London’s timeless streets are a playground for photographers, and with my Nikon F100 paired with the Sigma Art 35mm f/1.4, I embarked on a daytime photo adventure. The sharpness and versatility of this lens combined with the classic charm of film photography made for an unforgettable exploration of the city’s iconic sights and vibrant culture.
Morning Elegance at Tower Bridge
The day began at Tower Bridge, a quintessential London landmark. Arriving early, I was greeted by soft, golden light that painted the scene in warm hues. With the Sigma Art 35mm mounted on my Nikon F100 and Kodak Portra 400 film loaded, I focused on capturing the bridge’s symmetry and intricate details.
The wide aperture of the 35mm f/1.4 made it easy to isolate the bridge’s ornate architecture while softening the background. I also took a few shots from lower angles, incorporating the stillness of the Thames into the frame for a balanced, serene composition. The sharpness of the Sigma Art lens allowed me to preserve the finest textures, from the steel rivets to the ripples in the water.
Colors and Chaos at Borough Market
Borough Market is a sensory overload in the best way, with its kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and aromas. This bustling spot was my next stop, and the Sigma 35mm was the perfect companion to capture its vibrant energy. The lens’ wide aperture enabled me to work in the market’s shaded areas while keeping my ISO low for finer grain.
Strolling among the stalls, I captured the vivid reds and yellows of fresh produce, the steam rising from street food, and the laughter of vendors and visitors alike. With the 35mm’s natural field of view, my shots felt immersive, putting the viewer right in the heart of the action. The Nikon F100’s reliable autofocus paired with the lens’ clarity ensured I didn’t miss a moment of the lively market scenes.
Artistic Charm in Covent Garden
By afternoon, I had made my way to Covent Garden, a place where the old-world charm of London meets modern-day artistry. Here, the Sigma Art 35mm truly shone. Its fast aperture allowed me to capture street performers and passersby with stunning subject isolation and creamy background bokeh.
One memorable shot featured a musician playing the cello beneath the grand arches of the piazza. Shooting wide open at f/1.4 gave the image a dreamy, almost cinematic quality. Whether capturing the twinkle of fairy lights or the expressive faces of performers, the Sigma 35mm’s rendering brought every frame to life.
Film Photography with a Modern Twist
Shooting with the Sigma Art 35mm on the Nikon F100 provided the best of both worlds: the tactile, deliberate process of film photography paired with the modern optical brilliance of the Sigma Art series. The lens’ sharpness, rich contrast, and fast aperture complemented the character of 35mm film beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Exploring London during the day with this setup deepened my appreciation for both the city and the craft of photography. The Nikon F100’s sturdy build and intuitive controls paired with the Sigma Art 35mm lens’ remarkable image quality allowed me to capture London’s soul in every shot. Whether it’s the majestic stillness of Tower Bridge or the lively buzz of Borough Market, this setup is a dream for anyone looking to tell a city’s story through film.
London’s magic comes alive when viewed through the lens of a camera, and I’m already looking forward to my next roll of film.
