I picked up the Sigma a few weeks ago. I'm a wedding photographer as well and have been using the GM for 2 years. My biggest complaint with the GM has been the flaring/loss of contrast in the sun. The Sigma is definitely a lot better! However, it does have a hard time autofocusing when shooting with the sun backlit. It also has a hard time autofocusing in situations like reception dance floors. But I had the same issue with the GM. It's a toss-up for me. I LOVE the color and contrast on the Sigma. And with the much quieter motor and lower price, I'd say the Sigma is the best option right now. I have been blown away at just how much better my shots are looking with the Sigma. Thanks for the great review as always!
@@danieletamburini3797 I have used both extensively. The GM is creamier and has slightly better bokeh. But the color on the Sigma is insane. And it’s definitely sharper. At least sharper than my copy of the GM. This is all based off both being used with an A7iii. You may have a different experience if you’re using an A7R because the GM lenses are made for the higher resolution sensors. Not sure it would be a noticeable difference though. Both are great lenses. But the Sigma does slightly better for me in low light situations (like wedding reception dance floors). And I like the color better.
I remember when I started photography in the very early 2000s. Sigma and Tamron was with a few exceptions (a few macro lenses) mostly a very cheap alternative with relatively poor performance. After around 2012-1013 they stepped up their game and have been crushing it and today Sigma and Tamron is often my first choice because of at least as good and often better and heck of alot cheaper than first party!
Thanks for the great review of the Sigma 85mm 1.4. Three aspects should imho also be mentioned: 1) You shot your bokeh comparison pictures with 1st electronic curtain enabled. This kind of cuts bokeh balls in the middle. It looks much nicer with 1st electronic curtain disabled. 2) The heavy distortion of the Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN is clearly visible on your test pictures, but you did not mention it. 3) The bokeh balls of the Sony 85mm 1.4 are more round in the corners of the image. However all in all I also think that the Sigma is probably the better lens.
Just picked up the Sigma, and its creamy and fast focusing... Love it. I do need to use gaffers tape on the aperature ring on the grip side, my knuckle is starting to peel.
@@rodneywatkins4731 I can feel you man xD I have recently bought both Sony 16-35 GM and the 24-70 from Sigma, Once both arrived at home I was worrying for my life 😂
Another stellar review. Straight to the point, authentic and helpful. I’m trading my GM for this. The increased focus speed, increased sharpness and no other major loss of IQ. What’s not to like. Thanks!
I have the Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN and really do like the lens. I do wish they made it bigger though to correct the distortion better in the lens instead of relying on the camera or doing it in post.
Thanks Chris - even for this "old" video :) Nobody else tested the AF speed for both video and photo.. I have struggled a lot with the GM and AF speed.. Then it's either wait for the new Sony or save a lot on the Sigma(which colors i really like)
@@LightshaperQ Nice to have, not need to.. 15fps works fine for cycling.. And it’s primarily a portrait lens, and there fps is not vital.. still love my Sigma 85/1.4 and it’s fairly cheap.. Often use it instead of the 70-200GM on my A1s
Was looking to upgrade from the 85 1.8. Mostly because of the lack of sealing than the faster 1.4. Glad the sigma came out just in time! Good to hear the focus is good
One problem with Sigma is the hideous pincushion distortion. Its pretty noticeable due to the lens structural flaws. I personally have it, but if given second choice, I'd pick the GM over the Sigma for the same price (I was torn between a mint GM that is priced the same as the new Sigma, in the end picked the Sigma as I thought it would be nicer to have a more compact and lighter lens). Oh boy I should have picked the GM instead.
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer True, but it is significantly less than the Sigma. Sigma made a compromise for creating a compact, arguably light, fast, and sharp lens in the form of the pincushion distortion. In short, the distortion is managed better with the GM. For the same price (albeit used for the GM), it is a no-brainer IMO. I still love my Sigma lens, and would not bother exchanging it with the GM now. But I think it's a good point to know for someone who is looking to purchase between the two.
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer It's so minimal that when shooting video, there's no need to correct for it. It is perceivably undetectable. I can really see it in the images. Has this lens ever frozen up on you when shooting video?
