X-T3 shooter (no video), I have been debating on selling my Fuji kit (reluctantly), and moving into FF, specifically with either the Nikon Z7, OR the Sony a7Rlll and lenses like the Sony 16-35 f/2.8 GM, and the 90mm f/2.8 G Macro . Since I shoot 99% tripod-mounted, neither IBIS nor video interests me. So, my question is, for large print output (around 24"x 36" prints), how much of an improvement in terms of image sharpness, detail rendition, dynamic range, base ISO performance, etc., would I see over the already excellent X-T3 (combined with the ultra-sharp Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 Macro lens), when using the a7Rlll and the Sony 90mm f/2.8 G Macro tripod-mounted? Thanks!
I have one more question. Would you recommend Sigma 70 2.8 for shooting food in the restaurant? Because sometimes it's imposible to move further away from the table so working distance is very limited.
Honestly, I really couldn't choose. I'd say both are excellent for sharpness, so I'd focus more on the other features and price for making a decision in this case.
Gerald Undone thank you gerald👍, im debating to choose either one of these. I am planning to do a product video commercial, so might need the AF to work properly. Dont mind about the sound issues on sigma. Price is abit of an issue. Do u think the AF on the sigma is “frustratingly” bad for video work?
Hello Gerald, Could You do a comparison between the Sony 90 mm. Macro and the vintage, manual, Vivitar f:1/2.8 90 mm. macro? I was a Olympus OM analog shooter and I am now using my old OM lenses om my digital Sony's FF Ilce-7 and a Aps-C NEX-3n. I would like to know Your expert opinion of the use of these vintage macro lenses on the Sony systems. I like Your style of reviews in general and follow You reguarly. Stay healty so stay home
I'm about to purchase one and now I'm doing research. Is it durable? Because it's expensive and I'm not going to spend money on something that will not last for at least 5 years. For how long now and how often that you use this lens?
I have the 90mm Sony and I use it all the time. Weekly at least. It's amazing. One of the best lenses on the system. And it doubles as a really great portrait lens. I sold my 85mm because of it.
@@laurencegr5338 It does, yeah. It's a good lens for the price. The Sony is a lot more money, but you get a lot more out of it. I'd say both are fair purchases for their price.
Unfortunately that is something I've never done before so I wouldn't feel comfortable giving much advice. I can say, however, that the Sony 90mm is my favourite macro out there and I feel pretty comfortable using it in a huge variety of scenarios.
Yo Gerald, great review video yet again. Hey, what microphone (and other related audio equipment) are you using there to pickup the focusing noise? I'm in the market for a sensitive condenser microphone like that.
Thanks! Appreciate the comment. 😃 I was using these mics: amzn.to/2JAPNVG. They're a pretty great deal for the price. Pretty directional, but more open sounding than a shotgun, and you get two of them! And I run it into my computer using this interface: amzn.to/2mttRm0. Hope that helps! If you have any other questions. Let me know.
Correct, you'd need an interface of some sort. Some camera systems, like the GH5, sell their own attachable interface so that you can use XLR cables and phantom power on your microphones right into the camera, but I think I'd prefer something that isn't so camera specific. The Zoom H-series or a Tascam would work well too. You just need phantom power and an XLR input.
hahah they're GRRRRRREEEEAAAT! Yeah it seems on this one you get what you pay for. I love my Sigma lenses but for this macro it seems you need the Sony 90mm for best all around. its also GREAT for portraits.
The Sony macro 90mm was my first taste of like a "good" E-Mount lens (even if it was so much more money) and I'm rapidly discovering why people always say "get good glass"
Excellent comparison! By the way, I thought most insect photographers kill and freeze (which I DO NOT endorse) the insects they are shooting, and perform focus stacking?
Yeah, I've heard about that practice, or putting them in the fridge while alive to slow them down. That whole scene is a bit out of my element as I use macro purely for product photography.
I wouldn't say "most." If you want to do ultra macro (e.g. 5x magnification), then they're probably dead. Normal macro certainly doesn't require that and many people do their macro in the field on live bugs. Many bugs stay perfectly still as well, even when you're very close. Personally, I like having image stabilisation for live bugs because I like to put my camera on burst mode and move the field of view from the eye to the end of the head, then stack the images later. Image stabilisation makes it much easier to keep the same framing and reduce shake during that movement.
