Sigma 105mm f2.8 EX DG Macro [Archive] - Canon Digital Photography Forums

Greg_C

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 05:31

I was browsing the Lens Sample Sticky here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=141406) and noticed that the Sigma 105mm f2.8 EX DG Macro was missing. I hope to rectify this here.

No.1
http://www.steadyhands.net/photogallery/albums/temp/image4590.jpg

No.2
http://www.steadyhands.net/photogallery/albums/temp/image6219.jpg

No.3
http://www.steadyhands.net/photogallery/albums/temp/image8191.jpg

No.4
http://www.steadyhands.net/photogallery/albums/temp/image7056.jpg

No.5
http://www.steadyhands.net/photogallery/albums/temp/image5550.jpg

condyk

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 05:34

Yup, really good lens. I had one but really Macro isn't my thing so I sold it. There are several other sample shots posted in various threads. i know Nitsch had one and took some great shots.

foxbat

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 07:46

Great macro lens. Wonderful colours and bokeh. Terrible auto focus if you care about that.

http://www.aprd31.dsl.pipex.com/ns/macro/ant2.jpg

Tsmith

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 08:10

Terrible auto focus if you care about that.

Do tell more on this fox _ I've always thought about getting the Canon, mainly due to the internal focusing.

& nice photos Greg.

LordV

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 08:16

My contribution- sigma 105mm EX with 33mm of ext tubes.
Brian V.
Click on pic for larger size

http://static.flickr.com/27/52403019_7f9f8998db.jpg (http://static.flickr.com/27/52403019_7f9f8998db_o.jpg)

LordV

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 08:19

Do tell more on this fox _ I've always thought about getting the Canon, mainly due to the internal focusing.

& nice photos Greg.

Most macrophotographers use manual focus and also preset the magnification and focus by moving the camera. This makes AF speed and internal focusing irrelevent. The sigma 105mm also has a very nice recessed front lens so you don't tend to get it dirty or scratch it.
Brian V.

condyk

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 08:20

Do tell more on this fox _ I've always thought about getting the Canon, mainly due to the internal focusing.

My best Macro's were always MF anyway and I think that is the default. In my experience the AF hunts quite a bit but I found that if I was using it non-macro then I got it almost there by MF and then tweaked very easily and fast with the AF, or just shot MF which I am very familiar with from most of my other lenses. i think the Canon will be better from a handling point of view but for me it was not worth the significant extra when I am only concerfned with IQ.

dpastern

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 09:02

Lovely shots Greg, especially #2 (I'm biased since Jumpers are favourites of mine). It definitely looks like a sharp lens with good contrast. I've read many good things about the lens, but I have its bigger brother (150mm) so don't need it ;)

Dave

Mediasoldier

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 09:09

Good idea, I'll be picking my favorites from my gallery after school. Or maybe in about 30 min, im in programming class haha

akhoopes

19th of October 2006 (Thu), 22:47

all my macros are with the sigma 105 mm just cjeck my post here is one

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=229570

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=229599

its a great lens

Greg_C

21st of October 2006 (Sat), 20:59

Nice work all.

Broncobear

21st of October 2006 (Sat), 21:37

WOW...just wow..Great now I got another lens I just added to my wish list :-(....

epsilon5

22nd of October 2006 (Sun), 17:17

nice shots
got the 105 myself.what kinde of ex. tubes are good 4 the 20d?i`also houw importent is a fash?m beginner and hafen`t a clue.thanks
gruss
epsilon5

Greg_C

22nd of October 2006 (Sun), 18:33

nice shots
got the 105 myself.what kinde of ex. tubes are good 4 the 20d?i`also houw importent is a fash?m beginner and hafen`t a clue.thanks
gruss
epsilon5
I've got the Kenko set myself. These seem popular, probably because of the price. They are a fair bit cheaper than the Canon ones and because Ex tubes have no glass there's not a lot of difference but price. Someone a while ago had a problem with loose fit but I think this seemed a one off. If you are just starting with Macro photography this s a great place to pick up lots of tips. You should jump over to the Macro forum and read the stickies - lots of good info.

epsilon5

23rd of October 2006 (Mon), 10:43

thanks 4 the re.
everithing makes sense i was in the flash sec. great to .that white the flash i dident find.makro,or normal fash ,i did see a lot of intheresting pic white normal flashs (i dont mine the shots themself).my concern one the makro ones is the sice they ad one the front? can that be a reason 4 the use of normal flashs ?proberbly because it is an other gear more. i did thray to make some shots from earthwasps whit the 105 they got quiet funy because i did filled almost 1/3 of there enterencepadand was white the side of the hud already one the flore.
epsilon5

In2Photos

23rd of October 2006 (Mon), 11:06

kendickson

24th of October 2006 (Tue), 09:11

Greg,

A great lens, I have only had mine a short time (2 weeks) but found a good device for both the Macro side of things and as a "portrait" type lens.

