Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 EX DG HSM

[beironxx]

Uuauuu nice pictures GSH and Bobster

[S-S]

hey bobster, tell me why you prefer the sigma over the non-IS canon?

(and anyone who is the opposite, tell me why as well, please)

[JBerlotti]

I have the Canon IS. I picked up the Canon for the IS. The color and contrast is better, not rediculously better, but better on the Canon. I also like the Canon for its USM over the HSM on the Sigma. It focuses way faster and is silent. The Sigma is a great lens but it just doesn't touch the Canon. If Sigma put OS in their lens then it would be pretty damn close to the Canon. My humble opinion.

[S-S]

what about those who chose the non-IS canon over the siggy? interested to hear

[GMCPhotographics]

I have the Canon IS. I picked up the Canon for the IS. The color and contrast is better, not rediculously better, but better on the Canon. I also like the Canon for its USM over the HSM on the Sigma. It focuses way faster and is silent. The Sigma is a great lens but it just doesn't touch the Canon. If Sigma put OS in their lens then it would be pretty damn close to the Canon. My humble opinion.

Actually, you'll find that the contrast of the EX DG (non macro) is better than the Canon IS or non IS versions. IQ and sharpness...there are as good as each other with nothing between them. Where the Canon is slightly better is with vignetting at f2.8 (by f4 it's equal) and a slightly more accurate AF system (although the Sigma is extreamly good). The Canon is also better with flare...but then, who's gonna point a 200mm at the sun?

Seriously, the Sigma is a great optic but like every brand of this particular lens configuration...drop it into a Sigma workshop and get it calibrated.

As I've said before, I've run one of these for many years now along side a Canon IS version. In light room, I can't tell them apart unless i look up the Exif.
I personally think that there is more between photographers than there is between these two lenses ;)

[GSH]

Uuauuu nice pictures GSH and Bobster

I get the occasional "good" picture with these cheap lenses ;)

[_aravena]

Actually, you'll find that the contrast of the EX DG (non macro) is better than the Canon IS or non IS versions. IQ and sharpness...there are as good as each other with nothing between them. Where the Canon is slightly better is with vignetting at f2.8 (by f4 it's equal) and a slightly more accurate AF system (although the Sigma is extreamly good). The Canon is also better with flare...but then, who's gonna point a 200mm at the sun?

Seriously, the Sigma is a great optic but like every brand of this particular lens configuration...drop it into a Sigma workshop and get it calibrated.

As I've said before, I've run one of these for many years now along side a Canon IS version. In light room, I can't tell them apart unless i look up the Exif.
I personally think that there is more between photographers than there is between these two lenses ;)

Interesting. I'm very happy with mine and as long as it keeps churning out great photos then that's as long as I'll put off Canon's IS version and get other lenses I want. :D

[Bobster]

hey bobster, tell me why you prefer the sigma over the non-IS canon?

(and anyone who is the opposite, tell me why as well, please)
it suits my shooting style - i used a 70-200 IS with a 30D back in April (i think) last year when i was helping Boundless Photos, i was shooting the speeches with it, i thought i got less keepers with it vs if i was using my Sigma.. i think it was purely down to the fact that i focus with the centre focus dot and then quickly move the lens to compose and take the shot (think i confused the IS, or it couldnt keep up?)

[S-S]

hmm i shoot that way too... *thinks*

[KayakPhotos]

A local is selling this lens:
Sigma EX 70-200mm DG HSM APO.


He says that he bought it two years ago from B&H and has the sales receipt etc. He's only asking for $500, and claims that he has never used it. He'll let me try it out to check for issues before buying. So....should I pull the trigger. I know that it is an older lens, but I've heard some good things about it. Thanks in advance for the help.

[Bobster]

if it focuses ok, and you cant find anything wrong with it, i have that version and love mine :)

[Layston]

A local is selling this lens:
Sigma EX 70-200mm DG HSM APO.

I also have this lens and it serves me quite well. It's minimum focus is a little long, but generally speaking if I'm shooting 70mm or longer I will be shooting something further than 5 or 6 feet from me anyway. Also, if for some unknown/unfathomable reason I need to shoot with it closer than this my Kenko spacer kit let's me...

I'd say for $500 BUY IT don't even think about it. I paid $750 for mine with a 2X TC. There were a couple of things wrong with mine when I got it, slightly front focusing (very slightly) and it reported the wrong focal length in the EXIF - I sent it to Sigma and they rechipped it for free and fixed the focusing while they were at it.

[_aravena]

I loved mine on the 20D and love it even more on the 40D. I have a renewed confidence in the lens that I might put off the Canon's IS version for a little while.

[pixelbasher]

I read earlier in the thread that the non DG version has ghosting issues on digi bodies? true?
If I am correct I think I am sure I saw non DG photos posted here that I assume where on digital bodies and they looked fine.
I only ask as I am looking at one, but can't test it before hand and am a bit concerned it may not be what I am after. Going on 50D.

