Standard Lenses Test

"Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM"

Issue: 1/2008

On test: Sigma Imaging 30 mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM

Prime lenses seem to have taken quite a drop in popularity over the last few years. So we've taken a digital prime lens out and about to find out whether there's still a place for them in the digital photographer's kit bag ... → More

"Macro Lenses"

Issue: 8/2007

On test: Sigma Imaging 70mm F2.8 EX DG Macro, Sony 50mm F2.8 (SAL-50M28), Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM, Olympus Zuiko Digital 50mm f/2.0 ED Macro

You may be reading this and wondering exactly why you need a dedicated macro lens when you can get pretty close with the gear you've got already? Many telephoto zoom lenses have a 'macro' setting, but in reality, this is no substitute for a dedicated macro lens, because whereas a macro setting on a telephoto zoom only produces a magnification ratio of around 1:2 (half life-size), a dedicated prime macro lens is the real deal. You get to go even closer to your subject, until your reproduction ratio is at 1:1 - that's true macro, where the image that's captured on the sensor is exactly the same size as the subject, or 'life-size'. → More

"Lensbaby 3"

Issue: 1/2007

On test: Lensbabies Lensbaby 3G

The original Lensbaby is one of the most original and fun accessories to appear in ages. Essentially a lens mounted into a flexible tube, photographers can bend and squeeze the lens to get a huge variety of selective focus effects. → More