View Full Version : Which lens?
Well, it's the n00b here, asking more questions.
Went out to Hollinworth Lake yesterday, loats of boaters out, but unfortunately my 18-55 kit lens just wasn't enough to get close.
That, and the Chester Zoo visit on Friday, and a number of other occasions I've been thinking it wise to get my second lens.
Now I'll start by saying in no way do I want to spend alot of money, not while I'm still recovering from having to break the news to my wife about the camera :D
I know the more I spend on some decent glass the better, but it's definately budget for me, as cost is the biggest issue. I know it's a compromise, but unfortunately I'm not in a position not to compromise, if that makes sense :)
Anyway, I was thinking something along the lines of a 75-200, maybe 300 if the price is right.
Been looking at a couple by Tamron and Sigma, I just don't know which are what, and what is recommended, so I'm calling upon the TPF collective to give me their thoughts and recommendations.
All I'm after really is the ability to get up close, and with auto focus, not too keen on the 'push-pull' zoom that is on a couple of them either.
Forgive the non-technical terminology :)
I've also been thinking of going second hand, but ebay is just a minefield of sellers, both new and old, and I don't even know how much which lenses are worth what.
So come on, guide me through finding a nice cheap lens, just so I can get that bit closer to some subjects.
Regards
well i can hearily recommend the sigma 70-300mm super macro apoII lens, i think the new version is the DG, thats better for digi apparently....i havent used any others so i can comment on them, but im happy with mine.
I think the Sigma 70-300 APO fits your needs. :)
I think the Sigma 70-300 APO fits your needs. :)
Which is also what I said in a conversation with Bod just the other night.
At the budget price range this lens hits all the right buttons and regularly returns the results.
As always though, try before you buy ;)
Hehe I remember what you said Steve ;) You see, like I said, I *am* like a sponge, I do soak it all in, it's just that someone keeps coming along and giving me a squeeze.
Looking at Warehouse Express, they're selling it for 170.
Onestop-Digital have it for £114.99, obviously shipped from HK (inclusive of P&P - 5 to 10 days), but they come recommended by lots of people to me, and they guarantee no VAT charges by customs.
As for try before I buy I don't think Jessops are stocking it...I'll have a look at Wilkinsons ;)
So has anyone else ordered from Onestop-Digital before?
Or essentially from HK?
Well upon closer inspection they may not be the same lens.
We have this (http://www.onestop-digital.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=24_28&products_id=115) one at Onestop-Digital for £114.99
and
this (http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=777_4_409_40911&products_id=99534) one at 7dayshop for £25 more (£139.99)
What's the difference? (Besides the words 'Macro Super II'):p and is the difference worth the price difference? (Whichever way you look at it, price higher or lower)
Regards
Edit : Also just found this (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=30070&item=7533085559&rd=1) little puppy on eBay with no bids.
Ends tomorrow.
It looks like the dearer one has APO (apochromatic) glass elements Bod. APO glass reduces chromatic aberrations and enhances image contrast and sharpness. Many of the L series Canon lenses use this glass too. It's real techy anorak stuff, but I'd have to say for the extra 25 quid, it has to be worth it.
I'm not really up on Sigma lenses at all, but I think that a gold ring at the front of a Sigma lens signifies an APO lens in the same way a red ring signifies a Canon L lens, so that should be a visible difference between the two lenses unless I'm wildly wrong. :icon_eek:
If you check out this list of Sigma lenses you'll see they do two versions of the lens, one being APO so that seems to be the difference.
http://www.sigmaphoto.com/lenses/lenses_all.asp
Thanks CT. But they are both stated as APO lenses.
Right... to be fair I'd have thought there'd be a bigger price differential for the APO glass? Anyway, I agree with the guys, the 70-300 Sigma is a bargain and I've seen some tack-sharp results from this lens. :thumb:
APO is definitely worth getting from what I understand.
Bod, the difference is one is the newer DG lens and has no vat on it. The supplier says no vat will be charged? The other from 7dayshop has vat included. Apart from the coating on a couple of the lens elements the two are identical.
My 70-300apo came from 7dayshop and i've been very happy with it, however on onestop digital can supply one for £25 less (check the cost of postage etc) then I'd go for it.
Ahah! one stop digital is based in Hong Kong, the cost of delivery is likely to be pretty high and I wouldn't guarantee that there will be no import duty on it either.
Thats the tickler Steep. The Onestop price includes delivery and comes with a no import charge/vat guarantee, IE the price they quote is the price you pay. Guaranteed.
If the lenses are the same (and I think they are just worded slightly differently). I think they're both the new DG lens.
If thats the case then I may as well plump for the HK option.
Thats the tickler Steep. The Onestop price includes delivery and comes with a no import charge/vat guarantee, IE the price they quote is the price you pay. Guaranteed.
If the lenses are the same (and I think they are just worded slightly differently). I think they're both the new DG lens.
If thats the case then I may as well plump for the HK option.
I would contact them and ask if it is the DG version, it will cost nothing and save alot of guesswork and possible heartache.
Eye'up Bod's a Marcel??!!
Aye, but he's still a pretty face :icon_eek:
I sure am. Thanks to my dad's music tastes in the late 70's when I was born.
As my mum was in labour, he was singing "Bluuuuee mooooooon, you saw me staaandiiing aloooooone", and I was born.
