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November 26, 2007
Got Me A New Lens
I finally did it and splurged on my first lens outside the standard 18-55mm that came with my Nikon. I decided on the Sigma 30mm f/ 1.4 HSM lens and here's why.
Firstly, Nikon doesn't make a prime lens that'll work with the D40. I mean any lens will technically work but you'll lose some functionality.
Secondly, the Sigma has some nice reviews. Quick auto/manual focus and the 1.4 F-stop means I can take the candid indoor shots I want without using a tripod.
Thirdly, I need to learn framing and composition. Originally I thought my design background would make composing pictures easy but it's not. Looking thru a lens sorta changes things. I guess the methodologies are similar but executed differently. I constantly relied on zoom to fix any framing issues. I figure with a prime lens I'll be forced to learn how to frame pictures with just what I see.
Posted by tranism at 1:24 PM | Permalink
Comments
Fixed lenses ROCK.
Enjoy good sir, enjoy.
Posted by: glass at November 26, 2007 1:55 PM
Fine choice. I agree that fixed lenses rock and you have the best possible mindset for buying it. You wanna get better at framing, so force yourself into. You will get better in no time.
Posted by: Chris Coyier at November 27, 2007 8:38 PM
So I'm curious how this lens is working out for you? I'm trying to figure out what sort of lens I need for better concert photography (I've got the Canon XTI). I've got the 50/1.8, but I need something that can go both wider and zoom better. I've thought about saying screw it & getting this lens instead though...so what are your thoughts?
Posted by: Cory Greenwell at January 20, 2008 2:47 AM
^^^ In regard to your question Cory. This lens ROCKS. The pictures are amazing. The super large aperture (1.4) yields some amazing shallow depth of field. BUT I've also been using the smaller apertures to get tack sharp pictures. So amazing all around.
I've tried this camera in almost every light situation from the blazing sun at high noon to indoor night shots with friends. Crisp every single time. I suspect it would be great for those candid concert photos you were talking about. Only thing is it's a fixed lens, no zoom but hey, that's probably why the pictures are so fantastic.
Oh I also want to point out how dang fast the auto focus is too. It literally snaps into focus instantly and the focusing motor is near silent. The build quality is also very nice. I like the whole slightly rubberized textures Sigma lenses carry. It feels very durable. Not just some hard plastic.
I hope this helps.
Posted by: Electro^Plankton at January 20, 2008 1:10 PM