@@samuelsulaiman Definitely not! No way you'd be steady enough to change focus with your hand while getting photos in burst mode and have them line up well. But you can move the camera forward ever so slightly with your hands during burst mode to capture move the field of view over the bug. That's what I do. I have to try in many times though as 1) it's so easy to miss the right starting point and then the eyes are out of focus or something, 2) the bugs sometimes move their mandibles of feet and then the images won't line up properly, 3) sometimes my flash cuts out and I miss part of the slice. It's a very finicky way of doing things, but if you don't want to move the bugs or freeze them...I don't know another way.
Great review! How about using it for portraits? I saw some using the Sony 90mm macro for portraits and i think its great. Will the Sigma 70mm macro art do the same for portraits?
Thanks! Yeah, I've seen that as well. I read some reviews on the Sigma where people were pleased using it for portraits. I think pretty much everything I said about macro should apply to portraits: I would expect good image quality and sharpness, but it has an external focusing barrel and is a bit noisy, and it isn't the fastest focuser. If those aren't concerns of yours, you'll probably be quite happy with it. The 90mm is great for portraits as well. Very versatile lens. I personally prefer 85mm for portraits so, I think the 90mm is nicer than the 70mm, but 70mm is a fine focal length for portraits as well.
I did! Been using it pretty much every day since it came in. Thanks for asking. Here's the video I did on it if you feel like checking it out in action: ua-cam.com/video/JNd7oJtOgOw/v-deo.html
Bought the Sigma one for Sony, had no issues scaring the creatures. If you use the focus limiters the Sigma is very silent in micro autofocusing. Here are two of my shots with the Sigma and my A7III in my review of this lens on Amazon. Used the money i saved to buy more gear. www.amazon.com/Sigma-70mm-F2-8-Macro-Sony/dp/B07D1CL96G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1532229193&sr=8-2&keywords=sigma+70mm+2.8+art+macro+for+sony#customerReviews Cheers
Thanks for the review. It's great to hear from someone who actually used it on the little creatures. I'm not much of a wildlife photographer, so I appreciate your input. It's always great when you can get what you need for less money. Also, nice shots on Amazon. 👍 Cheers from one Gerald to another. 😃
Hi gerald. Please compare the Sony 90mm vs Fujinon 80mm macro. Since they both macro lens and most mirrorlens camera user now are all about sony vs fuji. I own and test the fujinon 80mm and find it the sharpest fujinon lens i test so far
Got the sigma and it’s pretty much the sharpest lense you can get . Got the 105mm 35mm and the 14 mm and they are all way ahead compared to the Sony lenses . The only Sony I got is the g master 70/200 2.8 which pretty much untouchable but that’s it .
Sony macro for Canon? Is that an option? Sigma macro for Sony? Is that an option? Deciding which lens to buy is more than the price difference... comparing image quality of the lens or was it the camera sensor differences?
How is the Sony 50mm F2.8 Macro Lens? How is the comparison of Sony 50mm to Sigma 70mm?
Haven't used the Sigma 70mm, but I own both the Sony 90mm Macro and the Sony 50mm Macro. The 90mm Macro is one of the best lenses I've ever used, the 50mm is one of the few lenses I am considering selling - I wouldn't recommend the 50mm. The autofocus is slow and inconsistent, 50mm is pretty close for a macro, and the quality as a non-macro lens isn't particularly good either, especially compared to the new 50mm f/2.5 G from Sony (the small one that came out with the 24mm and the 40mm), which does all of that better and doesn't have much farther of a close focusing distance.
I was casually browsing to learn as much as possible about macro lenses for Sony APSC cameras for a future purchase. Your review was very, very helpful. I really like the fast pace and flow with which you have presented the material. Good technical as well as practical info. Thanks for the excellent educational content of this video.
I have the 85mm 1.4 and the 70-200mm 2.8 for portraits - I'm now shooting most of my portraits on the Sony 90mm macro lens. It is one of the sharpest lenses I have ever used, sharper than both the other two I just mentioned. It is a beast of a portrait lens!
So glad it was you that did this kind of review. Concise and meticulous in delivery as always. I personally love macro video and have been wanting the sony for awhile now. The extending barrel is a real killer for me when it comes to making a purchase.
Thanks for this comment. I'm really glad it was helpful. 😃
Yeah, despite me really loving the image on the Sigma, I hate that external focusing thing as well.
The Sony 90mm really is one of the best designed macro lenses ever made. So user friendly. So versatile.