I love my sigma 85 mm, It's one of my favourite lenses. The only thing I don't like is the very soft metal they use for the barrel of the lens. Mine has little chips all over it. Whereas my GM lenses which are all treated in the same way look like new. Hopefully the 85 GM MKII will be out soon ,which I will pick up as I'm sure it will be amazing, as all their new lenses are. I just hope it's f1.4 and not a 1KG plus f1.2
Interested in the Sigma lenses for L-mount which of course are the same as for the E-mount and this was a REALLY nice short and well made review of it. You got everything in that needed to be there, including great comparisons between to similar lenses and you did it without being boring and taking too much time to do it. Don't get me wrong, I love long reviews as well but sometimes long reviews can be three times as long as your but without any more real information. Thanks for posting, well done and hope to see some more Sigma DG DN reviews from you!
Hey Chris, I did download couple of pictures to see my self . That sigma just WOW awesome lens its not say GM is bad but for the money its no brainer. Thank you for leting us download and see files !!
my wedding combo is distagon 35/1,4 + sigma 85/1.4 (it's in my bag too sony 55/1,8, but GM 50/1,2 is dream lens....). not even the sharpest lens will help you to take a beautiful photo if you do not have talent and an eye.
Do you really have a feeling that Sigma is better in backlit scenes? From my quuick test, I had exactly the opposite feeling and this is something stopping me from trading in my GM lens.
The pincusion distortion is terrible though. I just can't unsee it now. I've been looking at this lens for days now and noticed it from the first shots I saw. So bummed about this.
I’d never choose the Batis over this tbh, Batis is a great lens but there’s no point to it now that these 2 exist. I probably wouldn’t sell the Batis to buy this tho. It really comes down to the point that your not really going to see the difference in a real world (non pixel peeping) kinda way
Any regrets Chris? I have the option to upgrade my 1.8 for GM or Sigma both new at the same price. Tempted by the GM but heard the focus noise is very loud in churches etc. 🤔🤙🍺
Nah no regrets man, I’ve heard that loud in church comment before lol that is just hilarious, it’s not even close to being that loud. But the Sigma is still better anyways
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer nice one 🤙 I’ll have to get to the shops and test them out when the government lift restriction here in the UK. Bought the A9 for silent shooting so didn’t want a noisy lens 😂
SCOOP (..why am I the only one to point it out - only I saw it ?) : The lock relating to the aperture ring not only locks the A-position, but optionally, when locked outside the A-position it than prevents to slip into A when at f16 /when freely working with the aperture ring (that's the way I like to lock it). So that lock should actually rather be referred to as an enabler of a barrier between either way, because it really is offering more then what is sayd everywhere about that.
I hope this regarding my FE version of the Art 105mm, money-wise. Image-quality-wise: I doubt that's possible (at least I need to pretend I dont need that, lol). But if equaled, and smaller...that would be hurting :-( "lol". (If a better then GM 135mm, a Sigma DN-version comes along (I agree; difficult to imagine, and then even smaller?); why would that bother You ? You could trade in Your likly more expensive GM. A DN 50mm (or 43mm) f1.4 might be much more successfull if cheeper and smaller (and still even better) than the superb but expensive Sony Planar-Zeiss. I rekon though that they rather do a 10mm DN ( or/and DN tilt-shift lenses) at that stage.)
Smart moove by Sigma : Macro DN 105mm f2.8 is just announced. Dustin Abbott's UA-cam review 'oddly' compares it to the non-macro GM 135mm and that, as You imply, is pretty much 'the reference :-) (and compact!). Sigma would have to be (as usual) cheaper and then You could trade in your GM should there be for You an advantage in a newer 135mm. I think Zeiss, Sony etc must be quite discusted by Sigma's challenges and abilities to react. What could be revolutionized ? More buttons, more blades and going progressively from round to strait shape, ..? Sigma seems to target...
I think the Sigma has a lot of distortion that could potentially affect the way it renders people if it's a portrait lens vs the GM. The Sigma is better at everything else.
Exactly. Not to mention that the AF freezes up when shooting video, unless that's been fixed with a firmware update...but I haven't heard anything about that from Sigma.
@matrixate my only issue with the sigma is the white balance. The glass is way warmer. Like 500 clicks in Lightroom so syncing it is a pain. Otherwise it’s great
Thanks Chris for the great review! have you tried the latest Samyang 35mm f1.8? I heard it's sharper, lighter and cheaper than the Sony 35mm f1.8. I would love to hear your opinion about the two. Cheers from Melbourne AU.
Are there plans for any DG DN like 24 or 35(not 1.2)? Just moved to Sony and I would love to see what's up with sigmas new DG lineup. I think you helped me with my decision on this 85!
i feel like a better comparison for these will be the sony 1.8 vs sigma 1.4. Is it worth paying a little extra for the faster speed? I feel like for a lot of hobbyists and enthusiasts, the 1.4 GMs are just out of the question, while pros will probably just go with the sony lenses anyway, or will for out 100 bucks to rent it for a few days
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer yeah, but there are also a dozen other videos and articles with the same comparison, but you still decided to try it out for yourself. Which i guess is my point: pros will try it out for themselves. The youtube comparisons are for us mere mortals.
