Action Photography: AV vs. TV

[skraw]

Just out of curiosity, what would anyone recommend besides this lens if I send it back? I also thought about the Sigma 50-500 or the Canon 100-400.

[TX_Gulf_Coast]

I have this lens and it is sharp and performs really well in the conditions you mentioned. When in good light, the auto focus is very dependable and on target.

I don't know of any spcific issue with the XT body, but then I don't have it and am not up on the latest as far as that is concerned. A well informed sales clerk should know, or else call Sigma Support: Customer Service Department call toll free (800) 896-6858

[MillerPhoto]

If you don't mind me asking, how much did you end up paying for that lens?
the Sigma 50-500.
And also was it a reputable dealer online, or ebay seller or where ever you bought it from?

[TX_Gulf_Coast]

Just out of curiosity, what would anyone recommend besides this lens if I send it back? I also thought about the Sigma 50-500 or the Canon 100-400.

I like the 170-500 better as it is lighter than the Bigma. (50-500mm) That things weights a ton and is really awkward when the focus is all the way out. Both have about the same aperture, so I would choose the 170-500 for weight and ease of handling. Odds are not all that unbeliveable that you got a bad copy of the 170-500.

Have you ever wondered why Sigma can offer a large zoom like this at such a nice price? Quality. The quality of build and optics is just not up to the same standards as Canon or Nikon. Granted, Sigma and other third party lenses have their place. Another issue is that Sigma simply reverse engineer's the Canon mount. Canon isn't all that forthcoming with the electronics interface of their bodies with 3rd. party manufacturers.

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I got it from sigma4less.com for about $620.

[TX_Gulf_Coast]

One last things before I hit the sack tonight...Sigma is pretty good about handling issues like this. If the lens came from a reputable supplier, even if on line, they will probably work with you and replace the lens.

I don't own any other Sigma glass besides the 170-500mm. (Bought that from a friend used at a really good price.) I have only one other lens in my studio that is not Canon and that is a Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Macro. (NICE!)

However, my living depends upon my photography so I never scrimp on my equipment. I always stick with the Canon glass for the lenses that I use daily, but those cost and are not readily available for everyone. (Nor do they make cool focal lenghts such as the 170-500mm or even better, the 120-300 f/2.8! Can you imagine...a Canon L 120-300 f/2.8 zoom? Would be nice, but no one would buy the 300mm f/2.8 prime nor several other lenses. It is a matter of money. It means more sales for Canon.)

At any rate, don't get frustrated. Just contact the source and if they are no help, Sigma.

I got it from sigma4less.com for about $620.

Sigma4less.com is a great source! Just give them a call and I bet they will help you out.

[skraw]

Thanks a lot for all your help. I will do some more testing, and then probably send it back. Does anyone own a canon 100-400? I am leaning towards that lens... maybe.

[MillerPhoto]

I jsut checked out that site. All the Sigma 50-500 lenses were $929 and tax.

Was yours used or something? Or how did you manage to get it so cheap?

There is a 75-300 Which I have used before and it works well and is fast on focusing and quality is very good.. Not sure if it has the distance your looking for thou. But if you got a bright sunny day you can add on a 1.4 or 2x lens doubler to gain the distance for a fraction of the price of a true long lens. and still get the shots you want.

[skraw]

I jsut checked out that site. All the Sigma 50-500 lenses were $929 and tax.

Was yours used or something? Or how did you manage to get it so cheap?

Mine is the 170-500.

Here is a sample of my results. Now this was taken from pretty far away. I cropped it to 100%. I just might be expecting too much quality from this distance.

That link didn't work out like I had hoped.





Edited By Savone: I fixed your images for you!

[Adaptive]

wow this thread blew up, when I first stopped by there was only 1 or 2 replies!