At IBC 2025, SIGMA stepped into new territory with the launch of their first two SIGMA autofocus cine zooms. Recognized for bringing stills optics into the cinema world by way of their Artwork-derived designs, SIGMA is now taking the following step by mixing dependable autofocus with cine-friendly mechanics. We have been on the bottom in Amsterdam to see the lenses in particular person and listen to from SIGMA about how this line is supposed to serve each solo operators and bigger productions.
The SIGMA Autofocus Cine zooms additionally acquired a CineD Finest-of-Present Award at IBC through the conference. Our awards spotlight merchandise that stand out for innovation, usability, and real-world worth for filmmakers. Whereas loads of shiny new gear seems at IBC yearly, just a few items earn that distinction, and SIGMA’s AF Cine Line was one in every of them.
SIGMA Autofocus Cine zoom. Picture credit score: CineD
SIGMA Autofocus Cine Zooms
IBC at all times brings a wave of latest gear, and SIGMA was only one spotlight on the ground. You’ll be able to discover all of our IBC 2025 protection right here to atone for the opposite bulletins and interviews we introduced again from Amsterdam.
The primary lens within the sequence is the 28–45mm T2 FF Cine Zoom. Optically, it’s primarily based on SIGMA’s 28–45mm f/1.8 Artwork lens, however the housing has been reworked for cinema use. On the sales space, the corporate identified the sensible variations: a 200-degree focus throw, laborious stops, and a linear focus response slightly than the progressive really feel of a stills lens.
These changes let filmmakers use the lens like a conventional cine zoom for exact handbook work. They’ll change on the autofocus motor when velocity or flexibility is required. This design offers them each choices with out forcing them to hold two units of glass.
Picture credit score: CineD
Handbook and autofocus in a single
In accordance with SIGMA, the 28–45mm T2 behaves similar to a traditional cine lens in handbook focus mode, with repeatable management and correct focus markings. In autofocus mode, the main target ring is electronically disengaged, and the digital camera takes over. The producer famous that when you change from AF again to handbook, the lens will leap to wherever the main target ring is about, so operators want to pay attention to this conduct. In addition they defined that the space scale is barely correct when working in handbook focus.
SIGMA has up to date the iris ring as nicely. Along with stepless handbook management, the ring has an “A” place that lets the aperture be managed electronically from the digital camera physique.
A second SIGMA Cine Zoom on the way in which
SIGMA additionally confirmed a prototype of the 28–105mm T3 FF Cine Zoom. Just like the shorter zoom, it borrows optics from the Artwork sequence and provides a cine housing. This lens is slower at T3 and has an extending design, however affords a wider focal vary.
Picture credit score: CineD
Why two zooms begin at 28mm
At first look, it would appear to be SIGMA duplicated focal lengths, however every zoom serves a distinct viewers. The 28–45mm T2 is the speedster of the household, shiny at T2 and internally zooming, so its dimension and steadiness don’t change. That makes it excellent for rigs, gimbals, or setups the place consistency issues.
The 28–105mm T3, however, is the multitasker. It begins in the identical wide selection however retains going, supplying you with much more attain on the expense of aperture velocity and with a barrel that extends as you zoom. If the 28–45mm is the lens you’d belief for a fastidiously deliberate setup, the 28–105mm is the one you’d seize for a day when you don’t have any concept what’s coming. Two lenses, identical place to begin, totally different personalities.
SIGMA Autofocus Cine Zooms at IBC 2025. Picture credit score: CineD
SIGMA 28-45mm Autofocus Cine Zoom key options
- Full-Body Cine Lens with T2-16 Aperture
- 28-45mm Zoom Vary
- Autofocus and Handbook by way of Change
- 11.8″ Minimal Focus Distance
- 95mm Entrance Diameter, 86mm Filter Dimension
- 11-Blade Iris for Mushy Bokeh
- Markings in Toes
The 28–45mm T2 packs a shiny aperture, shut focus skill, and a compact cine housing with a 95mm entrance. Filmmakers get the selection of easy handbook management or responsive autofocus, together with an 11-blade iris for pleasing bokeh.
Value and availability
Autofocus has turn into more and more dependable in stills pictures, and SIGMA is now bringing that expertise to cine lenses whereas holding handbook precision intact. The 28–45mm T2 is already obtainable for pre-order and can start transport in November, and the 28–105mm T3 is predicted in early 2026.
Each new autofocus cine zooms will ship in Sony E mount and Leica L mount. The shorter zoom has already entered manufacturing, whereas the longer zoom stays within the prototype stage.
The SIGMA 28–45mm T2 FF Cine Zoom is on the market for pre-order for $3,399, and the 28–105mm T3 FF Cine Zoom needs to be obtainable in early 2026, although no worth is listed but.
For full specs and extra particulars, head over to SIGMA’s web site.
Guys, what do you suppose? Tell us within the feedback whether or not autofocus has a spot in your individual productions.
