Sigma APO 70-300mm F/4-5.6 DG MACRO

[PhotoFranz]

Little one inch slug from my backyard one evening. I posted this shot before trying to figure out what caused the blur/double image anomoly near the slugs head....I think. It was almost sunset very cloudy and just stopped raining and I didn't have my speedlight yet, but the lens picked up the color and available light well. I was very pleased with this lens and the fact that it was very inexpensive.


I am not so sure that is a double image thingy. It looks more like it is just caused by the DOF you are getting. Nice sharp shot overall.

[Nice Glass]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/ebayjunk/gorilla.jpg

[*Sonic*]

Another moon shot from this evening with the Sigma :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v442/Beanchimp/newmoon.jpg

f/8
ISO 100
shutter 1/20s

[P1et]

Thank you

I have taken quite a few poor shots of the moon too :)

Full moon is never the best time to take shots, as you dont get some of the shadows over the craters

I set the camera on a tripod, with cable release & mirror lockup

Aperture and exposure where pretty much guess work to be honest, I rattled a couple of shots off, checked the exposure levels and adjusted accordingly

I tried a few different apertures from f8-f32 and kept I think at ISO 100/200

One thing I did noticed was that using Autofocus the camera would shake slightly, so once I got AF lock, I waited a few seconds for the AF motor vibration to stop then pressed the shutter

I noticed that a lot of the shots came out quite soft looking due to the camera shake from the AF motors

Not sure on the Aperture values too as using a Teleconverter I'm not sure if it compensates with the f-stops as I know you do lose 1 stop of light with the 1.4x TC

Hope this helps

Thank you very much for sharing that Sonic. I appreciate it. What kind of Teleconverter are you using?

[P1et]

I usually underexpose the hell out of the picture, when shooting the moon. Below -2 usually, shooting in manual mode. Otherwise it will just look like a white dot with no detail whatsoever.

That's funny, that is EXACTLY what all of my photos turned out looking like. Great tip!

[*Sonic*]

Thanks P1et

I am using a Kenko DG Pro 1.4x Teleconverter, so it effectively turns my 300mm into 420mm :)

I usually underexpose the shots by 2 stops also otherwise they do come out over exposed slightly otherwise, as the moon is incredibly bright some evenings

[elysium]

Heres a zoom sample from pictures I took.

http://endlesstears.net/discussion/57/sigma-70300mm-1456-lens-arrives/

[Canon_For_Life]

I just got my Canon Digital Rebal XTi and sigma 70-300 APO DG Macro today for my b-day, and I gotta say, this rig impresses the heck out of me! check this out! some of my first pics, and they look fantastic IMO (for a first timmer with DSLR)

one of my dad's Bermingham Roller Pigeons
http://www.flickr.com/photos/14049720@N07/1463790731/

Some random fly out in the yard
http://www.flickr.com/photos/14049720@N07/1463784549/

[Wekkel]

Thanks P1et

I am using a Kenko DG Pro 1.4x Teleconverter, so it effectively turns my 300mm into 420mm :)


Many thanks for your input, I also wondered how to get the moon crystal clear. Just the other day, I got a shot at it with exposure -1, but at a regular 300mm, it isn't that much (too far away with 600x600 pixels effectively).

Cool that the Teleconvertor works. I am still dubbing whether to go for it (either 1.4x or 2x). Guess it would be sunlight only if AF is mandatory for me.

[*Sonic*]

I was going to get the 2x TC but I felt that losing 2 stops and probably *only* manual exposure (for my lenses at least) that I would be happier with the 1.4x

For moon shots then manual exposure and 2 stops less is no big deal, some of the shots I took last night were manual focus, just set to infinity (which is pretty much where the AF is hitting anyway)

[Canon_For_Life]

a few bee shots in macro mode.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1153/1480004495_5c6f45d3e4_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1153/1480004495_5c6f45d3e4_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1066/1480008919_75a518b3c7_o.jpg

[Wekkel]

Some more shots of the APO (good light conditions)

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/39/apo01ay5.jpg

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/4513/apo02ln8.jpg

Last one is not the best IQ, but I like the car very much :D
http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/1141/apo03vn9.jpg

[Knockout05]

I think i may have gotten a bad copy of mine:(

[boomer3297]

My best so far.....

Was out today looking for something to photograph. I found this tree and thought the colors were great. What do you think?

f/6.3
1/40 sec
190mm

Pretty sharp I think for this lens.... It was on a tripod.

[Wekkel]

Great colors, not bad at all.

[Wekkel]

Here's some more.
http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/4188/apo800kq8.jpg
Oostende, Belgium

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/3206/apo8002ef2.jpg
Brugge, Belgium

[dawnron1]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2027/1659781965_7bd0043b83_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2362/1675163467_a03241cf26_o.jpg

[Canon_For_Life]

^^WOW!! great shots!
here are some more from me :)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2223/1676359070_0d01753e44_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2266/1676352012_258f88a5fd_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2277/1676355282_337a1f3906_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2144/1675495519_44d0fa5418_o.jpg

[P1et]

Here's some more.
http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/4188/apo800kq8.jpg
Oostende, Belgium

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/3206/apo8002ef2.jpg
Brugge, Belgium

My hometown, most beautiful city in the world...