Hey Chris thank you for this review! I was wondering if you have any recommendations when choosing between a 50mm and an 85mm. This lens would be paired with the Tamron 17-28mm, but now I just can't decide whether the 85mm or 50/55mm would be better for me. I plan on doing some senior photos which include full body shots and possible weddings in a few years. I think I will eventually get both but I just want one to start out with so it is more affordable. Thanks!
Alright, I’ve seen enough, I’m buying this lens. 😂 No, but for real. I have their 24-70 DG DN, and I’m happy with it. Sold my Sony FE 85mm F1.8 two weeks ago, and wasn’t sure whether to get the sigma 85mm DG DN or the Sony 135 GM. I can’t get both, and it’s a really hard decision to make for me, but I think I’ll get the sigma.
I am lucky to have both. With the 2 different focal ranges in some cases you can only go backwards or move further back so far at times and the 85mm you can be somewhat closer. If I had to choose between them I’d go with the 135mm but optically they’re both amazing lenses. Love the flexible aperture and the ability to lock it with the Sigma 85mm.
Chris! Please help me out! I’m getting in to wedding photography and I c’ant decide between this sigma 85 1.4 and the Sony 55 1.8 to pair with my sony 24 1.4. Can you do a comparison between 85 and 55/50?
Great review and comparison shots! Discussion topic: Are number and shape of aperture blade not only about geometry of bokeh balls stopped down, were higher number and round shape avoids hexagonal shape? Wide open you cannot see any hexagonal shapes anyway.
My Sony 85 gm has been rock solid for the past 3 years the thousands of pictures I’ve taken bear this out. I see no logic, reason to trade down to the Sigma even if I can pocket some cash. DONT need the extra sharpness....in fact I’m often softening skin with the gm.
Hi im new to photography planning to buy an 85mm lens and not sure if i'll go for sigma or the sony 1.8.. i use it for posting on facebook, instagram or maybe for printing soon.. almost all reviews show that the new sigma 85mm is sharper and my question is will the sharpness of the sigma still be better and noticeable when i post it on social media even though instagram and facebook have photo compression? Should i save my money and go for more expensive sigma?
I don’t think sharpness really matters with any of them tbh. The reason I would be the sigma is the richer colours. The sony is quite flat in some situations. I hate editing files from it compared to my lenses
Chris, did you decide to keep the Sigma 85 or continue to use the SONY 85 for your work? I have the SONY 24 / 1.4 and want to get a 85 / 1.4 companion lens for general non pro use (probably buying SONY used). Will the SONY 85 colors match the SONY 24 better than the Sigma 85? I am trying to avoid a lot of post work. Thanks if you have time to reply.
@RAW FOOTAGE The Batis is currently an amazing lens even after 5+ years. Images are sharp from edge to edge and color rendering is almost perfect, but the only issue is the focusing, it is a bit slower compared to the newest 85mm's that we currently have, it is pretty lightweight too, feels good in the hand and it has Image Stabilization! But I will still recommend you the Sigma version for the competitive price and superb image quality, it is almost a G Master lens
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer better than the gm? Or you would rather have some other lens instead? Sorry you didn’t sound satisfied with lens with your response lol
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer Thanh’s Chris - one last question I’m buying three new lenses ( as my only lenses) and budget is no issue - what three lenses would you recommend? I do all types of photography and video Preferably a mix of prime and zoom but would like to hear you own opinion Thanks!!!!
Hi Chris, Sigma lens seems to have strong distortion off the centre. If shot under JPEG with in camera adjustment, and the face is on 1/3 position, will you still see obvious distortion? I own Sony 85GM, but feel not sharp enough.
Nice review Chris! The batis 85 have been in my scope for a while, execpt the 1/2 stop difference, how you hou describe the difference between them? I run the 55 and batis 25 wich renders the images beautifully... the signa now confuseme since it s about the same price.... Thx for the advice Ps: i am not a working professional, just a serious enthousiast.
I used to shoot the 25 also. I honestly don't see any reason to buy the Batis 85. It's definitely not as good as this. It's lighter but that's about it
@@GangstasCat well I mean they are both good. The Batis has way more CA and it's 1.8 not 1.4 which is kinda irrelevant but important for some. It also doesn't have any function switches or anything which makes it a pain go go between manual and auto focus.
