Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens for L Mount

Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens for L Mount Summary

The Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens for L Mount is a second-generation full-frame prime for mirrorless L Mount cameras, which offers improved optical performance in a body that’s considerably more compact than the original. Compared to the first-generation 35mm f/1.2 Art, this new version is around 30% lighter and 20% shorter, while retaining sharp subject detail and soft, expressive bokeh that made the original so popular among advanced enthusiasts and professional photographers.

Central to the updated design of this L mount lens is a floating focus system and Sigma’s advanced dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motors, which are able to deliver quicker, quieter autofocus. This new system also helps to reduce the size and improves balance when mounted on compact full-frame L Mount cameras. The optical construction includes 17 elements in 13 groups, with one SLD and four glass-moulded aspherical elements to correct axial chromatic aberration and sagittal coma flare.

Image sharpness is consistent across the frame, even when you’re shooting wide open at f/1.2, while the 11-blade rounded diaphragm produces smooth, natural bokeh without colour bleeding or double-line edges. The 35mm focal length is a staple for creators who shoot a variety of subjects such as environmental portraits, street, documentary and commercial photography, thanks to its slightly wide field of view with a very natural perspective.

For video creators, the lens minimises focus breathing, supports linear or non-linear manual focus modes on selected cameras, and handles backlit scenes very well, thanks to Sigma’s advanced optical coatings. Additional L Mount features include USB Dock UD-11 compatibility, comprehensive weather-resistance, a manual aperture ring with lock and de-click switches, and a low 755g weight. This next-generation Art lens delivers premium image performance with enhanced usability from a much more portable package.

Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens for L Mount Key Features

• Second-gen. prime with the latest optics from Sigma’s Art series
• Approximately 30% lighter and 20% shorter than the first version
• Wide f/1.2 maximum aperture
• Optical design includes four aspherical and one SLD element
• Dual HLA motors for fast, quiet autofocus and reduced weight
• Floating focus system maintains consistent sharpness
• Well suppressed focus breathing for video
• Improved resistance and flare and backlighting
• Manual aperture ring with lock and de-click options
• Weather-sealed barrel and water and oil-repellent front coating
• Compact 72mm filter thread
• Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings
• Compatible with USB Dock UD-11
• Made in Aizu, Japan, to Sigma’s Art line standards

Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens for L Mount in More Detail

Even Better Performance

The Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art builds on the success of the original model from 2019 by refining both the optics and physical design. At f/1.2, this lens offers an unusually shallow depth of field for a 35mm prime, making it easy to draw attention to your subject while achieving background separation with smooth, natural transitions.

The updated optical layout includes 17 elements in 13 groups, with one SLD element and four aspherical elements, including precision-moulded double-sided glass. These are positioned to control axial chromatic aberration and sagittal coma flare, which maintains high image clarity and colour accuracy even at the widest aperture. The result is a lens that is able to resolve fine detail on the in-focus plane, while keeping bokeh smooth and free from harsh outlines or colour fringing.

Cleaner Backgrounds with Minimal Breathing

Focus breathing has been significantly reduced in this second-generation model. Sigma has reconfigured the aspherical elements and re-optimised the internal focus group to minimise changes in field of view when adjusting focus. This helps with a consistent visual frame and is particularly useful for video creators who create smooth focus pulls without distracting shifts.

Resistance to Flare for Backlit Shooting

The 35mm f/1.2 DG II performs strongly in difficult lighting. Sigma’s optical simulations and advanced coatings reduce flare and ghosting across all angles of incidental light. Whether shooting directly towards the sun or with artificial backlighting, image contrast is maintained and colour shifts are reduced.

Smaller, Lighter Design

One of the most notable updates is the reduction in overall size and weight. This new version is around 30% lighter and 20% shorter than its predecessor, with a total weight of just 755g. That is made possible through the adoption of a floating focus system, which uses smaller, more independent lens groups to reduce optical mass while still improving performance.

In addition, Sigma has introduced thinner lens elements, higher-refractive index glass, and four aspherical elements, all of which contribute to the lighter weight without compromising image quality.

Autofocus with Dual HLA Motors

Focusing is handled by a dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) system, with each internal group driven by its own linear motor. This setup allows for faster, quieter autofocus with high torque in a smaller mechanism. Multiple magnets in each motor enable the drive unit to be more compact, reducing both weight and operational noise.

Compared to older AF systems, the result is faster, more responsive focusing that can keep up with fast-moving subjects while remaining quiet in environments for video shoots and events.

Professional Handling and Build

This lens meets Sigma’s premium Art line standards, with a robust and user-friendly design that includes aluminium, TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), and precision-engineered internal components. It’s made in Aizu, Japan, where Sigma lenses are manufactured to exacting tolerances for professional users.

The manual aperture ring features both a click switch for smooth adjustment during video, and a lock to avoid accidental changes. There’s also an AFL button on the barrel that can be customised on compatible L mount cameras for a range of different functions.

A focus mode switch is also included, which provides transitions between manual and autofocus as needed.

Linear and Non-Linear Focus Support

L Mount users benefit from support for switching between linear and non-linear operation on compatible L mount cameras. This gives control over the way focus responds to input, for either a consistent throw distance (linear) or varying it based on rotation speed (non-linear), depending on your shooting preference or the demands of your workflow.

Weather Resistance and Lens Protection

The barrel is comprehensively sealed against dust and splashes, which means you can use lens in unpredictable weather. The front element includes a water and oil-repellent coating, which helps repel marks and makes cleaning easier too.

Supplied Hood and Accessories

The lens comes with a petal-type hood, which helps reduce flare and adds protection to the front element. It features a locking mechanism to ensure a secure fit, even when adjusting filters or moving between locations.

USB Dock Compatibility

The 35mm L Mount lens is compatible with Sigma’s USB Dock UD-11 (available separately), which enables firmware updates and fine-tuning of settings via proprietary software.

What’s in the box

• Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens for L Mount
• Lens Hood LH782-04
• Front Cap LCF-72 IV
• Rear Cap LCR III
• Pouch

Sigma 35mm f/1.2 DG II Art Lens Specifications