Question About Lens Error – Need Group Advice

[Stefanie Markham]

Hi All,

I need the groups’ advice and collective wisdom.  I have been trying to work on my macro skills.  Unfortunately, I got an error code that has me stumped.  (Photo attached)

The lens I am using is a Sigma 50mm 1:2.8 DG Macro.  I have used it for years with my Canon camera.  One minute it was shooting just fine then the error code appeared.  The error code says I need to clean the contacts for the lens.  I did that and all seemed to be back in working order.  The next time I used it, I received the error again after a few shots.  I have tried the lens on another Canon body and have had the same result.  My other lenses are working just fine on my camera body but they are all Canon lenses.

First, has anyone else experienced this?  Second, if you have experienced it, what worked for you?

Thanks everyone.  I am looking forward to some feedback on this.

[Patrick]

This may help a little , sorry i don’t know anything myself about this problem.

[Stefanie Markham]

Thanks Patrick. I will check it out.

[Patrick]

Hope you get to the bottom of it and it is fixable

[Stefanie Markham]

Unfortunately, the lens no longer appears in the Sigma support center and other suggested fixes have resulted in the same error message.  I think I might have a sturdy paperweight on my hands.

Thank you again for responding.

[Rob Wood (Admin)]

Oh no, that’s a nightmare. Did you manage to sort this out? If there is any give in the connection, then you might have simply stressed the position of the lens over the years and I’m not sure how to fix that one. Very, very irritating. 🙁

[Stefanie Markham]

Hi Rob,

This is very frustrating and I hope to never encounter it again.

I have determined that this was/is a very common issue with older Sigma lenses and Canon cameras.  There is even some evidence it happens with Canon lenses.

While there are many alleged fixes for the problem, I only found one that is a semi-fix.  Basically, you attach the lens, press the lens release button and very slightly rotate the lens.  This “method” allows the lens to focus in Manual mode and you can take photos.  However, there is no auto focus and the aperture controls do not work.   So, while there is no give in the lens when attached to the camera body, it appears that the fit has something to do with the current function.

I do not have much faith that this solution will be a long-term one and it appears I need to start the hunt for a newer macro lens.

[Rob Wood (Admin)]

That would suggest to me that the problem is an actual change in the physical shape of the lens or the mount. A bit of a heartbreaking problem to be honest.

[Robert Apple]

Sounds annoying , can’t say I’ve encountered it with my students Cannons and a couple have this lens, I almost exclusively shoot macro in full manual.

[Stefanie Markham]

It will be a great learning experience as long as it lasts.

[Author]

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