Sigma 800mm f/5.6 EX DG HSM (Canon Mount)

[mickeyt]

hi..im looking to get a really good telephoto lens for my canon 5d ...The canon ones I just can't justify the prices but the above is half the cost..would you have any views plse..or which is best for nature photography?... currrently i have the ef 100-400 with a 2 x extender..results are not that good.... well good!..but not on a par with some great nature shots... thinking of trading in a few lens (inc the 100-400)to see if the sigma or a second hand canon is worth it...would need autofocus...would appreciate any views as its a big expense!

thks

mike ..

 

[markyboy.1967]

I do t know of anyone using that lens however Fracster on here used the 300-800 lens but with a Nikon camera and it certainly has its place. Its a monster though and a bit big for me.

 

[micloi]

Would look into the following:

1. Canon 300mm IS + 2x TC
2. Sigma 500mm f4.5
3. Sigma 300-800mm

In order of handholdability! (if there was such a word...)

 

[pete.rush]

I've been impressed with the results from my MKII TCs (1.4x and 2x) on my canon 300mm f2.8 IS MKI

I even stacked the 1.4x and 2x TC together and was amazed at the results in the right conditions.

300mm f2.8 (MKI) + 2x TC (MKII)

300mm F2.8 (MKI) + 1.4x and 2x TC (MKII) stacked

Haven't had experience of the sigma 500mm f4.5 or sigma 800mm f5.6 and the 300-800mm f5.6 definitely ain't hand holdable or for very short periods as its only about 280g heavier than the canon 400mm f2.8 at 5.6kg

Depends what you budget is and whether you want a zoom or prime, another solution is the sigma 120-300mm f2.8 OS which is suppose to be a vast improvement not only in build quality, but autofocus in poor light over the previous model and use the sigma 1.4x and 2x TCs as another option.

 

[gblades]

What are your main requirements?
Is weight important?
As an example look at the sigma 200-500. Probably a great lens but not good for walking about with

 

[mickeyt]

thanks guys..this is a great discussion topic me thinks..I buy my lenses on credit and pay them off so budget feels smaller over a long period if u get my meaning!..but,i certainly would not think of spending over 5k on a lens...I think zoom over prime seems the way to go..but wow..pete.rush..ur photos are awesome...absoultely what im trying to achieve..I want to find a multipurpose top of the range lens that doesnt disturb the wildlife..isnt overly heavy(can use monopod i guess),and be great at sport events..tricky topic eh!..ill sell my 100-400 to get the better lens me thinks ..for the canon.. not guna rush so all opinions needed!..

 

[alsos]

Hi Mike if your down this neck of the woods and want to try out a sigma 500 4.5 drop me a line

 

[mickeyt]

hi matey..not sure to be honest..im down at easter..may try ,but am running around with my son..!

so ud recommend this lens?..im thinking of taking the advice and finding a good london rental lens shop before I take the plunge!...

anyone know who's good to go to in london plse?..the Canon 300mm IS + 2x TC looks interesting...im thinking of portability as well so seems this one stands out ..all views welcome guys!

have a great weekend.