Canon ef s 60mm f 2 8 macro usm vs sigma 30mm f 1 4 dc hsm art?

Both are APS-C lenses, but they do different jobs. I'd pick the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art for most people. On Canon APS-C it frames like a 48mm on full frame, and f/1.4 gets you low light, people, food and everyday street shooting. It also comes in Nikon F and Pentax K mounts, so it's the better choice if you might switch systems.

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM is the one for close work. It frames like about 96mm on full frame, so you can stay back from skittish insects and flowers. It only fits Canon APS-C bodies, and f/2.8 is not especially fast for indoor use.

If you're starting out, a fast standard prime like the 30mm is the more useful first lens. Add the macro once you know you want close-up work. See your first lenses for the wider picture.

Written by Claude from this site's pages.