Sigma 30mm f1.4 EX DC HSM

[-spam-]

Another nothing shot, but I liked it (and I had to mark getting my passport somehow)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3492/3215090126_5ed7dfee5c.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/-spam-/3215090126/)

[dissembled]

http://fc62.deviantart.com/fs40/f/2009/020/b/0/b0512a29b4c2758a818af3d0b15fa439.jpg

http://fc44.deviantart.com/fs40/f/2009/020/1/5/153909279b31a8d64813b14fe007c64e.jpg

http://fc12.deviantart.com/fs38/f/2008/319/b/d/v_by_dissembled59.jpg

http://fc93.deviantart.com/fs35/f/2008/312/2/4/iii_by_dissembled59.jpg

[Pauly_G]

Well I couldn't hold out any longer, seeing all these great photos day-in-day-out so I went and got myself a Sigma 30mm :-)

Here's a test shot with the 100% crop at f1.4 - I like it! Just need to go and take some proper photos now!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3429/3221933545_e2d7b8600a_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3320/3221940859_883f00e702_o.jpg

Cheers

[Pauly_G]

Right, here's one I took this afternoon!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3123/3222382073_697d0e0c00_o.jpg

I can see myself becoming very quickly addicted to shooting at very large apertures.....!

[jjmucker]

@ F1.4 with 50D

http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/jjmucker/Kate.jpg

[Pauly_G]

I am going to have to post another, impressed at how sharp this is wide open.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3454/3226013386_432ac3e765_o.jpg

[extremeugene]

With the 50D and the ability to micro-adjust, does the risk of getting a "bad" copy that is unusable diminish substantially cause I just calibrate it myself?

[S-S]

i dont accept a misfocusing copy of any lens just on principle... im paying for a working one and a working one is what i ought to receive

but thats just me

[BobbyT]

I am going to have to post another, impressed at how sharp this is wide open.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3454/3226013386_432ac3e765_o.jpg
Great shot

[X-Warrior]

i dont accept a misfocusing copy of any lens just on principle... im paying for a working one and a working one is what i ought to receive

but thats just me

Yep, did that with my 10mm... front focus (+13), so I used it during holidays thanks to adjustment, but then took ik back for calibration. So yeah, micro adjustment did allow me to shoot for a while, but it was still essentially a defective product.

But in the end it's a personal thing of course.

[extremeugene]

When looking to buy this lens, is there anything in particular I should look for when testing it out at the store?

[S-S]

auto-focus on someone about 12 feet away wide open and pixel-peep to make sure it's sharp (misfocus errors are magnified at greater distances)

[kavster]

Just got my lens and wow it's sharp wide open! :)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3326/3229212397_25039057fb_o.jpg

[BobbyT]

http://images22.fotki.com/v817/photos/2/949682/7183510/nightice12923-vi.jpg

http://images26.fotki.com/v934/photos/2/949682/7183510/nightice12924-vi.jpg

http://images20.fotki.com/v220/photos/2/949682/7183510/nightice12921-vi.jpg

[Yel00tlr]

Recent Birthday Party Pic.

[dlintz]

Nice shot Kurt. What were your settings?

d.

[Yel00tlr]

Nice shot Kurt. What were your settings?

d.


Thanks http://www.tlzone.net/forums/images/smilies/beerchug.gif

ISO - 800 , 1/80 @ 2.5

[jbkalla]

Sorry if I've posted this before! I can't remember...

http://kalla.net/POTN/Fireworks_tiny.jpg

EXIF data should be in the photo, but it's a six second exposure, f/16, ISO 100.

[Nifkin]

Just got my 30mm f/1.4 through the forum second hand, courtesy of Nigel Wallace, and a beautiful copy it is too! My test shots have pretty much confirmed that there are no focusing issues to speak of (what a relief!), even if focusing at 1.4 will take a bit of getting the hang of! Bokeh and sharpness are stunning, and the focal length is so much more usable on a crop than with the EF 50mm 1.8 I had used previously.

I will be out and about central London this weekend getting some shots, so hope to post some examples to go with the other great pictures on here this weekend.

Yours excited,

Nif :lol:

[Domino81]

Wanna sell it to me?! :P J/K

[Mike]

Here's a couple from me:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3470/3255744382_15165d8066.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3533/3255935360_1f2a924430.jpg?v=0

All these photos also with 30mm: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikegphotography/sets/72157613359089285/

[Pauly_G]

One from this morning in a very snowy Bristol, UK. In excess of 10cm of snow, two days running - unheard of! Car is staying firmly put today after yesterday's scary drive!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3512/3257994414_9fdd4296d0_o.jpg

[oreca]

... Car is staying firmly put today after yesterday's scary drive!

It's time to go out and have some fun! AKA go find an empty parking lot haha

[S-S]

from today, f/1.4

[Pauly_G]

I just love this lens! A random self portrait in the car on a rare shopping trip. Taken at f1.6...........