I was suprised at how slow the auto focus was and it can get tricked quite easy thus start hunting.

Here is my best shot so far taken with the lens - sort of a cross between a macro shot and portrait shot.

Grimnar

11th of March 2007 (Sun), 22:04

Just got this lense, and holy cow this is hard work!
Photos at f45 really reveals some dust on my sensor!:evil:

1/500 sec taking the photo and about 20-30 min removing dust!.

Anyways, here is one of my test shots.

1/500 @ f/14 ISO 100 20D. 580EX @ -2 FEC using a homebuilt softbox.

http://andreas.spbk.no/albums/usort20D/apple_key.thumb.jpg (http://andreas.spbk.no/usort20D/apple_key)

*press the image again, for a larger size.

Press this if the thumb is not working. (http://andreas.spbk.no/usort20D/apple_key)

Edit: Follow this link for the DIY softbox (http://www.dforum.de/Technik/softbox/softbox.htm)

dpastern

12th of March 2007 (Mon), 00:52

I wouldn't be going down to f45 in all honesty, you'll lose a tonne of resolution. Best to still to around f8-f13, with f11 being the sweetspot.

Dave

YosemiteJunkie

12th of March 2007 (Mon), 03:51

Here is a South Western Paper Wasp taken with the Sigma 105
http://Photography.DunnNet.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-59

A Carpet Beetle
http://Photography.DunnNet.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-63

And a Praying Mantis
http://Photography.DunnNet.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-287

Grimnar

12th of March 2007 (Mon), 05:05

I wouldn't be going down to f45 in all honesty, you'll lose a tonne of resolution. Best to still to around f8-f13, with f11 being the sweetspot.

Dave

Yeah, I know. But I just had to try a couple of images. And I dont think any of them worked out, thats for sure.:D

Jman13

12th of October 2007 (Fri), 18:50

Here are some shots with my Sigma 105mm (non-DG):

Butterfly @ f/6.3:
http://www.jordansteele.com/images/recent/butterfly2nr.jpg

Bug climbing a grape hyacinth (bug is maybe 2mm across, taken at 1:1) @ f/11:
http://www.jordansteele.com/images/recent/bluebell_bug1.jpg

Hibiscus @ f/8:
http://www.jordansteele.com/images/recent/red_and_orange.jpg

RX350

12th of October 2007 (Fri), 21:20

I like the lens, just wish auto focus better, its slow and noisy also dont like the switch .
http://SergeyR.smugmug.com/photos/196054684-L.jpg

chet79

12th of October 2007 (Fri), 21:44

looking great people. I need to get a Macro lens one day.

Is this lens any good as a semi-telephoto walk around lens?

Tony-S

20th of December 2007 (Thu), 22:58

Closing out 2007. Shot in daylight with the EM-140 macro flash.

sandro9mm

23rd of December 2007 (Sun), 16:37

amazing macros! wow! makes me wanna buy that lens :)

-spam-

17th of February 2008 (Sun), 05:13

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2186/2270914718_90262dd81d_o.jpg

-spam-

19th of February 2008 (Tue), 17:42

What the hey, another one..

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2273/2273931980_1b6e55e79f_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/-spam-/2273931980/)

The Outlaw

25th of February 2008 (Mon), 00:03

mine should be here tomorow too bad i had to sell my tubes to get it lol

AdamR

25th of February 2008 (Mon), 00:45

There are some good photos here. I just wanted to add that to autofocus is very important to me in a macro lens. I almost never take M/F shots.

Adam

troypiggo

25th of February 2008 (Mon), 01:05

That's unusual. Most macro photographers I've come across use MF and rarely AF. What do you shoot? Tripod?

The Outlaw

25th of February 2008 (Mon), 01:10

i dont do much mf either but my excuse is bad eyesight. the nifty fifty and its low light hunting is helping me practice more tho lol

Greg_C

25th of February 2008 (Mon), 02:28

There are some good photos here. I just wanted to add that to autofocus is very important to me in a macro lens. I almost never take M/F shots.

Adam
I'm 50/50 with the MF/AF on my macro shots. A lot of the time it will depend on the subject, the conditions, and the lens being used.

-spam-

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 04:00

Who said it had to do macro

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2231/2303415995_7e46faa63e_b.jpg (http://flickr.com/photos/-spam-/2303415995/)

condyk

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 04:05

I had one of these way back and it is an awesome lens. The AF is terrible but for Macro I would rarely want it anyway. The AF on the 50mm 2.8 Macro is much better if that is a requirement.

