Sigma 35mm 1.4 ART lens

Last week I welcomed a new addition to our gear line up...the Sigma 35mm 1.4 ART lens. And I'm in love already!

With the next wedding season fast approaching we had discussed the need for an additional wide lens. Matt shoots the groom preparation mainly on the Canon 24-105mm zoom lens which gives him versatility. However I love shooting with prime lenses and really needed something wider than 50mm for bridal preparation.

After much research I went with the Sigma. The reviews were impressive and I wanted to add a new perspective to my photography which the 35mm has given me. The 35mm is close to what the eye sees, so provides a photojournalistic style of shooting.

I've been busy putting this lens to use over the weekend, here's just a few shots taken with it:

Above: 1/100 sec, f11, ISO 200.

Why this lens won't replace my all time favourite 85mm lens for portraits? The 35mm focal length is going to take some getting used to, at 35mm there is an element of lens distortion to consider & be aware of. Because of this it doesn't have the same appeal and complimentary look as the longer focal lengths.

What do I love about this lens so far? Definitely the photojournalistic ability to get more into a photo thus telling a more complete story, but most of all I love the intimate feeling I can create with this lens when I get up close to my subjects. This lens lets you compose an image so that the viewer feels more connected to the story & the subjects. Oh and of course being able to shoot at a 1.4 to create those dreamy photos!

Above: 1/1000 sec, f2.8, ISO 400.

Another reason I am already in love with this lens? It's performance and fast focusing. Shooting subjects backlit, straight into the sun can prove frustrating with some lenses, trying to get it to focus on your subjects. But with the Sigma, it focused like a charm, tack sharp everytime.

Above: 1/125 sec, f2.2, ISO 200.

I can tell this beautiful lens is going to fast become a favourite in my line up!