(Well that's not exactly true I think, but I was named after the Marcels)
Name change but still showing his real face :D
Looks a bit like you after your F1 is interrupted with a panicky 28 year old :p
Looks a bit like you after your F1 is interrupted with a panicky 28 year old :p
No way, thats not showing nearly enough stress.
BTW get on MSN I need to ask you something :whistling
Well upon closer inspection they may not be the same lens.
We have this (http://www.onestop-digital.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=24_28&products_id=115) one at Onestop-Digital for £114.99
and
this (http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=777_4_409_40911&products_id=99534) one at 7dayshop for £25 more (£139.99)
What's the difference? (Besides the words 'Macro Super II'):p and is the difference worth the price difference? (Whichever way you look at it, price higher or lower)
Regards
Edit : Also just found this (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=30070&item=7533085559&rd=1) little puppy on eBay with no bids.
Ends tomorrow.
Just wondering which lens you went for and if you'd keep us updated, as i'm in the hunt for a longer lens now. Interested to know if onestop service is any good if you opted for that.
Many other customers are telling me nothing but praise of Onestops service.
One or two people have been hit by customs, but upon sending the scanned invoice to Onestop are getting it refunded very quickly(some of them within 10 minutes...lol).
I'm about to receive some money into my Paypal account so when that's done I'll be ordering the 70-300 Sigma from Onestop, and I shall definately keep you all updated.
All ordered, receipt recieved within the minute by email.
A few keen prices on that Onestop shop :0
that lens also has Macro on it Marcel, same as mine, but the updated version
Please excuse my ignorance people, I just don't have a clue. I thought the difficult part was purchasing the right camera (and using it correctly) now I find purchasing a lens to be even more complicated, what with ef, ef-s, dl's, usm', II's, III's, apo's, dg's the list just goes on. I have been hunting around Ebay as well as 7 dayshop, warehouse express and onestop shop ETc, ETc, but I am unsure as to what will fit my camera, what is the better lens (or newer) and is the difference in the updated lens really that much. I spent most of yesterday checking out various websites with regards these differences and still find myself lost and confused. (It doesn't take much I know, but i'm not helped when identical lenses are advertised differently or different lenses are advertised the same). I have emailed several people and companies but am still no further forward.
I have about £200-£250 to spend and would love a telephoto lens, the 70-300 sounds ideal as the price is right...however there are about 4 versions of this just from sigma:
There's the Canon fit SIGMA 70-300 APO DG New Model @ £169.99 (buy it now Ebay).
The Canon fit SIGMA 70-300 mm f/4-5.6 NEW DG Macro @ £94.99 (buy it now ebay).
The Canon fit SIGMA 70-300 mm f/4-5.6 DG Macro Super II @ £94.99 (buy it now ebay).
The Sigma Lens for Canon EF - 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super II @ £139.00 (7 dayshop).
The Sigma Lens for Canon EF - 70-300mm F4-5.6 DL Macro Super II @ £101.00 (7 dayshop). I know this is the old version.
The 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG @ £179.99 (warehouse Express) from were i recently purchased Digipads and fluid next day delivery.
Onestop shops Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 APO DG Macro Lens @ £114.99 inc P&P
( I'm a lttle reluctant to use these as Shipping could take as long as 5-10 working days IF all goes well, also there is no contact number and I emailed them on Friday and as yet have still not had a reply, they state stuff about ebay which doesn't seem to tally, also there ebay shop does not have much stock and no 70-300 lens for sale). Could just be me being overly paranoid but then there's the international guarantee.....A very good price I know inc P&P Just seems a little to good to be true.
There are many other places which have versions of this lens and various prices ie. Jessops although not in stock have 2 ( staff weren't sure if both are macro) @ £150.00 and £200.00.
Sorry that this is a little long winded or if I have answered my own questions without realising BUT
Can someone please, please help me. I am on a tight budget and any change would go on purchasing cf cards.
Many thanks in advance.
Ken.
Ken, it's a nightmare, I know, and it doesn't help when staff are often ignorent of what they're selling.:eyesup:
I've had a quick look at those and I'm leaning towards tthis one from Warehouse Express.
70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG (58mm) @ £179.99. That one would be my choice as it it has APO and DG. I explained what APO is earlier inthe thread, and DG lenses are relatively new from Sigma, the DG siginifying that the lens is optimised in it's design to be used with digital cameras.
Warehouse Express tend to know what they're talking about if you ring them up and there's a phone no. on their site which people actually answer if you ring up.:)
Hope that helps mate.
Ken, it's a nightmare, I know, and it doesn't help when staff are often ignorent of what they're selling.:eyesup:
I've had a quick look at those and I'm leaning towards tthis one from Warehouse Express.
70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG (58mm) @ £179.99. That one would be my choice as it it has APO and DG. I explained what APO is earlier inthe thread, and DG lenses are relatively new from Sigma, the DG siginifying that the lens is optimised in it's design to be used with digital cameras.
Warehouse Express tend to know what they're talking about if you ring them up and there's a phone no. on their site which people actually answer if you ring up.:)
Hope that helps mate.