-spam-

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 04:06

The AF is terrible

Its somewhat usable if you limit it to the range you want to use. But that could be a bit annoying after a while.

Tony-S

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 08:58

Who said it had to do macro

Is that a little vignetting in the corners, or did you add that?

argyle

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 09:13

How does the Sigma 105 macro compare to the 150 HSM macro model (with the exception of the longer reach)? How's the IQ, etc?

Tony-S

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 09:21

I've had 'em both, and quite frankly I cannot see a difference. I suspect that would be true for all the macros, though.

Jman13

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 10:05

Between the 105 and the 150, there's not a lot of difference in sharpness, but I think the 150 has a little bit more native contrast. The 105 is smaller, lighter, and a bit easier to handle for handheld macro shooting. The 150 is built better, doesn't extend when focusing, and the AF is tremendously better for those times you're not shooting macro. Silent, and much, much faster (though still not as fast as a non-macro lens).

argyle

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 10:29

Thanks for that info. I currently have the Canon 100 USM macro, but was thinking of something with a little more reach. With the Canon 72C adapter ring, I'd still be able to use the MT-24EX macro twin lite flash. Since I'm not a Sigma expert, with the 150mm macro be good to go on a 5D, or is it strictly a crop lens? The 180L is out of the budget right now...

Tony-S

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 11:42

All Sigma macro lenses are for full-frame cameras.

-spam-

2nd of March 2008 (Sun), 15:51

Is that a little vignetting in the corners, or did you add that?

Probably added with the plugin i used in Lightroom

The Outlaw

7th of March 2008 (Fri), 14:29

loving mine even tho i cant get any good macro's lol but thats not the lenses fault, need to get a ring flash and a better tripod, my $20 walmart tripod sucks but i cant afford to pay $400 for a tripod, now if i could find a comfortable medium for aroudn $100 that would be sweet, will post pics once i get something worth posting

TeamSpeed

16th of May 2008 (Fri), 21:09

A few of my contributions...

TeamSpeed

17th of May 2008 (Sat), 16:54

Taken today on the church grounds...

AlexuRO

9th of June 2008 (Mon), 16:06

I post one of my first photos with this lens :)

willy b

20th of June 2008 (Fri), 05:08

All Sigma macro lenses are for full-frame cameras.

Found this lens possiably going cheap...will it fit a 400d?
Looks a really good lens, so brilliant shots!

TeamSpeed

20th of June 2008 (Fri), 06:05

It will fit any of the Canons.

willy b

20th of June 2008 (Fri), 06:13

It will fit any of the Canons.

Thought so, thanks:)

troypiggo

21st of June 2008 (Sat), 18:07

Found this lens possiably going cheap...will it fit a 400d?
Looks a really good lens, so brilliant shots!

It will fit any of the Canons.

Thought so, thanks:)

Careful here. The Sigmas are made with Nikon mounts as well. TeamSpeed's response should be clarified that the Canon-mount Sigma will fit any of the Canons.

willy b

21st of June 2008 (Sat), 20:46

Thanks Troy!! I missed out on the lens:( but keeping my eyes pealed for another one. Thanks.

TeamSpeed

2nd of July 2008 (Wed), 22:57

Two more macro floral shots!

andrewaaa5

8th of July 2008 (Tue), 06:16

just a few question about this lens, as I am interested in getting one.

Does it work well on the 5D ? Does it require extension tubes? < I know that is a bit of an 'airy' question, but lets say we look at the first photos in this thread, by Greg C- do images this close require extension tubes, or can the lens itself achieve this?

X-Warrior

8th of July 2008 (Tue), 14:27

The lens will do 1:1. Depends on your sensor size how large that actually is. The 5D would be the least favourable in fact, though that's compensated by a high pixel count, right ?

Most of those shots I think could be done with just the lens.
The only lens that'll get you closer without tubes is the MP-E 65mm. (Do not buy that one as your first macro lens, is my short advice.)

TeamSpeed

19th of July 2008 (Sat), 11:00

When you can mix macros with portraits, it is fun!

TeamSpeed

19th of July 2008 (Sat), 11:01

Another from this series, but all portrait this time...

andrewaaa5

20th of July 2008 (Sun), 16:08

Another question, is it easy to place a polariser and the sigma hood on this lens at the same time? How would that work? I have used polarisers and hoods before of on other lenses, but from what I recall the Hood on this lens is different (screw in, instead af attaching to the outside??)

X-Warrior

21st of July 2008 (Mon), 12:05

I have a UV filter on mine. The hood (which uses the filter screw) then attaches to the filter. Shouldn't give many problems. Will even make it easy to rotate the polfilter. If you get it on properly in the first place... but that should be doable I guess.