Oh man what a review!! Really loved the way one can “physically “ see the actual distance of the lens to the subject instead of just be given numbers.
Hey, Gerald, thanks for this and all the other friendly, accessible, informative videos! I watched yours and a few other Sony 90mm f2.8 macro videos and it seemed like this was the lens I wanted. Interestingly, in my old Nikon DSLR system, I had the 105 & 60 macro lenses and like the Sony 90, the Nikkor 105 is sort of the flagship lens. I've found that I often make images like a spoon of tea or herb ingredients handheld, and the shorter 60mm is often more convenient. Nonetheless, the Sony 90mm seems like the best offering so I decided to get it.
I looked at B&H and Amazon and both had the lens back-ordered about 2 weeks. I put the lens in my Amazon cart when I suddenly remembered that I didn't go there through your, or anybody else's, affiliate link. So I came back to this video and went through your link so you could get your dollar for this helpful video. Interestingly, when I used your affiliate link, it went to Amazon but through another camera store. Exact same lens, exact same price, but in stock now. In my effort to make sure you got your small commission for making such a helpful video, I wind up getting the lens 2 weeks faster! Win-win! Thanks for everything, Gerald!
Longer macro lenses are also much better for studio work, even on non-live subjects that don't spook, because the lens will actually get in the way of your lights and cast shadows on your scene. Even 100mm macro (such as the Canon 100mm f/2.8 macro IS) is a bit of a limiting focal length. I don't understand why Sony decided to make this a 90mm lens, and I wouldn't even consider buying anything shorter than that. Personally, I would really love to see them come up with an equivalent to the Canon 180mm macro.
You missed the focus point in the comparison pictures (because of different focal lengths and different depth of field) - not a serious matter but it can confuse people thinking about different sharpness levels - actually when I take into account that the focal planes are a little different in the picture and you compare the images on their focus point then I see that the sharpness is very similar. The only difference which is really visible is the emphasis in the different rendering. The Sigma is clearly aimed for maximum edge contrast and texture contrast. Sony seems to prioritize color rendering. Looking back to the Foveon camera line (Quattro H) - which is a contrast beast - the Sigma macro lens makes a lot of sense to prioritize texture contrast for the Foveon sensor - which clearly outperforms the sharpness of the Sony sensor. It seems the Sigma chose the glass elements carefully for this lens - and with fewer correction glasses in between the barrel somehow must come out - otherwise, the lens would be much bigger. It can also be that the Sony has, therefore, more corrections for chromatic aberrations - because the Foveon sensor is free of those there is not really a need to have it in the Sigma lens. - It would be actually really interesting for the upcoming launch of the new full frame Foveon beast in 2020 - to compare the difference in texture quality with true Foveon sensors against high-resolution Bayer sensors. It should be noted that longer focal lengths in macro need more stopping down due to thinner DoF. This means the wider macro lenses can shoot faster with similar results - like your watch picture - the Sigma DoF is more useful since you can see more of the watch - the screw in the 90mm picture is already unsharp - which is not really desired and should be stopped down.
Genau diese Gegenüberstellung habe ich gesucht, top video!
Just watching this today.. .geez, your production value has come a very long way... but the content was always awesome!
Thank you Gerald for another great video. I own the Sony macro lens. Its just amazing how sharp it is compared to my GM lenses being one third of the price. To me its the best macro lens currently in the market comparing it even to my Hasselblad collection which is no joke.
The only issue i have with this particular lens is its weakness to wet conditions. Unfortunately I cannot rely on it too much and forced to carry a backup lens always. Its just a pity Sony does not yet have a dedicated GM macro lens.!!
Lastly, this lens really shines when you attach it on a Sony alpha7 R3. The lens sharpness combined with the high mega pickles give astonishing results. Literally mind blowing. Try it out..))))
Very useful review and comparison. I particularly liked how you framed the value proposition for the Sigma vis a vis the Sony. Lots to think about but in a good way. Thanks!
I searched exactly this comparison, nice video!
I was hoping that would happen for some people.
Thanks for letting me know. 😃
The 90mm is my best purchase ever even though I paid through my nose for it!
