Sigma announces two must-have wide-angle primes: the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art and the Sigma 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary — now available for pre-order.

 



Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art & 15mm f/1.4 DC — Pre-order Guide


The wait is over. Sigma has officially unveiled two game-changing lenses that are already reshaping conversations in photography communities: the **Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art Lens** for full-frame mirrorless systems and the **Sigma 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary Lens** for APS-C shooters. Whether you're a professional portrait photographer seeking the ultimate 35mm prime or an astrophotography enthusiast looking for the perfect wide-angle companion, these releases represent significant technological leaps forward.

After years of speculation and anticipation, Sigma's second-generation Art series prime and the successor to the beloved 16mm f/1.4 DC DN are finally here—and they're available to **pre-order right now**.

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Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art Lens: Redefining the Standard Prime


Why This Upgrade Matters


The original Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens became a legend among photographers for delivering professional-grade image quality at a fraction of the cost of first-party alternatives. With the Mark II iteration, Sigma hasn't just refreshed the formula—they've fundamentally reimagined what a modern 35mm prime should be.

The headline improvements: 14% shorter and 20% lighter than its predecessor, yet delivering superior optical resolution across the entire frame. In an era where mirrorless cameras are becoming increasingly compact, Sigma recognized that professional lenses need to follow suit without compromising on the image quality that built the Art series' reputation.

Technical Excellence: What's Inside


The 15-element, 12-group optical construction represents a complete redesign from the ground up. Sigma has incorporated:

- 4 Aspherical Elements – Combat spherical aberrations and distortion
- 2 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) Elements – Eliminate chromatic aberrations for cleaner colors
- AAC (Advanced Amorphous Coating) – Dramatically reduces flare and ghosting when shooting against bright light sources

This sophisticated optical formula ensures that sharpness doesn't just exist in the center—it extends from edge to edge, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. For portrait photographers who crave that creamy background separation without sacrificing subject detail, this lens delivers exactly what professional work demands.

Real-World Performance Upgrades


The upgraded floating focus system maintains critical sharpness from the minimum focusing distance of 0.28m all the way to infinity. This means whether you're capturing intimate environmental portraits or sweeping landscape vistas, the optical performance remains consistently exceptional.

Autofocus has received significant attention with the implementation of dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motors. These provide:
- Faster, more responsive focusing for tracking moving subjects
- Whisper-quiet operation essential for video work
- Improved accuracy in low-light conditions

Built for Modern Mirrorless Systems


At just 67mm filter thread and with a compact 73mm diameter, this lens feels naturally balanced on full-frame mirrorless bodies like the Sony A7 series, Panasonic Lumix S cameras, and Leica SL systems. The weight reduction makes it genuinely portable—a 35mm f/1.4 you'll actually want to carry all day.

Professional handling features include:
- Aperture ring with click/lock switch – Perfect for both photography and video workflows
- Dual AFL buttons – Customizable function buttons for instant access to critical settings
- 11-blade rounded diaphragm – Creates naturally circular, beautiful bokeh at all aperture settings
- 1:5.4 maximum magnification – Surprisingly capable close-up performance for a wide prime

Who Is This Lens For?


The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art is the definitive choice for:
- Wedding and event photographers needing reliable low-light performance
- Portrait specialists who demand both sharpness and beautiful bokeh
- Street photographers who value a compact yet fast prime
- Hybrid shooters creating both stills and video content
- Travel photographers who refuse to compromise on image quality


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Sigma 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary Lens: The Astrophotography Game-Changer


Evolution of a Cult Classic


Sigma's 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary became the go-to wide prime for APS-C mirrorless shooters, beloved for its combination of speed, sharpness, and affordability. The new 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary doesn't just update that formula—it expands the possibilities while dramatically reducing size and weight.

The 1mm wider focal length might seem subtle, but in ultra-wide photography, every millimeter counts. That extra field of view transforms night sky compositions and interior photography, while the significantly lighter build makes this lens feel native on compact APS-C bodies like the Sony A6700, Fujifilm X-T5, and Canon EOS R7.