Strange question maybe, but why a polariser on a macro lens ?

andrewaaa5

21st of July 2008 (Mon), 15:12

Strange question maybe, but why a polariser on a macro lens ?

foliage, etc.

Tony-S

21st of July 2008 (Mon), 22:30

Not to mention the highly reflective exoskeleton of many insects and other arachnids.

LordAlex

22nd of July 2008 (Tue), 03:43

Couple shots from this past weekend.

http://home.comcast.net/%7Elord_alex/crab2a.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/%7Elord_alex/crab1a.jpg

AlexuRO

24th of July 2008 (Thu), 12:28

Post one that i like so much :D

AlexuRO

30th of July 2008 (Wed), 11:08

one that i like so much :D
Camera: Canon EOS 30D
Exposure: 0.005 sec (1/200)
Aperture: f/8
Focal Length: 105 mm
ISO Speed: 200
Exposure Bias: 0/3 EV
Flash: Flash did not fire

solvent

9th of August 2008 (Sat), 21:29

subscribed.

Would I be right that this lens fits the XSi?

TeamSpeed

9th of August 2008 (Sat), 21:39

subscribed.

Would I be right that this lens fits the XSi?

Yes

raido

15th of August 2008 (Fri), 07:19

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/switchswitch0/IMG_5890.jpg

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/switchswitch0/IMG_5731.jpg

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/switchswitch0/IMG_5886.jpg

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh42/switchswitch0/IMG_5922.jpg

andrewaaa5

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 09:34

I was playing with one of these lenses the other day. I noticed there were 2 ways to place the lens between 'AF' and 'MF' (Autofocus and ManualFocus):

1. Via a small 'toggle' switch on the lens barrel (normal place) (toggle)
2. Via a 'clutch' mechanism (clutch)

So how does this work?

What would happen in the following permutations?:

toggle AF/clutch AF - (presume full autofocus)
toggle AF/clutch MF - ?
toggle MF/clutch AF - ?
toggle MF/clutch MF - (presume full manualfocus)

Seemed a bit strange to have 2 places to chose AF or MF

Eagle i

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 10:47

none of these are cropped and all are in natural light with no flash:
Yes, I know I HAD some dust on my sensor in a few of these
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3280/2749550682_4c2c483a47_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3251/2748669301_9164575bfb_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3118/2754453949_3a5f5829b1_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3050/2754450899_0c57c3617d_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3090/2755285412_6491c220b8_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3002/2778425914_90ed3558b2_o.jpg

These two are not macros perse but still used the 105 for them:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3163/2791450392_bb3a146003_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3230/2757365078_6a72bc7dd8_o.jpg

andrewaaa5

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 10:49

Eagle I, I guess you 'buried' my question with those nice macro images, so I will post again :)

"I was playing with one of these lenses the other day. I noticed there were 2 ways to place the lens between 'AF' and 'MF' (Autofocus and ManualFocus):

1. Via a small 'toggle' switch on the lens barrel (normal place) (toggle)
2. Via a 'clutch' mechanism (clutch)

So how does this work?

What would happen in the following permutations?:

toggle AF/clutch AF - (presume full autofocus)
toggle AF/clutch MF - ?
toggle MF/clutch AF - ?
toggle MF/clutch MF - (presume full manualfocus)

Seemed a bit strange to have 2 places to chose AF or MF"

Jman13

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 11:05

What would happen in the following permutations?:

toggle AF/clutch AF - (presume full autofocus) - correct
toggle AF/clutch MF - AF motor is engaged, but MF clutch is too...basically makes the MF ring spin during AF, or prevents you from actually doing anything in MF.
toggle MF/clutch AF - You can not focus the lens (gears are not engaged for MF, but AF motor is not connected.)
toggle MF/clutch MF - (presume full manualfocus) - correct

The Af/MF toggle is really the only annoying thing about the lens. I almost always manually focused mine, though, so it wasn't much of an issue.

X-Warrior

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 13:34

The 105mm has only one AF/MF button.

The focus ring simply has the option to disconnect it from the rest, to prevent it from turning while in autofocus mode. It's not an extra MF/AF switch or something like that...