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3439/3263536732_bcc5065d31_o.jpg

[rustyjaw]

I got my 30 1.4 today and it has terrible backfocus problems. I'm returning it to Amazon in exchange for a new one. I'm hoping the next one is solid. :-/

[runninmann]

Bummer! I've been fortunate (or not very discerning) to get two good copies. How'd you test it?

[rustyjaw]

Bummer! I've been fortunate (or not very discerning) to get two good copies. How'd you test it?

I shot a focus pattern I printed out. It wasn't even close, really. It's obvious in real-world shots too. I made sure I was in one-shot focus (I tried AI too just in case). It's going back...

[T-Bolt]

This is one sharp lens...I love it wide open, and in portraits..http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3356/3268440499_bc1baf1ef1_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3497/3268438861_358f606d12_o.jpghttp://farm4.static.flickr.com/3343/3269262126_ab8c10ded9_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3471/3269267282_af6a7b2f51_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3439/3268443563_37aed9530d_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3513/3269269598_343a17d70c_o.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3488/3269273426_5b6fb9f5cc_o.jpg

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.flickr.com/photos/25562504@N04/3268440499/%22%20title=%2220080820_9542%20-%20Version%202%20by%20undieclub,%20on%20Flickr%22% 3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3356/3268440499_bc1baf1ef1_o.jpg%22%20width=%221024%22% 20height=%221024%22%20alt=%2220080820_9542%20-%20Version%202%22%20/%3E%3C/a%3E

[Prssinglecut]

A couple from me, just received it a couple of days ago, so havent used it in anger yet.

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5779/50748069wc4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/4026/63462391ia2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/9232/12634894it5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Regards

Phil

[rustyjaw]

So my second copy of this lens is due here tomorrow (due to Amazon.com's amazing customer service!). I'm crossing my fingers that it will be a good copy. I'll post here when I find out!

[fiveFPS]

i agree with you on amazon and their services.. it's great!

[rustyjaw]

Well, the replacement is better, but still off. Here's an example, 100% crop:

http://www.rustyjaw.com/pics/focus_off.jpg
I used the center focus point and placed it on the number "10" - as you can see it's pretty far off. And this is much improved over the first copy I got.

Color me frustrated...

[jbkalla]

Yikes! I lost the registration card for my 30mm (purchased in 2006?), so I just sent it in for calibration: $150US! That's just a little expensive, I think...

[rustyjaw]

Yikes! I lost the registration card for my 30mm (purchased in 2006?), so I just sent it in for calibration: $150US! That's just a little expensive, I think...

So how does that work? Do you send in your camera with the lens, and they adjust the lens to work with your camera? Is there a charge if it's under warranty?

[rustyjaw]

Amazon won't let me exchange the lens again. Here's a note from their support:

...Since it's likely another replacement would arrive defective, we are unable to send another replacement order.

Two attempts to deliver the item "Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras" have been unsuccessful. Hence, we won't be able to send you another replacement as it is possible that it still be delivered in the same damaged condition.

Please return the "Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras" for a full refund. We'll pay for the return shipping costs...

[jbkalla]

So how does that work? Do you send in your camera with the lens, and they adjust the lens to work with your camera? Is there a charge if it's under warranty?

Well, I sent my 40D in with the 30mm & 50mm, because I didn't know for sure. When Sigma called with an estimate, they said they could clean the sensor for $65US, so I guess they didn't need the camera.

I found the warranty card and receipt (Amazon) for the 50mm f/1.4 EX, so I didn't have to pay the $150 for that lens. I guess if I ever sell the two lenses, I can mention that they were calibrated at Sigma...

Note: Of course, if you have a receipt and warranty card for your lens, calibration is covered under warranty.

[tupper]

Amazon won't let me exchange the lens again. Here's a note from their support:

Send it back, get your refund and then buy it again :lol:

[rustyjaw]

Send it back, get your refund and then buy it again :lol:

That's exactly what I did! Although I didn't wait for the refund.

[rustyjaw]

Well, the 3rd one is about as bad as the second. This is very disappointing. I guess it was expecting too much to get a decent copy out of the box.

Can anyone here confirm that, after calibration by Sigma, their lens was sharp at 1.4? I don't mean lenses that were good out of the box, but ones that were sent in for calibration.

[[CaliGirl]]

I'm crossing my fingers for a good sharp copy...should be here on Tuesday.

[Chez Wimpy]

http://www.rustyjaw.com/pics/focus_off.jpg
I used the center focus point and placed it on the number "10" - as you can see it's pretty far off.

Yes, you focused on the 10... but how would the camera know that? :rolleyes:

[X-Warrior]

Well, the 3rd one is about as bad as the second. This is very disappointing. I guess it was expecting too much to get a decent copy out of the box.

Can anyone here confirm that, after calibration by Sigma, their lens was sharp at 1.4? I don't mean lenses that were good out of the box, but ones that were sent in for calibration.

If you get 3 lenses in a row that are 'bad', to be honest I'd start to doubt your testing methods.