Thanks once again CT. :thumb: You never fail to come to my aid, you are a real hero...even if you did pick the most expensive one :) I have just visited the sigma site Here (http://www.sigma-imaging-uk.com/lenses/telezoom/telezoom.htm) And the only 70-300's they show are APO DG Macro and DG MACRO now don't understand why there is no super or even II's??? :confused-
My poor brain.
Thanks again ct.
LOL. Sorry mate. If you can get the same thing from 7dayshop it will be cheaper .
I had a look at the one from 7 day shop, and IIRC it doesnt say whether it's the new DG version or not.
Having a look around the net there are two schools of thought. One that says DG is an improvement, others say the DG designation is just new letters and nothing more. (Well, certainly nothing to make you say "DG Only for me").
Edit : BTW 7day shop was 139.99 I think.
I am not really going to be much help here Ken but to sort out and give yourself a little understanding you need to do two things..
The first is to sort out and understand the real differences between the features...this is relatively simple with a little research or specific questions here. From that you can decide which you want and then ask for specific opinions, samples of pictures from people with that lens etc.
The second is the hard bit, that is sorting through the badly advertised and displayed lenses, working out which are actually which and making 100% sure that the one you want is the one you buy. Again once you know what you want, the members here can help by telling you where they bought the same lens from, how much it cost them, what the service was like and above all would they buy there again.
Trying to do all of the above at the same time will not be easy and you will just end up confused and probably making a bad decision. Break it down to simple steps and enjoy the learning curve and knowing that when you do buy the lens it will be the right one for you as it was from an informed and correct choice.
Hope that helps a little ;)
Instead of the way I do things...."Ooooh I like that one......I'll take it" ;)
Thanks Ct, Steve and Marcel for the help. With regards the difference in lenses, it could be a toilet roll with cling film and i'll probably never know the difference. I can't justify spending anymore money at this time being so new to photography and, all I really want is to get closer to the action...But would like to get value for money, rather than buying the cheapest and finding it's the oldest, when a couple of quid more could buy newer. I have been watching a 170-500 currently at £155 and ending soon...but the price is being bumped by others with no feedback.
Think i'll play the safe card and get the Warehouse express one, which says apo, dg and macro.
I think you're wise Ken, and Warehouse Express are great to deal with if you do have any issues with the lens, and that isn't always the case when you buy off the 'net. ;)
GOOD choice of lens, I'm sure you'll thoroughly enjoy using it. The leap in quality in EOSd's (matty's) raptor pics when he got the same lens was very obvious.
170-500 would be great if you had the shorter end covered with another lens, but it would probably prove to be too 'long' for lots of uses and quite frustrating.
The leap in quality in EOSd's (matty's) raptor pics when he got the same lens was very obvious.
Yes i have been looking at Eosd's gallery and with the photo's he's taken and the price makes it a must have lens for someone in my shoes. The 170-500 went for £160 altough I didn't buy it I would have bought another lens to get me up to 170 range as well...but decided against bidding.
I think I'm like you Ken, I wouldn't know the difference between all the different variations. Many people would, I'm sure, but I am not 'keen eyed' enough to say "That's got a bit of chromatic abbheration around the edges, that must be from the non APO lens". Me personally, I say "That's nice, how much?".
I suppose to be driven mainly by cost is a bit short sighted (pun intended), but when I see images produced from a lens that I think are stunning, then it gets a tick by its name.
Having a lens slightly heavier is justifiable to me, if it's cheaper, or having a lens that some people say is 'soft' is justifiable. If I like what can be reproduced with it, then that's enough for me.
Unless a product is seriously deficient, in that it doesnt do what it is supposed to, then again, the cost begins to take over.
I know I've taken to an expensive hobby, I understand that, and some people will say "It can't be done by the way you're thinking". I don't disagree entirely, but nor do I agree wholeheartedly.
If you have a very keen eye and can spot an off coloured pixel from 100 yards, and are a perfectionist to boot, then it definately can't be done on the cheaper end of the scale. When only the best will do, the price will reflect that.
I, however, am not that fussy (for want of a better word). All I want is the ability to create something visually appealing. If I had the money, then maybe only the best would do. But until I win the lottery or Bill Gates calls me 'son', then that isn't going to happen, so for me, the cheaper end is the viable alternative.
I suppose I could save up for ages and get the best, but at what cost? Would I *really* notice a justifiable difference in quality for the cost? I'm not too sure.
OK so I lack a great deal of experience and knowledge in this field, granted...a GREAT deal..but I'm old enough and daft enough to know that buying the best money can buy isn't always the best for me.
I've seen some sample shots from this lens, and I'm happy with that. I've seen sample shots from the older versions of this lens, and they too are good. That's why I've not done *too much* research on this lens before buying it.
It does what it says on the tin, and that is what I want for a lens. Maybe it is short sighted of me, but I suppose that's the way I am personally.
I suppose it's all down to how each person is. I've always been one of those people who when I've decided Im going to buy something, I want it ASAP. I don't want to be doing mountains of research and being 150% sure that what I do buy is the one that's everything I ever wanted out of it, the perfect product for me. I have an idea of what I want, I have an idea of how much I want to spend, and I have a good look around, and then make a choice. I don't go heavily into each option, as long as each one does what I want, ie the reason I'm buying it, and has features that I have in mind, at the right price, then it goes onto my 'suitable list'. Unless of course, it is a complete donkey, then I'm happy.