[Layston]

I use my non-DG version on a 40D and I don't see any problems. I had to send mine back to Sigma to be rechipped because it reported the wrong focal length but they did it for free so I couldn't be happier.

[pixelbasher]

Cool. I really do want the canon 2.8L at the top of my list of zooms to buy but I just can't justify the price.
I just can't get it out of my head that I seem to be reading a whole heap of "issues" with sigmas QC and that is what bothers me. It's almost like a gamble whether it's a good one or not, and going off the sellers claims that it is indeed a "sharp one" Of course he's not going to say it's blurry as heck, and "that's why I'm selling it".......
Is the current consensus still that the early versions are sharper than the new macro versions or has the newest batch been sorted or is it simply a function of the macro that will always make it "softer"
I say softer only from what I have read on these forums

[GSH]

A local is selling this lens:
Sigma EX 70-200mm DG HSM APO.


He says that he bought it two years ago from B&H and has the sales receipt etc. He's only asking for $500, and claims that he has never used it. He'll let me try it out to check for issues before buying. So....should I pull the trigger. I know that it is an older lens, but I've heard some good things about it. Thanks in advance for the help.

Same lens on a 50D...focus point was over the number plate. I'd say it was reasonably accurate ;)
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/geoff.hubbert/Pics/Images%202009/Croft%20Historic/Croft%20Historic-0019.jpg

[_aravena]

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v6/p61036805-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v7/p186859102-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v4/p266469878-4.jpg

[50D Newbe]

Sigma 70-200mm 1:2.8 EX DG Macro HSM II

Ok this is the one Im looking into getting used. Now if I read and understood this thread correctly this is the newist version of this lens. What are your thoughts of this lens? I was just getting confused with all the differnt versions and who had what and what was better....????

Just so confused....

BTW: Its going on my 50d will be used and Im assuming that I will be able to try before buying.. Dont know how much Ill be able to view test pics in a parking lot some where but what should I be looking for?

Thanks...

[kay188]

All at 200mm, ISO 400
F/2.8 seems a bit soft at 100% in other images as well. F/4 seems way sharper in other images.

F/2.8
http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m44/kay188/Photography/IMG_7751.jpg

F/4
http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m44/kay188/Photography/IMG_7750.jpg

F/4
http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m44/kay188/Photography/IMG_7795.jpg

[trancerem]

hello people !
just joined the owners crowd, bought one used for 500$ ;)
quick review :
+ sharp at f 2.8
+ bokeh
+ precise focus
+ nice colours with some pp
+ very well built
+ black 2.8 tele lens
- very soft corners at all apertures ( even at f8 ). might be my copy only that bad
- tends to overexpose image, i shoot with -2/3 comp.
- very very subjective to flare and fringe.
- slow focus sometimes, so far vs. 70-200 L

EXIF : 5d, 70-200 2.8 hsm, 83mm, 1/125, f3.2, iso 1250, lightroom & picasa resized @ 85% quality, second is 100% crop, same settings.
No sharpening, no noise reduction.

[Rhinotherunt]

Here is a link to an image from a recent shoot:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=755467

[locky]

hello people !
just joined the owners crowd, bought one used for 500$ ;)
quick review :
+ sharp at f 2.8
+ bokeh
+ precise focus
+ nice colours with some pp
+ very well built
+ black 2.8 tele lens
- very soft corners at all apertures ( even at f8 ). might be my copy only that bad
- tends to overexpose image, i shoot with -2/3 comp.
- very very subjective to flare and fringe.
- slow focus sometimes, so far vs. 70-200 L

EXIF : 5d, 70-200 2.8 hsm, 83mm, 1/125, f3.2, iso 1250, lightroom & picasa resized @ 85% quality, second is 100% crop, same settings.
No sharpening, no noise reduction.

This example would make me not buy this lens. Luckily there are some better examples than this. Im not trying to be harsh about the picture but you have to have better than this.

[_aravena]

That was a needed comment to revive this thread...

[Darkwand]

http://i1005.photobucket.com/albums/af173/Darkwand/IMG_4036.jpg

I'm glad I'm not a bird and had a warm car 100m away

[JoeyBowman]

I used to own this lens, I truly enjoyed it and almost regret letting it go.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2618/3854434961_484c65ef24_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3458/3404966344_8f8792056c_o.jpg

http://www.cherishthemomentphotography.net/Cherish-The-Moment-Photography/Portfolio/Portfolio/IMG8084/766314533_n2TYg-L.jpg

http://www.cherishthemomentphotography.net/Cherish-The-Moment-Photography/Portfolio/Portfolio/smallIMG2661/522191701_eVRpA-L-4.jpg

[_aravena]

I still love this lens! I just used it a whole bunch and I'll be posting some photos soon! Headshots, circus, and a political conference. It was dark, so it'll show how nice it performs in low light with a little flash help.