Try testing things on a focus chart, http://www.focustestchart.com. Do the testing in proper daylight. Conditions must be perfect, otherwise there are too many other factors that can cause a misfocus. Obviously you should use a tripod. Just read the instructions on the focus test page and you should be good.

Also, as I mentioned earlier in this thread, when I used the 30mm on my 400D I had to halfpress the button once and once only. I used to have the habit of focusing, focusing again, sometimes again before I actually pushed the button fully - using the test chart I found out that the 400D will only focus correctly the first time. When halfpressing the second or third time, backfocus would occur. Interestingly, this problem is not present on the 50D. Perhaps you should see if this is the problem ?

[rustyjaw]

Thanks for the replies. I have used a focus chart, inaddition to real-world shots. The real-world shots show backfocusing very clearly too. Although I often refoucus (half-press twice) before shooting, so I will have to check that. With my second copy of the lens, I had a friend with a 50d test it on her camera and it behaved the same way. Which confirmed to me that it wasn't some malfunction of my 400d.

[tupper]

Now that I have decided to upgrade in the future to 50D not the 5D, I'm back to considering this lens vs the 35L.. the price difference is just so capturing.. ;)

[Pauly_G]

Something a little different....

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3498/3279250836_9b17ccefc2_o.jpg

[jbkalla]

Oooh! Great idea! I'm gonna try that with my (notably less impressive) Sentra!

[Jman13]

Took me 3 times to get a good copy of this lens. And then I bought the 1DII 6 months later, so now I've got the 35L and the Sigma is getting sold. (the MFD is too long on 1.3x...vignetting is fine).

[HyperYagami]

Right before I was rejected.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3480/3280939498_c9daa60677_b.jpg

[runninmann]

Maybe you should have given her the real roses instead of just the photograph of them ;):).Fresh before I was rejected.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3279639716_9248439635_b.jpg

[[CaliGirl]]

Really nice photo Pauly_G

[HyperYagami]

Well those are the ones I bought her...

Maybe you should have given her the real roses instead of just the photograph of them ;):).

[Pauly_G]

;7325187']Really nice photo Pauly_G

Cheers

[jeasy]

and you were rejected? ouch..

[John_TX]

I need a f1.4 or f1.8 lens in the 28-30mm range for some low-light/night work.
It will be used pretty much wide open a majority of the time (no slower than f2.0).
I still can't make up my mind between the Canon 28 f1.8 & the Sigma 30 f1.4. The Canon appears to be really soft at 1.8 and the Sigma can have focus issues.

Every time I decide on one or the other, I read stuff that changes my mind.

I'd like to order from Amazon, but it seems over the past couple of days, a couple of people are already on their 2nd or 3rd copy of the Sigma.
For those of you that have bought from Amazon, can you tell if the packaging on the lenses your receiving has been opened? E.g., are there a couple of bad Sigma's floating around that keep getting sent back out?

[S-S]

a good sigma 30 is GOOD... sharp, fast, accurate
i had a bad 2ndhand copy first, & returned it to buy a good 2ndhand copy elsewhere - i am SO glad i bought it, it's my favourite 'default' lens (over 17-55, 70-200 2.8, 24-105, 10-22, 50 1.8, and others)

[KarlosDaJackal]

This thing is scarily sharp at f/1.4, this self portrait was done via tethered shooting with a 40d and a 2 metre USB cable.

f/1.4 - 1/250 - ISO100 - Sigma 530 Super into 36" silver umbrella, at 1/8 power. Umbrella was camera right (45 degrees) and high (45 degrees)

I also shot this at f/4 to try it with more DOF, but preferred the narrow DOF one, and really can't tell if the f/4 is sharper at 100% around the eye area


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3135/3284833395_6fd3cbc0a8_b.jpg
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/karldenby/3284833395/)

[Coppatop85]

Got the lens, and only used it for closeups for about 3 months, then I went to shoot stuff that was 7+ ft out and it would SEVERELY back focus. I mean like, 3-5ft behind the subject. Sent it in for calibration and came back great, near and far.

[John_TX]

I just placed an order for the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 @ B&H and can't wait!
I had a tough time deciding between the Canon EF 28 f/1.8 & Sigma 30 f/1.4, but the Sigma won me over.
Ultimately, it came down to just seeing more photos that "popped" and were razor sharp with the Sigma.
Many of the Canon shots I've seen just seemed like they required a lot more PP work to get a good photo.
We shall see later this week!

[HSK]

I'm still interested in this, just not sure if I should couple it with my crop body - that doesn't have micro adjustment.

[Jman13]

If you get a copy that focuses accurately (took me three tries), it's a spectacular lens. Very close to the 35L optically. The 35L has a little more character, and might be a smidge sharper between f/1.4 and f/2 (though not a huge difference). The biggest difference is the closer MFD of the 35L, which is why I switched when I went to the 1DII...the longish MFD of the Sigma was fine on 1.6x, but too limiting on 1.3x (though it did work fine). Great lens.

[HSK]

Yea i'm really liking the results I see here - It's just what i need in terms of focal length and speed - I'm always having to back up with my 50mm on this crop body.