[Warrick Hunt]

Two from me

[Canon_For_Life]

More from me :)

#1
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2401/1897228471_5d770cb0ce_o.jpg
#2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2090/1898070298_643cceb8a6_o.jpg
#3
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2348/1881305571_8234c1b717_o.jpg
#4
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2226/1879310151_20efdd4c8a_o.jpg
#5
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2045/1867057037_4723d488b6_o.jpg
#6
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2310/1867057063_742bbe2da8_o.jpg
#7
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2400/1879310135_287f892a27_o.jpg

I love this lense!! sure, it isnt as good as I would like somtimes, but hey, for only about 220 USD, you cant beat it...it's a great budget lense for beginners.

[Wekkel]

No #5 is stunning ;)

[Canon_For_Life]

Thanks :) there was a lot of luck in that one :lol: ;)

[steveathome]

I have had this lens for possibly 2 years now, unfortunately I do not find it outstanding in any way, hence I rarely use it.

I think it lacks in colour and contrast, particularly the latter, frankly I think this shows in a lot (by no means all) of the images demonstrated in this thread. Please don't misunderstand me I am not knocking the images or photographers themselves, there are some terrific captures here.

[Wekkel]

Colour and contrast are available in Photoshop ;)

[memorex88]

I have had this lens for possibly 2 years now, unfortunately I do not find it outstanding in any way, hence I rarely use it.

I think it lacks in colour and contrast, particularly the latter, frankly I think this shows in a lot (by no means all) of the images demonstrated in this thread. Please don't misunderstand me I am not knocking the images or photographers themselves, there are some terrific captures here.

Are you talking about the APO or non-APO version of this lens?

[steveathome]

Are you talking about the APO or non-APO version of this lens?

I have the APO version.

[butacska]

Hi all :)
I've just received my SIGMA 70-300 non APO lens, and I tried it out at the Air Show today.
All picture are handheld, you can take a look @ http://picasaweb.google.com/MRomvari/LasVegasAirShow/photo#s5131441189954358770
I really am an amateur, just learning

[Canon_For_Life]

link doesnt work :(

[elysium]

Hi all :)
I've just received my SIGMA 70-300 non APO lens, and I tried it out at the Air Show today.
All picture are handheld, you can take a look @ http://picasaweb.google.com/MRomvari/LasVegasAirShow/photo#s5131441189954358770
I really am an amateur, just learning

You got some real keepers there. Really impressed with your shooting. As for the lens itself, I have one of these myself and I found that about 60-70% of my shots will be keepers with this lens provided I have enough light or bumped up the ISO.

[P1et]

Hi all :)
I've just received my SIGMA 70-300 non APO lens, and I tried it out at the Air Show today.
All picture are handheld, you can take a look @ http://picasaweb.google.com/MRomvari/LasVegasAirShow/photo#s5131441189954358770
I really am an amateur, just learning

The photos you took of the F16 Falcons are STUNNING! What body is it attached to?

[Canon_For_Life]

a couple more from me :)

#1
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2309/2024977514_1559351262_o.jpg
#2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2208/1994813587_a7ba38d7c7_o.jpg

[El Duderino]

A couple from today:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v129/soybomb/meters.jpg
1/640, f/5, 149mm

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v129/soybomb/standingalone.jpg
1/640, f/5, 190mm

[butacska]

Thank you guys:)

The photos you took of the F16 Falcons are STUNNING! What body is it attached to?
The body is a Sony DSLR Alpha 100

[Starman27]

Beautiful shots. I was looking on Amazon for this lens, and came up with this lens, and then there was another listing for the same lens without APO for $72 less. What exactly is APO, and is it worth paying the extra money, or can I save some cash and get the cheaper one? Thanks a lot.

[Tony Yeung]

APO is a special design with special elements they use for performance. By the way, I have a super sharp copy for sale in the buy and sale forum for a great price still under warranty.

-Tony

[El Duderino]

Here are a few from Florida:

http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sctm/v162/113/99/15909691/n15909691_37212999_9835.jpg

http://photos-691.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sctm/v162/113/99/15909691/n15909691_37213010_5638.jpg

http://photos-691.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v165/113/99/15909691/n15909691_37213080_3243.jpg

I think all were taken at 300mm.

[brianodom]

more,more,more...

[Canon_For_Life]

if you say so :)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2047/2210527053_5f7d004486_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2043/2188681484_8231055fe9.jpg

[willy b]

^^^^^^^^^^
How sharp!!

[Cassie]

if you say so :)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2047/2210527053_5f7d004486_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2043/2188681484_8231055fe9.jpg

These are great! You are putting that lens to good use. What are the settings on these, if you don't mind?

[Canon_For_Life]

here's the EXIF data:

#1:
Orientation of image: 1
File change date and time: 2008:01:21 19:15:25
Image input equipment manufacturer: Canon
Image input equipment model: Canon EOS DIGITAL REBEL XTi
Software used: Adobe Photoshop CS2 Windows
Exposure time: 0.005
F number: 5
Exposure program: 4
ISO speed rating: 400
Shutter speed: 7.64386
Aperture: 4.64386
Exposure bias: 0
Metering mode: 5
Flash: 73
Lens focal length: 214
Focal plane X resolution: 4433.3
Focal plane Y resolution: 4453.61
Focal plane resolution unit: 2
Custom rendered: 0
Exposure mode: 0
White balance: 0
Scene capture type: 0

#2:
Orientation of image: 1
File change date and time: 2008:01:12 14:36:21
Image input equipment manufacturer: Canon
Image input equipment model: Canon EOS DIGITAL REBEL XTi
Software used: Adobe Photoshop CS2 Windows
Exposure time: 0.0025
F number: 5
Exposure program: 4
ISO speed rating: 400
Shutter speed: 8.64386
Aperture: 4.64386
Exposure bias: 0
Metering mode: 5
Flash: 16
Lens focal length: 214
Focal plane X resolution: 4433.3
Focal plane Y resolution: 4453.61
Focal plane resolution unit: 2
Custom rendered: 0
Exposure mode: 0
White balance: 0
Scene capture type: 0

[Cassie]

Thanks!!