[Bobster]

with a 2x tele attached
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/120443633.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/121107447.jpg

[_aravena]

District Senator Mike Haridopolos
http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v8/p941702693-4.jpg

Govenor Charlie Crist of Florida
http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v4/p991049974-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v5/p811091708-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v5/p922061483-4.jpg

[Grady69]

couldnt see the pics^

[KayakPhotos]

Nice! I need to pick up a couple tc's...

http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/121107447.jpg[/quote]

[zelseman]

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/v1/p855712655-5.jpg

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/v1/p806371568-5.jpg

[Jonathan Taylor]

from the past couple shoots...

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs122.snc3/16954_1184600106426_1570950073_30436416_3712793_n. jpg http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs122.snc3/16954_1172807291613_1570950073_30413003_6907621_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs142.snc3/16954_1185028917146_1570950073_30437778_3879065_n. jpg

[_aravena]

couldnt see the pics^

Should be there now.

[Grady69]

Should be there now.

Nice Shots!

[4walls]

...
Hey, nice BB shots. What ISO were you using for these? I have been shooting some of my daughter's basketball games and trying to figure out what the best settings are for the 20D.

Actually, I am thinking the best settings might be to use the 7D ;) (which I don't own YET).

[Bobster]

another with x2 tele
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/121551085.jpg

[Grady69]

Just got mine thursday and here is a couple of ducks, So far im pretty pleased with it.

[Bobster]

Hey, nice BB shots. What ISO were you using for these? I have been shooting some of my daughter's basketball games and trying to figure out what the best settings are for the 20D.

Actually, I am thinking the best settings might be to use the 7D ;) (which I don't own YET).
id go with ISO3200, 2.8 on the 20D

[trancerem]

at 200 2.8 this lens has a nice bokeh. :)

exif intact

[Grady69]

here are some more ducks and a goose.

[KayakPhotos]

here are some more ducks and a goose.

Looks like you got a good copy :)

[Foil]

One of my Favorites,a Shot taken by the "Vogtland Rallye" 2008, 40D with Sigma 70-200mm 2.8http://www.ogbamudu.de/web/media/potn/_MG4458.jpg

[Grady69]

Took these at the Topeka, Ks zoo.

[Grady69]

And these too.

[Grady69]

And here is a couple more. I am really liking this lens ALOT!

[theextremist04]

I'm going through the shots I took in Chicago and wondering why I would ever switch to the Canon version...all of these are wide open by the way.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2689/4442387132_9495dd973f_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4441606433_0211d931a9_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4441605037_d1b0b82027_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4441603517_d7be95b1d2_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4442383996_e07834c357_o.jpg

[Grady69]

Here is couple from earlier this week.

[moronNZ]

on 40D
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4384852104_835e0001ea_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2800/4450136981_bd9f14917b_o.jpg

on 5D2
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4450909194_d189f76051_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4450909316_903ea54a0e_o.jpg

all were shot at 200mm @ F2.8...

this lens can deliver good sharpness but its IQ at near MFD is a bit lacking.:rolleyes:

[aCiD99]

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23865_10150167195930601_532550600_11800715_7976068 _n.jpg

[tutwood]

had this lens for awhile now looking forward to good reviews of the new OS one pics from bass rock

[katodog]

Bought this lens recently because I was looking for a good f/2.8 zoom. Of course I wanted the IS L, but decided that I'd be better off saving my money for bigger and better things. So far I'm pleased with the lens, but haven't got much use out of it yet because of being sick for a while. Tonight will be it's first true test, my daughter at her horse riding lesson.

So, here's a few of my first with this lens...



http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Birds/IMG_2773a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Birds/IMG_2780a.jpg

[tutwood]

both taken with sig 70-200 at blair drummond park which has a very good rapter display

[katodog]

Here's some more shots from my copy...


http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Cosley%20Zoo/IMG_3091a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Cosley%20Zoo/IMG_3245a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Cosley%20Zoo/IMG_3264a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Cosley%20Zoo/IMG_3437a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Cosley%20Zoo/IMG_3451a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Cosley%20Zoo/IMG_3776a.jpg

[Grady69]

Heres a couple from today, and yes its more ducks lol. Not much to shoot around here today, and settled for ducks and geese to tryout my new monopod. C&C welcome thanks for looking.
Grady

[theextremist04]

Some from a track meet the other day:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2744/4468113304_fa1d55301b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2725/4467337519_29e93cb942.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4467335347_b8c967d273.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4467334165_2de7b5103a.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/4467335883_436f687633.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2769/4467337103_f0c17b12a3.jpg

[Darkwand]

Took some bird pics today

Straight from the camera
http://i1005.photobucket.com/albums/af173/Darkwand/fagel1024.jpg

Sharpness raised from 4 to 6 in DPP
http://i1005.photobucket.com/albums/af173/Darkwand/Fagel21024.jpg

[4walls]

I haven't used my 70-200 in a while, but even though it is a little older it still performs wonderfully.
Especially now that the 7D is behind it...