Hey Chris I know you're super busy with weddings but now you shoot weddings with the Sigma 85 dg dn and the Sony 24 do you notice much of a colour difference between the 2 and how easy is that to fix in post? Cheers much appreciated brother!
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer thanks for confirming, I thought you might say that. I just wonder if there’s a way to batch process the pics that come out of the sigma to look more like the Sony pics in one swoop rather than go through each picture 🧐
so sad, im so loyal to sony I feel weird when I have to use another lens. but after watching and reading so many reviews I think the best option is sigma.
Sigma lenses are hideous, the ugliest lenses. It looks like Russian equipment from the First World War. I don't understand why they don't change something about these lenses, because besides the performance, I should also like how they look. Just like a phone, I'm interested in it looking good, not just performing.
I picked up the Sigma a few weeks ago. I'm a wedding photographer as well and have been using the GM for 2 years. My biggest complaint with the GM has been the flaring/loss of contrast in the sun. The Sigma is definitely a lot better! However, it does have a hard time autofocusing when shooting with the sun backlit. It also has a hard time autofocusing in situations like reception dance floors. But I had the same issue with the GM. It's a toss-up for me. I LOVE the color and contrast on the Sigma. And with the much quieter motor and lower price, I'd say the Sigma is the best option right now. I have been blown away at just how much better my shots are looking with the Sigma. Thanks for the great review as always!
Hello Scott , are u sure that the sigma is Bette then the Sony gm?
@@danieletamburini3797 I have used both extensively. The GM is creamier and has slightly better bokeh. But the color on the Sigma is insane. And it’s definitely sharper. At least sharper than my copy of the GM. This is all based off both being used with an A7iii. You may have a different experience if you’re using an A7R because the GM lenses are made for the higher resolution sensors. Not sure it would be a noticeable difference though.
Both are great lenses. But the Sigma does slightly better for me in low light situations (like wedding reception dance floors). And I like the color better.
I’m on the R4 now and the Sigma is definitely better
Thanks too all guys ! An thanks for those videos
I remember when I started photography in the very early 2000s. Sigma and Tamron was with a few exceptions (a few macro lenses) mostly a very cheap alternative with relatively poor performance. After around 2012-1013 they stepped up their game and have been crushing it and today Sigma and Tamron is often my first choice because of at least as good and often better and heck of alot cheaper than first party!
Thanks for the great review of the Sigma 85mm 1.4. Three aspects should imho also be mentioned: 1) You shot your bokeh comparison pictures with 1st electronic curtain enabled. This kind of cuts bokeh balls in the middle. It looks much nicer with 1st electronic curtain disabled. 2) The heavy distortion of the Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN is clearly visible on your test pictures, but you did not mention it. 3) The bokeh balls of the Sony 85mm 1.4 are more round in the corners of the image. However all in all I also think that the Sigma is probably the better lens.
Just picked up the Sigma, and its creamy and fast focusing... Love it. I do need to use gaffers tape on the aperature ring on the grip side, my knuckle is starting to peel.
Cant wait for more of their existing lenses to get an update to a dedicated mount (like the 35 1.4 or maybe a 24 👀)
I hope its thus Autumn !
I just moved to don't, saw this 85 and can't wait also for a better 35(pref 1.4) or a 24!
A Sigma DN 24 would be stellar, I cannot for the life of me justify the cost of the GM. My wife would literally have me assassinated over that price.
@@rodneywatkins4731 used it isn't horrid. $1000 usd or so.
@@rodneywatkins4731 I can feel you man xD I have recently bought both Sony 16-35 GM and the 24-70 from Sigma, Once both arrived at home I was worrying for my life 😂
Sigma its doing a great job ! I used the previous version so heavy but great sharpness and its is better and smaller
Another stellar review. Straight to the point, authentic and helpful. I’m trading my GM for this. The increased focus speed, increased sharpness and no other major loss of IQ. What’s not to like. Thanks!
Bought one yesterday. The Sigma that is. I was waiting for the GMii but the best price I can get in Australia is $2900. The Sigma was $1245.
It looks like sigma might have the best 85 on E-Mount every single time
I have the Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN and really do like the lens. I do wish they made it bigger though to correct the distortion better in the lens instead of relying on the camera or doing it in post.
Trading mine in this week 2. Sigma is killing it.
