Sigma Art 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Lens

Better Than Any Nikon 50mm Lens – These Sigma ART lenses are superb. There are two aspects of the optics that really matter in a fast lens: sharpness and bokeh and this lens is phenomenal on both counts. Yes, it's big and heavy but do you want quite good or amazing? That's what this lens gives you. Tested against my lighter and slightly smaller Nikon 1.8G it's simply in a different league. Don't even think about comparing it with the Nikon 58mm 1.4 for sharpness, it'd be too embarrassing. Yes, it's heavy but it'll still be going strong when I'm long gone. This lens exists to be shot below f2.8. If you don't need or want that then don't bother with this lens. On the other hand if you do need that then this 50mm 1.4 should be the first one you look for. For what it is I think it's great value for money. It's simply flat-out amazing. My only very small complaint is that it needs to have 50 emblazed on it in several places in big letters so that when you also have a 35mm ART in your bag, as I do, you can quickly tell which one is which.

Incredible images. Heavy and big – This is a great lens. There are plenty of review around, but to condense them all, this lens gives lovely pictures. Everything you shoot with it just looks good. The quality of the bokeh (how the blur looks) is exceptional - its creamy but not too creamy, and very good cream. Much nicer than the Canon 24-105mm F4L lens I have. Best if paired with a decent camera body (I have Canon 7DII) - if you are shooting at the wider end (F1.4-F2) then very accurate focusing is a must and generally done better by the higher quality bodies.

Downsides - yes there are some. The lens is big and heavy for a prime. Don't buy it if you aren't prepared to lug a bit of weight around. I think its worth it. Also, the 50mm is a bit zoomed in for a lot of closer/indoor work if you have a body with a crop sensor. If you mainly want to take pictures indoors then the 35mm lens might be better. The focus is accurate, but not super quick - I think you would struggle to shoot sports needing very fast focusing on this lens. That said, the focus speed is pretty well paced and the lens doesn't search.

In summary, get this lens if you have a good camera body, enough money and strong neck muscles - you won't regret it.