Optical Engineering for the Wide-Angle Challenge


The 13-element, 11-group optical design incorporates an impressive array of specialized glass:

- 1 FLD Element– Sigma's highest-grade low dispersion glass for superior color accuracy
- 3 SLD Elements – Additional chromatic aberration correction
- 3 Aspherical Elements – Minimize distortion and maintain edge clarity

This combination specifically targets one of wide-angle photography's most persistent enemies: sagittal coma flare. When shooting astrophotography wide open, stars at the frame edges often appear as comet-like smears rather than pinpoint dots. Sigma's optical engineers have prioritized coma control, making this lens an exceptional choice for night sky photography straight from the maximum aperture.

Performance Where It Counts


The f/1.4 maximum aperture serves dual purposes: capturing the Milky Way with lower ISO settings for cleaner files, and creating dramatic depth of field effects even with the wide perspective. The 9-blade rounded diaphragm ensures that when you do stop down, out-of-focus highlights remain pleasingly circular.

For creative close-up work, the 0.17m minimum focusing distance and 1:7.9 maximum magnification let you get remarkably close to subjects while maintaining that expansive wide-angle perspective—perfect for dynamic food photography, product shots, or environmental details.

Video and All-Weather Ready


The stepping motor delivers fast, quiet autofocus ideal for vlogging and video work. Sigma has also addressed focus breathing—the tendency for framing to change slightly when pulling focus—making this lens more suitable for professional video applications than its predecessor.

Weather resistance has been implemented throughout the lens barrel, with special coatings on the front element to repel water and fingerprints. For landscape photographers who shoot in challenging conditions, this durability provides genuine peace of mind.

Mount Availability


Sigma is releasing this lens across the major APS-C mirrorless systems:
- Sony E-mount – Perfect for A6000-series and A7000-series cameras
- Fujifilm X-mount – Ideal for X-T, X-S, and X-H series bodies
- Canon RF-mount – Native support for EOS R7, R10, R50, and R100


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Sigma Art vs Contemporary: Choosing Your Line


Understanding Sigma's product philosophy helps determine which lens fits your workflow:


The 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art represents the pinnacle of Sigma's optical engineering—no compromises, maximum resolution, professional handling. The 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary delivers exceptional image quality in a package optimized for mobility and versatility.

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Why Pre-Order These Sigma Lenses?


New Sigma Art and Contemporary releases consistently experience high demand and initial stock shortages. By pre-ordering, you secure your position in the queue for what industry observers are already calling two of 2025's most significant third-party lens releases.

Both lenses represent future-proof investments in your photography kit:
- Native mirrorless designs optimized for current and next-generation camera bodies
- Optical formulas that resolve the high-resolution sensors of tomorrow
- Build quality designed for years of professional use

Whether you're upgrading from a previous generation or adding these focal lengths to your collection for the first time, the performance-per-dollar value Sigma delivers remains unmatched in the industry.

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Final Verdict: Two Essential Primes for Different Creative Visions


The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art succeeds in making a professional workhorse lens more portable without sacrificing the optical excellence that made the original a classic. It's the 35mm prime that finally feels at home on modern mirrorless bodies while delivering the image quality that professional assignments demand.

The Sigma 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary proves that ultra-wide, ultra-fast lenses don't need to be massive or expensive. For APS-C shooters passionate about astrophotography, landscape work, or creative wide-angle storytelling, this lens removes the barriers between your vision and your final image.

Both lenses are available for pre-order now with stock expected to move quickly following their official release.


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People Have Lost the Meaning of Photography — How to Reclaim Depth and Intent in Your Images


People Have Lost the Meaning of Photography and Here’s How to Reclaim It

Photography doesn’t feel the same anymore. With smartphones, social feeds, and generative AI rewriting how we make and share images, many photographers, from professionals to casual creators, are asking an uncomfortable question: Have we lost the meaning of photography?

This isn’t just nostalgia talking. As image production explodes, engagement metrics have replaced intention, and scrolling has become the dominant way we “consume” photos. But meaning isn’t gone — it’s waiting to be reclaimed.


