I recently traveled through South Africa and Istanbul with the Sigma 20-60mm F2.8-4 DG Contemporary lens, and it was the kind of trip that reminded me of why I love travel photography. From wildlife encounters in the bush to colorful markets and sweeping landscapes, there was always something catching my eye.
I love finding a mix of grand views and smaller discoveries, capturing not just what a place looks like, but what makes it memorable. I was excited to see how the 20-60mm would handle everything from the wide-open landscapes of South Africa to the colorful streets and markets of Istanbul.
Safari in South Africa
Our trip began with a few adventurous days on safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa. One of my favorite moments was watching elephants come down to the river for water right in front of our lodge at Lion Sands Narina on the first day we arrived. There’s something incredible about witnessing these animals in their natural environment, and being able to photograph the moment made it even more special.
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/400s, ISO 100
I also captured more elephants crossing during a game drive, giraffes feeding, and zebras roaming along the road. I love showing animals within their surroundings rather than just photographing them as tight portraits. The wider focal lengths were ideal for capturing the surrounding environment, while zooming towards 60mm let me frame subjects more tightly and bring greater attention to the details. Its versatility made it a great companion on safari, allowing me to capture both the expansive landscapes and the wildlife that brought them to life.
Sony A7R V
33mm, F3.5, 1/320s, ISO 100
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/80s, ISO 200
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/125s, ISO 100
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/400s, ISO 100
At just around 13 ounces for the Sony E-mount version, the lens was easy to carry throughout long days of exploring. When you’re on the move, having a lightweight setup that’s also compact makes it so much easier.
Outdoor scenery and textures
After the safari, we spent five nights in Cape Town, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. The view from Table Mountain was incredible, and the lens’s focal range allowed me to experiment until I found just the right composition. I love capturing the sheer scale of a place, especially when the view takes your breath away.
Sony A7R V
48mm, F4, 1/2500s, ISO 80
We also visited Boulders Beach to see the penguins. They’re adorable, of course, but I wanted to capture more than just the penguins. I wanted to show the beach, the coastline, and the environment they call home. The wide 20mm perspective was perfect for capturing more of their habitat and giving the images a stronger sense of place, while 60mm let me bring a little more attention to one of the penguins making its way out of the water.
Sony A7R V
20mm, F2.8, 1/4000s, ISO 160
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/4000s, ISO 160
During a food tour, we wandered through local markets filled with beautiful African artwork and handmade crafts. The vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and little details really caught my eye and I loved how the lens captured the richness and vibrancy of the colors.
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/320s, ISO 100
Sony A7R V
35mm, F3.5, 1/60s, ISO 100
We also spent time in Stellenbosch wine country, where I photographed vineyard views, dreamy mountain backdrops, and a pretty flower up close to see how much detail the lens could capture. Its close-focusing ability made it easy to get closer to the little details, bringing out the flower’s delicate features while keeping the colors vibrant.
I love having the flexibility to move from sweeping landscapes to smaller details that catch my eye, all with the same lens.
Sony A7R V
20mm, F3.2, 1/2000s, ISO 80
Sony A7R V
20mm, F3.2, 1/2500s, ISO 100
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/640s, ISO 100
Exploring vibrant colors in Istanbul
Our final stop was Istanbul for three nights, and it is a dream for anyone who loves color. The Spice Market was filled with beautiful displays, and I especially enjoyed photographing the intricate Turkish lamps.
Sony A7R V
60mm, F4, 1/250s, ISO 160
Sony A7R V
54mm, F4, 1/640s, ISO 160
Sony A7R V
27mm, F3.5, 1/100s, ISO 100
From a rooftop overlooking Istanbul, I photographed Galata Tower against the setting sun, with birds circling the sky. Shooting at 20mm allowed me to capture the tower above the stacked cityscape, adding depth and atmosphere to the scene. Inside Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, I pointed the lens up to capture the intricate ceiling details, patterns, and colors, which came through beautifully in the shot.
Sony A7R V
20mm, F3.2, 1/1600s, ISO 100
Sony A7R V
20mm, F3.2, 1/125s, ISO 250
And then there was the food. Turkish breakfast is an experience in itself, with colorful dishes, fresh ingredients, and spreads covering the table. Being able to shoot it wide from standing level allowed me to capture most of the beautiful spread without compromising the little details.
Sony A7R V
20mm, F3.2, 1/100s, ISO 100
We also chartered a boat one afternoon, where I put the lens to use for a few casual portraits of my husband to look back on, and remember what a wonderful day that was cruising on the water.
Sony A7R V
29mm, F3.5, 1/1250s, ISO 100
From the wildlife of Kruger National Park to the coast of Cape Town and the vibrant streets of Istanbul, the Sigma 20-60mm F2.8-4 DG | Contemporary proved to be a versatile travel companion. The 20mm wide end was ideal for sweeping landscapes, architecture, and capturing the feel of a place, while the focal lengths in between offered flexibility for a variety of compositions. At 60mm, I could frame subjects more tightly and draw attention to specific details without changing lenses.
Most importantly, its versatility meant I could travel light and stay present, following my curiosity and capturing the colors and experiences that made each destination memorable.
Full-frame, travel-sized, exceptional quality
