The GR III was already notoriously hard to find in stock, and now the GR IV improves on it in nearly every way—packed into an even smaller body.
What makes the Ricoh so special? It’s the only truly pocketable premium fixed-lens camera on the market. In comparison, the Fujifilm X100VI and Sony RX1R III are significantly larger. And let’s not forget: the GR IV is also the most affordable option in its class.
Let’s hope Sony finally gives us a compact APS-C fixed-lens camera. The demand is clearly there.
The only lens even close is Sony’s 135mm f/1.8, but Sigma takes it further: 2/3 of a stop faster and delivering around 20–25% shallower depth of field. Sigma China has already teased it under the name “MASTER OF OPTICS.”
And here’s the best part: I’ve actually seen the real lens in person, and even got a sneak peek at some sample shots. While I can’t publish those images yet, here’s what I can confirm 👇
Sigma 135mm f/1.4 – Key Specs
Full-frame autofocus lens
105mm filter thread
Weight: ~1320g
Classic black finish
Removable tripod collar
Available for Sony E and Leica L-mount
Announcement: September 9
The photos I’ve seen are nothing short of spectacular — perfectly round, clean bokeh balls and buttery smooth background blur unlike anything from a classic 85mm f/1.4. Yes, it’s a big lens, but still surprisingly manageable.
And there’s more: Sigma is preparing to launch two additional lenses soon:
20–200mm f/3.5–6.3
35mm f/1.2 II
Stay tuned — I’ll share images and full specs as soon as I’m allowed. This could be Sigma’s most exciting release yet!
The EISA Awards have been announced, naming the Sony A1 II as “Camera of the Year.” However, the awards remain controversial due to the organization’s close ties with the industry. With sponsorship from many of the winning brands, critics argue that the ever-expanding list of categories serves to ensure that each major company walks away with a prize.
Two photographers were invited by Sigma to test the new 200mm FE lens ahead of the release. Jeff Hargrove images and report can be seen here:
The lens’s outstanding image stabilization gave me confidence that the images would be perfectly sharp in the low-light conditions where I would normally require a tripod. It has certainly gained its place in my arsenal of portrait lenses.
My landscape photography journey with the Sigma 200mm F2 DG OS | Sports lens was immensely rewarding. The lens performed flawlessly, capturing nature’s intricate details and fleeting moments of light and shadow.
Manny Ortiz actually owns the 17 year old Canon 200mm f/2.0 EF lens and therefore shared an interesting comparison with the new Sigma. For him the Sigma is the “greatest portrait lens of all time”.
Portrait Shooting Experience
– The lens offers incredible compression and subject isolation.
– He recommends shooting from lower angles for more dramatic portraits.
– Effective communication with the model becomes harder due to the long working distance (~40 ft).
– Using foreground elements and proper framing adds depth to the images.
Sports Photography
– Tested at Wrigley Field during a baseball game.
– Autofocus was fast and reliable.
– Outperforms the 70–200mm f/2.8 in background separation and isolation.
– Excellent for isolating players even in busy stadium scenes.
Sigma vs Canon 200mm f/2
– The Sigma is over 1.5 pounds lighter and fits in a standard bag.
– Easier to use handheld; the Canon requires a monopod.
– Sigma priced at $3,299 vs Canon’s $5,700.
– Manny says the Canon has sentimental value but finds the Sigma more practical and inspiring to use.
Downsides
– Requires a lot of space for full-body shots.
– Still heavy; fatigue sets in after extended use.
– Limited to 15 FPS on Sony due to third-party lens limitations.
– Low-angle shooting can lead to composition issues.
Conclusion
This lens isn’t for everyone, but if you want a distinctive portrait look with top-tier optics, it delivers. For Manny, the Sigma 200mm f/2 is a serious alternative to the Canon version—lighter, more usable, and uniquely beautiful. Just be prepared to work for your shots.