[fundabug]

I may have already posted this image, but I can't remember. This little guy was about one inch long. I took this shot in very low light at sunset on a rainy day with no flash. This was at the 300mm Macro setting...It's a little soft around the edges.http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t276/fundabug/slug2.jpg

[Canon_For_Life]

Ya, I remember sein this one, but it's a great example ;)

[memorex88]

Ya, I remember sein this one, but it's a great example ;)

Same here.

It's a great shot of the capabilities of this lens!

[fundabug]

I thought I'd posted this shot here before. I've posted this shot on several different forums (Jeeps, photography, woodworking, and even two way radios). This is one of my favorite shots and I post it whenever I get the chance....I guess I'm an attention whore.:oops:

[willy b]

How does it relate to 2 way radios lol :rolleyes:

[ChunkyDA]

I have the non-APO version. I bid $107 on EBay and did not think about it anymore until I won it 5 days later...Oops. Figured I'd give it a try for a while until I save up for the 70-200L.
Attached are resized full frame and 100% crop, jpeg, no sharpening, no PP...
Pay no attention to the exhaust induced blur below the pilot's face.
300mm
f 10.0
1/800 sec
ISO 400
EV -.33

[dmxsoulja3]

Hey guys, I was researching this lens and came across this awesome thread, I went ahead and purchased the APO version, and I plan on using it first for a Golf Tournament, can you give me some pointers, I'm new to DSLR but I'm familiar with the features, so maybe a mode recommendation or something of the like would be helpful, I'm using a Rebel XTI.

[Canon_For_Life]

I would use TV Mode with ISO at 400, continuis shooting on, shutter speed around at least 1/1000, depending on how much motion blur you want.

[Canon_For_Life]

Oh, and I recomend that you DONT use the lense at 300mm, you can, but this lense DOES tend to get soft at the long end, I have found that anything below 280mm works great ;)

[dmxsoulja3]

Hey I appreciate that! I will give it a shot and see what I come up with, nice to have a baseline to experiment with. I'm wanting to catch some shots just stop motion for these nice paper folding photoholders that I had made up for the event. Sorry for the slightly OT, but I figured those posting these great samples are obviously owners, and pretty darn good at using it from the looks of them :)

[erpetao]

Here is a portrait:


http://qewo.com/dev/bur/glou/honey-tele2.jpg

[Cassie]

Nice portrait, I was thinking about trying some portraits with it as well.

[ooo]

Even at 300mm its a mighty sharp lens. Straight out of camera.

http://rlcstudio.com/images/potn/cny08/20080210-IMG_1080.jpg

[warrior6901]

I have the Sigma 70 - 300 that I need to let go. Any interest?

Excellent condition. I will email pics if there is interest.

[sparksdjs]

I know I have posted this before, but it remains one of my favorite shots:

http://www.pbase.com/sparksdjs/image/58021672/original.jpg

And at full size (large picture):

http://www.pbase.com/sparksdjs/image/80229124/original.jpg

The Space Needle is 3/4 mile away, the building on the right is 2 miles.

Dave

[warrior6901]

First time I have seen it. Very nice.

[dawnron1]

Here's one I took a couple of weeks ago of my buddy's r/c T-28 Trojan...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2183/2205160550_d0c0ae7551_o.jpg

[Amfamora]

I bought one delivered online APO version for AU$200

[Papi]

G'day all,

My compliments on all your great sample images.

Purchased the 70-300 after viewing every image uploaded here and after reading the pros and cons. I've played around with my copy, been learning and not doing so good figuring this lens out, to begin with not familiar at all with DSLR's or lenses, in any event as I don't have any interesting subject matter to capture, offering this kind of boring subject to the thread, of all I took this didn't seem to bad, just wondering if my copy of 70 300 is decent.

Out of camera, I only lightened some.1/500 - F/5.6 - 300mm - ISO 100 don't remember if I was on Macro/auto or manual it was apprx. a 100 to 120 feet away.

http://img.inkfrog.com/pix/GottaNickel/TireRim.jpg

[Canon_For_Life]

The quality is very nice actually, not sure if i would hav lightend it as much as you did though, kinda takes away from the quality a bit (makes it look like you had some type of milky film on your lense) but other than that, it looks pretty good :)

[Papi]

The quality is very nice actually, not sure if i would hav lightend it as much as you did though, kinda takes away from the quality a bit (makes it look like you had some type of milky film on your lense) but other than that, it looks pretty good :)

Hi Mike,

I do appreciate that, I'm just hoping I got a decent copy of the lens.

I agree it does look milky, I lightened so letters on tire could be seen better.

Thank you again

Papi

This is how it looked befor I lightened.
http://img.inkfrog.com/pix/GottaNickel/TireRim_001.jpg

[Canon_For_Life]

That looks much better ;)

Looks like you got a pretty good copy :)

[Papi]

That looks much better ;)

Looks like you got a pretty good copy :)

Hi Canon_For_Life,

Wheeew am I glad to hear that, though can't be sure with just one image here, now all I have to do is learn how to use lens.

