masashi7069 Shares Insights | A New World Through Fisheye Lenses | SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art | Knowledge #393

The SIGMA Art line’s ultra-wide-angle prime lens combines a large F1.4 aperture with a 14mm focal length, delivering unparalleled performance, especially in astrophotography. Designed to capture stars as pinpoints of light, it offers clear, distortion-free images even at the edges of the frame.

In pursuit of stars, I traveled through northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Tak, Nan, and Loei provinces, as well as central Thailand’s Chachoengsao, Sa Kaeo, Trat, and Ratchaburi provinces.

Even when moonlight or light pollution required creative settings, the lens captured the Milky Way with incredible detail and precision.

The SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art stands out from F2.8 lenses by allowing ISO settings to be reduced from 3200–6400 to 1600–3200. The featured photo, taken in Laos’ remote Si Phan Don region, captures the Milky Way over the Mekong River. The stars appear distinct, unaffected by nearby light sources.

Interestingly, I only realized the 14mm lens was a fisheye after purchasing it. Since it cannot be protected with a filter, I was hesitant to use it for street photography. However, I decided to try it at Thailand’s largest annual festival, the Phra Samut Chedi Festival, rather than limiting it to astrophotography.

The festival featured attractions like a mobile Ferris wheel and motorcycle circuses. While I was extremely cautious to avoid scratching the lens, the unique perspective made for fascinating photos.

I wanted to capture the full reflection of Bangkok’s Loha Prasat temple, so I brought the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN Art. While a smartphone could easily capture the entire scene due to its lower lens position, I was determined to use my camera. At Wat Paknam, the lens allowed me to capture the famous ceiling mural in its entirety.

Finally, I visited the Central Mosque of Songkhla, the largest mosque in southern Thailand. The symmetry of Islamic architecture is stunning, and this lens uniquely captured its beauty.

Initially, I thought of this lens as “dedicated to astrophotography,” but as I traveled, that perception gradually changed. The 14mm focal length offers a vast perspective, not only for night skies but also for bustling streets, vibrant festivals, and serene religious architecture.

Before I knew it, this lens had transformed from a tool for astrophotography into a companion that enriches my travels. I can’t wait to see what new worlds it will help me discover on my next journey.