Not sure if that all makes sense, I suppose I'm waffling now.
I'm not a 'calm, collected, researcher' by nature. I have attempted to be in the past, and it didn't work, I suppose I can't change that now. I just want what it says on the tin, no more no less.
FWIW chromatic aberrations are the typically bluish purple fringing you see (for example) around tree branches etc, when there's a great deal of contrast with the surrounding sky. All lenses produce this sometimes, regardless of whether they're APO or not. Although APO is a desirable feature in that it should reduce the problem, it's often only the most knowledgeable and critical viewer who'd spot the difference anyway.
DG lenses optimised for digital cameras is a step in the right direction in that finally we're getting lenses that weren't designed to work with film stock. We're a long way from seeing the full implications of this yet, but eventually we will see a new generation of lenses which really raises the bar for sharpness and colour fidelity. All we can do in the meantime is decide to what extent these features are important to us and whether we want to pay for them.
You're right though Bod, (sorry - Marcel :p) it's easy to get carried away with equipment and all this technical stuff, a great shot is a great shot regardless of what equipment it was captured with.
Marcel...we must be long lost brothers...you echo my sentiments precisely!
Are you rich, or have a nice big house?
If you are...then you have a niece and a nephew who'd like to meet you :D....lol
Marcel I agree whole heartedly with everything you said, which is why I was wondering if i'd even notice the difference between the newest lens and the oldest. There is a £60 difference between the 2 lenses warehouse express have and £50 with 7 dayshop between there 2, is the difference only going to show in my pocket. The only telephoto lens i had was the 28-200 sigma which I bought with the first 300 I had. Although it got me closer I don't feel it was close enough for what i wanted, so a 300 is minimum in my books. Thanks for your thoughts.
Ken.
Marcel...we must be long lost brothers...you echo my sentiments precisely!
God help us, two Marcels :whistling :shock:
God help us, two Marcels :whistling :shock:
:shock:
You know you wubs me really, you little tinker you.
:shock:
You know you wubs me really, you little tinker you.
Mind you, you are half the man you used to be ;)
My wife keeps saying that to me. Have you two been chatting? :naughty:
My wife keeps saying that to me. Have you two been chatting? :naughty:
Yes, most of last night :whistling
just to wander aimlessly back on topic, i think Sigma called the new supermacro the DG, so if you by the 70 - 300mm APO DG i THINK its the macro version, teh old one was either the 70 - 300APO or 70 - 300APO Super macro II
not confusing at all is it!
Iv'e opted for this 28-70mm f2.8-4 & 70-300 APO Super Macro II Special Offer at Warehouse express for £189.99 + £6.99 next day delivery. The ad just states 70-300 apo macro but I rang up and they have guaranteed that I will get the apo super macro II. Wish it was Tuesday. :D
Standing by for the rush of Kenco pics! :D
Great deal!
Ooooh a wise choice. Saying that I hope so, I won't know until I get mine :D, and mine won't be here for at least a few days yet. Depends how the seller sends it (via HK you see).
BTW Your sig will nee dupdating KenCo ;)
I'm like a child on christmas eve now, I can't wait either.
Iv'e opted for this 28-70mm f2.8-4 & 70-300 APO Super Macro II Special Offer at Warehouse express for £189.99 + £6.99 next day delivery. The ad just states 70-300 apo macro but I rang up and they have guaranteed that I will get the apo super macro II. Wish it was Tuesday. :D
Those lenses coupled with your existing Kit lens will give you a very good usable range and the Sigma glass should also keep the quality to a top notch standard. Add in the macro ability of the Sigma and you will have plenty to shoot.
Walks away to prepare for the rush of pictures shortly to be posted by Ken ;)
Good thread this, I'm thinking of that longer Sigma so I'll be interested to see what Ken and Marcel think of it with the 350D.
Although have we determined if these are the DG versions?
I know mine will be, I double checked before I ordered.
When is it expected to arrive Marcel?
Well Iv'e just logged back on and started reading this thread, I was about to reply to a post asking if these were the dg versions.....well the one I had ordered was definately not the dg but I thought for the price and including the 28-70 was a fair comprimise.....BUT just as I was reading this the phone went....Warehouse express the lens in the special offer (70-300) is no longer available so they are upgrading this offer at now extra cost for the apo dg version...........!!!woooooohoooooo! things are just getting better. So now i'm getting the 2 lenses for the price of the 70-300. Warehouse express ROCK!
Doesn't that just make you sick (with envy!)!
;)
thats very good Ken, bargain!
Ken's having a very good day today. :D
You have fallen on your feet there mate. :thumb:
That *is* a nice bargain :D. You've basically got the lens for the same price as me, but with quicker delivery et al. Git.
I want my toy NOW!
/stamps feet.
That *is* a nice bargain :D. You've basically got the lens for the same price as me, but with quicker delivery et al. Git.
I want my toy NOW!
/stamps feet.
Trust me the quality of that lens is brillient, and IMHO better than the Tamron Di
but the waiting for delivery can actually kill a person... especialy if they are big blond blokes :icon_eek:
Well anyone thats interested in this lens should ring there order in and ask about the version of 70-300 lens they are selling with the 28-70, because the ad says apo the older lenses are now discontinued, which only leaves the dl version which is not apo.
