Sigma 150mm f/2.8 APO EX Macro DG HSM Lens for Canon EF-Mount {72} without Tripod Collar/Foot

150mm f/2.8 macro prime with true 1:1 magnification

At 150mm and f/2.8, this Sigma gives macro shooters something shorter focal lengths can't: enough working distance at 1:1 magnification to actually light a subject without crowding it. The minimum focus distance is 0.38m (14.96"), measured from the focal plane, and the internal focusing design means the lens stays at 137mm throughout its focus travel. A floating focus system handles close-range sharpness without the optical compromises that come from simple helicoid designs.

The APO designation means Sigma engineered this lens around chromatic aberration control, using two SLD glass elements across a 16-element, 12-group formula. The 9-blade rounded diaphragm produces smooth out-of-focus rendering at portrait distances, where f/2.8 at 150mm delivers a tight field of view and strong subject isolation. HSM autofocus runs on a ring-type ultrasonic motor, fast and quiet, with a focus distance limiter to speed up hunting when you know roughly where your subject sits. Full-time manual focus override is always available without switching modes.

The 72mm filter thread doesn't rotate during focusing, which matters if you're running a polarizer for outdoor macro work. At 895g, this is a lens you'll feel in a bag, but the weight reflects the EX-grade build Sigma applied to its professional line. Canon EF mount means direct compatibility across the full Canon DSLR range, full-frame and APS-C alike.

Who It's For

Macro photographers working with insects, flowers, or small products get meaningful subject-to-lens breathing room at 1:1 thanks to the 0.38m minimum focus distance on a 150mm focal length. Portrait shooters will use it differently: f/2.8 at 150mm creates tight framing and background separation that flatters subjects at natural distances. Nature photographers benefit from the quiet HSM motor when subjects react to sound. Studio shooters running Canon full-frame bodies get the APO optics' chromatic aberration control across a 16-element formula.

Key Features

• 150mm f/2.8 prime with 1:1 macro magnification
• Internal focusing design maintains 137mm lens length throughout focus range
• Ring-type ultrasonic (HSM) autofocus with focus distance limiter
• APO optical design with 2 SLD glass elements for chromatic aberration control
• Floating focus system for close-range optical performance
• 9-blade rounded diaphragm
• Non-rotating 72mm filter thread
• Canon EF mount, 895g weight

FAQ

What's the working distance at 1:1 magnification?

The minimum focus distance is 0.38m (14.96") measured from the focal plane. The internal focusing design keeps the lens at 137mm physical length throughout focus travel, so you get genuine working room at 1:1 without the lens extending into your subject.

Does this lens have image stabilization?

No. At 150mm on a Canon DSLR, handholding at f/2.8 requires either fast shutter speed or a tripod, especially in macro work where depth of field demands stopping down.

How does the HSM autofocus perform in macro work?

The ring-type ultrasonic motor is fast and quiet. The focus distance limiter lets you restrict the focusing range once you've roughly positioned your subject, which cuts down on hunting and speeds up acquisition when working at close distances.

Can I use a polarizer with this lens?

Yes. The 72mm filter thread doesn't rotate during focusing, which is essential for polarizer work in outdoor macro photography where you need consistent angle control through focus.

Is full-time manual focus available?

Yes. You can always override autofocus and focus manually without toggling a switch or mode dial, which matters when you're fine-tuning position at high magnification.

What's the diaphragm like for bokeh?

The 9-blade rounded diaphragm produces smooth out-of-focus rendering. At 150mm and f/2.8, you get tight subject isolation on full-frame bodies, though the shallow depth of field typical of macro work will dominate your background rendering more than aperture shape alone.

Is this lens weather sealed?

No. The EX designation covers build quality and optical performance, not environmental sealing.