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/3884432/Screen%20shot%202010-04-02%20at%202.49.42%20PM.jpeg
(photo also posted in 7D pics thread)

[robgr85]

Here is one taken with the 2nd version of that lens with 400D:


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2724/4479211617_95e7dce81f_o.jpg
(http://robertgrubba.com/galerie/2010_pomorze_seahawks_kozly_poznan/)

[_aravena]

From a recent shoot
http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v0/p1060549805-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v4/p803311305-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v7/p671653494-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v4/p75544867-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v10/p682868553-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/v9/p714407887-4.jpg

[Grady69]

Here is a couple from yesterday.

[KayakPhotos]

Nice! Which version of the lens did you end up with?

[Grady69]

Nice! Which version of the lens did you end up with?

The EX DG HSM version

[Rhinotherunt]

One of my favorite lenses...

From a wedding yesterday:
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4491181888_95a3180365_o.jpg

[Grady69]

One of my favorite lenses...

From a wedding yesterday:
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4491181888_95a3180365_o.jpg

Nice shot!

[katodog]

I haven't been using mine much, been shooting too much wildlife to use it. But, here's another shot from me...


http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/IMG_4725a.jpg

[4walls]

I haven't been using mine much, been shooting too much wildlife to use it. But, here's another shot from me...

Isn't this a good lens for wildlife, or do you have something longer?

[KayakPhotos]

Isn't this a good lens for wildlife, or do you have something longer?

It does a pretty good job for larger wildlife if you can get close to it, especially on a crop camera. I believe that he also has the Sigma 150-500 though, which would be better for wildlife.

[katodog]

I have a Sigma 150-500mm OS that I use for wildlife. I would use this lens but the owls I've been shooting lately have been too far for 200mm. I did think of putting a 2xTC on it, but even 400mm would be too short. I've been using a TC on my 150-500mm to get close enough, so that kinda tells how far they are. I would have no problem at all using the 70-200mm for wildlife, and plan on giving it a lot of use at the zoos and the arboretum. I just haven't been out to use it yet.

Here's another shot, our puppy seems to have an issue with trying to eat bugs. She kept jumping up to try and eat the gnats flying around. She was chasing a bumble bee earlier, I hope she doesn't do it too often and get stung...


http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/IMG_4674a.jpg

[katodog]

The shots I posted before from the zoo show that it's a good lens if you can get close. Here's two more, my daughter swings pretty fast, so I think this shows how good the lens can be for moving subjects. Not to mention that these two and the previous two were shot with a 20D, my 40D is at Canon right now, so I've had to shoot with my two 20D bodies.


http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/IMG_4696a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/IMG_4688a.jpg

[zelseman]

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/v6/p889980678-5.jpg

And this is not the best picture as the lighting was less than desired, but the second woman from the left is the late Wilma Mankiller. She was the first female cheif of the Cherokee Nation and she passed away earlier today. She will be greatly missed. Just a little history for the POTN'ers.

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/v4/p596899470-4.jpg

[vos07]

Question, I read through all the forum rules and can't find whether or not you can post a link to Craigslist, etc? I was gonna throw out a link to a guy who just lowered his to $450 b/c he says he needs to sell fast. Let me know if anyone is interested and if its allowed.

[katodog]

Shots from today...


http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Horses/IMG_1786a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Horses/IMG_2127a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Horses/IMG_2273a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Horses/IMG_2237a.jpg

[TheMaggedy]

http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2798/854155215_y9Ntm-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854155215_y9Ntm-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2690/854238444_LDNda-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854238444_LDNda-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2864/854240427_3kL3F-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854240427_3kL3F-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2582-2/854152352_mmfWT-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854152352_mmfWT-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2562/854151858_3h3KV-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854151858_3h3KV-A-LB)

[Grady69]

http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2798/854155215_y9Ntm-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854155215_y9Ntm-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2690/854238444_LDNda-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854238444_LDNda-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2864/854240427_3kL3F-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854240427_3kL3F-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2582-2/854152352_mmfWT-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854152352_mmfWT-A-LB)


http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/IMG2562/854151858_3h3KV-L-4.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Forgey-Dog-Park/11576028_neSHg#854151858_3h3KV-A-LB)
Nice Shots!

[TheMaggedy]

A quick shot from this morning almost SOOC. I should have cropped to have him less centered but I have the disease of centering :)

http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Pets/IMG4521/859704318_QcpEc-L-1.jpg (http://mairimages.smugmug.com/Current-Work/Pets/12098100_pKAfv#859704318_QcpEc-A-LB)

[Grady69]

took these today while on break on work... really on break lol

[Grady69]

Well Im going to the NHRA drag races tomorrow and Im just taking this lens, cuz I feel it will be planted on my camera 90% of the time anyway. I will post my favorites when I get home and do whatever post-processing is needed to them.
Grady

[JoeyBowman]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs346.ash1/29441_123637650990822_100000337630054_209921_68196 27_n.jpg

[ions]

A few from my pre DX 70-200 EX:

http://home.cogeco.ca/~ionsvw/images/7D/Iris1.jpg

http://home.cogeco.ca/~ionsvw/images/7D/SunsetLeaves3.jpg

http://home.cogeco.ca/~ionsvw/images/7D/KimiSnowLR.jpg

The bokeh on this lens is fantastic.

