Verdict

Sigma’s 90mm f2.8 DG DN is a very appealing lens for Sony and L-mount mirrorless owners who want a short telephoto lens for portraits or details without the heft or cost of faster models. The f2.8 focal ratio may not be the fastest around but can still deliver attractive shallow depth of field effects, even more so if you can exploit the respectable minimum focusing distance. Details are also very sharp across the frame even at the maximum aperture, and videographers will appreciate the minimal breathing.

I’m also fond of Sigma’s vintage styling and metal construction that extends to the supplied hood. It would be nice if the weather sealing extended beyond the mount and the aperture ring had been de-clickable, but the overall proposition remains very appealing for the money. Sony’s FE 85 1.8 is a key rival that gives you more background blur for the same money, but it’s softer in the corners, won’t focus as close, suffers from worse breathing, and is physically larger. If you want to match the quality with a fast aperture, you’ll need to spend more on a premium f1.4 model and lug around a heftier lens.

So with excellent results from a compact and affordable design, the Sigma 90 f2.8 DG DN looks set to become a favourite of portrait photographers who prefer smaller and lighter kits.