Announced at PMA 2009, the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8-4.5 DC OS HSM (at left in above photo) is a welcomed addition to its ever-growing line-up of crop-format lenses.

Two features really make this lens stand out.  Optical stabilization helps reduce camera-shake induced blur and allows the steady-handed photographer to use slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible when shooting hand held.  Sigma’s hypersonic focusing motor is known for its speed and, in my experience, rivals the real world use of Canon USM-equipped lenses of similar max aperture ranges.

The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8-4.5 DC OS HSM will be available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Sony and Pentax mounts.

More details from Sigma’s press release below. [Read more…]