As a wedding photographer, I’ve always believed in the power of preparation. My usual gear includes two Canon EOS R6 cameras, paired with an array of SIGMA Art lenses ranging from 14mm to 200mm. Each lens serves a distinct purpose, from capturing wide venue shots to macro details. But this summer, I decided to shake things up.
In July, I took a week-long trip to Kingston, Jamaica – a destination I had heard so much about but hadn’t yet explored. The city has a buzzing energy, with its growing art district, stunning natural beauty, and warm, vibrant welcoming people. It’s a place where culture and creativity thrive, and I knew I wanted to document my journey. This time, though, I wanted to travel light.
Enter the Canon EOS R7 and the SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary lens for APS-C cameras. I admit, I was skeptical at first. Could such a small and lightweight setup keep up with the demands of professional work? Spoiler alert: it could – and then some.
Exploring Kingston’s Art District
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Kingston’s rapidly growing art district. The streets are alive with bold murals that tell stories of resilience, joy, and heritage. While there, I met an incredible art director who was working on a mural in progress. Watching him bring his vision to life was nothing short of inspiring.
Armed with the 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary, I captured sharp, vibrant images of the murals and the intricate details of the art director’s work. This lens’ versatility was a game changer. Whether I needed a wide shot to capture an entire mural or a close-up of a paintbrush in motion, the 18-50mm delivered crisp, dynamic results.
Ocean Views and River Serenity
Kingston isn’t just about urban art; it’s also home to breathtaking natural landscapes. I ventured to the coast and spent some time by a serene river, capturing the gorgeous water and the lush vegetation.
The 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary didn’t just hold its own – it excelled. The constant F2.8 aperture provided beautiful depth of field and helped me make the most of the vibrant Jamaican light. Every ripple in the water, every cloud in the sky, and every leaf in the trees came through in vivid detail.
Capturing Love at Hope Botanical Gardens
Of course, no trip would be complete without doing what I love most – photographing love. I had the privilege of capturing a couples session at the Hope Botanical Gardens, a stunning oasis of beauty and tranquility.
From intimate close-ups to wide shots that framed the couple against the lush greenery, the 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary lens proved to be a versatile companion. It let me work creatively without feeling weighed down, which is always a win when shooting in the heat of summer.
The Verdict
Packing light for this trip was a challenge I didn’t realize I needed. The Canon EOS R7 and SIGMA 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN | Contemporary combo proved to be an ideal setup for capturing a wide range of subjects – from street photography and landscapes to intimate portraits.
If you’re a photographer who needs travel-sized versatility without compromising quality, this lens is a must-have in your kit. It’s small, lightweight, and delivers stunning results, making it perfect for travel or everyday use.
Jamaica’s beauty and creativity stole a piece of my heart, and this SIGMA 18-50mm helped me bring those memories home. Whether you’re documenting street photography, murals, or capturing the gentle connection between two people in love, this lens is ready for the adventure.
Ready to travel? Get your lens here:
Now available for Sony E-mount, L-Mount, Canon RF Mount, Fujifilm X Mount