Jeff2909

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 13:47

Here are a couple I have taken with this lens. I love this thing

andrewaaa5

26th of August 2008 (Tue), 15:14

HolgerK

27th of September 2008 (Sat), 05:01

http://fc68.deviantart.com/fs37/i/2008/268/7/1/The_Search_by_iNirvana.jpg

Mystery Machine

22nd of October 2008 (Wed), 04:47

A few that I've taken with the 105mm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3185/2940355021_9d73e37110_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3265/2924010926_c9083baa37_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3020/2875750354_09d3881113_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3237/2915219017_21e8532b5d_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3254/2935438369_191e857d93_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2845575631_b5701af2cc_b.jpg

hidden forms

14th of January 2009 (Wed), 04:49

both taken with the 105mm and a set of kenko ET's

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3487/3196509772_912401a7e2_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3330/3193354430_47aca05fb7_o.jpg

Tony-S

28th of January 2009 (Wed), 22:25

A few macros...

Tony-S

28th of January 2009 (Wed), 22:26

And two more...

Eagle i

28th of January 2009 (Wed), 23:54

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3059/2928224516_9f3ab2de22_b.jpg

Randy McBum.

27th of February 2009 (Fri), 19:26

Wow these are really nice shots i've not long had my sigma 105 and this has just proven to me just how good it is. :)

versedmb

27th of February 2009 (Fri), 19:41

I just picked up a used copy of this for macros on the 5D. What a sweet lens! I should have picked up one of these a long time ago. Here's a test shot tonight taken at f/2.8, ISO 1600, pushed a stop in PP, so really ISO 3200....

http://brownphotography.smugmug.com/photos/481883501_ZTaFA-L.jpg

Randy McBum.

7th of March 2009 (Sat), 16:58

versedmb

9th of March 2009 (Mon), 12:01

I really got a chance to use the 105 on a recent trip to San Fran and I love it; I may actually sell my 100 f/2, as I rarely need f/2...

f/9....
http://brownphotography.smugmug.com/photos/487541724_5chNY-L.jpg

f/4...
http://brownphotography.smugmug.com/photos/487433121_sDh8i-L.jpg

f/2.8...
http://brownphotography.smugmug.com/photos/487436168_ST2UU-L.jpg

MigsVuitton

9th of March 2009 (Mon), 12:17

Wow! great lens

Randy McBum.

12th of March 2009 (Thu), 20:40

Here are some of the pics from a shoot i did the other day. :) Not Brill but i like them.

Randy McBum.

12th of March 2009 (Thu), 20:41

Oooo yer i also like this one.

Mike

13th of March 2009 (Fri), 10:43

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2186/2270914718_90262dd81d_o.jpg
Wow! What a set of jaws!

Mike

17th of March 2009 (Tue), 09:50

I picked this lens up yesterday and it's a cracker. Not given it a thorough going over yet but here's 2 from my first play with it:

1:1 full magnification of the lenscap of my 70-200:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=350184&d=1237296330

This one's probably about 1:3 magnification:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=350185&d=1237296330

I'm pleased as punch with this lens - I'll be populating this thread with more images in due course, I'm quite sure! :cool:

Mike

17th of March 2009 (Tue), 16:38

Right, I spent a bit more time with it today and set this up.

It is an 8 shot stack and I'm pretty pleased with it! Shot in a light tent with flash either side, about 1:1 magnification.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3549/3363678904_dea7b68ea4_o.jpg

X-Warrior

17th of March 2009 (Tue), 16:51

Oooh, I really like that one. Stunning details.

Mike

18th of March 2009 (Wed), 16:00

Thanks :D

Here's one more, nothing truly special but I like it none the less!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3572/3365904592_7431231445_o.jpg

Mike

23rd of March 2009 (Mon), 16:29

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3380302930_1ca5ef2730_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3588/3379486883_ae96052de2_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3380304044_171f5cd69b_o.jpg

macro junkie

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 10:21

60mm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3612/3405155450_0e5bd4e3d7_o.jpg

slkfis

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 13:15

X-Warrior

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 13:32

I just purchased a used Sigma 105mm EX GG lens. Does anyone know were I can download instuctions for it? I have not been sucessful on the Sigma site. This is all new to me. Up till 3 weeks ago I thought Macro went with cheese!

All help appreciated.

thxs Bob

Slkfis

There's little to instruct really.

- Use like any other lens.
- Keep it dry and clean.
- When in autofocus mode, pull the focus ring forward to disconnect. Just so it won't turn during autofocus. Push back for manual.

And that's about it I think.

H20boy

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 14:31

60mm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3612/3405155450_0e5bd4e3d7_o.jpg

^ that's a pretty flippin cool image. See the face!

slkfis

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 17:16

X-Warrior
The thing that's got me is the switch labeled: Full----Limit.

What's it do?

thxs

bob
slkfis

Mike

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 17:35

X-Warrior
The thing that's got me is the switch labeled: Full----Limit.

What's it do?

thxs

bob
slkfis

It limits the focus range so the lens doesn't have as far to hunt. Because the thread of the focus ring/barrel is so much finer on macro lenses the lens barrel has to turn further (and thus takes longer) to get from infinity to 1:1 macro. The switch will limit the lens so that it only has to search for focus between 1:2 - 1:1.