What It Means to “Lose Meaning” in Photography

At its core, photography is about communication, connection, and memory. When an image stops conveying intention, context, or emotional truth, it becomes disposable content.

Here’s what’s shifted:

📍 1. Quantity Has Replaced Intention

The pressure to post frequently and collect likes pushes creators toward filler over purpose. This leads to a feed full of technically correct photos that feel empty.

📍 2. Algorithms Shape Aesthetics

Rather than photographing what matters to you, many images are designed to “perform” algorithmically — often at the expense of authenticity.

📍 3. AI Blurs Lines of Creation

Generative tools can enhance and innovate — but if we don’t define how and why we use them, images risk becoming hollow products of convenience, not intention.


Why This Matters for Photographers, Creators & Brands

Photography with clear purpose:

  • Builds stronger emotional engagement

  • Enhances brand credibility

  • Attracts audiences that care — not just click

  • Becomes shareable for reasons beyond likes

Meaningful images endure. They’re featured in publications, portfolios, exhibits, and client presentations — not just scrolling feeds.


How to Reclaim Meaning in Your Photography (6 Practical Steps)

Here’s an actionable, SEO-friendly guide you can use now:


1. Start Every Shoot With a Clear “Why”

Before you raise the camera, write a short intention:

✔ What do you want viewers to feel?
✔ What story should this series tell?

Example intent statements:

  • “Capture the quiet resilience of this street community.”

  • “Show how light shapes connection in everyday moments.”

This becomes your creative compass — and keywords you can use in captions, alt text, and page SEO.


2. Curate With Purpose — Quality Over Quantity

Instead of posting 30 images, post 3–6 that together communicate a narrative.

This raises perceived value and keeps audiences focused.


3. Add Rich Context in Captions & Metadata

Context restores meaning.

Every photo should include:

  • Who is in the image?

  • Where and when was it taken?

  • Why did you take it?

Google and Instagram both reward descriptive text, especially when it’s original and meaningful.

Example caption:

“Taken at dusk in East London — Hakeem and Sofia share a laugh after work. This moment shows how joy persists even in hectic urban routines.”

This is search-friendly and emotionally resonant.


4. Share Your Process, Not Just the Outcome

People connect with craft.

Add short BTS clips, haul posts, or blog entries about:

  • How did you choose your angles

  • Why do you select your subjects

  • What challenges shaped the final photo

This adds depth and increases time on page — a key SEO signal.


5. Publish Alternate Edits on Your Own Platform

Release algorithm-free versions of your work on:

  • Your website

  • Email newsletters

  • Digital zines

These versions become “premium” experiences that deepen connection and expand your audience outside of social feeds.


6. Be Transparent About AI Involvement

If you use generative AI:

✔ Say so in captions
✔ Explain what it contributed
✔ Clarify what you created manually

Transparency builds trust — something algorithms can’t replicate.


Meaningful Photography Is About Intention — Not Virality

If your photos exist to be liked, they may be seen but not felt. Meaningful photography demands intentional choices — from the shoot conception to how you share your work.


FAQs

Q: Has photography really lost meaning?
Not universally. The tools changed, but the act of making meaningful images still depends on intention and context.

Q: How does AI influence photographic meaning?
AI can enhance creativity, but without a clear purpose, it can also homogenise visuals.

Q: How should captions be written to preserve meaning?
Use descriptive, story-driven captions that answer who, where, and why.


Ready to Make Photography That Matters?

Meaning isn’t something you stumble into — it’s something you choose.
And when you choose intention over likes, your work becomes discoverable, memorable, and deeply human.

