Way back in May of this year, 2007, I received my fancy new Sigma 30mm lens. It was only a few months prior that I had even learned about prime lenses. Photography was still very new, and I desperately wanted to learn and grow. A good friend had recommended that I pick up a prime lens, like the popular 50mm’s that many start out using. I have the Nikon D40, which has a small limitation on lenses it can use, so I had to stick with Nikkor AF-S and Sigma HSM lenses.

With a bit of research, I was able to find the Sigma 30mm, and it seemed like what I was looking for. I shopped and found a store selling them for $350, almost $50 less than Amazon, so I bit.

When the lens arrived, I remember being excited, like the first day of school.

I tore it out of the packaging and installed it immediately. Within minutes I was shooting away, testing the low light sensitivity in the dark bathroom and playing with the amazing aperture values. I was in love.

Since that day, the 30mm remains on my camera all the time. If I need to shoot something else, I make the switch. But, I always put it back on when I’m done.

Here’s a few examples of images I’ve shot with my Sigma 30mm…

Two good examples of portraits. I’m very excited to use this lens for the December Challenge.

These two images help demonstrate how nice this lens creates shallow depth of field.

These last two photos help you see how well the Sigma 30mm performs in low light situations. Not only does it capture great detail, it also helps bring out beautiful color.

Back in 2005, when this lens was released, DPReview covered it. You’ll find a lot of good technical information by reading their information, here.

Of course, picking on up is best done at Amazon, B&H, or Adorama. Enjoy!