I've just checked the site again Here (http://www.warehouseexpress.com/index.cfm?photo/cleaning/digipad.html) and they are now sold out, I hope it was people from here that got them. Or are have they just sussed that there site needed updated.
Edit: Sorry that link takes you to the digipad bit, on left digital/lenses/sigma 28-70 .
You mean this one?
"70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG (58mm)" £179.99.
I thought that was the one we've been talking about all along. The DG and APO designation is a new lens (or some argue that it's a buttered up version of an old lens), but it's new fodder, as it were. I thought the DL was the older version?
Ok I'm confused.
I'm really tempted to get this lens for £114 (http://www.onestop-digital.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=24_28&products_id=115) from Onestop-digital. But what's the difference between this one and the one you're talking about above?
You're all befuddling my brain.
Marcel - has yours arrived yet? How is it?
They both look like the same lens to me fingerz ! The name is identical ! I could very well be wrong though ! LOL
fingerz, that's the exact lens I've just ordered.
It's DG, so newer (digital only) model. APO, so newer glass resulting in less chromatic abherration. Except for the Super Macro II markings, I think this is the newest model. They only got it in stock about 4 weeks ago I think.
Anyway, I ordered it very late friday night (UK time), and found out today that it will be shipped tomorrow, due to a supplier cockup (would have been shipped today I suppose instead, what with it being the weekend).
I asked if I could upgrade the postage to HK Speedpost (2-3 working days usually), rather than standard airmail which would have taken 5-10 working days. He said I could do it for £8, so i did :D
That price does include postage though (normal airmail), and also they offer a no VAT guarantee. If you get hit by customs then pay it, and send Onestop the invoice (either scanned and emailed or faxed), and they will refund it.
Some products dont attract the no VAT guarantee though.
I must admit theyve been nothing but efficent and friendly, reading their sponsor thread over at the dvd forums (they're forum sponsors over there). Everyone's been happy with them. Were it not for everyone giving glowing accounts, I wouldnt have risked ordering from HK.
Needless to say I'm feeling very comfortable about the whole process.
And I CANT WAIT FOR MY NEW LENS!!! :D:D:D:D
(Which I am hoping will arrive in time for the weekend or early next week).
You mean this one?
"70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG (58mm)" £179.99.
I thought that was the one we've been talking about all along. The DG and APO designation is a new lens (or some argue that it's a buttered up version of an old lens), but it's new fodder, as it were. I thought the DL was the older version?
I meant other rather than older BUT
Yes that's the lens but according to warehouse express there WAS also the 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro II Super @£159.99 DISCONTINUED or the
70-300mm F4-5.6 Macro Super @ £99.99 DISCONTINUED
Which only leaves
70-300mm F4-5.6 DL Macro Super DG @ £114.99 although DG not apo which is why they have upgraded my order to the
70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG @ £179.99 & 28-70mm f2.8-4 Special Offer for £189.99 as the offer stated APO and the dl is not. However this offer has now sold out.
Ok I'm confused.
I'm really tempted to get this lens for £114 (http://www.onestop-digital.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=24_28&products_id=115) from Onestop-digital. But what's the difference between this one and the one you're talking about above?
You're all befuddling my brain.
Marcel - has yours arrived yet? How is it?
These are advertised as being the same lens, the price difference is amazing considering Onestop also include P&P BUT I emailed them on Friday and as yet have still not had a reply from them, which is why I purchased from warehouse express, also onestop is an international guarantee not UK. How much difference that makes i'm not sure, just playing safe.
All Sigma guarantees are international, SigmaUK will repair any sigma lens no matter which country you buy it from.
These are advertised as being the same lens, the price difference is amazing considering Onestop also include P&P BUT I emailed them on Friday and as yet have still not had a reply from them, which is why I purchased from warehouse express, also onestop is an international guarantee not UK. How much difference that makes i'm not sure, just playing safe.
Perfectly understandable mate. I noticed the chap was replying to posts and queries within minutes all last week, yet less so over the weekend :) So I suppose I had the added benefit of seeing previous response.
Has your postie been yet? It's 9:16 :D
Looking through a couple of issues of Practical Photography from a couple of months ago, there was a comparsion of various 300mm zooms and the 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG came out tops - the review said it was streets ahead of the 70 quid cheaper Sigma.
All Sigma guarantees are international, SigmaUK will repair any sigma lens no matter which country you buy it from.
Well that was something I didn't really know but as I said "just playing safe" I read this Things you should know
before going grey…
•Sigma EX products sourced from foreign markets
will not include the valuable addition of Sigma
Imaging (UK) Ltd’s extended UK warranty, offering
an extra two years free of charge to provide an
unrivalled three years’ peace of mind.
But that obviously only covers the EX range, which somehow slipped to the back of my mind whilst plodging through all the bumf on all the other abreviasions.
Marcel, unfortunately not, the post hasn't arrived yet. I am remaining calm as I know it will be today (or god help someone). :)
Think happy thoughts ..... think happy thoughts .....
Looking through a couple of issues of Practical Photography from a couple of months ago, there was a comparsion of various 300mm zooms and the 70-300mm F4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG came out tops - the review said it was streets ahead of the 70 quid cheaper Sigma.