Thanks Chris - even for this "old" video :) Nobody else tested the AF speed for both video and photo.. I have struggled a lot with the GM and AF speed.. Then it's either wait for the new Sony or save a lot on the Sigma(which colors i really like)
I have to know how you feel about the new 85 GM II
@@LightshaperQ Nice to have, not need to.. 15fps works fine for cycling.. And it’s primarily a portrait lens, and there fps is not vital.. still love my Sigma 85/1.4 and it’s fairly cheap.. Often use it instead of the 70-200GM on my A1s
I'm impressed by your split-screen comparison of focus speeds. I've got the famous trifecta and so don't need too much convincing.
Thanks for the review and the sample images (they really help to evaluate the lens).
Was looking to upgrade from the 85 1.8. Mostly because of the lack of sealing than the faster 1.4. Glad the sigma came out just in time! Good to hear the focus is good
That slomo clip was clever and a great comparison
One problem with Sigma is the hideous pincushion distortion. Its pretty noticeable due to the lens structural flaws. I personally have it, but if given second choice, I'd pick the GM over the Sigma for the same price (I was torn between a mint GM that is priced the same as the new Sigma, in the end picked the Sigma as I thought it would be nicer to have a more compact and lighter lens). Oh boy I should have picked the GM instead.
The GM has distortion also
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer True, but it is significantly less than the Sigma. Sigma made a compromise for creating a compact, arguably light, fast, and sharp lens in the form of the pincushion distortion. In short, the distortion is managed better with the GM. For the same price (albeit used for the GM), it is a no-brainer IMO.
I still love my Sigma lens, and would not bother exchanging it with the GM now. But I think it's a good point to know for someone who is looking to purchase between the two.
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer It's so minimal that when shooting video, there's no need to correct for it. It is perceivably undetectable. I can really see it in the images. Has this lens ever frozen up on you when shooting video?
@@matrixate no. Not that I remember. I still use it to this day
I love my sigma 85 mm, It's one of my favourite lenses. The only thing I don't like is the very soft metal they use for the barrel of the lens. Mine has little chips all over it. Whereas my GM lenses which are all treated in the same way look like new. Hopefully the 85 GM MKII will be out soon ,which I will pick up as I'm sure it will be amazing, as all their new lenses are. I just hope it's f1.4 and not a 1KG plus f1.2
Interested in the Sigma lenses for L-mount which of course are the same as for the E-mount and this was a REALLY nice short and well made review of it. You got everything in that needed to be there, including great comparisons between to similar lenses and you did it without being boring and taking too much time to do it. Don't get me wrong, I love long reviews as well but sometimes long reviews can be three times as long as your but without any more real information.
Thanks for posting, well done and hope to see some more Sigma DG DN reviews from you!
I just got my sigma 35mm DG DN. I never regret it. 🔥
Great video, I was looking for exactly this comparison and the identical bokeh shots were very useful
That was the comparison I needed. Thank you.
Awesome review !
Loving the breakdown and flow of this review !
Hey Chris,
I did download couple of pictures to see my self . That sigma just WOW awesome lens its not say GM is bad but for the money its no brainer. Thank you for leting us download and see files !!
Comparing the images, it seems that either the Sony is either 82-83mm or the Sigma is maybe 86-87mm.
Great review, i got the most info about comparison of these two.Subscribed!
my wedding combo is distagon 35/1,4 + sigma 85/1.4 (it's in my bag too sony 55/1,8, but GM 50/1,2 is dream lens....).
not even the sharpest lens will help you to take a beautiful photo if you do not have talent and an eye.
Do you really have a feeling that Sigma is better in backlit scenes? From my quuick test, I had exactly the opposite feeling and this is something stopping me from trading in my GM lens.
Dustin Abbot said the same thing.
@@joeblack4026 but I have traded it anyway, because Sigma is better in many aspects and the more versatile lens
I also tried it. - but for my wedding work I will still use the Sony 85 1.8 - its so much lighter and so much faster than the Gmaster or the Sigma 85.
It's lighter but it's not faster
The pincusion distortion is terrible though. I just can't unsee it now. I've been looking at this lens for days now and noticed it from the first shots I saw. So bummed about this.
Please compare also zeiss batis 85mm 1.8. I've heard that batis is really awesome if we talk about bokeh too:)
I’d never choose the Batis over this tbh, Batis is a great lens but there’s no point to it now that these 2 exist. I probably wouldn’t sell the Batis to buy this tho. It really comes down to the point that your not really going to see the difference in a real world (non pixel peeping) kinda way
Wasn't impressed with the focusing speed of the 85mm GM when it came out but looks like I should try out the Sigma.
