Sigma's hugely popular Art-line APS-C fast prime — 45/48mm equivalent at f/1.4 with outstanding sharpness.
The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art was released in 2013 as the Art-series APS-C standard prime, providing a 45mm full-frame equivalent perspective at f/1.4 maximum aperture. DC (Digital Crop) designation confirms APS-C-only image circle — full vignetting on full-frame bodies. At 435g and 62mm filter thread it is moderate for an APS-C fast prime. HSM provides fast, quiet AF. Available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony A-mount, Pentax K, and Sigma SA versions.
The optical design uses 9 elements in 8 groups with 1 aspherical element. Nine rounded aperture blades produce smooth bokeh. The 62mm filter thread is standard. At 435g the lens is moderate. Minimum focus distance of 0.30m. HSM motor provides fast, quiet AF with full-time manual override. DC = APS-C-only image circle. f/1.4 maximum aperture.
The 30mm f/1.4 Art on APS-C provides the 45mm equivalent normal-to-slightly-wide perspective at f/1.4 maximum aperture — the practical walk-around prime for APS-C shooters who prefer a natural perspective with fast aperture capability. At f/1.4, subject-background separation and low-light performance are the strongest available in this focal length class on APS-C. Art-tier correction targets minimum coma and sagittal coma flare at wide-open apertures.
On the used market the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art is affordable as a discontinued Art-series APS-C prime. Condition checks: HSM AF motor response, 62mm front element for marks, and aperture blade operation. DC image circle — will vignette on full-frame bodies; confirm APS-C body use. Compatible with Canon EF (APS-C bodies), Nikon F (APS-C bodies), and other APS-C mounts in the specified version.