I think the Sigma looked sharper in the IQ Lightroom tests. The macro world has plenty of apps where noise or focus speed is not important at all. Sharpness, contrast, geometric accuracy, color accuracy can be the more important than noise chasing creatures or worrying about the external focusing so much. It is lens after all and how well it works as lens in paramount for me. I do not care so much about cost advantages in comparison with sharpness, contrast, CA, and distortion. While I am ragging on you here I have do highest respect for your videos and opinions. I also understand there is a large population of people than chase critters or make movies of creatures which you were addressing. For them the Sony lens is better but more expensive.
I needed this video...Once I pay off my 24-105 f4, this is going to be my macro/portrait lens.
Thank you for the comparison. I own a Sony 90mm f2.8 macro, which cost £700 brand new, and firmly believe I made the right choice: the Sigma 70mm f2.8 macro costs £500 from the same camera shop. Having used my 90mm macro for a couple of months on both an A7iii and A7ii, I feel it is as sharp as my old Sigma 180mm f2.8 OS macro, but at half the price.
I'm going for the Sony but somehow Sigma is somewhat sharper. A little bit of background about insects, most of them can only hear high-pitch noises.
At last! a serious practic explanation about macro for Sony. Thank you.
Thanks! 😃👍
Mr. Undone, has Sony added weather seal to the 90 Macro OSS in 2024?
How good would the 70mm Sigma be on the BMPCC 6K pro Gerald???
I impulsively bought the sony over the weekend. as I'm definitely gonna be doing random product photography, and the added benefit of it being a great lens outside of macro shots.
compliments my only having the A7III kit lens otherwise lol.
Informative thanks. Well presented! a6600 user here, so with the IBIS, I'll likely go the Sigma route. The final results are quite good on both lenses. Most any other condition, I typically purchase Sony glass. You want a Rolex, you buy a Rolex. Only here, I'm very comfortable buying the Sigma 70mm macro. Not concerned with the focus noise, but excellent noting that. One addition Id note is definately add a lens filter on these macros. Particularly the Sigma with that moving telescooic motion.
The other thing about the Sony not mentioned here is that 90mm also works well for a portrait lens. 70mm would not be as good for that. I own both the Sony 90mm and an old Canon 50mm FD macro lens that has been adapted for Sony. If people are looking for a cheap macro option I would push you to something like that Canon (you will be using manual focus anyway). I believe the Nikkor 55mm Micro is a really good option also. The Sony is definitely big and heavy, but wow, its sharp, quiet, gets you a good distance from subjects, and doubles as a super sharp portrait lens if you don't care about loss in background blur due to the F2.8 aperture. Definitely worth it.
Great points!
I have the 85 f1.8 for portraits, but if I didn't have that, I would have favoured the Sony even more so for the versatility in portraiture.
In portrait you would probably have much smaller aperture than f2.8 with that lens. At least it worked like that with Tamron 60mm which i were using for many years (maximum aperture was f2.0, but in portrait it was f2.2). For me problem is that i have 85GM, so 90mm is pretty much same focal lenghts. I would rather go for 60-70mm or something like Sigma 150mm macro.
That's a creative decision. It all comes down to how sharp you want the subject to be vs how much bokeh you want. F2.8 is fine for portraits for most people - which is why a lot of wedding photographers use a 24-70 F2.8 and a 70-200 F2.8.
Have u used either of these macro lenses with 35mm and/or 120 mm slide copy work? If so, did u use a Negative Supply riser and film holder? If so, plz comment on results. Thanks. 😎😎
I would point out that just about anyone into serious macro generally uses nothing but manual focus. This means the lens won't be changing in length, balance, or add any noise. The 2nd is I don't know how you focused for the watch shot but it didn't seem like they were focused on the same point or something. The Sigma seems like a pretty decent lens for the money but I won't be giving up my 90 any time soon.
You're right about the focus point. I was handbombing these lenses, so I had a slightly different focus in the test images. But like you said, I think it still shows that the Sigma's image quality is pretty great.
The reason why I talk about the AF is because you can get cheaper lenses without AF, so I assume people will want to know how they perform, but I agree that MF is the way to go for macro. That being said, the Sony is easier to get into 1:1 quickly compared to the Sigma.
Is the Sony able to achieve a higher magnification, like 5:1?
Hlo dude even i have camera sony a6300 i have a doubt that fe 90mm f2.8 macro g oss after clicking pictures from sony a6300 does it crop a bit..? Why i am asking this because both the camera and lens sensors are different plzz reply as soon as possible
Love from India 🇮🇳🇮🇳
Super helpful video, thanks! Made me realise what to go for.