Just the case of netting one that focuses half decent :(

[John_TX]

If you get a copy that focuses accurately (took me three tries), it's a spectacular lens. Very close to the 35L optically. The 35L has a little more character, and might be a smidge sharper between f/1.4 and f/2 (though not a huge difference). The biggest difference is the closer MFD of the 35L, which is why I switched when I went to the 1DII...the longish MFD of the Sigma was fine on 1.6x, but too limiting on 1.3x (though it did work fine). Great lens.

MFD (minimum focus distance):
Sigma 30 f/1.4 = 15.7 inches
Canon 35 f/1.4 = 12.0 inches

I'm curious, in what situations did you find the MFD of the Sigma 30 f/1.4 limiting?
Maybe I'm only thinking about this from a composition & framing perspective, but since neither is a macro lens, I just don't see what difference 3.7" makes.
I'm probably overlooking something here since I mainly do landscapes, so fill me in please! :)

[rustyjaw]

MFD (minimum focus distance):
Sigma 30 f/1.4 = 15.7 inches
Canon 35 f/1.4 = 12.0 inches

I'm curious, in what situations did you find the MFD of the Sigma 30 f/1.4 limiting?
Maybe I'm only thinking about this from a composition & framing perspective, but since neither is a macro lens, I just don't see what difference 3.7" makes.
I'm probably overlooking something here since I mainly do landscapes, so fill me in please! :)

If you consider that 15.7 is 30% more than 12, that is part of why it could matter. While 3.7" may not seem like much, it's nearly 1/3 closer which I can see making a difference for some shots.

[Jman13]

MFD (minimum focus distance):
Sigma 30 f/1.4 = 15.7 inches
Canon 35 f/1.4 = 12.0 inches

I'm curious, in what situations did you find the MFD of the Sigma 30 f/1.4 limiting?
Maybe I'm only thinking about this from a composition & framing perspective, but since neither is a macro lens, I just don't see what difference 3.7" makes.
I'm probably overlooking something here since I mainly do landscapes, so fill me in please! :)

I know it sounds small, but let me tell you, it feels SO much larger than 3.7 inches. The other reason: The 35L is also 5mm longer, but focuses 3.7 inches closer...which means much higher magnification. In fact, nearly TWICE the magnification. The Sigma's highest magnification is 1:10. The Canon's: 1:5.5. Which means, on my 1DII, the smallest object that will fill the frame across the long edge of the frame is 11.3 inches long. With the 35L, I can fill the frame along the long edge with an object 6.2 inches long. It's a huge difference when trying to get shots like this, which I can get with my 35L on a 1D2, but would hit the MFD and have to back up a bit with the Sigma 30. I like tight shots like this, but they are almost always shorter than the MFD can do on the 30 on the 1DII. Now, this limitation does NOT come into play much on 1.6x, since you fill the frame that much more, but jumping to 1.3, it's a big difference.

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_brown_dress.jpg

Couldn't

[egordon99]

Ditto the "long" MFD of the Sigma. Also, the closer you get to your subject, the more the background blurs out. I have similar problems with my 85mm prime, and I believe the 24-70L has a shorter MFD, thus higher maximum magnification, which means that you COULD get more background blur with the L zoom at f/2.8 than with the prime at f/1.8 (you'd have to be closer of course....)

Why can't every lens just focus down to .0000000000000001 inches? ;)

[tupper]

Why can't every lens just focus down to .0000000000000001 inches? ;)

Because then your lens will be blocking the light :)

[jon_ridley]

Got mine in the post this morning:D

Impressed so far, not as sharp at 1.4 as I think some people have had but I've also heard it's a lens to get used to... so I'll report back. These are quick test shots with a little curve adjustment to make them pop. I'll do some crops and stuff later on when I'm a little more used it using it.

Click for bigger:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3160/3287664252_ef7fa0c1f3.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon_ridley/3287664252/in/photostream/)

f/1.4 1/2000 ISO100

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3587/3287663864_8ac7a4657e.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon_ridley/3287663864/in/photostream/)

f/6.3 1/125 ISO100

[pixel_junkie]

Nice Peugeot! ^

[google]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3222/3286005087_153093984a.jpg

[rustyjaw]

Well, after several days of testing my 3rd copy of this lens just to be absolutely certain it's the lens that's the problem and not my testing, it's going back. I may order another from a different place with the idea that maybe Amazon got a batch of bad copies...

[John_TX]

Well, after several days of testing my 3rd copy of this lens just to be absolutely certain it's the lens that's the problem and not my testing, it's going back. I may order another from a different place with the idea that maybe Amazon got a batch of bad copies...

I noticed that over the past 3-4 weeks, almost every review at Amazon for this lens has been quite negative (which supports your theory).

I placed my order with B&H as they seem to have the freshest stock.

[Coppatop85]

Why not just have them calibrate it? I got mine at sigma4less, sent it in and it came back working like a charm.