Mike went through your Flicker albums, I enjoyed what you accomplished with the Rebel XTi, quite a camera, you have some great detailed and sharp images, colors on those cars were fabulous, IMG_2712 was my favorite one, what lens did you use mainly for the bird images ?

I see we both have the same wish list, the ----> Canon 400mm 5.6L and
Canon 40D, my first though is the 400mm.

Thanks again Mike.

Papi

[Canon_For_Life]

my first will be the 400 also ;)

yes, the XTi has been a great starter DSLR for me, I absolutly love it and rarly wish for anything better (though, of course the though has crossed my mind :lol: )

2712 was one of my favorites as well, got really lucky on that one :lol: ;)
For the birds, all of them (except the pigeons) are with the sigma 70-300 APO DG Macro..the "in flight" pigeon shots are with the sigma as well, the ones of them in the loft is with a Tamron 28-75 2.8

Feel free to ask any questions, i would be more than happy to try to answer them ;)

[Amfamora]

I got a cheap one from here...

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/New-Sigma-70-300mm-f-4-5-6-APO-DG-Macro-digital-lens_W0QQitemZ290207149546QQihZ019QQcategoryZ30070 QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1713.m153.l1262

Delivered with tracking number from Hong Kong to Australia and to my door in 3 days.... Cheapest I found and about AU$80-100 cheaper than buying locally.

Sample:

300mm f11 1/320 Macro mode
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/_MG_0925_1.jpg

238mm f8.0 1/160 Macro mode
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/Damsel1.jpg

Zoom Range:

70mm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/zoom70mm.jpg

300mm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/zoom300mm.jpg

[booja]

heres one of my friends kids at a soccer game. i bought one just to try out to see if i like the range. for a cheap lens it seems nice

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2265/2302783049_1c070b9617.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2212/2303581434_a96e46e021.jpg

images are a bit small but i didnt edit them at all... right out of the camera

oh and heres one of my dog

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2262/2298874789_dba079b39d_b.jpg

[willy b]

Amfamora, there really nice macro shots!

[Amfamora]

Thanks :) I like this Lens.... with a little post processing the pictures are quite decent!

[Geejay]

Thought I'd add a few more....

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e316/GeeJayW/People/SmallManonHorse-1.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e316/GeeJayW/Planes/IMG_7390smallC130.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e316/GeeJayW/Planes/IMG_7316SmallTyphoon.jpg

[dirtbiker]

I got mine last week so took it for a walk in a local park:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb243/dirtbiker161/IMG_5511.jpg

Shot at 300mm (exif should be intact) and no crop in PP.

It does feel quite cheaply made but it's sturdy enough and I'm very pleased with the shots I've got so far.

[bad karma]

This lens is awesome, borrowed it from a friend and now I love it


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3288/2324424347_f0e85830c8_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3101/2325247958_ac4de6c611_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2219/2325336418_275cd9c2e5_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3237/2325319560_ec645581ae_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2090/2324535369_a3b17e74c9_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2229/2325255172_52083ddb47_o.jpg
braking after hitting the cone

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2058/2325317288_87b552c4f5_o.jpg

I have tons more, you can find them all here

Set 2 (186 pics)
http://flickr.com/photos/pdnaik/sets/72157604092551759/detail/

Set 1 (155 pics)
http://flickr.com/photos/pdnaik/sets/72157604088014594/detail/

[bad karma]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2267/2324415205_a41ab166ce_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3036/2325348060_f8ec02616d_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2198/2324526431_9bafa1f9dd_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2193/2324524485_1847ab902b_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2364/2325345518_e1f8d3d5ce_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3213/2324503731_c3a23a7d5c_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2390/2324500747_03dd706b72_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2282/2325251670_5b68e62473_o.jpg

[PhotoFred225]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2267/2232820017_ba9994e900.jpg

[tzalman]

http://photos.imageevent.com/elied/thisthatandtheotherthing/large/_MG_0764_filtered.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/elied/thisthatandtheotherthing/large/_MG_0711.tif.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/elied/thisthatandtheotherthing/large/_MG_8288.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/elied/thisthatandtheotherthing/large/IMG_5273.JPG

[NelsonQ]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2267/2324415205_a41ab166ce_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3036/2325348060_f8ec02616d_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2364/2325345518_e1f8d3d5ce_o.jpg


Thanks so much for these sample shots, I'll be using the lens mainly to shoot drift events also.
Just read through the whole thread. Picking this up from BH tomorrow.:)

[bad karma]

Thanks so much for these sample shots, I'll be using the lens mainly to shoot drift events also.
Just read through the whole thread. Picking this up from BH tomorrow.:)
No problem! Just decide between this and the tamron counterpart. I may go for that one instead due to color reproduction, but not sure yet either

[Pete Gl]

A couple here: -

1. Lake District, England. F8 1/200 ISO 100 Focal length 133

2. Manchester, England. F7.1 6 Sec ISO 200 Focal length 149

This lens is superb for the price!!

[Dicky]

couple from me

love this lens

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2151/2314358259_d089eac956_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2163/2314357957_2c512b0ab0_o.jpg

[AirbusA380]

Almost forgot this lens, haven't shot with it in a while. The "macro" function does amaze me:

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg5/murdocktehhaxxor/IMG_2712-Edit.jpg

[Amfamora]

Another Macro

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/My%20Photography/Macros/DF1.jpg

And these....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/My%20Photography/Macros/Dragonfly04.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/My%20Photography/Macros/Dragon2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/My%20Photography/Macros/df3.jpg

[willy b]

Amfamora - love that

Daniel - love that shot also!!

