worth getting sigma 70 - 200 when I already have Nikon 70 - 300 vr?

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Dave Pickett

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Dave Pickett
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as title really, I already have the Nikon 70 - 300 vr, and main use is for show jumping and general travel photography.

Given the good higher ISO performance of the D90, is there any real benefit in going to the wider aperture sigma?

Or maybe the Nikon 180 f2.8 would be a better bet?
 
I started with the Nikon then got hold of the Sigma, The Sigma is a cracking lens for portraits wide open for a narrow DOF and also good in low light. I also picked up the Sigma 100-300 f/4 and in the end sold the Nikon as it was hardly used.
 
I have all 3 lenses so may be semi qualified to comment!

The 70-300 VR is always in the bag unless I'm expecting low light and subject movement, in which case the 70-200 f/2.8 replaces it. The 180mm Nikkor rarely comes out to play - I just prefer the convenience of the zoom. Next time I get gear lust and need to trade something in, I'll take it and see how much it's worth; I got it at a very good price so will probably make a few quid on the deal.

The extra shutter speed you'll get from the f/2.8 can make a huge difference, as can the extra shallowness of DoF when it's wide open, although if the subject's still or very slow moving, the stops of handholdability that the VR gives can be just as useful - it's nice to have the option. I have been known to take both with me if there's not a very long walk involved - the f/2.8 isn't light!
 
I do see the shallow depth of field as a double edged sword in that for moving subjects like horses a the extra depth of field is often useful!

I do have a tamron 90 f2.8 but find focussing is rather too slow (on my D60, havnt given it a go on the D90), and also a 50 f1.8 for the closer shot. Think I will experiment with these other lenses and do more work with the 70 - 300 before deciding.

Am also considering a body upgrade at some point, but dont really think the D300s is a big enough upgrade from the D90, might just bank the cash and save up for a D400.....It cant be that far away.
 
Or maybe the Nikon 180 f2.8 would be a better bet?[/QUOTE]

If you can live with a fixed 180mm the Nikon 180 f2.8 beats the Nikon 70-300, Sigma 70-200 F2.8 and Sigma 100-300 F4 and in my opinion the Nikon 70-200 VR for IQ and sharpness and will make you smile every time you use it.

If you need to zoom, the Sigma 70-200 would be my Choice.
 
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