[Grady69]

Outside with the kids tonite. here is a couple.

[JEmerson]

I've decided I'm satisfied with this copy of the lens I bought... 200mm f/2.8 SOOC JPEG!!!!

[526kb] - full size file!!
http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/5436/s6o3361.jpg

Honestly, thats almost as sharp as my 300mm f/2.8. I'm truly amazed actually. It's a non_DG first version. EXIF intact for you all to see!

Cool lens!!

[Bobster]

my most used lens id say..

with x2 Tele attached
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/125943598.jpg

[JEmerson]

Rob if it isn't too much hassle for you could you send me a full size shot over of some motorsport/just general shots with the 2x?

[Say 400mm, f/10ish - basically something set-up with the standard motorsport idea/vibe].

If you can I'd be VERY grateful! If not no worries!

Thanks,
Josh

[azncarbos]

I love my Sigma 70-200!

[Grady69]

I Love mine too!

[ions]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4775588081_56a668a459_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4773400386_0763ba6cc6_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4775588075_a13bdc9789_b.jpg

[JEmerson]

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/2171/s6o2183edit.jpg

70-200 EX non-DG non-Macro @ 200mm f/2.8 on 1DII - 70-200 IS being repaired (again - twice in the last month! - not a happy bunny)

[azncarbos]

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/2171/s6o2183edit.jpg

70-200 EX non-DG non-Macro @ 200mm f/2.8 on 1DII - 70-200 IS being repaired (again - twice in the last month! - not a happy bunny)

Love the shot!

That suck on IS....


Here some image I took with my non_DG version
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4775891249_c30d364638_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4775891001_924dca7070_b.jpg

[KRUSH]

One of my Favorites,a Shot taken by the "Vogtland Rallye" 2008, 40D with Sigma 70-200mm 2.8http://www.ogbamudu.de/web/media/potn/_MG4458.jpg


Now that's good shutter finger to subject timing. Great shot!

[balamri]

Hi folks,
I am about to purchase this lens ( Ef 70-200 F2.8 IS L II, plus 2x extender) through out my positive reviews about this combination. I am falling in love with it.

I have EOS 500D camera, I know its compatable with this lens. the question, is it going to give me the same razor sharp image quality pictures as the one's posted on this forum? considering most of the pictures taken with advanced EOS 1ii, EOS 5D, EOS 50D and so forth.

Thanks all,

[Bobster]

Hi folks,
I am about to purchase this lens ( Ef 70-200 F2.8 IS L II, plus 2x extender) through out my positive reviews about this combination. I am falling in love with it.

I have EOS 500D camera, I know its compatable with this lens. the question, is it going to give me the same razor sharp image quality pictures as the one's posted on this forum? considering most of the pictures taken with advanced EOS 1ii, EOS 5D, EOS 50D and so forth.

Thanks all,
only one stopping a sharp image is the photographer

[pixelbasher]

Hi folks,
I am about to purchase this lens ( Ef 70-200 F2.8 IS L II, plus 2x extender) through out my positive reviews about this combination. I am falling in love with it.

I have EOS 500D camera, I know its compatable with this lens. the question, is it going to give me the same razor sharp image quality pictures as the one's posted on this forum? considering most of the pictures taken with advanced EOS 1ii, EOS 5D, EOS 50D and so forth.

Thanks all,

Just for your consideration given you mentioned the 50D, my brother in law has a 500D, I have a 50D. He has just bought a Canon 100 F2.8 macro and we were messing about with it one afternoon. We took exactly the same photo of exactly the same thing as quickly as we could swap the bodies over, and you can not tell the difference between the pictures with the same lens......which I did expect to see given the 2 bodies run the same sensor. I can't speak of any other canon bodys though.

I always told my bro in law the difference in his and mine was not the quality of the body, but the quality of the lens. After this experiment, he now is happy with his camera ;) His wife however is not happy as he now wants to sell his kit lenses and buy better lenses!

[andrewq]

Extremely impressive images here. It has me really thinking. I am a live music photographer and I have used a 70-200 f/2.8 L and was incredibly impressed with the speed of the AF which is crucial in my photography. How is the speed of the AF on this Sigma in low light? Is it comparable to the L in speed? Would be rad if there is a music photog who has this lens that can really let me know!

Thanks!

[ions]

Mine is slower. Definitely slower. Not really close even.

[Bobster]

Extremely impressive images here. It has me really thinking. I am a live music photographer and I have used a 70-200 f/2.8 L and was incredibly impressed with the speed of the AF which is crucial in my photography. How is the speed of the AF on this Sigma in low light? Is it comparable to the L in speed? Would be rad if there is a music photog who has this lens that can really let me know!

Thanks!
i use mine for events and music
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/124769555.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/125206433.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/120495123.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/119954608.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/117427106.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/117622049.jpg

[_aravena]

That's what I use mine for and sports. I use it for a lot but it performs well for my 3 main events: weddings, sports, & concerts.