X-Warrior

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 17:37

X-Warrior
The thing that's got me is the switch labeled: Full----Limit.

What's it do?

thxs

bob
slkfis

Nothing useful. Erm... well it does something with limiting the focus. Here's what the manual says (pardon the bad English, it's a literal copy of what's in there):

Focus Limiter Switch
This lens a Focus Limiter switch. When the Limiter is set at "FULL" position, the focus ring can turn between the minimum distance and the infinity position. When the Limiter is set at "LIMIT" position, the focus ring can turn either at Close range (between 0.313m and 0.37m) or at Normal range (between 0.4m and infinity).

I believe this can sometimes prevent hunting in less-than-ideal light situations using autofocus.

slkfis

3rd of April 2009 (Fri), 18:33

X-Warrior and Michael,

I appreciate the replies, this whole DSLR experience is quite a treat. A long way from my P&S But I'm having fun.

thxs
bob
slkfis

X-Warrior I certainly enjoyed watching the Netherlands Honkbal team during the classic. Great job and they were having fun!!

Mike

15th of April 2009 (Wed), 03:30

My favourite spider shot so far

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3336/3442138999_5a876e4ab2_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3593/3442135373_97c74606bd_o.jpg

I like this one for the shadow...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3587/3442131299_8e7228d4a6_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3442130695_bfd1485aa1_o.jpg

This little chap wouldn't keep still!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3442125421_806e200cc1_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3345/3442940698_b9869c67c3_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3625/3442939338_d7334d0e90_o.jpg

Mike

18th of April 2009 (Sat), 15:55

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3394/3453550724_6e9158ab95_o.jpg

ufauxreal

19th of April 2009 (Sun), 01:15

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3394/3453550724_6e9158ab95_o.jpg

LOVE that image. I just purchased this lens and can't wait to try it out.

Mike

20th of April 2009 (Mon), 03:50

LOVE that image. I just purchased this lens and can't wait to try it out.
Thanks! :D Congrats on the purchase. You'll love it!

Some from yesterday:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3531/3456727951_2c19c47b52_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3578/3456724295_9dfbb92040_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3457534678_4e4de22861_o.jpg

macro junkie

20th of April 2009 (Mon), 05:21

60mm

im sorry..i really didnt realize this thread was for 105mm only..theres me posting an image with my 60m..DOH!:o

macro junkie

20th of April 2009 (Mon), 05:22

I just purchased a used Sigma 105mm EX GG lens. Does anyone know were I can download instuctions for it?

Slkfis
hahahahahahah

macro junkie

20th of April 2009 (Mon), 05:24

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3394/3453550724_6e9158ab95_o.jpg
lovely shot but imo the flash spoils the image..if it where my image i would clone out the flash marks in the water droplet

Mike

20th of April 2009 (Mon), 05:51

im sorry..i really didnt realize this thread was for 105mm only..theres me posting an image with my 60m..DOH!:o

I had wandered!! Still, it's an amazing looking creature so we'll give you that one! :D

lovely shot but imo the flash spoils the image..if it where my image i would clone out the flash marks in the water droplet

Thanks, yeah, I agree that the flashes are a bit distracting. I was just pleased I got the water to stay in place! :D

deepen

4th of June 2009 (Thu), 02:26

got my 105 sigma a few first shots

Mike

4th of June 2009 (Thu), 05:27

Nice first shots :)

Congrats on your new toy!

Kasrielle

4th of July 2009 (Sat), 20:11

This is a really great lens:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2897928456_d347535bbd.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3595/3621341036_c019ef5df2_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2467/3686473938_b8811476c4_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3657/3685669041_e610547901_o.jpg

aerosmith9110

12th of July 2009 (Sun), 16:04

hey guys,

how does this compare to the legendary canon ef 100mm macro 2.8 ? Let say shapness?

Mike

13th of July 2009 (Mon), 03:30

hey guys,

how does this compare to the legendary canon ef 100mm macro 2.8 ? Let say shapness?

I think that it compares very well. I have had some super sharp shots with it, as you can see from the last few pages.

