Sigma High Speed Prime series with T1.5–T2.0 aperture across eight focal lengths (14–135mm), adapted from Sigma Art photography lenses for budget-conscious cinema production.
Technical Details
Focal Lengths
| 14 | 20 | 24 | 35 | 50 | 85 | 105 | 135 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T2.0 | T1.5 | T1.5 | T1.5 | T1.5 | T1.5 | T1.5 | T2.0 |
| 0.27m | 0.28m | 0.25m | 0.30m | 0.40m | 0.85m | 1.00m | 0.87m |
| 1.5kg | 1.2kg | 1.2kg | 1.2kg | 1.3kg | 1.5kg | 1.6kg | 2.0kg |
| 95 | 95 | 95 | 95 | 95 | 95 | 95 | 95 |
| 104° | 84° | 74° | 54° | 40° | 24° | 19° | 15° |
| ◀━━━━━▶ | ◀━━━━▶ | ◀━━━▶ | ◀━━▶ | ◀━━▶ | ◀▶ | ◀▶ | ◀▶ |
PL/EF/E/L · 95mm Front · 180° Focus Throw · T1.5-T2.0 · Full Frame
History & Development
Sigma announced the High Speed Prime series at NAB in 2016 and delivered the first lenses in 2017. The development was based on the successful Art lens series for photography, adapted for cinematographic requirements. In 2019, Sigma expanded the portfolio with the 200mm focal length and introduced I/Technology for improved optical performance. The series established itself as a cost-effective alternative to traditional cine lenses from Zeiss, Cooke, or Leica.
Practical Use in Film
The lenses are used in independent productions, documentaries, and commercial projects with limited budgets. Cinematographers utilize the high speed for available light scenes and shallow depth of field for portraits. The 35mm and 50mm focal lengths are particularly popular for handheld shots in tight spaces. Netflix productions like "Stranger Things" have used individual focal lengths for specific sequences. The consistent look of the series allows for seamless cutting between different focal lengths.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to Zeiss CP.3 or Sony FX Primes, the Sigma High Speed Primes offer similar speed at a significantly lower price, albeit with slightly less mechanical precision. Canon CN-E Primes achieve comparable image quality but are less fast. Modern alternatives like the DZOFilm Vespid series or Venus Laowa Nanomorph offer more specialized optical characteristics. For large studio productions, traditional cine lenses are still preferred, while Sigma High Speed Primes dominate mid-range productions.