[AirbusA380]

Thanks Willy :D.

Amazing shot indeed, Amfamora! Great work man.

[blam]

those macros are amazing.

[ABQAmateur]

I would like to thank everyone here for their opinions on the Sigma 70-300 APO. I was uncertain what lens to buy, then I read essentially everything stated +/- about it on this website. I finally decided to purchase the Sigma and it is excellent! I am just learning how to do use it, but so far I am 110% satisfied!

I have attached one of the first photos I took. Its a Canon Rebel Xti with the Sigma + Hoya UV HMC. Shot in RAW, f/11, 1/80, @ 263 mm, handheld. All I did was resize, convert to sRGB and post. (I do have my Rebel set to sharpness 3). The second image is a 100% crop showing the detail in the feathers. The Sigma rocks!!:D

257460

257465

[Amfamora]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/My%20Photography/Around%20Brisbane%20City/_MG_2559_1_1-19.jpg

At 300mm:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v157/Amfamora/My%20Photography/Around%20Brisbane%20City/_MG_2571_1_1-22.jpg

[SHOOT!]

I have to get in on this :) These were my first shot using this lens for flowers

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2273/2345805899_e3f6d158d7_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3088/2345806149_76ba3a56da_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2326/2346635966_3ce9f0b631_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3036/2346636128_2f9387afd5_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2015/2346635758_a804efafa0_b.jpg

[memorex88]

ABQAmateur congrats on the new glass!

[ABQAmateur]

Thanks Marco! I gotta try this guy more in macro tomorrow. I did a couple just playing, but the macro shots in this thread are awesome!

[ABQAmateur]

SHOOT!, those are some excellent shots! You nailed it!

[AV6Scott]

I think I got a good copy of this lens. :lol:

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/9421/25vt4.jpg

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/4829/26ip0.jpg

[PhotoFranz]

Here are three hand held photos from the St Louis Zoo.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2265/2493458314_0ff785bdcb_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2029/2493458034_cebc435990_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3042/2492635875_09174419c7_o.jpg

I just listed this lens for sale in the "Marketplace" section of this forum. Here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=503308

[bauerman]

People always talk about how soft this lens is at the longer focal lengths.....I don't think that is true all the time...

Shot at 300mm of the satellite dishes on my neighbors house - first shot is the re-sized original and the second is a 100% crop of the dish in the shot. Looks pretty good to my eye...

I am of the opinion that half or more of the official and unofficial reviews of a given product (lenses for sure) are just regurgitated information that the person providing the review has read somewhere else. With the Sigma 70-300mm that regurgitation often takes the form of "the lens starts to get soft around 200mm.." blah blah blah...........

[ef2]

I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of the Sigma at this graduation last week. I had to shoot at ISO 3200, but I think the lens with the 40D produced some usable results. Running these through Noiseware makes these even better, but shown here are untouched photos.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2316/2501179280_196dfafd32_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2299/2500345621_1f1df8d239_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3115/2501171928_8603cda577_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/2501168174_f163f86444_b.jpg

[tzalman]

I have just added a Kenko 1.4 Teleconverter to my Sigma 70-300. This is a test shot: 1/800, f/8 (f/11 actual), ISO 1000, FL 263 (368 actual, full frame equiv. = 589) handheld, slight NR and sharpening in Neat Image.

[rehype]

Heres my first shot with this lens shot at 263mm cropped and applied some sharpening

http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb254/Rehype/test2.jpg

[bauerman]

I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of the Sigma at this graduation last week. I had to shoot at ISO 3200, but I think the lens with the 40D produced some usable results. Running these through Noiseware makes these even better, but shown here are untouched photos.


I think that your graduation shots turned out very well considering the shooting conditions and the amount of available light. Well done. It's amazing how clean ISO 3200 is these days compared to say the original Digital Rebel.

The Sigma looks like it focused pretty accurately as well.

[ef2]

I think my copy front focuses a bit, which was a problem on some other shots at the same event. The ones posted were test shots to get the best exposure and probably turned out better than the real shots!

[jaskphotos]

Got my lens today after a 2 months wait.It is very hard to get canon mount sigma lens in india as most of them use nikon in india as far i know.I did some little testing with my new lens.I did test @300mm with varying F values to see the sharpness in images...
Image 1-@300mm,F5.6,1/320,iso200,(cropped image).
Image 2-@300mm,F8,1/320,iso200,(cropped image).

[jaskphotos]

Image 3-@300mm,F11,1/150,iso200,(cropped image)
Image 4-@300mm,F13,1/125,iso200,(cropped image)

All shots taken with tripod,and only cropped no editing done.

[MT59]

Thought I'd throw a couple in. Just bought this lens used from a POTN member (thanks, Stump!). Not bad for the money.

1/400, f/5.6, 238mm, ISO100
http://www.pbase.com/image/97579923.jpg

1/500, f/8, 300mm, ISO200
http://www.pbase.com/image/97580199.jpg
(Wasn't quite that close, this is an approximate 50% center crop).

1/1600, f/5.6, 300mm, ISO200
http://www.pbase.com/image/97580200.jpg

[323]

this thread just makes it more and more persuasive that this lens is a hidden gem

[MT59]

So far, in my limited experience with this lens, I've found it outperforms the Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 LD Di II, which I previously owned, especially as you get close to the end of the zoom range (at 250-300mm). The Sigma retains its sharpness better.