[andrewq]

great, great info and wonderfully sharp shots. So do you need the IS (or OS in Sigma's case) version or no? I was asssuming that the IS would be pretty necessary.

Thanks again for the posts! Very helpful!

p.s. Bobster, it looks like in three of the four shots you used a flash. Does it seem to perform just as well without the flash? I rarely fire my flash.

[Bobster]

p.s. Bobster, it looks like in three of the four shots you used a flash. Does it seem to perform just as well without the flash? I rarely fire my flash.
check your eyes again, there are 6 shots ;) - i have only used flash once at a gig and that was because it was thrash metal..
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/92906322.jpg

i know plenty of photographers who use flash when they shoot a gig and their results suck!

the venue where i'm house tog, i have a no flash rule, if i see someone with a SLR using a strobe, i give them 3 warnings then they're banned..

and this thread is for the old Sigma 70-200 2.8 - not the newer versions..

[andrewq]

check your eyes again, there are 6 shots ;) - i have only used flash once at a gig and that was because it was thrash metal..
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/92906322.jpg

i know plenty of photographers who use flash when they shoot a gig and their results suck!

the venue where i'm house tog, i have a no flash rule, if i see someone with a SLR using a strobe, i give them 3 warnings then they're banned..

and this thread is for the old Sigma 70-200 2.8 - not the newer versions..

What can I say it was late. I agree flash is the suck. That means your pictures are extra rad. Wow. So I could do pretty damn well with an old version of the 2.8 and not have to worry about the OS. I think I just heard my wallet sigh. You just gave me a bunch to think about and get excited over.

[Bobster]

What can I say it was late. I agree flash is the suck. That means your pictures are extra rad. Wow.its ok :)
and thanks :D
So I could do pretty damn well with an old version of the 2.8 and not have to worry about the OS. I think I just heard my wallet sigh. You just gave me a bunch to think about and get excited over.
YMMV.. i have a pretty steady hand and have no problem hand holding 200mm+ at ridiculously slow shutter speeds

[rdsmith3]

I have the old version. Here is a run-of-the-mill-Christmas-play-snapshot but it shows that you can do f/2.8 at 200 mm at ISO 3200 hand held.

http://rdsmith3.smugmug.com/Events/Grace-Christmas-Play-12509/Grace-Christmas5/736413808_QjPvL-L.jpg

[Bobster]

yeah, 200mm 1/60 ISO1600
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/107163323.jpg

[john.hem]

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y21/johnhem/Laura_levels-and-back.jpg

Canon 20D Sigma 70-200mm

John

[-AP-]

I have this lens for sale locally on CL and have had no interest in it at $500.00. Is that to much for this lens? I had the front element replaced and completely gone through. The images it takes are superb. I can't imagine selling for much less but I could be wrong..

Thanks.

[theextremist04]

I wouldn't think so, I got mine for right about that used.

[ions]

Sounds like a fair price to me too. I checked out what they were going for late last year when I briefly debated selling mine. Unless it's beat up looking?

[-AP-]

Thanks. I thought it was fair. I did get a call today and was asked to send some low light examples. I think it's a good lens but just got an mkii, so the funds will go toward a flash or Fisheye, or 15-85. Not sure yet..
Thanks again.

[runninmann]

Thanks. I thought it was fair. I did get a call today and was asked to send some low light examples. I think it's a good lens but just got an mkii, so the funds will go toward a flash or Fisheye, or 15-85. Not sure yet..
Thanks again.Mark II what? Are you planning to use the 15-85 on it?

[-AP-]

Mark II what? Are you planning to use the 15-85 on it?

No no. I'm sorry., A 70-200 IS II

[runninmann]

No no. I'm sorry., A 70-200 IS II:o:o Oh...oh, yeah.

[Grady69]

Took these today with mine. Its on my camera 80-90% percent of the time.

[ions]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4883670701_c3e550c874_z.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4883694827_28b2983c97_z.jpg

[queenbee288]

I bought this lens used here on the forum for $525 and I am very happy with my copy of this lens. This photo is at 200 focal length using a monopod. This is about a 70% crop.

http://lanephotography.smugmug.com/Nature/UK-ARBORETUM/arboretum-8-21-108715/985165403_QQ2tG-L.jpg

[Bobster]

loving the way you isolated the flower :D

one from the other week - made a sale as well, i handed a business card to the rider after the competition and he purchased a digital copy . not too bad considering i was just out with the family and it was my first time shooting horse jumping :)
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/128068760.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Wow, some excellent shots in here....Will have mine on Tuesday, ordered it used off Adorama. Not sure which version it is..... just said EX APO HSM AF/EOS in the ad (Didn't say macro or IF). As such, I'm super curious as to which it will be....
Looking forward to giving it a go....I've had bad luck with Sigma Tele-zooms, but love their primes and the wide angle zooms. This thread has got me excited

[ions]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/4957586829_9b10e92bb3.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/4957586829/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/4960407793_e31997663f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/4960407793/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/4957586781_3b19aa93c9.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/4957586781/)

[thatkatmat]

Got my lens today... So, I bought it used from Adorama, Turns out it's an original version....It's at least 4 years old and looks like it was never used....Literally.
It's as sharp or sharper than any of the Canon L's I've owned, the colors are very rich and the contrasty images are making me very, very pleased. The HSM is a bit slower than the Canon but still...pretty good. The AF is spot on and very accurate (like the Canons)
But...I have to say....It looks really cool....LOL All sleek and black....Feels lighter than the Canon 2.8 and seems just a tad smaller too...I might be wrong.
So basically I paid about $400 less for this than I sold my 70-200/2.8L for.....