The Sony GM 1.4 is a front focusing lens. I tested it for 3 weeks and constantly got the same results.
You must have a faulty copy.
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer Maybe. The one I had front focused from the box.. nothing I could do to change it.
@@Bkintariah yeah mine never done that neither has anyone I heard of. It definitely would have been faulty
Thank you
Any regrets Chris? I have the option to upgrade my 1.8 for GM or Sigma both new at the same price. Tempted by the GM but heard the focus noise is very loud in churches etc. 🤔🤙🍺
Nah no regrets man, I’ve heard that loud in church comment before lol that is just hilarious, it’s not even close to being that loud. But the Sigma is still better anyways
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer nice one 🤙 I’ll have to get to the shops and test them out when the government lift restriction here in the UK. Bought the A9 for silent shooting so didn’t want a noisy lens 😂
SCOOP (..why am I the only one to point it out - only I saw it ?) :
The lock relating to the aperture ring not only locks the A-position, but optionally, when locked outside the A-position it than prevents to slip into A when at f16 /when freely working with the aperture ring (that's the way I like to lock it). So that lock should actually rather be referred to as an enabler of a barrier between either way, because it really is offering more then what is sayd everywhere about that.
Your right, small details
Been waiting for this one! :D
Guess I’m gonna have to follow. Won’t cost me any money.
Thanks mate great content btw. You review was the final one that pushed me to do it. Sigma on the way. I now have no Sony glass all sigma art
Has Adobe or specifically in Lightroom updated the lens vignetting support for RAW files?
thank you but i wonder about night and darkness atmosphere ?
I hope Sigma doesn't re-design their 135mm f1.8 Art lens, because I couldn't bear it if it was better than the 135mm GM - surely that's not possible!
I hope this regarding my FE version of the Art 105mm, money-wise. Image-quality-wise: I doubt that's possible (at least I need to pretend I dont need that, lol). But if equaled, and smaller...that would be hurting :-( "lol".
(If a better then GM 135mm, a Sigma DN-version comes along (I agree; difficult to imagine, and then even smaller?); why would that bother You ? You could trade in Your likly more expensive GM. A DN 50mm (or 43mm) f1.4 might be much more successfull if cheeper and smaller (and still even better) than the superb but expensive Sony Planar-Zeiss. I rekon though that they rather do a 10mm DN ( or/and DN tilt-shift lenses) at that stage.)
Smart moove by Sigma : Macro DN 105mm f2.8 is just announced. Dustin Abbott's UA-cam review 'oddly' compares it to the non-macro GM 135mm and that, as You imply, is pretty much 'the reference :-) (and compact!).
Sigma would have to be (as usual) cheaper and then You could trade in your GM should there be for You an advantage in a newer 135mm. I think Zeiss, Sony etc must be quite discusted by Sigma's challenges and abilities to react. What could be revolutionized ? More buttons, more blades and going progressively from round to strait shape, ..? Sigma seems to target...
I think the Sigma has a lot of distortion that could potentially affect the way it renders people if it's a portrait lens vs the GM. The Sigma is better at everything else.
Exactly. Not to mention that the AF freezes up when shooting video, unless that's been fixed with a firmware update...but I haven't heard anything about that from Sigma.
@matrixate definitely doesn’t freeze up. I still have my sigma
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer I guess they fixed it in the firmware. Thanks dor the prompt response!
@matrixate my only issue with the sigma is the white balance. The glass is way warmer. Like 500 clicks in Lightroom so syncing it is a pain. Otherwise it’s great
Cheers man - you made me make up my mind
Thanks for this great informative video.
Thanks Chris for the great review! have you tried the latest Samyang 35mm f1.8? I heard it's sharper, lighter and cheaper than the Sony 35mm f1.8. I would love to hear your opinion about the two. Cheers from Melbourne AU.
I haven't yet I'll grab a copy and do a review soon
Are there plans for any DG DN like 24 or 35(not 1.2)? Just moved to Sony and I would love to see what's up with sigmas new DG lineup. I think you helped me with my decision on this 85!
Raws look amazing and dreamy ❤️
i feel like a better comparison for these will be the sony 1.8 vs sigma 1.4. Is it worth paying a little extra for the faster speed? I feel like for a lot of hobbyists and enthusiasts, the 1.4 GMs are just out of the question, while pros will probably just go with the sony lenses anyway, or will for out 100 bucks to rent it for a few days
I’m a pro. I went with the sigma. I’d also pick the sigma by Miles over the 1.8
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer yeah, but there are also a dozen other videos and articles with the same comparison, but you still decided to try it out for yourself. Which i guess is my point: pros will try it out for themselves. The youtube comparisons are for us mere mortals.