X-Warrior

17th of July 2009 (Fri), 14:13

Painted Lady
http://www.dvdpimages.com/images/macro/090717_0001.jpg

versedmb

18th of July 2009 (Sat), 13:20

Love this lens....
f/4.5 on 5D...
http://brownphotography.smugmug.com/photos/587497320_F7cB9-XL.jpg

Kasrielle

18th of July 2009 (Sat), 18:48

I was working in someone else's office this past week and these were on the desk. Taken handheld, with only the window's natural light.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2648/3730793687_42a9171faf_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2635/3731590146_5c1b493e9d_b.jpg

versedmb

19th of August 2009 (Wed), 20:55

This lens doesn't get nearly enough respect....

f/2.8 on my 5D....
http://brownphotography.smugmug.com/photos/624771165_zbcwK-XL.jpg

Namerifrats

31st of August 2009 (Mon), 01:35

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2439/3841628622_27d0c0b30c_b.jpghttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2658/3840840507_73db1111c2_b.jpghttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2610/3821667107_f8d3a727c6_b.jpghttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2509/3822448550_3da55812d5_b.jpghttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2567/3822485298_35250a73f3_b.jpg

Digital Aurora Photography

5th of September 2009 (Sat), 14:46

Hello,
I love everyone's photos!

I have a quick question which I would like some help with.
I currently have the Sigma 105mm lens, which I got as a present and I have not yet opened it. I'm currently saving up for a canon 70-200mm F2.8 IS.
What I would like to know, is if I could use the 70-200mm instead of the 105mm lens as a macro lens. They both have the same F2.8 and although the 105mm can focus closer, could I just 'zoom' closer with the canon?
I was planning on selling the sigma to help purchase the 70-200mm.
Would the Canon lens do the same as the sigma, or would it be better to hold onto both and use them side-by-side?
Thanks in advance for any advice.

tkbslc

5th of September 2009 (Sat), 14:54

X-Warrior

5th of September 2009 (Sat), 17:30

^^ what he says. Can't beat a true macro lens for the real closeup stuff :)

Mike

19th of September 2009 (Sat), 11:25

I have been shooting the big lovely orb spiders in my front garden...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3485/3934457038_da663c509e_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2665/3934455552_8303b207d8_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2544/3934455302_aaa3a79577_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2546/3934454742_bc8d387e3d_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2644/3933672023_6e4033224f_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2437/3934453976_4c2ea60631_o.jpg

K6AZ

7th of October 2009 (Wed), 01:17

http://www.k6az.com/temp/1859o_half_obv_sm.jpg

longsight

20th of November 2009 (Fri), 06:17

Bought this lens about a month ago.Some superb shots here.

kerrysroxy

24th of November 2009 (Tue), 13:58

Here are a few shots
http://kerrysroxy.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p884021970-3.jpg
http://kerrysroxy.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p316939424-3.jpg
http://kerrysroxy.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p980550606-3.jpg

BOUNCINGNRG

13th of December 2009 (Sun), 08:09

handheld at 1/100, so could have been sharper
http://i352.photobucket.com/albums/r356/bouncingnrg/Mervin%20and%20Prabalini/IMG_8220-Edit.jpg?t=1260709702

Mike

7th of January 2010 (Thu), 14:23

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4254732130_5c919fdd63_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4253966975_351b3b68eb_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4253967525_fb9527bf2d_o.jpg

willy b

7th of January 2010 (Thu), 14:55

Mike - There all brilliant!

Mike

7th of January 2010 (Thu), 14:57

Thanks. Got a 5DII today so it's the first shoot with the 105 on it. I love it!

themadman

11th of January 2010 (Mon), 03:00

Some first attempts at water droplets

1.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/4261968346_f0562ae228_o.jpg

2.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4261968188_8b93531859_o.jpg

3.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2534/4261968066_0b7220a533_o.jpg

4.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2727/4261214277_7715ac1616_o.jpg

KenjiS

21st of January 2010 (Thu), 21:58

I'm thinking of picking a used one of these up for about $300

How rubbish is the AF anyways? im not thinking of shooting sports with it, and im ok with MF for macro work, but if i say want to shoot a portrait and use AF is there going to be an issue?

H20boy

22nd of January 2010 (Fri), 00:09

KenjiS

22nd of January 2010 (Fri), 00:34

The AF works just fine, just slow...if I could compare, I'd say its just like any other macro lens, maybe a tad faster than the 85/1.2. I can't remember if there's a limiter switch on it, which if it doesn't, always makes the AF seem like forever as it goes thru the full focus distance.

it does, I ordered mine :)

Non-DG but still, it was $300...not bad ;)

Mike

22nd of January 2010 (Fri), 03:34

Something a little different:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4272828934_cfc117b7ac_o.jpg

longsight

22nd of January 2010 (Fri), 03:54

The AF works just fine, just slow...if I could compare, I'd say its just like any other macro lens, maybe a tad faster than the 85/1.2. I can't remember if there's a limiter switch on it, which if it doesn't, always makes the AF seem like forever as it goes thru the full focus distance.

