GH2 Sigma 30mm f1.4 focus question

GrahamH

GrahamH

Well-known member
I'm interested in using a Sigma 30mm f1.4 on my GH2, focussing manually. I've read that the HSM versions (i.e. Canon and Nikon mounts) are similar to Lumix lenses in that they turn continuously, rather than having a hard stop at infinity.


If that is correct (for both the older and newer versions), is the same true for the non-HSM versions (i.e. the Pentax and Minolta/Sony mounts)?


Thanks.
 
The focus ring on the Sigma 30mm f1.4 isn't well-suited for manual focusing. I'd recommend the Sigma 28mm f1.8 in Nikon mount instead. Unlike the 30mm, the 28mm has a manual aperture ring and a large manual focus ring with hard stops at each end.
 
I respectfully disagree. I have a Sigma 30mm f1.4 with a Nikon mount, and it focuses just fine manually. I use it all the time on the GH2 and it's one of my favorite lenses. Although there are not hard stops, there are soft stops. In other words, you can feel when the lens has reached the limit of focus, and you simply stop turning the barrel. The manual focus is very sure and precise. The optics are fabulous. You control the aperture through a ring on the adapter. The only downside is you don't know exactly what f stop you're at. But since I use the histogram to set exposure, that becomes a non-issue.
 
Lpowell said:
The focus ring on the Sigma 30mm f1.4 isn't well-suited for manual focusing.
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Ralph B said:
I respectfully disagree. I have a Sigma 30mm f1.4 with a Nikon mount, and it focuses just fine manually
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Isn't "well suited" and "focuses just fine manually" aren't mutually exclusive. For some having hard stops and a mechanical coupling are important.

Ralph B said:
The only downside is you don't know exactly what f stop you're at. But since I use the histogram to set exposure, that becomes a non-issue.
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Not knowing an f-stop might be OK for exposure, but does little for pre-planning DOF.
 
So, does Sigma 30mm f1.4 with a Nikon mount allow manual focus and manual aperture when used with GH2? And which kind of adapter is needed?
If I get it right, Sigma 30mm f1.4 with a Nikon mount is better for GH2 in comparison with Sigma 30mm f1.4 with a Canon mount? I know there is a Kipon adapter for Canon version, but what about Nikon version of this lens and GH2?
 
producer said:
So, does Sigma 30mm f1.4 with a Nikon mount allow manual focus and manual aperture when used with GH2? And which kind of adapter is needed?
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Yes, the Nikon mount provides manual focus and manual aperture provided you buy an NI-to-M4/3 adapter that includes an "aperture control " ring. Folks on this board generally advocate buying high-quality adapters, but to honest I just bought a cheap ($25) adapter from RainbowImaging and it works well: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Nikon-G-Len...ens_Adapters_Mounts_Tubes&hash=item4cf6df32c2

I like teh lens optically on my GH2, but it is rather big and clunky compared with my Canon FD f2 28mm. On my AF100, the Sigma balances well and is easier to reach than the smaller Canon lens.
 
I have the Sigma 30mm 1.4 in 4/3 mount and although I love the image out of the lens I find it really rough on the focus ring almost 'scratchy'. I also find it unsuitable for a follow focus as clamping on the gear just kills the movement for me.

I've been thinking of selling my Sigma lately as I haven't used it much and could use the money for some more lights. Great image out of it.
 
GrahamH said:
Mine's smooth enough, but I agree it isn't well-suited to a follow-focus.
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I guess I should have given context. I am comparing it to the smooth focus motion I get with my vintage lenses like FD28 f2 or Mir-24 f2. After all it is a auto photo lens so short throw and not as smooth motion.

Still a great lens overall. I just find I'm not using it much.
 
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