Sigma has just introduced the 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG OS, a relatively compact long zoom lens with optical image stabilization, in the UK. Sigma claims the stabilization allows photographers to shoot at up to four stops slower than without stabilization. The lens is contstructed with SLD glass for correction of aberrations and Super Multi-Layer coating, which is said to reduce flare and ghosting. Minimum aperture is f/22; maximum magnification is 1:3.9. The lens accepts 62mm filters, and will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Canon, Pentax and Sony mounts. This lens is not to be confused with the Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Macro lens, which has a maximum magnification of 1:2. U.S. pricing and availability to be announced.
For details, read the Sigma UK press release:
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG OS. This telephoto zoom lens incorporates Sigma’s original OS (Optical Stabilizer) function and is housed in a compact construction.
The OS function offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. It makes telephoto shooting easy for many types of photography such as sport and nature. For Sony and Pentax mount, the built-in OS function of this lens can be used even if the camera body is equipped with an anti-shake function. As compensation for camera shake is visible in the view finder, the photographer can easily check for accurate focus and ensure there is no subject movement.
The SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element provides excellent correction for all type of aberrations. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides high contrast images throughout the focal range. The lens has an overall length of 126.5mm (5.0”), maximum diameter of 76.5mm (3.0”) and weight of just 610g. Its compact construction makes it convenient for travel and hand held telephoto photography.
This lens’ rounded 9 blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out of focus areas of the photograph. This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 150cm (59.1”) throughout the entire zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.9, making it ideal for close-up photography.
Lens Hood (LH 680-02) supplied
* For Pentax and Sony mount, it is not possible to use AF and the stabilizer function (OS) when attaching to film SLR, Pentax ist* series and K100D DSLR cameras.
When the OS function of lens body is used, please turn the stabilizer function of camera body off.
