Sigma 28-105mm T3 FF AF Cine Lens for Sony E (Imperial)

What’s new?

The Sigma 28-105mm T3 FF AF Cine Lens extends the AF Cine Line with a constant T3 aperture across a broad 28-105mm focal range. Its optical system is based on the Sigma 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN Art design, and is adapted for cinema use with geared focus, zoom, and iris rings. A 12-blade diaphragm replaces stills-oriented aperture systems to produce controlled highlight rendering, while the HLA linear motor enables responsive autofocus with stable tracking during movement.

Mechanically, the lens features 0.8 module gearing across all control rings, a 200° focus throw, and a 54° iris rotation to support repeatable manual operation. A dedicated lens support foot stabilises the barrel when mounted to a rig, preventing weight imbalance. The addition of a clickless iris lock mechanism and a matching 95mm front diameter aligns it with current Sigma cinema accessories - an expansion of the AF Cine Line.

Optical design and image rendering

The 28-105mm T3 lens uses a full-frame optical construction derived from Sigma’s 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN Art lens architecture. This design maintains resolution across the frame while controlling flare and ghosting through refined element arrangement and coatings. The result is consistent contrast and edge definition throughout the zoom range, from 65.5° at 28mm to 19.5° at 105mm on full-frame cinema sensors.

Because transmission remains consistent during zooming, exposure does not shift when reframing, which simplifies lighting continuity and shot matching. The 12-blade diaphragm produces stable, rounded highlights and smooth tonal transitions in defocused areas, supporting controlled depth rendering in production. The minimum focus distance of 0.4m, measured from the image plane, allows closer framing at mid-telephoto lengths. This enables tighter subject isolation without requiring lens changes.

Autofocus system with HLA drive

The lens incorporates Sigma’s High-response Linear Actuator. This motor directly drives the focus group with linear motion, reducing mechanical delay and minimising operational noise. The behaviour allows stable, quiet subject tracking during handheld movement or gimbal operation. Because the HLA motor maintains a consistent response during rapid focus shifts, focus transitions remain controlled when subjects move unpredictably. Near-silent operation also reduces audible interference when recording with on-camera microphones or compact audio setups.

When switched to manual focus, the 200° rotation of the focus ring provides extended travel. This longer rotation angle increases precision during fine adjustments, supporting repeatable focus pulls.

Cinema-standard mechanical integration

The mechanical system uses 0.8-module gearing on the focus, zoom, and iris rings. This pitch matches industry-standard follow focus and motor units, allowing direct integration with cine accessories. The 95mm front diameter and 82mm filter thread also support common matte box and filter systems. The outer barrel has a maximum diameter of 96 mm, maintaining compatibility with standard lens clamps and support brackets.

The zoom ring rotates through 70°, balancing rapid focal length changes with controlled framing adjustments. The iris ring rotates through 54° and operates without clicks, enabling smooth exposure transitions during recording. An iris lock mechanism secures the ring in position when camera-side aperture control is required.

Handling, support and construction

The lens measures 159.9mm in length and weighs 1.3kg, excluding the lens support foot and caps. This lens balance supports stable operation on shoulder rigs and motorised gimbals designed for full-frame cine lenses. When mounted to a rig-based lens support, the support foot also reduces strain on the mount interface and improves stability during extended production sessions.

The barrel incorporates dust- and splash-resistant construction. While not waterproof, this structure reduces the likelihood of moisture ingress during light rain, maintaining operational reliability.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Sigma 28–105mm T3 FF AF Cine Lens - Sony E-Mount
• 1 x Lens Support Foot (SF-91)
• 2 x M3×8 Lens Support Foot Fixing Screws
• 1 x Hex Key
• 1 x Front Lens Cap
• 1 x Rear Lens Cap