One lens, endless possibilities

When Sigma reached out to me about testing a new lens, I was immediately curious to find out what it was. When I learned it was the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary, I couldn't help but be excited, as it was exactly the kind of travel lens I had been hoping for.

About 15 years ago, I used a high-magnification zoom lens from Sigma, and I still remember how incredibly useful it was - not only for travel, but also for commercial shoots.

This new lens feels a bit sleeker, yet sturdier, than the one I used back then. Since I travel so often, minimizing my gear is very important, and with this lens I no longer need to carry extra lenses. It is a real game changer.

I tend to gravitate towards a standard focal length of 40-50mm for street photography. But I also love the creative freedom that zoom lenses provide. The Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary, designed for APS-C cameras, offers an effective focal length of 24-450mm, which meant I could easily capture distant scenes without missing a moment.

When I came back from my travels, I took a few photos of my everyday life, and once again I was blown away by the stunning results, especially when shooting in soft backlighting. It actually exceeded my expectations.

I got my hands on this lens just one day before leaving for Portugal. Naturally, my photography was all about exploring Portugal. The camera and lens fit perfectly into my small everyday camera bag, almost as if they were meant to.

I got my hands on this lens just one day before leaving for Portugal. Naturally, my photography was all about exploring Portugal. The camera and lens fit perfectly into my small everyday camera bag, almost as if they were meant to.

As the plane approached Lisbon airport, I noticed storm clouds in the distance. I quickly took out my camera and captured the scene. It was probably the first shot I took with this lens. Even though I wasn't sitting by the window, the zoom still allowed me to capture the mysterious clouds.

Even though I had been to Portugal before, this trip felt refreshing and new. I think it was because of this lens. One night before Christmas, I hopped on the iconic Tram 28 to experience Lisbon's nightlife. A few days later, in the new year, I visited the peaceful villages of Alentejo and the coastal town of Nazaré, known for its giant surf waves. Wherever I went, my camera and lens were by my side.

A few years ago, on a trans-Siberian trip, I carried several cameras and several prime lenses to cover all possible focal lengths. My love of photography kept me going, but the physical exhaustion was undeniable. This time, with just one lens, I was able to capture the serene plains and rooftops of Évora Monte, the winter sea from a windy hill in Nazaré, and the ever-changing waves of the ocean. Again and again, I found myself grateful for the lens's versatility.

When I was younger, I loved browsing through my father's photographs. Later, I joined my middle school's photography club and learned how to use a manual camera. Then, in the early 2000s, I got my hands on a digital camera and began documenting my life in earnest. I studied the work of great masters like Henri Cartier-Bresson and traveled the world to capture an endless number of moments. I was never without a camera. Photography became as natural to me as breathing.

I am inspired by the people I meet, the vibrant colors of nature, and the way light and wind play together. The scents of the places I visit, the books I read, the music I listen to, and the art others create move me deeply. Even longing and solitude are emotions that continue to inspire me. While light, composition, and framing are crucial elements of photography, I believe my photographs are truly defined by the attitude, authenticity, and mindset behind each shot.

If you want to fully experience the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary, I recommend taking it on a trip and exploring with no other lens in your bag. It will give you the freedom to experience each moment and discover how it can move you in different ways. Also, always take the time to look at beautiful photographs and think about what kind of images you want to create and how to achieve them.