[rustyjaw]

Why not just have them calibrate it? I got mine at sigma4less, sent it in and it came back working like a charm.

Because I have heard mixed stories about the calibrating. I have heard success stories like yours, but I have also heard of Sigma indicating they could find no fault with the lens and failing to adjust it at all.

The funny thing is that I think sending the first one I got, which was by far the worst, to Sigma for calibration might have been my best bet. The 2nd and 3rd were about the same, but better.

[Todd Good]

Here are a few of mine, its my most used and favorite lens in my bag. All these images were shot at f/1.4. Enjoy, hope these images show the awesomeness of this lens.


http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/blog-0022.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/blog-0031.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/blog-015.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/005.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/blog-023.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/blog-0161.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/blog-0181.jpg

http://ec-designstudiosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/blog-008.jpg

[ppucci]

Just bought one of these babes... :) Looking forward to it!

[ppucci]

by the way... does it comes with the hood?

[John_TX]

Yep, comes with the hood and a really nice zipper pouch.

My Sigma 30mm f/1.4 just came in today from B&H and I think I've got a winner! Focus seems spot-on and the lens is actually black now and matches Canon bodies perfectly. Photos of one's I've seen previous seemed to be a darker gray/charcoal color.

[KarlosDaJackal]

by the way... does it comes with the hood?

Yes, and a little carry pouch. Pretty much like every other sigma ever sold :cool:

[mrdavidkrap]

I got this lens about 3 days ago and I love it :]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3603/3293941673_f1d31147d1_b.jpg

[jon_ridley]

They don't show off the lens mas much as some photos here do, but here are a few more from me.

I love the contrast and clarity of this lens... and it has really, really nice bokeh :)

Click for bigger:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3446/3292772639_cf00f01836.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon_ridley/3292772639/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3392/3301488670_fe27eed2a1.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon_ridley/3301488670/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3313/3301489960_f116f5cd2a.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon_ridley/3301489960/)

[tupper]

I got this lens about 3 days ago and I love it :]



Looks like you got one that focus's well!

[S-S]

2 from last week...

[Coppatop85]

From my newly calibrated 30mm 1.4

1. @ f1.8
http://www.coppatopphotos.com/img/v4/p1063343939-5.jpg

2. @f2.2
http://www.coppatopphotos.com/img/v1/p12538380-5.jpg

[rustyjaw]

So after 3 bad lenses from Amazon, my 4th came today from B&H and IT WORKS!! It focuses very nicely! Finally!

[John_TX]

So after 3 bad lenses from Amazon, my 4th came today from B&H and IT WORKS!! It focuses very nicely! Finally!

The good copy I got last week was also from B&H.
Were you the one who posted the review on Amazon about getting 3 bad copies in a row? If not, that makes at least 2 people during the last couple of weeks who have gone through 6-8 lenses with Amazon.

[badgerW]

If anybody's looking for a good copy, I've got one for sale in the FS forum; see link in sig. Sample photos included (most of which were already posted in this thread here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=6345183&postcount=866)).

[S-S]

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=345198&stc=1&d=1235601338

[Pauly_G]

Cool photo somethingsimple - how did you chance upon this?

[kevin612]

Seems this lens is quite good for taking family pictures and some life pictures.
Might want to get this as well
Hahah
Thanks for sharing out the pictures.

[S-S]

Cool photo somethingsimple - how did you chance upon this?

they are regulars in my garden.. this one was a few hours early but that didnt stop it wandering about so we fed it some snails

the cats only went near it twice... odd cos usually they chase everything that moves

[Pauly_G]

Ah ha! I guess the hedgehog doesn't move very fast when curled up - not unless the cats start playing a bit of football with it!

[S-S]

not very fast LOL ive got about 15 pics of it in that exact same position with only the cats moving around it, paying it no attention whatsoever

[bReed]

i want this lens.

[Tortie]

i want this lens.
+1 I'm in the same boat.

[Karizmatik]

I'm about to buy this lens - Will be buying from a shop, so I'll have a few to choose from.

I just wanted to know, 'cause it seems to happen alot - But, how can I tell the difference between a good copy/bad copy?

Do the bad copies just not focus fast? Or does it focus, but focus on the wrong thing? Or just bad, soft images?

I'll be checking a few copies before I buy one, so any help on finding a good copy would be great!!

[-spam-]

Still completely in love with this lens. Tack sharp and great for a general purpose prime.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3282/3315374639_0b4b2da884_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/-spam-/3315374639/)

[Jman13]

I'm about to buy this lens - Will be buying from a shop, so I'll have a few to choose from.

I just wanted to know, 'cause it seems to happen alot - But, how can I tell the difference between a good copy/bad copy?

Do the bad copies just not focus fast? Or does it focus, but focus on the wrong thing? Or just bad, soft images?

I'll be checking a few copies before I buy one, so any help on finding a good copy would be great!!

You'll know. I had two bad focusing copies before I got a good one (and it was really, really good). The bad ones front focused so horribly on anything over 10 feet away that it was silly...like focusing on a house 85 feet away would put the focus point 12 feet from me.