How AI Unmakes Images — what photographers need to know now

 



How AI Unmakes Images: What Photographers Must Know About Copyright, Training Data & Creative Control



The talk at The Photographers' Gallery

A recent talk — How AI Unmakes Images: The Legal Aesthetics of Copyright — unpacks a deceptively simple idea: generative AI doesn’t “copy” images the way we think. Instead it digests millions of pictures, learns statistical relationships (colour, texture, composition), and synthesises new images from those learned patterns. That process dissolves the idea of a single, discrete photographic object that law and markets have traditionally protected. The talk lays out why that technical reality is now a legal and economic headache for image-makers. (The Photographers Gallery)

Watch the full talk on YouTube

If you want the full presentation and the examples the speakers use, the video is available online — it’s a clear primer for anyone working with images today. The speakers walk through not only the tech, but the political and property questions that follow when an image becomes “training data.” (YouTube)

What “unmakes images” actually means

When an AI model trains, it doesn’t tuck away whole photo files for later replay. It internalises statistical patterns across datasets: the way light hits skin, the grain of film, compositional rules. When you prompt a model, it generates something new from those internal patterns. From a photographer’s perspective that’s both fascinating and worrying — “new” images can feel eerily similar to your style or even accidentally reproduce unique elements (watermarks, compositional signatures). Because there’s no neat copy to compare, the usual tests for infringement — “is there a substantial similarity to a specific work?” — become harder to apply.

The legal landscape — still unsettled

Courts and regulators are moving fast, but they haven’t settled everything.

  • In the U.S., an appeals court recently affirmed that works created solely by machines without meaningful human creative input are not eligible for copyright — a reminder that human authorship remains a legal baseline. That decision signals that photographers who use AI as a tool (with clear human creative choices) are in a different bucket from fully autonomous outputs. (Reuters)

  • In the U.K., a headline-making case between Getty Images and Stability AI reached the High Court. The ruling was complicated: the judge found instances of trademark/watermark misuse but did not accept a broad claim that the model reproduced copyrighted images as literal copies stored in the system — leaving open the larger question of whether large-scale training on copyrighted archives is itself an infringement. The case is widely read as important but inconclusive. (Courts and Tribunals Judiciary)

That mix — some rules reinforced, other questions left open — means creators should plan for uncertainty. Major platforms and courts are still figuring out where liability, licensing, and transparency obligations land.

Practical steps photographers can take today

You can’t change the legal fog overnight, but you can take steps that both protect your work and strengthen your position if a dispute arises.

  1. Document everything. Keep original RAW files, layered edits, metadata and timestamps. If your work is registered, keep those records handy — administrative proof matters.

  2. Record your human contribution. If you use AI tools, save prompts, iterations, and notes about curatorial choices. Clear evidence of direction, selection and editing strengthens claims of authorship.

  3. Watermark and track — strategically. Watermarks aren’t perfect, but they make wholesale scraping and reuse riskier and provide visible provenance. Consider forensic watermarking for high-value archives.

  4. Prefer platforms with opt-outs or licensing offers. When uploading work, read terms carefully. Some platforms offer explicit opt-outs for dataset training; others claim broad rights. Negotiate or choose services that respect creator control.

  5. Join collectives and push for transparency. Collective bargaining and public campaigns are already pushing platforms to disclose dataset sources and licensing models. There’s power in numbers.

  6. Treat style as a brand, not a secret. If a generated image mimics your distinct style, you may have rights under trademark-like theories or unfair competition rules in some jurisdictions. Document what makes your style distinct.

What publishers and platforms should do (and why it matters to you)

Platforms and marketplaces are the first line of either protecting or exploiting photographic work. Good platforms will:

  • Offer clear toggles for creators to opt in/opt out of dataset use.

  • Publish dataset provenance statements (what was used and whether consent was obtained).

  • Support metadata standards so “human authorship” flags travel with an image.

When platforms adopt those practices, photographers regain control — and the market can better distinguish licensed, creator-approved uses from extractive scraping.

Final note — adapt and document

The phrase “How AI Unmakes Images” is provocative because it captures a practical truth: the technology changes what an image is in legal and economic terms. But technology also creates new opportunities — new tools for expression, new licensing models, and new marketplaces. The smart move for photographers is not to bury their heads, but to double down on the fundamentals that matter in court and commerce: provenance, evidence of human creativity, sensible contracts, and collaboration with other creators.

If you shoot, edit, curate or sell images, start today by auditing where your work lives online, saving original files and asking platforms where your images might end up. This is a fast-moving conversation, but documented creators will be the ones best placed to shape the rules to come.