Having owned both the 'non APO' and the APO versions of this lens I can confirm that the APO is streets ahead. I bought my cheaper one from the USA and was mightily dissapointed with it, so much so that I sent it to SigmaUK thinking it must be a bad one (Sigmas quality control can be suspect). SigmaUK said "Nothing wrong here, it must be your camera. However we've changed all the optics as a goodwill gesture" It was better when I got it back but not by much. I sold it on and bought the APO version from 7dayshop last December, I've been very very happy with it so far.
The posty has landed 70-300 APO DGcomes in a case too. Now to play.
nice little case for the sigma innit....dont like the lens hood though, would have liked a nice flower type one..
C'mon Ken!!!! I need some before and after photos comparing it to the kit lense!!!! :D
C'mon Ken!!!! I need some before and after photos comparing it to the kit lense!!!! :D
Patience young man patience, :) I have already had a quick play and I am impressed, macro is good and will definitely play with that, the zoom is also enough for what I wanted (for now). I have to do a few things first but will definitely upload a couple soon.
C'mon Ken!!!! I need some before and after photos comparing it to the kit lense!!!! :D
Just remember - you encouraged him! :D
/sulks
I cant wait for mine now.
C'mon Ken!!!! I need some before and after photos comparing it to the kit lense!!!! :D
It's spelled lens not lense! :)
spelt :) ;) :D
I've noticed that being a more common spelling mistake lately (lense instead of lens). I wonder why?
C'mon Ken!!!! I need some before and after photos comparing it to the kit lense!!!! :D
Sorry these are not of anything special but I have been busy. This is next doors roof (in need of some work).
18-55 kit lens
@18mm http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/7215/18mm6al.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
@55mm http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/7818/55mm5ir.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
70-300 apo dg macro
@70mm http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/5727/70mm6yp.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
@300mm http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/9206/300mm5il.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
And macro http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/9587/flower6mf.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
These were all hand held and very quickly taken.
Any of your next door neighbours? :naughty:
Actually I'm joking ;)
Just had an email with a tracking number, mine has been shipped, so should be here thursday or friday I hope :)
Noticable difference there! Seems to be a much clearer lens!
What's it like weight and size like when compared to the kit lens?
great stuff ken, looks like another fine Sigma, and not another soft one.
:D
My lens arrived at Heathrow at 08:10 this morning :)
I love online tracking.
:D
My lens arrived at Heathrow at 08:10 this morning :)
I love online tracking.
Ah, just another ten days till it gets to you then :D
spelt :) ;) :D
Spelt is a kind of wheat! :P
Ooooh its getting closer.
Landed at the National Hub at 16:00 ish yesterday, and as of 00:10 today it's at the local Depot :D
Expected delivery date....TODAY!!!!
I do hope the children don't get ill or we need something from the shop, because my wife will be terribly inconvenienced being called out of work :D
Im not leaving this house till it arrives :D
:D
A selection of shots followed by a comprehensive review?
Come on Marcel. I'm waiting to order mine. Just want to make sure you get it in good working order and without import tax. The wait is killing me. :)
Well she arrived at just gone 9 o clock this morning. No custom charges and a big friendly smile from the ParcelForce man. (I don't think it's fair me calling them the usual ParcelFarce today :))
Had a little play, now it's time to have another before little lad wakes up from his morning nap :)
Shall post more later.
First thoughts? Its not as heavy as I thought it would be.
And it's a bit noisy (AF). Not overly so, but noticably so. I'm certainly not disappointed at all though :D (BTW It's the APO DG version).
Right, that's good enough for me! Ordered from Onestop.
.....
Is it here yet?!?!? :D
I didn't notice mine being noisy, atleast not compared to the 28-200 I had. I also thought mine was quite heavy, maybe it's just me. It seems as quick as the kit lens to focus. The 70-300 also without a doubt fits much, much better to the camera body, with no play at all, as has been mentioned before regarding the kit lens in another thread. The only thing that I don't care much for, is the finish, a glittery black effect but this is only cosmetic, I do apologise for not giving a comprehensive review on this or for not giving any info sooner. All the above can also be said for the sigma 28-70. I am happy with my 70-300 And @ £114 +p&p it is an absolute bargain, I am also happy with the 28-70 and reckon this lens will be on my camera more often than the 18-55.
No problem Ken, we all have lives to lead after all!
:)
* thinks... sell belly pork and get shares in Sigma!* :coat:
Can we have a Sigma 70-300 APO Macro DG forum please!!! :D
I noticed it (to me anyway) is noisier than the kit lens.
I can't think of an equivalent level of noise to compare it with. I'd say a little quieter than an auto 35mm camera winding on. But that's from memory of course.
I'm noticing now how heavy it is. MY arm is getting a bit more tired while playing around (well my wrist anyway), and I can now see why people think that the 350d is small. I can almost feel the benefit a grip or larger body would bring. It's not a major problem for me, I can just ee why others think so.
The lens is lighter than I expected it to be. This being my first venture into SLRdom, except for the Practika MTL-5B I have of my dads, complete with various lenses, I expected the lens to be heavier, as I didn't know what to expect.
The finish I quite like, I suppose it's down to the individual.
And boy is it long with the lens hood on :D
I felt like a perv pointing it out of my window before...lol
Hoping for a nice sunny day on saturday and to take my family to the park, so I'm hoping to get some nice candids of people while there. And also some shots of wildlife too.