[Karizmatik]

So I'll be able to tell if I just take some shots in the store and just zoom in/view them on the LCD?

[Pauly_G]

So I'll be able to tell if I just take some shots in the store and just zoom in/view them on the LCD?

It should give you a good idea -that's certainly what I did, although you can't beat downloading to a laptop for proper pixel peeping.... in fact I have become a little bit too obsessed with peeping....

[ExpensiveHobby]

i like how this lens look gigantic on a small body haha

[Pauly_G]

Something a little bit different with the lens...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3551/3319366463_ed695cfa8c.jpg

There's a bigger version on my Flickr

[John_TX]

This thread has been a little quiet lately.
40D w/Sigma 30mm @ f1.8, ISO 800, 1/20, hand held.

[Tony-S]

A couple more. This lens is great, even at f/1.4. I'm keeping my crop body only because my 30mm is so awesome. First is our good friend Mr. Potato Head, and the second is from Tortoni's in Buenos Aires.

[Tony-S]

A couple more from Tortoni's.

[Pauly_G]

Another car orientated photo - a bit noisy since I bumped the exposure in pp.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3314/3342230536_76cef2fe4a_b.jpg

[dlintz]

Despite the noise I like it.

Going full frame next week....I'm really gonna miss this lens.

d.

[ppucci]

YAAAAAY Mine arrived today!!! :D Can't wait to go home and try it... Too bad it came with a huge fingerprint on the front element... :/ By the way, do you guys think it is ok to use those cleaning pens?

[Karizmatik]

http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/images/spudzcloth.jpg

These guys work a treat - I think you can get em' on EBay for like $4.00

[bReed]

bought this lens the other day and i love it!

[jon_ridley]

Just one from a recent gig. Click for bigger.

Canon 40d f/1.4 1/60 ISO1000

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3591/3346815285_28e23feb6a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon_ridley/3346815285/in/set-72157615043195197/)

[bReed]

A few from today of my girlfriend.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3657/3350673786_a96ea3d05a.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3349869797_a584afdc63.jpg?v=0\
Let me know what you think! Thanks.

[S-S]

i just use a cheap microfibre lens cloth, one of the newer design that has lots of tiny bobbles on it - no water required even for greasy fingers! i bought about 6 & just wash them when they get dirty

[tkbslc]

A few from today of my girlfriend.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3657/3350673786_a96ea3d05a.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3349869797_a584afdc63.jpg?v=0\
Let me know what you think! Thanks.

I don't like the angle/perspective of the first one, but the second is superb. I think color works better for this kind of environment, too. Nice work and good example of what the 30 can do for portraiture.

[ppucci]

Here are a couple of pics I managed to take... could not hold him seated any longer :D I think the outcome is good if you consider it is a Canon XS body... :D

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_9Q_wRHor270/SbquhgfQ93I/AAAAAAAAC7E/I_UvE_w6pZI/s912/IMG_6272.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_9Q_wRHor270/SbquiIt2LkI/AAAAAAAAC7M/MH5wtPimYqM/s912/IMG_6269.JPG

[nekrit]

Got mine today, very happy so far. Pleasantly surprised by build quality and lack of focus issues. :)

[KarlosDaJackal]

One from this morning

30mm - f/1.8 - 1/3200 - ISO100

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1057/3352926003_c4ceb7d4dd_b.jpg
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/karldenby/3352926003/)

[kwws]

Just got my 30mm 1 week ago...the sharpness n contrast is amazing starting at f2 & peaks at f4! I was damn lucky as my copy has no infinity focus or back/front focus issues. Nvrtheless I was noted that sometimes the accuracy might not be 100% spot-on...around 70-80% mayb, at aperture 1.4-2.

AF at 1.4 is a tough one as a slight change in AF position especially on subject with delicate shapes seems to alter the AF spot completely!:p

All n all, i didn't regret over this purchase to replace my 18-55IS kit!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3582/3350553381_7f3c0445c2.jpg
taken with 30mm @ 1.4

[HSK]

Looks awesome. I don't think I could buy it right now and couple it with a body without micro adjustment (in case it really needs it).

[KarlosDaJackal]

Looks awesome. I don't think I could buy it right now and couple it with a body without micro adjustment (in case it really needs it).

Why not buy it, most of them work out of the box, the few that don't can be sent to sigma and come back working within a week or two. Worst case scenario you are without it two weeks. If your unsure buy it locally in a store where you can try before you buy, its a recession they should be going out of there way to make sure you happy with it.

[HSK]

A week or two? That's not bad at all! - well hopefully it wouldn't need to come to that anyways, I think I'll go try one out :)

[ppucci]

mine seems to be one from a good batch, I think... :) Can't complain at the pictures, they do look really nice. One thing I think a lot of people get confused is taking pictures on 1.4 and getting focus wrong... Shooting in 1.4 is really tricky.

