Need recommendations on Fast and Wide lens

[Jeff Perry]

I am looking for the fastest, widest lens I can find for shooting indoors, inside rooms, in low natural light, hand-held, preferably a full-framer. The Nikon 35 f/1.8, while a very sweet lens is just not cutting it in "enclosed" surroundings. Nor is the 14-24 f/2.8, while wide enough, just is fast enough for my needs.

I am considering the 20mm f/1.8 from Sigma, a DG EX and although it doesn't have the HSM, the focus speed is of much less importance than the light-gathering ability.

Anyone using (or has used) this lens have any thoughts or recommendations about it (or something similar/comparable)?

Thanks

Jeff

[awm123]

I have recently used a Sigma 30mm 1.4. I liked it, used it for available light in a theatrical setting, where it did very well It is a DX lens, though. Al

[Jeff Perry]

Thanks, Al. That's encouraging (about the Sigma's performance). I am looking for something a tad wider since the 30mm is only marginally wider than my Nikon 35, albeit faster. I have experience with Sigma's telephotos and the 105mm macro (and have been pleased thus far), but nothing in their offerings of normal to wide range.

Jeff

[mikman]

There's also a Nikkor AF 28mm f/1.8D that was discontinued 3 years ago.

Nikkor AF 28mm f/1.4 D - Review / Lab Test Report

[Nikonfreak]

Jeff, don't know about lens, but you're going to get into serious cost territory with an uber fast prime. Why not consider a D700 that can let you use the f/2.8 lenses at higher ISO's and get interior shots?

It adds a whole lot of versatility to the bag and would give you functionality range extension for the lenses you do already have.

[badpickev]

sigma 20mm f1.8

[NikonMarty]

Originally Posted by Nikonfreak

Jeff, don't know about lens, but you're going to get into serious cost territory with an uber fast prime. Why not consider a D700 that can let you use the f/2.8 lenses at higher ISO's and get interior shots?

It adds a whole lot of versatility to the bag and would give you functionality range extension for the lenses you do already have.

ditto, with an amen thrown in for good measure
especially if you already have the 14-24 (i assume Nikon? you didn't specify but it was closely related to the 35 1.8 comment) you get wide AND fast
and you can switch out the grip too when desired...

[Jeff Perry]

Julio and NM, I was really trying to pick up the extra couple of stops over the Nikon 14-24. Just added flexibility, and just perhaps a 1.8 is going to be a tad crisper at 2.8 than a lens whose max ap is "just" 2.8. And while I agree, I don't really want to spend $4000 for the Nikon 28mm f/1.4, the SIgma 20, or 24 f/1.8 seemed like a reasonable compromise for the price, especially with the wider angle of view over the 2.8, IF the image quality is there (hence my OP).

When I realllllly need wide, I drag out the Nikon 14-24 and mount it on the D3 to control noise and retain the AOV. But Sometimes in really dimly lit situations I wish I had a couple extra stops to play with.

I am still on the hunt for the venerable 50mm f/1.2, which obviously has great light gathering capabilities, but not nearly wide enough for small rooms, warehouses, train cars, etc., without stitching a pano. I can live without AF, again a compromise. but worth it to me.

Thanks for your thoughts and guidance, I sincerely appreciate it.

Jeff

[mematsu]

I've owned both the Sigma 20mm 1.8 and the 24mm 1.8.

Center sharpness is very good wide open on the 20mm and excellent on the 24mm. Corners get better a few stops down, but I rarely used them there. AF speed and acquisition is adequate. They focus close which is nice for some things.

They are on the large side(82mm filter for the 20mm) which is mainly why I don't own them anymore. That and the band I used to shoot is no longer in action.

Good luck.

[NikonMarty]

daaaaamn JP..
wish i had known about the 50 1.2 search
guy here in TO just sold an AI-S for $310 CAN
wouldn't take a filter due to thread damage but the glass looked pristine

will keep my eyes open