I've been really pleased with the bokeh, as well. Specs indicate it has a 9-blade aperture assembly, which would explain the more pleasing effect.

[steevo2008]

Here is a test shot I took today with my new 70-300 APO

I Like it a lot.....

I wish I could put up the 100% crop cause it is very good. Was taken at 300mm in macro mode. I was not sure of the best way to post it so the actual result is not fully appreciated

[323]

thats it..... lol

[steevo2008]

Hi 323,
Got your PM by the way...

It does take a little experimenting I am sure most will agree and I did not warm to the lens when I first tried it.
It does have its quirks which do take some getting used to ie the macro switch thing and focus hunting in low light but i must say that bang for your buck it has to take the cake.

It took me some time testing in different lighting situations, different focal lengths and aperture settings before I discovered the Lens' sweet spots. Once you know its limitations then you can produce some surprising results as this thread has shown.

Go for it... don't resist any more...lol

Steevo

[ef2]

Since I just got a 70-200 2.8 IS, does it make sense to sell this lens and get a 1.4TC?

[Moppie]

YES!

I have used several 70-200 2.8s, they are so much sharper, that you can crop from a 200mm shot the same FOV as the 70-300 at 300mm and get similar image quality.

[sm2s]

for those of you with this lens and are taking your pics at 300mm.. how is the vibration on this lens? & are you guys using a tripod or something while taking the pics?

[VDMTom]

Anyone got any motorsport pictures??

[GVal]

Anyone got any motorsport pictures??

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gvalinoti/sets/72157604768430656/

All of the panning shots in that album I took with this lens.

[VDMTom]

Would u recommend it for me to do drifting with it?
Work somewhat the same as the popular Canon 70-200s?

[GVal]

It's certainly not an L if that's what you're asking, though I didn't expect it to be for the price. No IS either, but I was able to take shots hand held at 1/50 that I was perfectly happy with. For the price this is an excellent value; good image quality, solid construction, and being a Sigma, comes with a hood/bag.

I've seen shots taken of drifting events with this lens and I'd say they came out great.

My suggestion is to get the lens; if you don't like it you can always hold onto it until you can afford the 70-200L which is what I'm doing (though I still do love this lens).

[VDMTom]

Sounds good !

I didnt expect L quality. All I want is good quality pictures. For outside.. not even at night. If that is needed, I'll be one happy guy

[steevo2008]

When I first got this lens I must say I was a little disappointed with the Image quality.
If conditions are right and you spend a bit of time you can find its sweet spots and it can take quite good photos.
After a few weeks and several hours testing I am certainly getting better with it.

It hunts like crazy in low light or low detail subjects. The other day I was trying to focus on a small bird about 15m away on an overcast day and it just would not lock on, it started to really pi$$ me off.
Then I remembered how much the lens actually cost me and focused on its good points ie reasonably good 1:2 Macro IQ and reasonably good overall IQ if stopped down a bit.

It certainly beats the Crap 75-300 Kit lens that came with the camera

Steevo

[Hyun]

I have it and for how much it cost, I am pretty happy with it. Some of the 300mm shots of the finches at our bird feeder turned out spectacularly well, and I've gotten an occasional gem of an egret shot from it, too (although I prefer to use the EF 70-200 f/4 L lens with a Kenko 1.4x TC for the much faster AF speed).

On my 30D body, I hardly feel the AF motor, but the first few times I used it on the XSi/450D body, it was, like, "whoa, where did that come from?" I don't know if it's the relative weight or the material used to make the XSi/450D body (it's about 30% lighter than the 30D), but you really feel the AF motor, especially when it "thumps" to a stop at the end of the either zoom range.

The supplied lens hood is OK, but after a couple of month's of light use, I found the "click" that holds the hood in place has worn out so much that now just the lightest touch is required to remove the hood. Oh well, at least I didn't have to shell out $20-30 extra for the hood (it came with the lens).

I find that on bright, sunny days, I can use this lens with the Kenko 1.4x DG Pro 300 TC, giving me an apparent/effective reach of 672mm on my 1.6x bodies (300mm x 1.4 x 1.6). You really need to use a tripod, and even so the AF will hunt quite a bit. Still, for those in a pinch, and shooting static objects, it may do. And of course MF works fine, especially in conjunction with a sturdy tripod and the Live View.

I used to have the Canon 100-300mm USM lens, and my impression is that this Sigma lens turns out far better IQ than that. For the price, it's a bargain.

Here are a few of the better photos I've taken with the Sigma 70-300 DG APO lens. If anyone wants a 100% crop, please let me know.

1. A Great Egret catching lunch: XSi/450D, Av Priority, Evaluative metering, ISO 200, f/9, 1/800 sec, EV -1, at 300mm (480mm effective), handheld.

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-05-13_450D_04462_1000x.jpg

2. A House Finch at our bird feeder: 30D, Av Priority, Evaluative metering, ISO 200, f/11, 1/160 sec, EV 0, at 300mm, on tripod.

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-04-06_30D_20760.JPG

3. Another House Finch showing its roping skills: 30D, Av Priority, Evaluative metering, ISO 800, f/8, 1/1600 sec, EV 0, at 300mm on tripod.

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-04-02_30D_20646.JPG

[keegsmeister]

Wow IQ to match the 70-200 L lense! What am I doing saving up for that when I can this?!

[Hyun]

Wow IQ to match the 70-200 L lense! What am I doing saving up for that when I can this?!