I ended up buying it. I love this lens. It reminds me of film - why is that?
Good review. Straight to the point.
the lint on his shirt stole the show ! jk great vid, i love my Sigma 85mm, and my brother loves his sony 85mm 1.8 LOL
As usual very well made video. 👊
Hey Chris, out of interest, what is the wedding photographer group you started on fb? Wouldn't mind joining it :)
Sigma has any crop factor ? . Pic seems little tighter than gm
Hey Chris thank you for this review! I was wondering if you have any recommendations when choosing between a 50mm and an 85mm. This lens would be paired with the Tamron 17-28mm, but now I just can't decide whether the 85mm or 50/55mm would be better for me. I plan on doing some senior photos which include full body shots and possible weddings in a few years. I think I will eventually get both but I just want one to start out with so it is more affordable. Thanks!
Hi chris, on mobile icant see the information about the Lens. CM208666.arw is my favorit picture. Is this shot with the Sony or the sigma. Thx
Cheers mate. Enjoyed your input :-) Curious, was EFC turned off?
Yeah for the RAW files it was
I might swap my Sony FE 1,8/85 for the Sigma.
Do it. Its amazing.
Alright, I’ve seen enough, I’m buying this lens. 😂
No, but for real. I have their 24-70 DG DN, and I’m happy with it. Sold my Sony FE 85mm F1.8 two weeks ago, and wasn’t sure whether to get the sigma 85mm DG DN or the Sony 135 GM. I can’t get both, and it’s a really hard decision to make for me, but I think I’ll get the sigma.
I am lucky to have both. With the 2 different focal ranges in some cases you can only go backwards or move further back so far at times and the 85mm you can be somewhat closer. If I had to choose between them I’d go with the 135mm but optically they’re both amazing lenses. Love the flexible aperture and the ability to lock it with the Sigma 85mm.
@@tuckerjeffrey now you're swaying me back towards the 135 GM lol
The 135 is VERY good, far better than the 85 GM. It's just too close for me but that's personal preference
Update: I bought the Sigma. :)
great review !!
wait.. hold up. Is Sigma releasing more 1.4 tiny lenses for sony?? I just ordered a 1.8 because I hate Sony's 1.4 so much!! This one is nice!
Love mine!! Just perfect!!
Chris! Please help me out! I’m getting in to wedding photography and I c’ant decide between this sigma 85 1.4 and the Sony 55 1.8 to pair with my sony 24 1.4. Can you do a comparison between 85 and 55/50?
If you don't have a longer lens I'd get the 85. I think if I only had 55 I'd get frustrated during the ceremony
Chris Turner Photographer Thanks Chris, I was also considering getting the tamron 70-180 to pair with 24 and 55, it’ll be a tough decision!
@@lucashunter3948 oh then I'd get the 55 for sure
Great review and comparison shots!
Discussion topic: Are number and shape of aperture blade not only about geometry of bokeh balls stopped down, were higher number and round shape avoids hexagonal shape? Wide open you cannot see any hexagonal shapes anyway.
That's a good question mate, I'm not sure
My Sony 85 gm has been rock solid for the past 3 years the thousands of pictures I’ve taken bear this out. I see no logic, reason to trade down to the Sigma even if I can pocket some cash. DONT need the extra sharpness....in fact I’m often softening skin with the gm.
Hi im new to photography planning to buy an 85mm lens and not sure if i'll go for sigma or the sony 1.8.. i use it for posting on facebook, instagram or maybe for printing soon.. almost all reviews show that the new sigma 85mm is sharper and my question is will the sharpness of the sigma still be better and noticeable when i post it on social media even though instagram and facebook have photo compression? Should i save my money and go for more expensive sigma?
I don’t think sharpness really matters with any of them tbh. The reason I would be the sigma is the richer colours. The sony is quite flat in some situations. I hate editing files from it compared to my lenses
Chris, did you decide to keep the Sigma 85 or continue to use the SONY 85 for your work? I have the SONY 24 / 1.4 and want to get a 85 / 1.4 companion lens for general non pro use (probably buying SONY used). Will the SONY 85 colors match the SONY 24 better than the Sigma 85? I am trying to avoid a lot of post work. Thanks if you have time to reply.