Here's some samples from my backyard at 200mm wide open, since this is where most folks seem to have issues with this lens. I converted from RAW in LR2, I added a little (about 30%, my usual) and that's it.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/4969480644_8fe1efc668_b.jpg

100%
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/4968871477_9c06302906_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/4969477152_fab5353437_b.jpg

100%
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/4968868265_57effa27aa_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/4969484254_6f5f192baf_b.jpg

100%
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/4968874929_931c5af464_b.jpg

[syntrix]

Got my lens today... So, I bought it used from Adorama, Turns out it's an original version....It's at least 4 years old and looks like it was never used....Literally.
It's as sharp or sharper than any of the Canon L's I've owned, the colors are very rich and the contrasty images are making me very, very pleased. The HSM is a bit slower than the Canon but still...pretty good. The AF is spot on and very accurate (like the Canons)
But...I have to say....It looks really cool....LOL All sleek and black....Feels lighter than the Canon 2.8 and seems just a tad smaller too...I might be wrong.
So basically I paid about $400 less for this than I sold my 70-200/2.8L for.....

Here's some samples from my backyard at 200mm wide open, since this is where most folks seem to have issues with this lens. I converted from RAW in LR2, I added a little (about 30%, my usual) and that's it.



Of all people, you just got one of these? :mrgreen:

Looks good, stop her down a bit and you'll be very surprised.

[thatkatmat]

Hey.....What's that supposed to mean...:)

I didn't know you had one too.....
Stop it down? Whataya mean, stop it down....;)

Funny, I usually give a new lens a go through the aperture range....See what I'm dealing with....With this one I was basically concerned with all the reports I heard about it wide open at 200mm....So that's what I tested it at before getting the kids to practice...
I'm sure at f4 it's really sharp and contrasty, it's already great at 2.8..... I need it to be good at 2.8....Got it for fall sports, it gets dark early here is the great pacific northwest.
I'm still a little excited that I got one with no issues. Reading these forums you'd think that any non-oem lens is gonna be a 5% chance you'll get a good one. (I've learned over the years to take it with a grain of salt, but I still find myself worried)

[rioni]

love the second pic ions

[syntrix]

I used to live in the Seattle area. I know what you mean about lack of light, not just because of the seasons, but because of the constant cloud coverage :)

[ions]

Thank you rioni. :)

[thatkatmat]

My lens is phenomenal, the bokeh is better than my previous Canon 70-200's. Focus tracking and AF in general is awesome....I like this lens better than my 70-200/2.8L (for real) it's just better....
Tell you what....You can keep your white lenses....I'll stick with the Sigma

A few from this morning at the park, all wide open and in AI Servo on my 7D.....
200mm
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/4980501462_0e3a092f10_b.jpg
200mm
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4109/4979889479_52699e930c_b.jpg
175mm
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/4979884669_451c235856_b.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Couple more from the first day of his first soccer practice

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/TJC0YB4HEyI/AAAAAAAAN7s/od9IVcdYnBo/s800/IMG_7289.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/TJC0eQSxKvI/AAAAAAAAN78/nPCb6OAX4YQ/s800/IMG_7285.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/TJC0gV2ExEI/AAAAAAAAN8A/beGb8wSOTJ4/s800/IMG_7284.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_cYmfRMewE4Q/TJC0oAGlMqI/AAAAAAAAN8Y/eWYIa0PSBdo/s800/IMG_7253.jpg

[andrewq]

those are outstanding Matt. I'm sold on this lens but for the one worry that in a dimly lit venue for music photography the lack of image stabilization when zoomed all the way to 200mm might kill the images. Music photography is a huge part of what I do. Other than that I wish I could just pull the trigger.

