Often referred to as a “Nifty Fifty”, 50mm lenses are incredibly versatile and work well for a variety of photographic genres from portraits to street photography. Adding to the list of possibilities is the new Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art (alphabet salad translation: DG=full-frame; DN=mirrorless exclusive). It is the company’s first 50mm full-frame mirrorless lens in its photographer-favorite Art line.

Not to be confused with the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM (hyper sonic motor), this new lens is designed specifically for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Taking into account the shorter flange distance of mirrorless cameras, Sigma engineers have worked to ensure excellent optical performance across the frame as well as minimal sagittal coma flare, so points of light are less distorted.

[Read: 5 Powerhouse Portrait Lenses for Mirrorless & DSLR]

The new model is equipped with the same HLA autofocus driver as the recently released 60-600mm DG DN OS Sports lens. This High-response Linear Actuator promises to provide speedy autofocus. As an extra benefit, this technology eliminates AF noise, so the 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art lens works well for video, too.

Available in E-Mount and Leica L-Mount, the latest lens release from Sigma measures approximately 3.1 x 4.4 inches and weighs about 23 ounces. Both versions are dust- and splash-resistant and feature a brass bayonet mount built to withstand rugged handling. Its manual aperture ring is well-equipped with practical features such as click and lock switches as well as an AFL button.

For many of us, a 50mm was our first lens and this focal length on full-frame cameras has stood the test of time (and has even come back in favor over the years). While it may not be as critical a focal length as, say, 24-70mm  or 85mm, the versatility of the 50mm lens is hard to beat. And, Sigma’s 50mm f/1.4 DG DN seems like a great companion for E-Mount and L-Mount shooters, especially with its designation for full-frame mirrorless and its new AF driver.

The lens will be available in late February for $849.

sigmaphoto.com