Yeah man I kept the sigma it’s great. Only issue is it’s slightly warmer than the 24gm but it’s not a big deal. Definitely worth it
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer Thank you and I am enjoying your moto trip videos!
it feels like I have to sell my Batis 84 1.8 and buy Sigma 85 1.4 :)
@RAW FOOTAGE The Batis is currently an amazing lens even after 5+ years. Images are sharp from edge to edge and color rendering is almost perfect, but the only issue is the focusing, it is a bit slower compared to the newest 85mm's that we currently have, it is pretty lightweight too, feels good in the hand and it has Image Stabilization! But I will still recommend you the Sigma version for the competitive price and superb image quality, it is almost a G Master lens
Please respond to this. So what do you think of sigma now?? I’m going to get it tomorrow
Well I still got it. So it’s been a couple years, it’s great
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer better than the gm? Or you would rather have some other lens instead? Sorry you didn’t sound satisfied with lens with your response lol
@@photosblossomsau1624 they are all just tools to me, if it works I’m happy. But yes it’s better than the GM
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer
Thanh’s Chris - one last question
I’m buying three new lenses ( as my only lenses) and budget is no issue - what three lenses would you recommend? I do all types of photography and video
Preferably a mix of prime and zoom but would like to hear you own opinion
Thanks!!!!
Hi Chris, Sigma lens seems to have strong distortion off the centre. If shot under JPEG with in camera adjustment, and the face is on 1/3 position, will you still see obvious distortion? I own Sony 85GM, but feel not sharp enough.
Any Example JonoY Sir
Nice review Chris! The batis 85 have been in my scope for a while, execpt the 1/2 stop difference, how you hou describe the difference between them? I run the 55 and batis 25 wich renders the images beautifully... the signa now confuseme since it s about the same price....
Thx for the advice
Ps: i am not a working professional, just a serious enthousiast.
Also interested to know.
I used to shoot the 25 also. I honestly don't see any reason to buy the Batis 85. It's definitely not as good as this. It's lighter but that's about it
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer Chris, now you have to prove that it's definitely not as good as this) image quality of cause)
@@GangstasCat well I mean they are both good. The Batis has way more CA and it's 1.8 not 1.4 which is kinda irrelevant but important for some. It also doesn't have any function switches or anything which makes it a pain go go between manual and auto focus.
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer 🤔🧐 proved! 😁
What’s the music you are using in the beginning
Hi Chris… it’s been a year since you made this review… are you still using the 85mm? Is it still performing as good as in the beginning…?
Yep still got it. Review still stands
Hi, did you compare both lenses on pincushion distortion, any words on that?
I'm reading Sigma has a horrible distortion.
Thank you.
Yeah they both have distortion surprisingly, sigmas a bit worse but there’s a profile in Lightroom fixes it no problem
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer Thank you! you are the best!
27k views and only 700 likes?
YES! Thank you as always! Sigma better pay you Chris! haha
Haha I wish.
Hey Chris I know you're super busy with weddings but now you shoot weddings with the Sigma 85 dg dn and the Sony 24 do you notice much of a colour difference between the 2 and how easy is that to fix in post? Cheers much appreciated brother!
Yeah definitely the sigma is warmer. Just adjust with with white balance but it is a pain in the ass
@@ChrisTurnerPhotographer thanks for confirming, I thought you might say that. I just wonder if there’s a way to batch process the pics that come out of the sigma to look more like the Sony pics in one swoop rather than go through each picture 🧐
Great review. Love it either on my A7r4 and my A9 II
Does Sigma have a "new" 50mm (i..e not one of the old-skool "internally-adapted" ones)
Not yet
not yet but they have a patent for a new 50mm 1.2
IMO.. even the Samyang/Rokinon beats the Sony 85 1.4 GM
Great video Chris, your review helps a lot! Keep it up!
Yeah I dunno. I tried that out. It's definitely much faster and it is sharper but the background wasn't as nice. Still an epic lens tho.
Awesome
can i use mirrorless lens on dslr ??
need adaptor
wow! that beard is getting long! LOL
It's a challenge haha
so sad, im so loyal to sony I feel weird when I have to use another lens. but after watching and reading so many reviews I think the best option is sigma.
😳What prison are you in?
I'll refer to one of my favorite movies "Step Brothers" for that haha
Sigma it is
Sigma lenses are hideous, the ugliest lenses. It looks like Russian equipment from the First World War. I don't understand why they don't change something about these lenses, because besides the performance, I should also like how they look. Just like a phone, I'm interested in it looking good, not just performing.
don't recommend channel
First :)