I can hardly wait for the UPS truck…

I did it and I hope it works out!  With much study, research, and contemplation I ordered the Sigma 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM http://www.sigma-photo.com/lenses/lenses_all_details.asp?id=3300&navigator=6 .  As some of you may know I am a big fan of shooting with available light and extreme shallow Depth Of Field, here is a good definition; 

The DOF is determined by the subject distance (that is, the distance to the plane that is perfectly in focus), the lens focal length, and the lens f-number (relative aperture). Except at close-up distances, DOF is approximately determined by the subject magnification and the lens f-number. For a given f-number, increasing the magnification, either by moving closer to the subject or using a lens of greater focal length, decreases the DOF; decreasing magnification increases DOF. For a given subject magnification, increasing the f-number (decreasing the aperture diameter) increases the DOF; decreasing f-number decreases DOF.

The Sigma 30 mm is an extremely bright (1.4) lens and should deliver the perfect DOF for my style.  This lens is defined as a prime lens, in other words it does not zoom, to best describe it you zoom with your feet.  I am a prime hound, I love these lenses, they are simple, usually of extreme quality, and make you work to compose your shots.  The current prime in my arsenal is the Olympus 50mm f2 macro.  It is a stunning lens with a fairly bright aperture and close up (macro) ability.  While it is a wonderful lens it has it’s limitations, with the 4/3′s lens mount it is affected by the 2x crop factor so it is actually a 100mm lens, slightly tight for most situations. 

For me the very large 1.4 max aperture is a dream, the challenge will be to make certain the focal plane is accurate.  With such a large aperture the in focus area can be as shallow as 1/4 of an inch.  For example, shooting a portrait (head shot) straight on if your focus point is the bridge of the nose the eyes will be out of focus.  It will arrive on the 30th of December, when it arrives I will give it thorough workout and update you all.

Thats all for now-

Ciao’

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