By Tech News Desk | September 11, 2025
Sigma has updated one of its classic primes with better optics and AF, officially announcing the 35mm F1.2 DG II Art lens. This second-generation upgrade builds on the success of the original 35mm F1.2 DG DN Art launched in 2019, offering photographers and videographers a more compact, lighter, and higher-performing lens. Designed for Sony E-Mount and L-Mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, the lens will be available in late September 2025 at a retail price of $1,549 USD.
This launch is significant for the photography community because the original Sigma 35mm F1.2 Art was a groundbreaking release, being the world’s first 35mm mirrorless lens with an F1.2 aperture. Now, six years later, Sigma has re-engineered it to meet the growing demand for portability, faster autofocus, and improved optics, while keeping its flagship “Art” series standards intact.
A Classic Lens Reimagined for 2025
The new Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art is not just a minor update. It represents a full redesign that embraces the needs of modern hybrid creators. Sigma has updated one of its classic primes with better optics and AF, ensuring that this lens appeals not only to professional photographers but also to videographers who need high-performance glass with minimal focus breathing.
Compared to its predecessor, the lens is now 20% shorter and 30% lighter, making it far easier to carry and balance on mirrorless camera bodies. While the original model was considered large and heavy, the new version is more in line with Sigma’s 35mm F1.4 DG DN Art, though still slightly heavier by about 100g.
The filter size has also been reduced from 82mm to 72mm, a welcome change for professionals since smaller filters are more affordable and easier to find.
Optical Improvements: Sharper, Cleaner, Brighter
Sigma claims that the new optical formula delivers noticeable improvements in sharpness, clarity, and bokeh quality. The lens construction includes 17 elements in 13 groups, with four aspherical lenses and one SLD element. This new design effectively reduces chromatic aberrations, coma flare, and color fringing, problems that often occur in fast-aperture prime lenses.
One of the standout upgrades is the floating focus design, which allows two focusing groups to move independently. This innovation contributes to better close-up performance, improved sharpness across the frame, and significantly reduced focus breathing — a feature videographers will especially appreciate.
With its F1.2 maximum aperture, the lens creates creamy, natural bokeh while keeping subjects tack-sharp. The 11-blade rounded diaphragm ensures smooth out-of-focus highlights, even when stopped down.
Autofocus: Faster, Quieter, Smarter
Perhaps the most important change is in the autofocus system. Sigma has updated one of its classic primes with better optics and AF by introducing dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motors. Unlike the older ring-type ultrasonic motor, this dual-motor system offers faster, more accurate, and near-silent autofocus.
The minimum focusing distance has also improved slightly, from 30cm (11.8″) to 28cm (11.1″), allowing photographers to get closer to their subjects for more dramatic perspectives.
For video shooters, the reduced focus breathing and silent AF make this lens an ideal choice for cinematic work, interviews, and documentary-style shooting.
Compact Yet Powerful Design
Despite housing more complex optics and dual AF motors, the Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art is substantially smaller and lighter than its predecessor. At just 745 grams (1.64 lbs) and 113mm in length, it is now much easier to carry for long shoots or travel photography.
The build quality remains premium, with aluminum and TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) materials ensuring durability and stability across varying temperatures. Manufactured in Sigma’s renowned Aizu, Japan factory, this lens continues the brand’s tradition of high-precision craftsmanship.
Features That Professionals Will Appreciate
Beyond optics and AF, Sigma has added new usability features:
- Aperture Ring with Click/De-Click Options – Perfect for both stills and video.
- Aperture Lock Switch – Prevents accidental adjustments.
- AF-L Button – Customizable for quick access to functions.
- Dust- and Splash-Resistant Construction – Adds reliability in challenging environments.
- Water- and Oil-Repellent Coating – Keeps the front element cleaner.
- Petal-Type Hood with Locking Mechanism – Protects against flare and accidental damage.
These refinements show that Sigma listened to user feedback, addressing real-world needs for professional work.
Ideal for Multiple Genres of Photography
With its ultra-wide F1.2 aperture and improved optics, the Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art is suited for a wide variety of genres, including:
- Portraits – Stunning background separation and creamy bokeh.
- Street Photography – Compact enough for daily use, with outstanding sharpness.
- Nightscape and Astro Photography – The wide aperture and coma control make it ideal for stars and cityscapes.
- Event Photography – Fast AF and excellent low-light performance.
- Videography – Minimal focus breathing and silent operation.
This versatility ensures that the lens will appeal to both hobbyists and professionals who need one lens to cover multiple shooting scenarios.
Price and Availability
The Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art will retail for $1,549 USD, just $50 more than the original version. Considering the improvements in autofocus, size reduction, and optics, this small price increase is justified.
The lens will be available from late September 2025 at authorized Sigma dealers in the United States and worldwide, compatible with Sony E-Mount and L-Mount systems.
Key Specifications at a Glance
- Focal Length: 35mm
- Maximum Aperture: F1.2
- Minimum Aperture: F16
- Lens Construction: 17 elements in 13 groups
- Special Elements: 4 Aspherical, 1 SLD
- Diaphragm Blades: 11 (rounded)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.28m (11.1″)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.19x
- Autofocus System: Dual HLA Linear Motors
- Weight: 745g (1.64 lbs)
- Length: 113mm (4.45″)
- Filter Thread: 72mm
- Weather Sealing: Yes
- Lens Hood: Supplied, petal-type with lock
Also read: Best 5 DSLR Cameras for Professionals and Enthusiasts in 2025
Why This Launch Matters for Photographers
When Sigma first introduced the 35mm F1.2 Art in 2019, it was a groundbreaking achievement. However, many users considered it too large and heavy for mirrorless cameras. With the new Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art, the company has struck the perfect balance between performance and portability.
By reducing size and weight while enhancing AF and optics, Sigma has made this lens a more practical tool for everyday use, not just a specialty piece. It also demonstrates how Sigma continues to push boundaries, making high-performance lenses accessible at competitive prices.
Also read: Beach Portraits With the Nikon Z6 III Mirrorless Camera: A Complete Guide for Stunning Shots
Conclusion
Sigma has updated one of its classic primes with better optics and AF, and the result is a lens that blends power, portability, and precision. The 35mm F1.2 DG II Art represents Sigma’s ongoing commitment to innovation, ensuring that photographers and videographers have access to world-class tools without compromising usability.
For those seeking a fast, sharp, and versatile 35mm lens, this new release is shaping up to be one of the most exciting lenses of 2025. Whether you shoot portraits, landscapes, or cinematic videos, the Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II Art promises to deliver exceptional results.