Correction: there isn’t a Nikon version in existence and there isn’t one coming either. According to Sigma the lens design isn’t compatible with the Nikon F mount. Though I expect they’ll be able to make something work for Nikon’s (and probably Canon’s) new mirrorless mounts.
Yes, good catch. Sigma was the third mount, not Nikon. I just naturally assumed Nikon. I was surprised to learn there wasn't one.
Thanks for the comment. 😃👍
I have a question on the 70mm Sigma lens. What happens if you leave the lens in manual mode, then power off. Will the lens retract? Or stay? Thank you.
It will retract when powered off.
will the sigma 70mm macro art for sony work with 3rd party electronic macro extensions by companies like meike/neewer to gain more magnification? asking coz of the wired by focus thing. if anyone knows or have seen this lens work with extension tube please help me out with this info. TIA
I have the 90 Macro and never leave home without it :) Love it
Awesome! Yeah, it's great.
Thanks for the comment. 😃👍
Very good review. it helps alot.. i have subscribed.
Hey Gerald, does your 90mm make a noise similar to Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 when focussing?
How about these both vs a Sony 85mm 1.8 with extension tubes
GREAT COMPARISON, many thanks for Your help!!
Great video, like always!
0:10 Sigma didn't make a Nikon version of this lens. The old design, yes it's available for Nikon, but not this new lens. Is Nikon market shrinking?
The sigma is on sale for 469. I ended up getting it for like 380 with best buy credit. I think it was worth it.
Awesome video, really informative. I'm a happy new subscriber.
Thanks! I'm glad and I appreciate the sub. Cheers! 😃👍
Best macro is done when creatures are asleep, so distance really doesnt matter. It is also not autofocused, but done with stacking machines.
Stacking machines? Like Wall-E?
Thanks for an informative and entertaining video! I set the focus hold button on the 90mm G to DMF (hold or toggle, can't remember). I can be walking around with AF on and hit that button on the lens and half-press the shutter button and it will switch to manual focus and zoom in for a crazy close focus area with the sony's manual focus peaking highlights. As soon as i take the picture and release the shutter button it jumps back to auto focus. It's so nice and i use it on the sony 85mm 1.8 focus hold button also. Try it out!
Very well put together review... I'm in.👍🏻
Awesome! Thanks. Appreciate the comment. 😃
Nice review ! It's exactly what I've been looking for... Thank you :)
Cheers! Thanks, I'm glad I could help. 😃
I'm new to video and photography. Can you explain in a nutshell what is that selector the sony macro lens has? The one for infinity or meters that you mentioned? How do I use that feature? When do I use the infinity option vs half the meter etc. I'm confused with that button
Absolutely, and thanks for the comment. 😃
Basically autofocus can be made easier and quicker if you limit the range in which it is allowed to operate. An analogy would be telling someone to find something in an entire house vs inside a specific drawer. The second search would be faster. So, that selector allows you to limit the distances that will be considered when focusing. You can usually set it to close, far, or everything.
"Full" means it will have the entire range of the lenses capabilities to find focus.
"0.28 - 0.5m" will only bother looking in the very close distance. Ideal for macro.
"0.5m - infinity" will look for focus outside the macro range, and won't bother with stuff extremely close.
The numbers are the distances from the focal plane mark. So in the last example it would start about half a meter in front of your camera to as far as the eye can see.
Thank you for that GREAT (8) video on the Sony macro lens...helped me make a decision!
Since I'm a Fuji guy but I'm also going to get a Sony A7 mimosa desired lens is the Fuji XF 80mm macro but it seems that Sony 90mm macro is a really popular lens. Did you ever compared them?
What do you think about 105mm sigma 2.8 , what Is better?
Man, this video was GREAT!
Thanks, Brian! 😃🙏
This review is really helpful. thanks!
Hey Gerald, I'm torn between the sigma and canon macros. Any advice?
I would have liked to see some better sample shots, as we know the Sigma does not have OS, and hand holding both while shakily hovering over your work bench does not seem like a very accurate way to measure overall optical performance.
I think what people dont talk about enough is that with the sony can be used for both macro and a great portraits
I Am Aaron Edwards probably because they already have 3 portrait lenses 😂
thanks i consider buying one meanly for portrait and i thought about these two lenses as 2 in 1 solution for portrait and ocationally for macro . what is the best for portrait in term of image quality and focus speed
The Sony 90mm focuses a bit faster in my experience.
