Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX APO DG HSM - opinions?

[andy]

Hi,

I'm considering at starting an obsession with photography - probably go down the Nikon path. I've seen a Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX APO DG HSM and was wondering what general opinions people may have about this lens.

(I don't think it's the newer macro version..)

[devilla101]

I've previously owned this lens and was my first $$$ telephoto lens.

I absolutely loved it. Images were great and sharp. The only issue I had (and this is a known characteristic with this lens) is that its a bit soft at 2.8.

Overall I was happy with this lens and was sad when I sold it on Ebay a few months ago. But was happy again when I acquired my Canon 70-200 2.8 IS

Nothing wrong with purchasing Sigma and still own and use my 24-70 when I can

Hope this helps

[Jeff]

Hi
I have one of the Sigmas and it is a very good lens. Prior to acquireing the Nikon 300 it was always on the camera at motor events.

Jeff

[Underload]

I have one of these too...I reckon it's pretty good & does the job fine for me

[andy]

Thanks for the feedback.

The alternative for me at this stage is a 55-200 VR at half the price. Or an 18-200 VR at a similar price. I'm thinking the sigma might be the best option.

[Alpha_7]

Good to see you on here Andy, and I hope I won't get into too much trouble for infecting you with this camera bug.

I'd say IQ wise the 70-200 would be the winner, it's also provides the added benefit of 2.8 throughout the range.

[glennles]

Spreading the disease Craig I'm another victim.

Hi Andy, it's Glenn from Uni

[Alpha_7]

Spreading the disease Craig I'm another victim.

Hi Andy, it's Glenn from Uni

Racking up the infected one by one. Sadly I haven't made it onto Nikon's payroll.

[andy]

ah G'day Glenn.

Craig insists that I was the one who originally infected him. So it's a bit of a paradox really.

[gstark]

So, are you guys the reason the Spring Photography Carnival has been canceled?

I hear that some vaccine is arriving from France today, and failing that, the new Nikons in a bit over a month.

[ozimax]

Spreading the disease Craig I'm another victim.

Hi Andy, it's Glenn from Uni

Racking up the infected one by one. Sadly I haven't made it onto Nikon's payroll.

Wait until you switch to the dark (or light) side and buy an "L" lens, then you will really get infected...

[Alpha_7]

Wait until you switch to the dark (or light) side and buy an "L" lens, then you will really get infected...

Stirrer! I've infected people that have gone Canon too, I'm not just a Nikon zealot!

[ozimax]

Ha...it is a disease no doubt, thanks to G Stark and co I'm always either buying or selling a lens, or considering which is the next one...

[Reschsmooth]

I hear that some vaccine is arriving from France today...

That wouldn't be a box of Chateau d'Yquem, would it?

[gstark]

I hear that some vaccine is arriving from France today...

That wouldn't be a box of Chateau d'Yquem, would it?

You wish!

Me too.

Sadly, no. Not even any Veuve.

[Glen]

Hi,

I'm considering at starting an obsession with photography - probably go down the Nikon path. I've seen a Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX APO DG HSM and was wondering what general opinions people may have about this lens.

(I don't think it's the newer macro version..)

Andy, to answer your original question the Sigma is a great lens, I have the Nikon but really would be happy with the Sigma. Sirhc has one and I was very impressed, especially when considering the price. I think that without 2.8 through the range, for certain styles of photography the others you suggested wouldn't compare. If you don't need this tomorrow there is attractive pricing available on this to full members (in the FAQ but over 50 posts including an image, etc)

[Raskill]

I agree that the Sigma will see you right.
I had one also for motorsports, but it was also a very good lens for portraits and general every day shots. It's not huge, so it's easy to lug around, and produces sharp images through-out it's focal length.

I sold mine and bought a Nikkor 70-200 VR, and noticed very little difference. Both produced sharp contrasty images, with the Nikkor being 2 times the price. Silly really.

I'll be trying to source another 70-200 in the near future for close in motor sport stuff. I wouldn't be trying to buy another if I didn't think they were good.

So, in short, yes, buy the sigma.