So I got an early Christmas present. Canon’s EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens. I had been lusting after this lens for awhile. I will admit, however, that I wasn’t sure what difference the lens would really make. Of course, this is because I’m still an infant when it comes to photography. Of course the person behind the camera matters, but equipment matters too. And I should know that.

Anyway, I got the lens. And I’ve been wanting to try it out. But it’s very hot outside. And there’s not much to take pictures of in my house. Except, of course, for my cats. So…

Shamatha was on the back the chair in the living room. The setting sun blasting light through the blinds illuminated his pink nose. I was taken by the clarity of the shot. The f/1.4 let me take a pretty clear picture in low light without a tripod. I was happy.

There’s not much special about this photo, but I always feel guilty when I post pictures of my cats and leave someone out. So here’s Bishop, my old girl, sleeping on the chair.

This is the shot that blew me away. I’m not saying it belongs in a museum. I’m just saying… “Holy cow! That came out looking great!” I can’t remember ever getting that sort of picture before. Maybe I’m doing stuff differently after all my practice, but I have to think the lens helped.

So I’m pretty happy with my new lens. Now I just have to wait for a cool down to go outside and try my hand at some nature shots.