Get Paid to Take Photos: The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Images Online (2026 Edition)

Do you have a smartphone full of stunning landscapes or a hard drive packed with high-res DSLR shots? In 2026, the demand for authentic, high-quality visual content is at an all-time high. Brands, bloggers, and marketing agencies are constantly searching for fresh images to fuel their social media and ad campaigns.

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your passion into a paycheck, this guide will show you exactly how to get paid to take photos using platforms like PhotoJobz and other industry-leading marketplaces.

What is PhotoJobz?

PhotoJobz is a specialised platform designed to bridge the gap between freelance photographers and active buyers. Unlike traditional stock sites, where your work might get buried under millions of other listings, PhotoJobz provides a streamlined system to help you:

  • Identify what types of photos are currently in high demand.

  • Upload your work to a network of potential buyers.

  • Get paid directly for your creative output.

Whether you are a professional with high-end gear or a hobbyist who loves mobile photography, the platform is built to help you monetise your "eye" for detail.

How to Get Paid to Take Photos: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify Profitable Niches

Not all photos are created equal. To maximise your earnings, focus on "Commercial Intent" photography. Buyers are currently looking for:

  • Authentic Lifestyle: Real people doing real things (no more "fake" office smiles).

  • Remote Work & Tech: Home office setups, AI-integrated workflows, and digital nomad life.

  • Sustainability: Green energy, plastic-free living, and urban gardening.

  • Local Travel: High-quality shots of hidden local gems rather than over-saturated tourist spots.

2. Optimise for Search (AI & SEO)

To get your photos sold, they need to be found. Use these SEO best practices for every upload:

  • Descriptive Filenames: Rename IMG_482.jpg to woman-working-on-laptop-at-beach-sunset.jpg.

  • Metadata & Tags: Use at least 10–15 relevant keywords. Think about what a buyer would type into Google.

  • Alt Text: Ensure your captions describe the context and emotion of the photo.

3. Join a Dedicated Network

Platforms like PhotoJobz offer a centralised hub to manage your freelance photography career. By joining a network, you gain access to:

  • Job Databases: Lists of companies actively looking for specific imagery.

  • Unlimited Uploads: The more you post, the higher your chances of a "passive income" sale.

  • Global Reach: Sell to buyers in the UK, USA, Asia, and beyond from a single dashboard.


3 Pro-Tips for Selling More Images in 2026

Focus on "Copy Space"

Graphic designers love photos with "white space" (empty areas like a clear sky or a plain wall) where they can overlay text for ads.

Quality Over Quantity (But Consistency is King)

AI-generated images are everywhere, but buyers still crave the "human touch." Ensure your photos are sharp, well-lit, and avoid heavy filters. Aim to upload 5–10 high-quality images per week rather than 100 mediocre ones.

Legal Peace of Mind

If your photos feature recognisable faces or private property, always use Model Releases and Property Releases. Professional platforms like PhotoJobz will guide you through these requirements to ensure you get paid without legal hiccups.


Is Selling Photos Online Worth It?

Absolutely. While it takes time to build a massive portfolio, photography is a form of digital real estate. A photo you take today could continue to generate royalties for years to come.

Ready to start? Turn your hobby into a hustle today. 👉 Join PhotoJobz and start getting paid for your photos now!





FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a professional camera? A: No! Many modern smartphones take high-enough resolution photos for web use and social media ads.

Q: How much can I earn? A: Earnings vary based on the platform and license type. Some photos sell for a few cents in high-volume stock, while others can fetch hundreds of dollars for exclusive commercial rights.

Q: Where can I sign up? A: You can begin your journey by creating an account at PhotoJobz.





Beyond the Pixel: Your 2026 Photography Goals for the Human & AI Era

The landscape of photography is shifting, and 2026 marks a pivotal moment. With Artificial Intelligence becoming an increasingly sophisticated co-pilot in our creative journeys, the focus for ambitious photographers is moving beyond mere technical perfection. This year, the most rewarding photography goals embrace what AI can't replicate: emotional honesty, tactile realism, and the undeniable human element.