Well, in a word, speed. AF speed, that is. Tracking birds in flight with the Sigma lens is an exercise in frustration for me. Others may find it more acceptable, or may just be more adept at using MF. The 70-200 L lens, in comparison, is silent and fast.

[keegsmeister]

Well, in a word, speed. AF speed, that is. Tracking birds in flight with the Sigma lens is an exercise in frustration for me. Others may find it more acceptable, or may just be more adept at using MF. The 70-200 L lens, in comparison, is silent and fast.

I see i see...I was also told that Sigma has bad QC over their lenses too. Is the AF speed that poor?

[Hyun]

Well, if one's never used a USM lens (or HSM or other manufacturers' equivalent), one probably wouldn't think so. For slow-flying birds or airplanes or objects, it's OK. But using it side-by-side with something like the EF 70-200 f/4 L lens, you sure feel the difference! :shock: I have a much better "hit" ratio of tracking objects in motion (birds, people, etc.) with the 70-200 f/4 L lens than I do with the Sigma 70-300 DG APO lens.

Also, another thing I noticed is that in AI Servo focusing mode, the fps on my 30D slows down noticeably with the Sigma lens, whereas it can keep on clicking away at the full 5fps or near it with the 70-200 lens.

Then again, there are reasons why the Sigma lens costs $200 and the Canon one almost $600! :D

[ef2]

The speed isn't that bad, but it's VERY loud.

[keegsmeister]

lol got a decibel count ? :D

To be honest, I guess as a bird photographer USM or HSM would mean everything. I don't understand why my Sigma 10-20mm has a HSM built in. It's purely silent, and focus is acceptable, but I seriously dont see the need for it for an ultra wide.

[Hyun]

You know, "loud" or "quiet" or "fast" or "slow" is all subjective--so it's hard to make an informed decision sight unseen (and sound unheard) based on forum posts. It's not quite as loud as my EF 35mm f/2! Now there's a lens that lets you know when it's focusing...

[ef2]

I'd say it's about as loud as the 50 1.8 then.

[Hyun]

I had some free time during the day today and spent a couple of hours at the local zoo.

We all know that the various 1.4x teleconverters are not supposed to work with any lenses slower than f/4, right? Before I bought my Kenko Pro 300 1.4x TC, I wondered "not supposed to work" means. Does AF function totally become disabled? Does it hunt for ever without acquiring focus, regardless of the light situation? Or does it work but only in bright light?

Well at least with my Kenko 1.4x TC and the Sigma 70-300 DG APO lens, it's the latter. The AF does work at different apertures (I've tested it up to f/16), AS LONG AS there's plenty of bright light and the subject has good contrast. The AF does hunt a lot more now, and you may have to try to achieve lock multiple times before you get a good lock, but it works. And for your troubles, you get an apparent reach of 672mm on 1.6x crop bodies (300 x 1.4 x 1.6).

Here are some pictures I took at the zoo today, with EXIF info and also with 100% crop over the focus point. All with XSi/450D, Sigma 70-300 DG APO telephoto lens, and Kenko 1.4x Pro 300 TC, handheld, aperture priority, and evaluative metering. Most of the shots are at either ISO 800 or 1600, as I did not use a tripod and needed fast enough shutter speed to avoid hand blur. And I didn't want to shoot at 300mm wide open.

And, it was a bright sunny day, and no matter how much I pleaded, begged, and cajoled, some animals just would not move into shade...

1. ISO 400, f/5.6, 1/250 sec, EV -1/3, at 238mm (533mm equivalent):

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09644.jpg


http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09644_crop.jpg

2. ISO 1600, f/8, 1/100 sec, EV -1/3, at 214mm (479mm equivalent):

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09570.jpg

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09570_crop.jpg

3. ISO 1600, f/8, 1/250 sec, EV -1, at 300mm (672mm equivalent). Unfortunately, this leopard was housed behind a thick glass, which degraded the IQ quite a bit.

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09499.jpg

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09499_crop.jpg

4. ISO 800, f/7.1, 1/125 sec, EV -2/3, at 300mm (672mm equivalent):

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09621.jpg

http://www.ptvavm.com/hosted/2008-06-11_450D_09621_crop.jpg

[keegsmeister]

Amazing shots Hyun. yes if it is as loud as the 50 f1.8 then okay...that's pretty loud lol. :)

[Daniel2000]

it's been 3 days since I bough my 70-300 APO :)
here is one I took tonight

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/Daniel2000/paysage/_MG_9450-lune.jpg

[keegsmeister]

it's been 3 days since I bough my 70-300 APO :)
here is one I took tonight



How are you liking it Daniel? I'm deciding whether to fork out the extra for an L lense or get this.

[steevo2008]

Here's a couple I have taken with this lens recently.....

[Daniel2000]

How are you liking it Daniel? I'm deciding whether to fork out the extra for an L lense or get this.

personally, I bought it temporarily for a airshow this weekend, due to my limited actual budget, the price difference between renting a 100-400L or buying this one was not that great and I decided to get the Sigma, but the one I'm going to get eventually is either the Sigma 120-400 OS or the 150-500 OS
but for now, I really like the reach I get with it (I only had the 17-85)
for image quality evaluation, I'll wait before commenting to have done some more pics and to be more familiar with it ;)

[sethmo]

This is not the APO DG, but an older film 70-300mm converted to DG($89 shipped on eBay). It has a gold ring on it, not a red ring:http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/sethmo38/Randoms/IMG_0831.jpg.

