Question about flash to those who own the Sigma 30 1.4

I've had my eye on the Sigma 30mm 1.4 lately. My question to those who own it, do you find yourself still using flash indoors? Or, does opening up to 1.4 allow enough light that a flash isn't necessary in most situations?

I already have the Sigma 17-50, which I'm satisfied with. I figure that if I'm going to need a flash when I'm indoors with the 30, there's really no reason for me to drop another $500 on the 30.

I haven't had a need to use a flash yet and I've had the lens for 3 months now. At 1.4 it works great for groups of people inside. If you're at a bar or a restaurant it works great! I took some shots outside at night with very little light and at that point I had to lower my shutter speed.

BIllionfps wrote in post #13358914
I haven't had a need to use a flash yet and I've had the lens for 3 months now. At 1.4 it works great for groups of people inside. If you're at a bar or a restaurant it works great! I took some shots outside at night with very little light and at that point I had to lower my shutter speed.

Thank you! This is exactly what I was hoping to hear (especially since I'm not great using my flash yet).

BIllionfps wrote in post #13358914
I haven't had a need to use a flash yet and I've had the lens for 3 months now. At 1.4 it works great for groups of people inside. If you're at a bar or a restaurant it works great! I took some shots outside at night with very little light and at that point I had to lower my shutter speed.

Would you mind posting an example of a group of people shot inside at f/1.4? I can keep one person in focus at f/1.4, but can't imagine keeping a group in focus with such a shallow DOF.
Even though I have a couple of f/1.4 lenses, I nearly always use a flash indoors.

bob_r wrote in post #13358950
Would you mind posting an example of a group of people shot inside at f/1.4? I can keep one person in focus at f/1.4, but can't imagine keeping a group in focus with such a shallow DOF.
Even though I have a couple of f/1.4 lenses, I nearly always use a flash indoors.

Well, since you asked, I'd like to see this too. I was going to ask, but didn't want to drift off topic.

I always struggle with this. In a large group, I never know where to focus as it always seems like one person is in focus and the rest is out of focus.

deronsizemore wrote in post #13358952
Well, since you asked, I'd like to see this too. I was going to ask, but didn't want to drift off topic.

I always struggle with this. In a large group, I never know where to focus as it always seems like one person is in focus and the rest is out of focus.

I think this is the topic.

Sorry shouldn't have said group shot, works great with one person though lol

I think everyone should own a flash. A fast lens is no substitute for flash. As mentioned above, it is VERY difficult to shoot groups with a large aperture. It is hard enough to get one entire person in focus, let alone an entire group.

msowsun wrote in post #13359051
I think everyone should own a flash. A fast lens is no substitute for flash. As mentioned above, it is VERY difficult to shoot groups with a large aperture. It is hard enough to get one entire person in focus, let alone an entire group.

Thanks. How do you lke your 430EX? I'm thinking of upgrading my Sigma to the 430. Sigma serves the purpose, but it's recycle time is getting on my nerves. If it's at full power, usually takes 5 or 6 seconds. How's the recycle time on 430? True to specs at 3 seconds or so?

What type of batteries are you using? Yes, the 430EX II is faster, but any flash will recycle faster when using NiMH batteries.

I used to own a Sigma 530 Super, and I never really liked the build quality and the confusing menu. The 430EX II is a lot better in those areas.

msowsun wrote in post #13359109
What type of batteries are you using? Yes, the 430EX II is faster, but any flash will recycle faster when using NiMH batteries.

Well, that may be my issue, then. I typically just grab whatever the cheapest AA batteries are at the store. Guess I'll try that before spending any extra money. Hopefully they'll last longer too. Feel like it's no time before the regular AA's are dead.

msowsun wrote in post #13359051
I think everyone should own a flash. A fast lens is no substitute for flash. As mentioned above, it is VERY difficult to shoot groups with a large aperture. It is hard enough to get one entire person in focus, let alone an entire group.

Well put, Mike. There are lots of uses for fast lenses, but using them to replace a flash shouldn't be one of them.

The 1.4 does help you get shots you wouldn't be able to otherwise, but the lens seriously shines when a flash is added. I recently used it to shoot a halloween party and i couldn't stop staring at the results...i was astounded at how clear the lens was.

the two newest photos are part of the set in case you're curious
http://www.flickr.com/​photos/jabrowski/

I use my flash whenever I can. Look into getting some Sanyo Eneloop batteries. They work great and will save you a ton of money.

Stir Fry A Lot wrote in post #13359541
I use my flash whenever I can. Look into getting some Sanyo Eneloop batteries. They work great and will save you a ton of money.

I second the eneloops. I get a ton of pops out of each charge, recharge is quick.