Is the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 right for you?
Feb 22, 2024Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you want to capture stunning portraits but don't want to break the bank? Well, you're in luck because the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens might just be the solution you've been looking for. At a price point of around $289 US, this lens is relatively cheap compared to other prime lenses for full-frame cameras. For instance, the 35mm F1.4 prime lens costs around $800 and produces a similar-looking image to the Sigma 30mm.
Even though the Sigma 30mm has a full-frame equivalent of 45mm f/2, it can still deliver impressive results. Released back in February 2016, the Sigma 30mm has been around for quite some time and its popularity among photographers and videographers, as evidenced by the numerous glowing reviews it has received, is still strong!
The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens is a great choice for portrait and product photography. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start shooting. Firstly, the lens has a minimum focus distance of 11 inches and can go up to f/16. This means that if you're shooting outside during the day without an ND filter, you might struggle to get the perfect shot. In bright light, you might need to crank up the aperture, which can cause issues if you don't want to increase the shutter speed. Keep this in mind and change locations if necessary. On the bright side, skin tones look great with this lens, and there are no complaints about image warping at the edges.
Additionally, the lens produces beautiful lens flares, adding a unique touch to your photos. The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens has autofocus, which is a great feature when paired with a Sony camera. The eye autofocus is fantastic and makes it easier to take headshots without worrying about the subject moving in and out of the focus window.
However, if you plan on going handheld with this lens and using any of these Sony cameras, especially the EV 10, you might run into some issues with rolling shutter or the Jell-O effect in the background. To avoid this, use a gimbal or tripod. Overall, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens is an excellent choice for client headshots and product videography. It's perfect for portrait photography and even some tame animal wildlife shots. While the skin tones are good with this lens, there are other options out there that might be better suited for your needs.