My First Telephoto Lens...

Woohoo, I just purchased my first lens. A Sigma 70-300mm F4-5.6 DG Macro.

My co-workers gave me a gift certificate as a going away gift so that I could start my lens collection, and I'm pretty happy with the choice I made.

I've been reading up on the pros and cons of zoom lens over prime, and while I do see the advantages of primes I feel that for practicality I'll go with zoom options for now. I just don't have the money to invest in primes, nor the knowledge to utilize them effectively. I also lack the ability to cart around large amounts of equipment.

I can already tell that by using primes I'd learn a lot about the technical side of photography, since just switching between my basic kit lens and the new Sigma has clarified a few things for me about SLR photography.

This purchase comes at a great time. I'm just starting to explore candid street photography and having a telephoto allows me to remain less conspicuous while capturing my subject.

I also can't get over how much I feel like a true photographer walking around with that long lens and its companion lens-hood. It looks so impressive; I even found people pausing to let me take photos, as opposed to walking right into my frame. I suppose a serious SLR camera just gets a little more respect!

I can handle that.

I'm eager to take it out for a third run. I bought it Saturday and have already taken it out twice. I've taken close to a thousand photos already!

Enjoy these two captures...courtesy of my new Sigma. The first is not the best technical photo by any means, but it shows a growing ability to capture mood and movement, something I'm now working on. The crystal ball is one my favourite photos. It displays an increased eye for detail, I wouldn't have noticed the reflection in the ball 6 months ago.

::grin::