But I think you should ask yourself which focal length you'd prefer for portraits.
A lot of people like the 85mm area, which would be closer to the 90mm, but 70mm is a bit looser and can be nice as well.
Figure out how tight you want the portraits to be. Hope that helps. Cheers!
Awesome channel! I’m also just working on a video about the Sogma lenses! Cheers from Japan!
Thank you! Appreciate the support. 😃
Please Ilko, English! :(
Great, great review. I've been searching for this topic for quite a while now. Glad you tackled it. Other videos only covered the Sigma lens for Canon. Now I know the AF is better on the Sony. You have a new subscriber!
Thanks a lot. Appreciate it. Glad to have a new subscriber. Cheers! 👍😃
"Great" job... I was thinking about doing a video on this as well, you did a better job already. Thanks for saving me the time. Maybe compare the Sony 50mm macro vs the Sigma 70mm since they are closer in price?
Haha. Thanks! Appreciate your kinds words.
That's a fair suggestion about the 50mm, but the truth is the lens just doesn't excite me. You know the feeling when you don't really want to make a video on something because you just don't care that much about the product? That's how I feel about that 50mm. It's decent at a lot of things, but not really standout at anything in particular.
10:23 yeah.. I do take portraits of my friends
Haha. Nice! 😂
Great video. Super helpful thanks man!
Awesome! I'm glad. Thanks for the comment. 😃
Great comparison. I am looking for a macro lens to use on my Sony a6400 and I do food photography on cruises I go to. Would the Sigma 70mm be a good option for me?
I was also looking at the Sony 50mm as well
I have the Sigma. It's sharp AF. It's significantly cheaper than the Sony. The A6400 has no stabilization, but if you will be working off of a tripod, or expect to have enough light to be able to crank the shutter speed, not having OSS shouldn't be a problem.
@@careylymanjones thank you
Nicely done video!
What Macro flash would you recommend for the Sony 90mm??
Thanks for nice comparison, although I would have liked to see a more detailed comparison of image quality.
A question, if the Sigma retracts when turning the camera off, does it remember the focus/magnification it had when you turning the camera on again, or do you have to manually refocus to get it to 1:1 every time you turn it on? If so it seems like fairly slow process if you want 1:1 most of the time...
Thanks for the comment.
You're correct and it is a little slow to get back to 1:1. The Sony version is easier in that way, because you can just put the ring to 1:1 then clutch to manual and it focus jumps instantly there, the Sigma requires some wrist turning. 3-4 turns approx.
Thanks for the reply and explanation!
Would seem usability is better for the Sony then, and its focus ring solution seems much preferable. If the image quality is as good on the Sigma, which I suspect it is, then it's a question if the usability is worth twice the price for the Sony.
But at least your video and reply has made me more informed now, so thanks!
Excellent comparison review, sir! As a landscape and product STILLS X-T3 shooter (no video), I have been debating on selling my Fuji kit (reluctantly), and moving into FF, specifically with either the Nikon Z7, OR the Sony a7Rlll and lenses like the Sony 16-35 f/2.8 GM, and the 90mm f/2.8 G Macro . Since I shoot 99% tripod-mounted, neither IBIS nor video interests me. So, my question is, for large print output (around 24"x 36" prints), how much of an improvement in terms of image sharpness, detail rendition, dynamic range, base ISO performance, etc., would I see over the already excellent X-T3 (combined with the ultra-sharp Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 Macro lens), when using the a7Rlll and the Sony 90mm f/2.8 G Macro tripod-mounted? Thanks!
Can you campare Sony 90 2.8 Macro VS Voigtlander 110 2.5 Macro in the future?
If I get my hands on one, sure.
I have one more question. Would you recommend Sigma 70 2.8 for shooting food in the restaurant? Because sometimes it's imposible to move further away from the table so working distance is very limited.
Anyone use the sigma for wedding photography? Was thinking of this for detail shots!
I realised u didnt conclude the sharpness test on both, in your opinion and observation, which one is sharper?
Honestly, I really couldn't choose. I'd say both are excellent for sharpness, so I'd focus more on the other features and price for making a decision in this case.
Gerald Undone thank you gerald👍, im debating to choose either one of these. I am planning to do a product video commercial, so might need the AF to work properly. Dont mind about the sound issues on sigma. Price is abit of an issue. Do u think the AF on the sigma is “frustratingly” bad for video work?