If you're looking to elevate your craft and truly stand out in the AI era, these four fresh photography goals for 2026 will set you on a path to distinction.

1. The "Human Over Algorithm" Project: Embracing Imperfection



As AI perfects the "perfect" face, the value of authentic photography soars. Your goal for 2026? Capture Atmospheric Portraits that celebrate the raw, unfiltered beauty of your subjects. Think visible skin texture, unique features, and the powerful stories etched in every line.

  • The Challenge: Shoot a dedicated series using only natural, "imperfect" light—harsh midday sun, dramatic low light, or dappled shadows. Crucially, commit to zero skin-smoothing or feature-altering edits. This is your digital detox challenge, pushing you to embrace reality over an algorithmic ideal.

  • Why it Matters in 2026: A cultural shift is underway, moving away from hyper-smoothed digital visages. We crave faces with character, history, and a touch of the beautifully real.

2. The "Local Narrative" Documentary: Hyper-Local Storytelling



With rising travel costs and a global push for eco-consciousness, the "Local Lens" is the definitive trend of 2026. This year, turn your camera towards your own backyard.

  • The Goal: Document a vanishing local story within a 10-mile radius of your home. This could be a traditional trade, a changing urban landscape, a unique community event, or a threatened local ecosystem.

  • The Challenge: Don't just digitize. Produce a tangible, physical Zine (a small, self-published magazine or booklet) by the end of Q3. This commitment to print reinforces the value of tactile realism.

  • Why it Matters in 2026: In an oversaturated digital world, authentic local narratives and physical media offer a powerful way to connect and build community.

3. Mastering "Cinematic Motion": The Art of Intentional Blur



Forget the dogma of "sharp at all costs." In 2026, still photography is evolving into "hybrid" media, demanding a more fluid approach. This is the year to master intentional blur and create images that feel like a moment caught from a film.

  • The Goal: Experiment with Intentional Camera Movement (ICM), long exposures, and panning techniques. Capture the feeling and energy of a scene rather than just its static details.

  • The Challenge: Create a "Motion Series" where every single shot deliberately incorporates light trails, dynamic panning blurs, or evocative silhouettes in motion.

  • Why it Matters in 2026: Major social platforms are increasingly prioritizing vertical, cinematic visuals. Your images should evoke movement and atmosphere, blurring the lines between still and video.

4. Hybrid Tech: AR & Metadata Transparency for the Modern Photographer



Embrace technology not as a crutch, but as a tool for enhanced storytelling and ethical practice. 2026 is the year for Immersive Imagery and crystal-clear Content Credentials.

  • The Goal: Dive into Augmented Reality (AR). Experiment with creating 360° photographic environments or using AR apps to seamlessly overlay digital art onto your physical photos, adding layers of context or fantasy.

  • The Challenge: Make metadata transparency a non-negotiable part of your workflow. Implement "Content Credentials" (digital watermarks that verify human authorship and highlight AI usage). Your goal: be 100% transparent about which parts of your image are "Raw Reality" and which benefit from AI enhancement.

  • Why it Matters in 2026: In an age of synthetic media, verifiable authenticity builds trust and distinguishes human-crafted art. AR offers exciting new dimensions for viewer engagement.



TrendCore FocusIdeal For
AuthenticityRaw, candid, unfiltered human connectionPortraits, Street Photography, Documentaries
CinematicEvocative, dynamic, movie-like compositionsTravel, Lifestyle, Artistic Storytelling
TactilePhysical textures, tangible prints, film aestheticFine Art, Personal Projects, Craft
Eco-ConsciousLocal flora/fauna, sustainable practices, communityLandscape, Environmental, Cultural
Hybrid TechAR integration, verified authenticityInnovative Art, Commercial, Educational
Ready to redefine your photography journey for 2026? Which of these goals resonates most with your artistic vision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Sigma announces two must-have wide-angle primes: the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art and the Sigma 15mm f/1.4 DC Contemporary — now available for pre-order.

  Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG II Art & 15mm f/1.4 DC — Pre-order Guide The wait is over. Sigma has officially unveiled two game-changing lenses ...