Anyway, one thing I noticed is that sometimes autofocus won't lock on anything, then I release the shutter and press it halfway again (without moving) and it will lock right on. Do you guys have to do that too sometimes?

[bReed]

Is there some sort of filter i can buy so i am able to shoot at 1.4 in the day light? my friend was telling me about one.

[John_TX]

Is there some sort of filter i can buy so i am able to shoot at 1.4 in the day light? my friend was telling me about one.

Yep, you'll want to pick up a Neutral Density filter. Usually 0.6 or 0.9 are typically pretty popular, but it all depends on how many stops you need to gain.


From B&H...
Neutral Density filters have four main uses


• To enable slow shutter speeds to be used, especially with high speed films, to record movement in subjects such as waterfalls, clouds, or cars
• To decrease depth of field by allowing wider apertures to be used, which helps separate subjects from their background
• To decrease the effective ISO of high speed film (above ISO 400) and allow it to be used outdoors in bright situations
• To allow cine and video cameras (which have fixed shutter speeds) to film subjects such as snow, sand or other bright scenes which could cause overexposure Neutral Density factors


• ND.3 (exposure adjustment = 1 stop, reduces ISO 1/2)
• ND.6 (exposure adjustment = 2 stops, reduces ISO 1/4)
• ND.9 (exposure adjustment = 3 stops, reduces ISO 1/8)
• ND 1.8 (exposure adjustment = approx. 6 stops, transmits 1% of light,)
• ND 3.0 (exposure adjustment = 10 stops, transmits 0.1% of light)
• ND 4.0 (exposure adjustment = 13-2/3 stops, transmits 0.01% of light)
• ND 6.0 = (exposure adjustment = approx. 20 stops)

[bReed]

Thank you!

Okay i looked it up on bhphoto but i cant tell a difference in these besides the huge price gap!
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/35978-REG/Konica_Minolta_7262302_62mm_Neutral_Density_ND_.ht ml

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/491473-REG/LEE_Filters_9NDG_4x4_Neutral_Density_ND_.html

any help?

[S-S]

taken yesterday

[S-S]

Is there some sort of filter i can buy so i am able to shoot at 1.4 in the day light? my friend was telling me about one.

haha i just shoot at 1.4 all the time & never worry about it
have you actually tried using it in full daylight, & seen what results you get? if your camera has a fast enough shutter you should be fine

unless you're trying for slow shutter effects

[John_TX]

These are the few times when ISO 50 or even ISO 25 would be nice on the xxD series.

[bReed]

haha i just shoot at 1.4 all the time & never worry about it
have you actually tried using it in full daylight, & seen what results you get? if your camera has a fast enough shutter you should be fine

unless you're trying for slow shutter effects
yes i have and i bump it as far as i can go and comes out bad. its really sunny in california!

[GregSteer]

It's a pretty bland boring photo but it is a testiment to the sharpness of this lens:

Full shot:
http://www.darklight.org.uk/images/potn/lensarchives/30mmsharp.jpg

100% Crop:
http://www.darklight.org.uk/images/potn/lensarchives/30mmsharpcrop.jpg

[bReed]

You guys were right i could shoot at 1.4 in the day time :)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3432/3364035081_08e89969b5.jpg?v=0

[BKGInc]

This lens seems to do well for portraits. I can't wait to start using mine. I had it for about a week and havent really used it yet.

[runninmann]

This lens seems to do well for portraits. I can't wait to start using mine. I had it for about a week and havent really used it yet.When I saw your post regarding using the 30 for portraits, I clicked on your gear list link. You've made some serious lens adjustments!:)

[BKGInc]

When I saw your post regarding using the 30 for portraits, I clicked on your gear list link. You've made some serious lens adjustments!:)

Haha, Yes I have. I'm trying to find that "right" one for me and for what I want. My 16-35L works out perfect for indoor night club shooting which I do regularly, and I can use it for portraits as well. I just wanted a lens that was faster than f/2.8. This 30mm Sigma seems like the biggest bang for the buck.

[jdlloyd67]

Just pulled the trigger and ordered one of these. I hadn't even given this lens any consideration but after speaking with the guy I sold my 17-40L too I thought I'd check it out. The images in here are fantastic and it's exactly what I'm looking for at a price that won't have me sleeping on the couch for a month. Can't wait to get it and post some shots. :D

[S-S]

You guys were right i could shoot at 1.4 in the day time :)


;-)

[Supa Lao]

Just took this a few mins ago. I've had my sigma for a few weeks now. I did send it back b/c there was dust in the center of the lens and I asked them to check the autofocus also since it was already there.

shot wide open natural sunlight.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b234/Supa_Lao/internet/IMG_1177.jpg

[KarlosDaJackal]

I loaned mine to a guy with a 17-55 f/2.8 IS. He has said in the past "I will never buy a Sigma". Now he says "You've never getting it back" :lol:

He will give it back, but damn do I miss it after only 4 days :shock:

[Supersignet]