Hello Gerald,
Could You do a comparison between the Sony 90 mm. Macro and the vintage, manual, Vivitar f:1/2.8 90 mm. macro? I was a Olympus OM analog shooter and I am now using my old OM lenses om my digital Sony's FF Ilce-7 and a Aps-C NEX-3n. I would like to know Your expert opinion of the use of these vintage macro lenses on the Sony systems.
I like Your style of reviews in general and follow You reguarly.
Stay healty so stay home
What is this red and black disk hanging on the left side of your cameras?
It's for a strap. A strap that you can take off easily so that it's not in the way when you're doing video.
Here's a link: amzn.to/2A2rvEj
I think for aps-c shooters, the sony lens is the better choice due to its OSS, as most aps-c bodies come w/o in body stabilization.
Thank you for this review.
Hey Gerald, can you do a comparison of your macro lenses to extension tubes?
Thanks for the idea. I've got a buddy who does a lot of extension tube stuff, maybe we can set something up. Appreciate the comment. 😃
I'm about to purchase one and now I'm doing research. Is it durable? Because it's expensive and I'm not going to spend money on something that will not last for at least 5 years.
For how long now and how often that you use this lens?
I have the 90mm Sony and I use it all the time. Weekly at least. It's amazing. One of the best lenses on the system. And it doubles as a really great portrait lens. I sold my 85mm because of it.
@@geraldundone wow. Okay, so this is the one to get.
I'm also considering the Sigma because it's less expensive. Does the 70mm performs decently as a macro and portrait lens as well?
@@laurencegr5338 It does, yeah. It's a good lens for the price. The Sony is a lot more money, but you get a lot more out of it. I'd say both are fair purchases for their price.
@@geraldundone Okay, thanks.
do you think that sony 90 be good even for dentistry photography?
Unfortunately that is something I've never done before so I wouldn't feel comfortable giving much advice. I can say, however, that the Sony 90mm is my favourite macro out there and I feel pretty comfortable using it in a huge variety of scenarios.
Yo Gerald, great review video yet again. Hey, what microphone (and other related audio equipment) are you using there to pickup the focusing noise? I'm in the market for a sensitive condenser microphone like that.
Thanks! Appreciate the comment. 😃
I was using these mics: amzn.to/2JAPNVG. They're a pretty great deal for the price. Pretty directional, but more open sounding than a shotgun, and you get two of them!
And I run it into my computer using this interface: amzn.to/2mttRm0.
Hope that helps! If you have any other questions. Let me know.
Gerald Undone thanks, sir. So you don't record to your mirrorless camera using these, right? Directly to PC?
Correct, you'd need an interface of some sort. Some camera systems, like the GH5, sell their own attachable interface so that you can use XLR cables and phantom power on your microphones right into the camera, but I think I'd prefer something that isn't so camera specific. The Zoom H-series or a Tascam would work well too. You just need phantom power and an XLR input.
Gerald Undone you the man.
hahah they're GRRRRRREEEEAAAT! Yeah it seems on this one you get what you pay for. I love my Sigma lenses but for this macro it seems you need the Sony 90mm for best all around. its also GREAT for portraits.
😂👍
The Sony macro 90mm was my first taste of like a "good" E-Mount lens (even if it was so much more money) and I'm rapidly discovering why people always say "get good glass"
Excellent comparison! By the way, I thought most insect photographers kill and freeze (which I DO NOT endorse) the insects they are shooting, and perform focus stacking?
Yeah, I've heard about that practice, or putting them in the fridge while alive to slow them down. That whole scene is a bit out of my element as I use macro purely for product photography.
I wouldn't say "most." If you want to do ultra macro (e.g. 5x magnification), then they're probably dead. Normal macro certainly doesn't require that and many people do their macro in the field on live bugs. Many bugs stay perfectly still as well, even when you're very close. Personally, I like having image stabilisation for live bugs because I like to put my camera on burst mode and move the field of view from the eye to the end of the head, then stack the images later. Image stabilisation makes it much easier to keep the same framing and reduce shake during that movement.
@@mrcrotalusatrox1513 can you do burst while changing the focus manually?