Ive just taken a few shots with it for comparison, like Ken, shall upload them shortly.
it is noisy, but then its not a huge amount of money so what do you expect?, there are some canon zealots who will come along and moan about just about every aspect of the sigma, but if you got a good one then its a real bargain.
When you're posting up great photos people aren't going to ask you how much noise the autofocus made just before you snapped it.
Don't get me wrong, it is not a complaint in any way. The noise doesn't bother me, I'm merely giving my first impressions.
I don't expect whisper quiet, top of the range electronics.
mines noisy as hell, but i love it:)
mines noisy as hell, but i love it:)
We *are* still talking about lenses here right? :D
Here are some shots taken with it this afternoon (for focal length comparisons)
Sorry, I didn't put my 18-55 back on first to take wider shots, like Ken did.
@70mmhttp://www.thephotographyforums.com/marcel/sigma70-300/1_070mm.jpg
@100mmhttp://www.thephotographyforums.com/marcel/sigma70-300/2_100mm.jpg
@135mmhttp://www.thephotographyforums.com/marcel/sigma70-300/3_135mm.jpg
@200mmhttp://www.thephotographyforums.com/marcel/sigma70-300/4_200mm.jpg
@300mmhttp://www.thephotographyforums.com/marcel/sigma70-300/5_300mm.jpg
All taken at 1/125, f13, and ISO 200. (Although the sun came out for the first shot, not the cameras fault :D).
Mine's just arrived!!!!! :D :D :D :D
Can I just say, how neat is the wrapping from onestop!!?!? Wooo! It's like Christmas but without the tonnes of food. ;)
Hopefully that means mine will be waiting when I get home from work.
Hope so.
Fingers crossed :thumb: :banana:
Liberalis
10-08-2005, 15:20
Which Lens ?
This one ....
http://www.thephotographyforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2928
How good are onestop? I've been waiting a while for my lens to come from 7dayshop (Still waiting) Anyone been charged by customs and had to claim back difference? Thinking of cancelling from 7day and geting from onestop
Do it.
Apparently mine is waiting at home and there was no tax to pay. Hooray!
Unfortunately I won't have time to play with it tonight as I've got to go out as soon as I get home but such is life. I'm not working tomorrow so I'll tinker with it then.
sold me of to cancel from 7day shop :)
Done and ordered. saving a few £ aswell and its the newer DG version too.
Still me hama rucksack and filter were still a bargain from 7day :D
hama rucksack and filter...
Link(s)?
Some people get charged, some don't it's the luck of the draw. However, the majority arent getting charged, which is good, it's only a small percentage.
I asked the chap at Onestop how much it would be to upgrade the postage. Anything under £150 they send via normal airmail, 150-300 by HK Speedpost, which comes to us through parcelforce, then £300+ by courier (DHL I think). Apparently DHL parcels regularly get 'hit'.
So I paid £8 for an upgrade to Speedpost, which is usually 1-3 working days :D Even though the airmail normally takes that time, I wanted to be extra sure :D
Yeah I ordered my 300D from Hong Kong and it came FedEx, which got hit by taxes. I ended up paying £110 in import costs. I think couriers have a much higher hit rate for tax than the Royal Mail (and Parcelforce).
Link(s)?
bag
http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=32&products_id=6021
Have to say really impressed with it dont be put of with the 17.99 price (Think its been reviewed on here aswell.)
Filter
http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=32&products_id=5962
Tried it on me kit lens no difference with it than from the Jessops one I paid 10.99 for.
Well I now have the joy of the wait you lot had. In saying that ordered on backorder ofm 7day shop at start of july so whats another 5-10 days :o
Cheers. Both quite tempting.
How long did it take to get a dispatch message from them? Mines is stil pending.
Got my order processed message on the 4th August. Got the despatch message on the 6th. However, unlike Marcel, I wasn't able to get the tracking number to work in Parcelforce's website.
Really happy with the lens. Been playing about today. Didn't realise it came with it's own storage bag thing (only other lens I've bought is the Canon 50mm f/1.8). It's ace.
when did you place your order?? I got order process mail last night but it seems to be an automated thing. I'll not worry too much then should expect a dispatched message tomorrow :D
Ordered on the Thuuuursay
Got the confirm on the saaaaame day
Dispatch mail arrived on the Saturday
Lens arrived on the Wednesday, not Sunday, Monday or Tuesday
BTW the web tracing only works if you're posh like Marcel and pay for the Speedline jobbie delivery. Normal Parcel Farce don't do it.
BTW the web tracing only works if you're posh like Marcel and pay for the Speedline jobbie delivery. Normal Parcel Farce don't do it.
Ah yeah... That'll be why.
Very excited bunny now my Order has been dispatched today :D
wonder how long it'l take and if I can last that long :D
Yup what I'm expecting might have to be off work sick start of next week :D
I'm so excited and I just cant hide it.
Lens arrived this morning just had call from Wife. Only 8 more hours till I get home to have a play with it. :)
Pretty Quick though.
Watch you don't suddenly start to feel a little light headed, dizzy and nauseus. You may have to go home early poorly. :p
Quick service isn't it?
This was my first time ordering from abroad (well HK anyway), and I don't think I could be more impressed with the speed and efficiency (and price). Its certainly put me at ease about ordering from abroad again.
