Arriving in late May, Sigma’s second generation version of its well-regarded 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II/Art Lens features a number of improvements that will likely increase the popularity of the new model. Design and performance enhancements in the new Sigma Art lens comprise most of the upgrades to this standard zoom lens, increasing this already-versatile lens’ flexibility.

Physically, the lens is more compact and lighter than its predecessor. The lens barrel, for example, is slimmer thanks to a downsized zoom mechanism. Beyond that, buttons and switches have been integrated into the lens barrel itself.

As expected, the Sigma Art lens is splash- and dust-resistant. Keeping the front element clean and smudge-free is easy thanks to its water- and oil-resistant coating. The lens has also been designed to prevent or correct aberrations such as sagittal coma flare.

Other new features include a click/de-click and lockable aperture ring. Sigma has also added another AF-L button for convenient vertical shooting.

Autofocus is much faster than the 24-70mm original model. The performance improvement is due, in part, to the speed of Sigma’s HLA (high response linear actuator motor, which drives the AF directly).

The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II/Art lens will score points with wedding and portrait photographers for its overall versatility. But when close-up shots, like wedding details, are warranted, the new lens can focus as close as 6.7 inches (at the wide end).

Scheduled to ship at the end of May for $1,199, the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II/Art lens is available in L- and Sony E-mounts.

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