@@samuelsulaiman Definitely not! No way you'd be steady enough to change focus with your hand while getting photos in burst mode and have them line up well. But you can move the camera forward ever so slightly with your hands during burst mode to capture move the field of view over the bug. That's what I do. I have to try in many times though as 1) it's so easy to miss the right starting point and then the eyes are out of focus or something, 2) the bugs sometimes move their mandibles of feet and then the images won't line up properly, 3) sometimes my flash cuts out and I miss part of the slice. It's a very finicky way of doing things, but if you don't want to move the bugs or freeze them...I don't know another way.
Great review! How about using it for portraits? I saw some using the Sony 90mm macro for portraits and i think its great. Will the Sigma 70mm macro art do the same for portraits?
Thanks!
Yeah, I've seen that as well. I read some reviews on the Sigma where people were pleased using it for portraits. I think pretty much everything I said about macro should apply to portraits: I would expect good image quality and sharpness, but it has an external focusing barrel and is a bit noisy, and it isn't the fastest focuser. If those aren't concerns of yours, you'll probably be quite happy with it.
The 90mm is great for portraits as well. Very versatile lens. I personally prefer 85mm for portraits so, I think the 90mm is nicer than the 70mm, but 70mm is a fine focal length for portraits as well.
Gerald Undone Thank you! Great insights. Yeah, i think the 90mm would be great for portraits compared to the 70 art because of the focal length.
The cost of the Sigma is a great selling point. Tremendous help in adding to my indecision haha
7:10 can someone make a remix with that?
Did you ever get your Sigma 35mm ? If so what do you think ?
I did! Been using it pretty much every day since it came in. Thanks for asking.
Here's the video I did on it if you feel like checking it out in action: ua-cam.com/video/JNd7oJtOgOw/v-deo.html
Gerald Undone awesome...appreciate your work...thanks for posting great content
What a grrrrreat review. Great. That’s great, even without a grate.
I'm Gerald Undone and I approve this message ↑
Bought the Sigma one for Sony, had no issues scaring the creatures. If you use the focus limiters the Sigma is very silent in micro autofocusing. Here are two of my shots with the Sigma and my A7III in my review of this lens on Amazon. Used the money i saved to buy more gear. www.amazon.com/Sigma-70mm-F2-8-Macro-Sony/dp/B07D1CL96G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1532229193&sr=8-2&keywords=sigma+70mm+2.8+art+macro+for+sony#customerReviews Cheers
Thanks for the review. It's great to hear from someone who actually used it on the little creatures. I'm not much of a wildlife photographer, so I appreciate your input. It's always great when you can get what you need for less money.
Also, nice shots on Amazon. 👍
Cheers from one Gerald to another. 😃
Cheers Gerald
I wish you'd tested the Fuji 80mm macro, which has been described as the sharpest lens ever made by a couple of people.
Unfortunately, I don't have any Fuji gear. But I've heard good things about that lens as well.
Very helpful !
Anyone used the Sigma 70 with a Fujifilm yet?
Sony 90mm Macro vs Sigma 105mm Macro?
Hi gerald. Please compare the Sony 90mm vs Fujinon 80mm macro. Since they both macro lens and most mirrorlens camera user now are all about sony vs fuji. I own and test the fujinon 80mm and find it the sharpest fujinon lens i test so far
Thanks for the suggestion. I will look into that.
Appreciate the comment! 😃
Got the sigma and it’s pretty much the sharpest lense you can get . Got the 105mm 35mm and the 14 mm and they are all way ahead compared to the Sony lenses . The only Sony I got is the g master 70/200 2.8 which pretty much untouchable but that’s it .
Wheres the 100 f/2.8 L ?
Sony macro for Canon? Is that an option? Sigma macro for Sony? Is that an option? Deciding which lens to buy is more than the price difference... comparing image quality of the lens or was it the camera sensor differences?
Thanks for the great explanation. I'm going to sub and watch all those commercials in your videos so you can make more $$.
Hey! Thanks for this comment. Appreciate the support. Look forward to having you around. 😃👍
Thank you for AdBlocker!! I love it.
The Sony 90mm macro lens has focus breathing and is therefore unsuitable for the kind of programmatic focus stacking that you can do on the A7R II.
A lot of talking for only one image comparison which seems to be handheld and not focused on the same point.
pls make comparation agains 50mm sony macro lens
Now again with the 100mm sigma macro :)
I caught my Sigma on sale for $399. It has limitations, but for half the price, I couldn't turn it down.
What’s happening everyone! I like when you say it this way. The enthusiasm is awesome!