As a manufacturer of a wide range of lenses from 8-800mm, Sigma's line also includes true macro lenses for extreme close-up photography. Both of the current models will produce a full life-size rendition of the subject without accessories: the AF...

One of the most recent arrivals on the macro scene, the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens may be one of the more pricey options for this focal length, but with its EX designation Sigma promises that both the lens' build and optical qualities befit the demands of the professional user.

One of the most recent arrivals on the macro scene, the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens may be one of the more pricey options for this focal length, but with its EX designation Sigma promises that both the lens' build and optical qualities befit the demands of the professional user.

The focal length is long enough to provide some distance between you and the subject without the field of view and higher price of a 200mm optic. The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 has long been regarded as one of the best macro lenses for its price.

Canon lists six lenses on their site under the macro section and Nikon lists 10, so is it even worth looking into 3rd party companies like Sigma In the recent past, the popular answer was no, but as time keeps on ticking, the 3rd party companies are really upping their game.

A ruggedly constructed, large-aperture, full-frame, image-stabilized, 1:1 close-up lens, this medium telephoto prime ($970, street) converts up to about 150mm on Sigma's SD1, as well as on most DSLR cameras with APS-C sensors.Its attractions include a nonrotating barrel suitable for lens-mounted...

Sigma has produced an excellent macro lens in the 105mm ƒ/2.8 EX DG OS HSM - it does away with an antiquated and confusing focusing system by using the HSM system, and offers optical stabilization.

The Sigma AF 105mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM OS macro is an impressive lens. The resolution is generally very high although the border quality could be a little better at large aperture settings. Typical for macro lenses distortions are a non-issue. Vignetting is only a real problem at f/2.8.

Bought this lens to use with my Sony Nex-5 and Ea1 adapter. Right out of the box this lens takes amazing pictures, I found myself chasing the dog...

Price / Quality

The Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro ($1,400 list) is a classic macro lens. It can be mounted to full-frame and APS-C cameras alike, although on the latter the field of view will be cropped by a 1.5x factor. It's available for Sigma, Canon, and Nikon cameras .

Minimal distortion; 1:1 magnification; Optical stabilization; Full-frame coverage

Soft wide open; Expensive