I loved this lens when I had it. A move away from my loved Canon gear forced me to sell it and the coming upgrade to full frame means I probably won't have any need for it again. It served me well when I had it and I'd recommend it to anyone who's in the market for a fast prime.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbKFkb8e6UI/AAAAAAAAEqg/z8P4mqRFrwQ/s720/random-4-2.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbKFvmKbwTI/AAAAAAAAErw/CD9T8q9KX1g/s720/random-6-3.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbKFwhK3r8I/AAAAAAAAEr4/pp6U2FQYJLo/s720/random-5-3.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbKGF7ncw7I/AAAAAAAAEuk/kXNJa1iUpZo/s720/random-2-6.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbKF0VvZb0I/AAAAAAAAEsY/_pMHAY22y_g/s720/random-44.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbIT6awH1-I/AAAAAAAADj4/REiqp62QpjY/s720/_MG_9236.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/SbIT13k2tKI/AAAAAAAADjo/GeRrEpYuy0Q/s720/_MG_8846.jpg

[jdlloyd67]

f/1.4

http://www.emilkara.com/Images/COHIBA.jpg

Now this is an awesome shot!!! Should be in a magazine.

[dgoakill]

So I got this lens about a year ago and new it had some front focusing issues but they only seemed to be apparent at 1.4 which I rarely if ever shoot on simply because the DOF is too shallow for my liking. Anyway, I planned on sending it back, but life got in the way to make a long story short haven't shoot a whole lot until recently.

I've noticed that aside form the the front focusing issue the lens seems a bit soft compared to shots I've seen here. Is this a side effect of the focusing issue or is there something else going on as well?

http://dgoakill.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p814680589-4.jpg

it clearly is front focusing so it seems as though 10mm is the center (even though I obviously focused on 0) but even the 10mm line doesn't seem as sharp as should to me, or am I being to picky?

[Coppatop85]

shoulda sent it back when it was under warranty man, it truly is a great lens once it is calibrated properly.

[dgoakill]

shoulda sent it back when it was under warranty man, it truly is a great lens once it is calibrated properly.

yeah it was one of those things "i have to do that" and just never got around to it. but becuase I don't use it that much wide open, I always had the "I'll do it next week attitude."

It came with a 4 year warrenty. So I should be okay, right? Just want to know if the sharpness of what is in focus is as sharp as it should or should I tell them that there is more then one thing wrong?

[dgoakill]

weird thing is that I did focus tests a couple times over the last year and never had results this off... it was only about 1mm off and seems like it has gotten worse over time. Is this possible?

this is a shot from christmas that I was happy with, 1/60 iso 1600, but f/3.2 not 1.4.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3353/3198745125_b312461a47_o.jpg

considering the lighting conditions and the slow shutter hand held, shots like this added to me putting off sending it in.

[John_TX]

Yeah, you should be good under the 4yr warranty. I think this lens has been out maybe 2yrs?
Maybe the lens got bumped really hard or your body is acting up?

[dgoakill]

Yeah, you should be good under the 4yr warranty. I think this lens has been out maybe 2yrs?
Maybe the lens got bumped really hard or your body is acting up?

that's what I'm afraid of, I know they want you to send the camera in as well which I wasn't going to do. the only other lens I have is the kit 55mm lens but don't know how to run a comparison between the two, to see if there is an issue with the body separate form the focusing issue.

[John_TX]

that's what I'm afraid of, I know they want you to send the camera in as well which I wasn't going to do. the only other lens I have is the kit 55mm lens but don't know how to run a comparison between the two, to see if there is an issue with the body separate form the focusing issue.

If you have a tripod, I'd throw the 30mm on it and shoot the focus chart with AF and then manually focus with liveview and see if that sharpens the shot any. Something may have gotten knocked out of alignment internally. That would explain why it might be a little softer than normal & the front-focus issue.
Either way, I'd send in just the lens initially. I'm not sure I'd ever feel comfortable sending a body to someone besides Canon.

[dgoakill]

If you have a tripod, I'd throw the 30mm on it and shoot the focus chart with AF and then manually focus with liveview and see if that sharpens the shot any. Something may have gotten knocked out of alignment internally. That would explain why it might be a little softer than normal & the front-focus issue.
Either way, I'd send in just the lens initially. I'm not sure I'd ever feel comfortable sending a body to someone besides Canon.

manual focus is fine, guess it is just the lens, the kit lens at other apertures seems fine as well. not sure if the lens took a hit or what. I did take it out in the cold weather in February for a few hours.....oh well, back to sigma it goes.

[X-Warrior]

it clearly is front focusing so it seems as though 10mm is the center (even though I obviously focused on 0) but even the 10mm line doesn't seem as sharp as should to me, or am I being to picky?

Sharpness doesn't look too bad to me. In the end, there's a limit to what your body will do - AA filter being the cause if I'm not mistaken. Sharpening in PP is generally applied to compensate.

[dgoakill]

well I sent it back today, they were totally cool about it being over a year, but then again it does have the 4 year warranty, which is great since I bought it from sigma4less and assumed it was only a one year warranty.:shock: