Kazuto Yamaki from Sigma sat down with Image-Resource for an interview at CP+ 2017 and here is a summary of what they spoke about:
- The 12-24mm uses an 80mm aspherical lens which is very large and unique. It might be the largest used in any zoom lens, which is how they were able to make the 14mm f/1.8.
- There will be a Global Vision version Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM in the future. They hope to renew everything and it’s just a matter of the priority.
- They try to renew products when they can add a unique feature/spec or if they are the same performance has to be much better, with cost/size/weight remaining the same.
- Most Signam sd Quattro APS-C and APS-H buyers are upgrading.
- They don’t think photographers switch from Canon/Nikon/other lenses, but rather add Sigma lenses to their collection.
- Sigma currently sells the most lenses for Canon
- “Moving forward, we will develop more E-mount native lenses.”
- MC-11 is aimed at photographers that shoot Canon and Sony so they don’t have to buy glass for two systems.
- MC-11 works with lots of lenses, but they only certify it for Sigma Global Vision lenses.
- It takes two years to develop a new lens.
- Might make two 24-70mm f/2.8 like they did the 150-600mm sport and contemporary.
- They can improve the performance of the 105/150/180mm macro lenses so they will be replaced at some point.
- They would like to make a tilt/shift, but the market is small so it’s a low priority
- The $26,000 Sigma 200-500mm F2.8 APO EX DG has been sold to photographers that shoot surfers and astrophotography, but it’s mainly for PR.
- They have a large factory that makes almost everything, which allows them to supply high quality lenses at reasonable prices.
You can read the full interview here.
