Sigma announces ultra-fast 24mm f/1.4 Art lens for full-frame DSLRs

Ahead of the CP+ show in Japan, Sigma, along with announcing the new dp0 Quattro camera, also debuted the newest addition to their lineup of Art-series lenses. The new 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens, designed for full-frame cameras, is the ninth Global Vision-designed Art lens.

This full-frame optic is an ultra-fast wide-angle lens, that's designed for landscapes, weddings, cityscapes and any other wide-angle subjects. But given the bright f/1.4 aperture, it's a perfect choice for astrophotography other low-light or available-light shooting situations as well as videography. Compatible with APS-C cameras as well, the 24mm f/1.4 lens provides about a 36-38mm-equivalent focal length.

In terms of optical construction, the Sigma 24mm f/1.4 Art utilizes a total configuration of 15 elements situated in 11 groups, including both "F" Low Dispersion and Special Low Dispersion glass elements to reduce chromatic aberration, particularly out at the edges. Sigma has also arranged aspherical elements toward the rear of the lens to improve wide-open image quality performance, with regards to CA, coma flare and vignetting.

The new Sigma 24mm Art lens uses the same focusing mechanism introduced on the 50mm f/1.4 Art, which provides full-time manual focus override of autofocus.

According to Sigma, the new 24mm f/1.4 has been designed to deliver the same level of image quality performance of the much-praised 35mm f/1.4 Art and 50mm f/1.4 Art. If this is the case -- and we can't wait to get our hands on one to test in our lab -- this lens is sure to be another stunning lens from the folks at Sigma.

Both Canon and Nikon offer pro-level 24mm f/1.4 lenses, though they are notoriously expensive, and given Sigma's recent triumphs with their new Global Vision lenses plus their healthy cost savings, Canon and Nikon shooters will perhaps have a high-performance alternative to the big brand lenses.

While pricing and availability have not yet been announced, the new Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. The lens is compatible with Sigma's USB Dock and their Mount Conversion Service.