Looking forward to some shots McMav.
This is a great lens, it just needs to be held very steady at the 300mm length unless you are using a fast shutter. Well pleased with mine!
Handholding it is something I need to learn. I've had most of my handheld 300mm shots very blurry (and deleted) as a result of my inability to keep it steady.
I need to learn the relationship with shutter speeds, focal lengths and how far I can push the handheld in relation to those two.
Handholding it is something I need to learn. I've had most of my handheld 300mm shots very blurry (and deleted) as a result of my inability to keep it steady.
I need to learn the relationship with shutter speeds, focal lengths and how far I can push the handheld in relation to those two.
The good news is there's an easy formula for this. The MINIMUM safe shutter speed for hand holding with any lens equates to it's focal length. With a 50mm lens the minimum safe speed is 1/50th. or the nearest higher marked equivalent - 1/60th. With a 300mm lens, you'd be pushing your luck at 1/250th, so would ideally be using 1/500th. All this of course is forcing larger apertures or ISOs on you too, which is why IS is such a boon.
As for hand holding technique, your right hand should be gripping the camera firmly, such that if you took your left hand away you'd still have a firm grip. Your left hand should be cupped under and supporting the lens. Your elbows should be pulled down on to your chest to stabilise your hands, and the camera should be pulled tightly against your face and forehead. If you can wrap the neck strap around your right hand you can further tighten the whole thing into your face. (Forget it if you have that crap, wide Canon strap)
Your feet should be spaced comfortably apart for balance. Leaning against trees, walls.... anything which aids support helps a lot. Generally speaking, think.... 'I'm a tripod' ;)
All this good work is undone if you have a last minute panicky stab at the shutter button. Breath out like a marksman as you gently and smoothly SQUEEZE the shutter button to take the shot.
It's a good point you raised, and if you think the above sounds OTT anyone who processes film will tell you more shots are spoiled by camera shake than any other single thing. All this when modern cameras have never made picture taking so easy, but this basic technique still needs to be mastered.
... and use multi-shot feature to take half a dozen in the vain hope that one of them was ok....
Watch you don't suddenly start to feel a little light headed, dizzy and nauseus. You may have to go home early poorly. :p
Quick service isn't it?
This was my first time ordering from abroad (well HK anyway), and I don't think I could be more impressed with the speed and efficiency (and price). Its certainly put me at ease about ordering from abroad again.
Looking forward to some shots McMav.
Well I am not feeling well now as it is chucking it down :( Looks like it will be play inside with some macro :o
Service was amazing place order at 5pm Wednesday, lens arrives this morning first post and no Duty :D.
As for ordering from abroad I've used cd-wow (based in hong Kong) but this is clearly the most expensive thing I've bought. Might get flashgun from him next if he is still the cheapest price. Cant fault him.
PS. Everyone pray for some dry spells this evening for me :)
Macro is fun, trying to focus on something whilst maintaining that 95cm distance! LOL
A word of warning, the macro switch will only switch on after you've passed 200mm and only switch off once the focus ring is back past the macro section. It'll make more sense when you play with it. Just don't force it as it feels like the switch has gotten stuck.
:)
Aye think I might RTFM on this one :)
Aye think I might RTFM on this one :)
Just don't forget to turn past page one, which IIRC is the chinese version ;)
English is on page 2 I think.
Sammy is right, I didn't RTM and I thought it was broke. If you're not at 200mm, the macro switch moves a tiny bit, but not all the way, which made me think "Uh oh, it's broke"
You can switch out of macro at any time, as long as the focusing ring is in the right place.
So I think it's focusing ring and focal length to get into macro, and just the focusing ring to come out of macro.
I usually just zoom to 200mm, flip it back into MF, whip the little triangle on the focus ring, past the line, then flip it out of macro, then abck to AF. It becomes second nature after a couple of tries.
It's like taking the lens hood off, I always put it in MF then hold the focusing ring to take it off, then twist the focus so it's all the way in, then put the hood on reversed.
I keep forgetting to put it back in AF when Ive put the hood on, and I'm there pressing my AE lock button, wondering why it isn't focusing then, duh, it hits me, I'm still in MF.
Well got it in and out of macro fine. Didnt get much time to play with it *** Jnr wanted to play cars :o
Though what I did notice was how poor my hand holding is atm. Enough shake to almost convince myself I had parkinsons always thought it was ok. Obv not as severe on Kit lens. So gonna work on that and get a tripod & monopod aswell.
Was wraped well felt like it was my birthday :)
Though what I did notice was how poor my hand holding is atm. Enough shake to almost convince myself I had parkinsons always thought it was ok. Obv not as severe on Kit lens.
Thats one of the first things I noticed too. I need to start looking at my stature etc.
What? In society? Probably low to middling at best :D
Na look at all the Red L's he has :p
Same amount as me cept you got extra RS-60E3L :)
My 70-300 Arrived today :D
Very impressed with the service, i only ordered it on Monday night and it was then despatched lated on Tuesday!!
I had a wierd gut feeling that it might arrive today so i can go out and make use of it :D
As mentioned above, lens seems excellent, AF is noisier than Kit Lens, but that really isnt going to bother me in the slightest.
Will post my feelings on it after a long day out :>
-Rich
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