It is not a new phase or even a questioning of known realities, but my new Sigma lens is very very good.
It is technically sound, which I knew (hoped) it would be, but more than that, it actually makes me excited to use it.
We have had a great Autumn and our garden is maturing nicely.
My full frame journey was based pretty much completely on video needs.
I felt I needed long recording capability and a better codec. Better low light, AF and sound handling were all in the mix, but not as much.
A gentle blue tone in the shadows and warm highlights.
the S5 mk1 was simply a better buy than a GH6 for me at the time (cheaper, easier to feed, better low light results and potentially better “short cut” quality). It did cause an un-needed rift in my kit, something waiting a few months for the G9II mated with f1.7 zooms would have avoided, but who knew the G9II with phase detect AF, unlimited record, excellent sound, better stabe, full Log/Pro-Res to SSD etc would be a thing.
I then landed some bargain cine glass, including an IRIX macro for half price which seemed to validate the choice, then a couple of decently priced S Primes at prices I have not seen since further solidifying it, which led to wanting another body and getting an S5II on sale.
Repeatedly, full frame was the go, even though I did buy the G9II anyway.
A little split toning (warm highlights like Sepia and cool purple shadows like Selenium, without the toxic fumes). Lovely tonality.
Video has become less utilised lately forcing me to re-purpose some of my dedicated video cams and ironically it was the full frames that have been switched.
The S5II lacking RAW output to a BMVA, the S5 being the less capable RAW shooter compared to the GH5s and G9II or more to the point, the more useful stills cam as the other two have plenty of competition, meant that my stills kit gets a useful poor light boost, but lenses were lacking.
A good standard lens was needed and with a little research (I had kept an eye out and this was regularly mentioned as a well priced option), I jumped and have found a little sleeper.
I am finding the Bokeh very pleasant if a little “modern” for my taste.
The last time I was this excited about a new lens was the IRIX 150 Cine-Macro, a lens that got back into old and exciting thinking.
The excitement comes simply from something new that gives me a reason to take photos, something I do all day every day because I have to, not just because I want to.
I have been a little unkind to this lens, accusing it of being a little “on trend”, but there is little wrong with that, just a feeling of sheepishly following the pack and not thinking outside the box (which is part of the problem).
It can be a little busy, but never ugly.
I think I can deal. This is a great, reliable and understated lens with a lot to offer.
The reality is, many of these images were taken in sharp and contrasty light, but the other realities are that light like that is what we chase and a lens handling that light is not a given.
Happy days.