Sigma’s New 85mm F/1.2 DG ART Is Small and Light for Its Class

After months of teasing, Sigma has officially unveiled the 85mm F/1.2 DG ART prime lens. The company announced the new full-frame portrait lens alongside the 20-60mm F/2.8-4 DG C earlier today.

The new 85mm F/1.2 ART is designed to deliver what Sigma describes as “overwhelming rendering power and unprecedented mobility” in the large-aperture portrait prime category. The company also claims it is the smallest and lightest lens in its class.

The lens will initially be available for Sony E and Leica L mounts.

F/1.2 Aperture for Portraits

The 85mm focal length is a classic choice for portrait photography, providing a medium-telephoto perspective with strong subject separation and background compression. Combined with the F/1.2 maximum aperture, the lens can produce a very shallow depth of field and pronounced background blur.

The wide aperture also makes the lens useful in low-light conditions, while giving photographers greater control over how much of the subject remains in focus.

17-Element Optical Design

The optical design consists of 17 elements arranged in 12 groups, including two SLD and three aspherical elements. Sigma says these elements help correct chromatic and spherical aberrations while reducing flare and ghosting.

The company also claims the lens delivers high resolving power when shooting wide open at F/1.2.

A 13-bladed aperture is used to produce a near-circular aperture shape when stopped down, which is designed to maintain smooth background rendering across a wider range of aperture settings.

Dual Linear Actuators for Autofocus

Autofocus is driven by dual high-response linear actuators. Sigma says the system provides fast and quiet focusing for both still photography and video while accurately tracking subjects even when shooting at the extremely shallow depth of field provided by F/1.2.

The autofocus system supports subject tracking and is designed to minimize focus breathing during focus transitions. This should make the lens particularly useful for video shooters who need consistent framing while changing focus.

Small and Lightweight for an 85mm F/1.2

Sigma claims the new 85mm F/1.2 DG ART is the smallest and lightest lens in its class. It measures 121.7mm in length and weighs 905g.

The compact design is partly achieved by placing the aspherical elements within the focusing group, allowing Sigma to use a smaller focusing unit.

Despite its relatively low weight, the lens is designed for use in demanding conditions. It features dust and splash resistance along with a water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element.

The barrel is constructed using Thermally Stable Composite material, which Sigma says provides rigidity and durability without adding unnecessary weight.

Customizable Controls

The lens features two customizable AFL buttons, an aperture ring, an aperture ring lock switch, and a click switch. It uses 82mm filter threads and comes with a dedicated lens hood.

The combination of physical controls and customizable buttons gives photographers direct access to frequently used functions while shooting.

Pricing and Availability

The Sigma 85mm F/1.2 DG ART is priced at $1,599 and is currently available for pre-order from B&H Photo.

The lens will be available in Sony E and Leica L mounts, with shipping scheduled to begin on October 6, 2026.

Buy the Sigma 85mm F/1.2 DG ART New on B&H Photo

Sample Images with the Sigma 85mm F/1.2 DG ART