The AF is a little faster when using the limiter switch.I mainly use manual focus when doing macro work so its not an issue;)

KenjiS

22nd of January 2010 (Fri), 18:56

The AF is a little faster when using the limiter switch.I mainly use manual focus when doing macro work so its not an issue;)

Thats what i was planning on, :) I was only going to use AF for portraits and stuff..

Ah well ill see how it goes...i really dont think ill have a problem [My Sigmas have always been good to me, Even if they didnt have HSM]

H20boy

22nd of January 2010 (Fri), 19:56

from long way back, in the minolta era... a quick snapshot, I just love the way it renders subject vs fore/background

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p31234039-4.jpg

KenjiS

23rd of January 2010 (Sat), 00:22

from long way back, in the minolta era... a quick snapshot, I just love the way it renders subject vs fore/background

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p31234039-4.jpg

Very cool despite what is a "boring" subject actually...but i cant put my thumb on why

Funny enough i was just discussing with my Sony/Minolta friend that he should pick one of these up too since he wants a nice macro...

mayt444

24th of January 2010 (Sun), 14:43

My favorite lens. Super sharp on the 50D without having to micro adjust the auto focus.
http://i635.photobucket.com/albums/uu77/mayt444/tulip-2copyweb.jpg

http://i635.photobucket.com/albums/uu77/mayt444/camera/oldlens1.jpg

KenjiS

26th of January 2010 (Tue), 16:34

Mine came today...

-sigh- :( And it has to go back

Err 01, can only shoot it wide open

And That Makes me a Sad Photog :(

On the plus side, the AF is better than my Tamron 28-75 was...No joke..and i liked how it handled..

H20boy

26th of January 2010 (Tue), 17:30

What body did it not work well with, the 7d?

See if you can find a EX DG version on the store shelf and make sure it will work, then find a used one elsewhere.

KenjiS

26th of January 2010 (Tue), 19:28

What body did it not work well with, the 7d?

See if you can find a EX DG version on the store shelf and make sure it will work, then find a used one elsewhere.

That might not be the entire thing though for instance, i could grab an EX DG at the store made more recently and it might work but buy a used one that wont because it was made a while ago [The EX DG has been out since 2004 after all]

So im debating on buying a new one or trying to hunt down an EX DG...

mayt444

27th of January 2010 (Wed), 09:25

KenjiS

27th of January 2010 (Wed), 15:09

KenjiS
Is that the 90mm Sigma everyone told you wouldn't work?

No no its not, I didnt order that one because people said it wouldnt work :P

Instead I ordered a Sigma 105mm f2.8 EX Macro, Which I thought SHOULD work because it was EX and not an antique..however it was a bit older than i thought and it well..didn't work

ions

10th of February 2010 (Wed), 23:05

KenjiS

11th of February 2010 (Thu), 00:34

I got my 105 non-DG back from Gentec service earlier this week, why it was there is available here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=790906). I guess it was DG'd with the Main PCB and firmware update. Not sure if the glass changed between pre-DG and DG, anyone know? Anyway, it's great to have it back, I love the results from this lens so much that the noise and slowish AF don't bother me.

Generally DG lenses have a different coating on the glass because digital sensors are reflective whereas film is not, and theoretically that means they could cause more flare or something like that

Truthfully, in very few instances have i ever heard Sigma's DG being better than the non-DG...They're usually very, very close

ions

21st of February 2010 (Sun), 18:09

http://home.cogeco.ca/~ionsvw/images/7D/RedFlower1.jpg

http://home.cogeco.ca/~ionsvw/images/7D/RedFlower2.jpg

longsight

16th of March 2010 (Tue), 12:59

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/4432725166_e307c27484_o.jpg

ufauxreal

19th of March 2010 (Fri), 18:07

I've had my Sigma 105 for a while but haven't used it much. Now that spring is quickly approaching I hope to use it more. I took a closeup of a Mum, and was not really happy with the sharpness. I used AF... maybe I should try manual focus, but I figured the camera's eyesight is better than these old eyes :). Below are two images of the same thing... first is with no sharpening, second is sharpened in Photoshop.
EXIF data:
Exposure Time: 13 sec
F-Number: f/45.0
Exposure Program: Aperture Priority
ISO Speed Rating: 100
Lens Aperture: f/45.0
Exposure Bias: -1/3 EV
Metering Mode: Spot
Flash: No Flash, Compulsory
Focal Length: 105.00 mm

I'm new at Macro photography... any suggestions on improving my technique?

Thanks!

JB

P>S> Just thought of something else. I had the camera on a tripod and used the 2 second self-timer. I also had it on exposure bracket. I wonder if having it on bracket has any effect?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/beadnik/AfterTheRain.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/beadnik/AfterTheRainSharp-1.jpg