But a few from last weeks motocross:
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/sethmo38/Motorcycles/IMG_6269.jpg
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/sethmo38/Motorcycles/IMG_6248.jpg
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/sethmo38/Motorcycles/Middlecreek%20Moto%20X%205-31-2008/IMG_6273.jpg
I dont find tracking larger objects very hard at all, I have a great keep rate as long as its outdoors and sunny. Although I have used the Canon 70-200mm f2.8 and I would prefer the USM style fast AF lens over the Sigma 70-300mm any day of the week.

[Wekkel]

Note the red on the jacket of the motorcyclist in front (1st picture). That's the typical red you'll get from this lens that has caught my attention. Not something that cannot be corrected upon post-processing, but it reminds me of the small flaws of this lens.

For the rest, it's quite a bang for buck. If your life does not depend on zoom lens photography, it's a nice piece. 2nd photo is stunning btw.

[Daniel2000]

some pics I took at an air show yesterday :D
all hand held

1/640, f/9 at 214mm ISO 200
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/Daniel2000/Air%20show%20400e%20Quebec/_MG_9494.jpg

1/1250, f/9 at 300mm ISO 200
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/Daniel2000/Air%20show%20400e%20Quebec/_MG_9537.jpg

1/1250, f/9 at 300mm ISO 200
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/Daniel2000/Air%20show%20400e%20Quebec/_MG_9604.jpg

1/1250, f/9 at 300mm ISO 200
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh26/Daniel2000/Air%20show%20400e%20Quebec/_MG_9616.jpg

[MT59]

Just love this lens. Best $140 US I've spent (used). Here's a few wide open at 300mm, handheld at much slower shutter speeds than generally recommended:

1/100s f/5.6 at 300.0mm iso400
http://www.pbase.com/image/98749755.jpg

1/160s f/5.6 at 300.0mm iso400
http://www.pbase.com/image/98749756.jpg

[sethmo]

Those are amazing shots. Very good detail for a 1/100s shot @ 300mm!

[godzirrraaaaa]

I just got these lens as well. I'm loving it and it's price tag. ;) Maybe one day soon I'll invest in a L zoom/ telephoto lens but for now this Sigma works for me. Still learning DSLR.

FYI, if you want more Sigma samples, there's a Flickr group with thousands of photos: http://flickr.com/groups/sigma70-300apomacro/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3068/2582904606_6209af4f9f.jpg (http://flickr.com/photos/godzirrraaaaa/2582904606/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3175/2581583805_54d6ea3f2f.jpg (http://flickr.com/photos/godzirrraaaaa/2581583805/)

[Hyun]

Great shots! especially of the feline fella. :-D

[number six]

Recent critters shot with the 70-300 APO DG on my 30D:

300mm, f/5.6, 1/2000, ISO 800:
280581

Full size: http://strappe.smugmug.com/gallery/4338426_iDMvR#257263952_8evbM

300mm, f/5.6, 1/250, ISO 800:

280582

Full size: http://strappe.smugmug.com/gallery/1537751_Xcmm9/4#314395337_LPhnK

-js

[number six]

for those of you with this lens and are taking your pics at 300mm.. how is the vibration on this lens? & are you guys using a tripod or something while taking the pics?

Both the pics above were handheld at 300 mm. The duck was shot at 1/2000, the cat at 1/250. (Light was low so I ripped off a long burst and got lucky with one.)

-js

[Rachel B]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2555169102_8d6c33dc15.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2396/2497217903_fc1e064c8a.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2097/2463406062_638d119a0d.jpg?v=0

and finally:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2065/2472425474_66fda985a5.jpg?v=1210120319

[ajayclicks]

Hand held, F/8 1/500 sec, ISO 100. FL: 70mm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2577645307_4d3160e49d_o.jpg

Hand held, F/7.1 1/800sec, ISO 200. FL:190mm No flash.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1361/1127479319_8c688fe86a_o.jpg

[NeoTokyo]

Not sure if this was covered already, but I wanted to know.

Is there a difference between the APO DG Macro and the APO DG Super Macro II???
I have found both like that, both are red rings and both look identical.

If there is a difference then which is best to get?

Thanks

-Eric-

[NeoTokyo]

Oh, also I dont know if this matters or not, but the box for the APO DG was black and the box for the APO DG Super Macro II is yellow.

[number six]

Not sure if this was covered already, but I wanted to know.

Is there a difference between the APO DG Macro and the APO DG Super Macro II???
I have found both like that, both are red rings and both look identical.

If there is a difference then which is best to get?

Thanks

-Eric-

Where did you find this lens? I can't find it on Sigma's site or at B&H or Adorama...

-js

[ef2]

Someone has it on ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/Sigma-70-300mm-f-4-5-6-APO-Macro-Super-II-Canon-Mint_W0QQitemZ120273467474QQihZ002QQcategoryZ15238 0QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) and claims it's the "high-end" version.

http://www.sigma.com.hk/lens/telezoom/70_300_4_56_apo.htm

[marcochi?]

Great lens for the price....which is veeeeeeery low....
Here`s a couple of shots.

[NeoTokyo]

Well I saw both on ebay, I did a google search and both results found lenses with different colored boxes.

The APO DG is a black box and the APO DG Ultra Macro II is a yellow/gold box.

The descriptions of the two are the same though.

[NeoTokyo]

It looks like the Ultra Macro II is not a DG.

What difference do you think there will be if I got that instead of the DG?
Because its not a DG does that mean its older than the DG build?