[thatkatmat]

Thanks.....Yeah, if you're shooting static subjects I'd definitely grab an IS lens....or maybe 85/100 or 135L for, like, a show or whatever you're shooting

[Bobster]

those are outstanding Matt. I'm sold on this lens but for the one worry that in a dimly lit venue for music photography the lack of image stabilization when zoomed all the way to 200mm might kill the images. Music photography is a huge part of what I do. Other than that I wish I could just pull the trigger.

when you've been shooting without IS, 200mm at slow shutter is 2nd nature
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/111949665.jpg
its motion @ 1/40 during a gig thats usually the killer, but then its about timing :)

[ions]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5040482320_257b2c66fe_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5040482320/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/5040482316_32cd32b2b3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5040482316/)

[_aravena]

My time at Corry Station
http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s10/v18/p642780493-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s10/v16/p547047113-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s8/v9/p30257156-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s10/v16/p924787713-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s9/v14/p1016538861-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s10/v17/p1002099300-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s9/v13/p872641572-4.jpg

http://www.lastshotphotography.com/img/s10/v18/p838685270-4.jpg

[zelseman]

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/s9/v15/p953023243-5.jpg

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/s8/v10/p947302215-5.jpg

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/s9/v13/p944008451-5.jpg

http://www.zachelsemanphotography.com/img/s10/v16/p843182342-5.jpg

[ions]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5086296753_92129eb2a1_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5086296753/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4039/5080382120_46c940ba8e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5080382120/)

[katodog]

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Ohare%20Airport/IMG_4443a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Ohare%20Airport/IMG_4442a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Ohare%20Airport/IMG_2908a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Ohare%20Airport/IMG_3074a.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/katodog/Ohare%20Airport/IMG_5155a.jpg

[Lucretius]

Edit: Wrong thread, sorry.

[ions]

Shot the 2010 Toronto Zombie walk exclusively with my Sigma 70-200 EX. Combined with my 7D I got a pile of great shots. Very few missed focus and very very few completely out of focus. Not bad for a lens I bought used in 2000 for about $600 in Tokyo. :lol:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5109680312_2e1da1f7a6_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5109680312/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/5109126629_2d63f29405_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5109126629/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/5117940769_734640b2c1_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5117940769/)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1435/5116639710_3d16eee10f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5116639710/)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1432/5114377427_917c7e879d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5114377427/)

It worked well in Landscape as well.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/5114377423_be1931aeb3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5114377423/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/5114377407_a36a29bcdc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5114377407/)

[thatkatmat]

Dang, never thought I'd be typing something like...."There's a lot of hot zombies up there eh?"...LOL

[ions]

Yeah, it's a look that really works for some gals! :lol:

[lmyamen]

Here are a few from mine, its on my 40D

Just playing around, (my fiance)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5094753264_7547dd953d_z.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4864555180_a2af8c7835_z.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4799825561_8235f9cc95_z.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4928401498_8b597b49fe_z.jpg

[maxloxton]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5095581149_2e4ebcf5e5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/yasirnisar/5095581149/)
DragonFly (http://www.flickr.com/photos/yasirnisar/5095581149/) by Max Loxton (http://www.flickr.com/people/yasirnisar/), on Flickr


One of my first shots with this lens..

1d Mark III + Sigma 70-200 2.8

[jaycky]

Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 APO EX DG OS HSM

Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 II APO EX DG Macro HSM

Need to know the diff between these 2 lenses other than the 800 bucks

All week been tracking down deals and miss them by 15 minutes show up and some bastard bought the lot of lenses.........

I found the macro one but would gather its not as good as the one in this thread correct?

[Thorrulz]

Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 APO EX DG OS HSM

Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 II APO EX DG Macro HSM

Need to know the diff between these 2 lenses other than the 800 bucks

All week been tracking down deals and miss them by 15 minutes show up and some bastard bought the lot of lenses.........

I found the macro one but would gather its not as good as the one in this thread correct?
I own the Macro version and it delivers everytime I use it, day or night.
http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae239/RickZPhoto/Sports/779750197_f51e0022.jpg
http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae239/RickZPhoto/Music/978435037_f51e0898.jpg

[ions]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/5140189860_6bc27c9f6f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherbrian/5140189860/)

[thatkatmat]

Wow....beautiful^^

[jaycky]

I own the Macro version and it delivers everytime I use it, day or night.
http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae239/RickZPhoto/Sports/779750197_f51e0022.jpg
http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae239/RickZPhoto/Music/978435037_f51e0898.jpg

really so its the same?
dayummmmmm i gotta find that guy selling it for nothing now arghhhhhh

[Bobster]

mine is starting to show its age, things are becoming loose, i'm sure there's a screw rattling inside the outer casing - i really need to send this away for Sigma to service, but its my most used lens and it would be like me losing an arm if i sent it away..

i guess i just need to bite the bullet and send it in.. :(

[thatkatmat]

Let them tune it up, maybe re-chip it for the latest Canon bodies...

[Bobster]

Let them tune it up, maybe re-chip it for the latest Canon bodies...

yeah - i'll send it in next week i think - just need to get my 17-50 back and i'll be a little happier..

one from today
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/5145738387_de6edb5a52_b.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Nice Autumn look^^

[benzer]

http://i448.photobucket.com/albums/qq207/bradparsons01/IMG_2716.jpg

http://i448.photobucket.com/albums/qq207/bradparsons01/IMG_2750.jpg

http://i448.photobucket.com/albums/qq207/bradparsons01/IMG_2703.jpg

[benzer]

http://i448.photobucket.com/albums/qq207/bradparsons01/IMG_2517.jpg