Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM

[GSH]

@GSH - Are those TC's Canon, or a 3rd pty?

(I ask because my TCs are a disappointment overall....... even on Ls)

Mine are both Sigma TC's although now i own the 500 Prime (Sigma) i hardly use the 2x. The 1.4x still gets regular use on the 120-300 though :)

@420mm..

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/geoff.hubbert/Pics/Images2008/Croft%20DDMC%20Sept/DDMC%20September%2027-0449.jpg

[S.Horton]

Thx - Great shots, too.

[advaitin]

I'm glad to have found this thread. I was at a skatepark yesterday to shoot my granddaughter with the DG version of the lens, but it turned out to be too much for the closeness of her activities (although, there were many pleasing shots) but across the park there was this wall and I shot several times to catch just one skater with a bit of blur to get the right tension. But the sharpness of the wall--oh my!

[prime80]

Ya'll need to pump this thread up! Mine's on the way, and I can't wait!

[advaitin]

Is this the last ride up for a shuttle?

Endeavour, 1955 est, 14 Nov 2008.

[Borderfox]

Some from Badminton Horse Trials last year
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3333/3207574331_d6ec066592.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3333/3207574331_d6ec066592.jpg

[Borderfox]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3211367192_fd5f9e1a2f.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3211367192_fd5f9e1a2f.jpg

[Borderfox]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3536/3206368675_b1c9cab998.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3536/3206368675_b1c9cab998.jpg

[rupek]

Could someone post some samples with a 1.4x and a 2x converter on it, and which brand was used?

[Travis F]

Could someone post some samples with a 1.4x and a 2x converter on it, and which brand was used?


How about two 2x converters? I had a Canon attached directly to the lens and a Sigma attached to the camera body. The exif didn't report correctly so I will let you know that this was shot at 1200mm (Exif shows 600mm). I used a remote release and mirror lock-up.

I came to realize that I need a much better tripod and head if I ever want to do this again! ;)

Edit - Forgot to mention that this is a full frame shot. Just resized for the web.

http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/469359239_5tqQ7-X3.jpg

Thanks,
Travis

[Borderfox]

Modello Park Prodrift
1dmk3 Sigma 120-300 f2.8 1/50th f18 120mm ISO 200 Click picture for larger sizes
http://photos4.pix.ie/59/6F/596FDCBAD7F4440FB5C7427575FA9959-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/669154)

[danny87]

cracking shot mate, i'll be testing mine for the first time on Wednesday at a track day.

[rupek]

Does anyone use this with a TC for birding or wildlife? Any samples

[GSH]

On the 1DMK2N

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/geoff.hubbert/Pics/Images%202009/Riponian/Riponian-0103a.jpg

On the 50D.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/geoff.hubbert/Pics/Images%202009/Riponian/Riponian-0287.jpg

[andreasthess]

Does anyone knows what the differences are between the DG and the no-DG models?
Which one is better?

[GSH]

Does anyone knows what the differences are between the DG and the no-DG models?
Which one is better?

Differences?

One says DG on it, the other doesn't. The DG "coating" makes absolutely no difference at all.

[andreasthess]

Thanks GSH.

[dbdors]

Does anyone knows what the differences are between the DG and the no-DG models?
Which one is better?

One of the main differences is the DG model has a newer, taller tripod foot. I don't own one, but many say the taller foot gives more camera clearance while mounted to a tripod. Other than that, I don't believe that there are any significant differences.

[Supersignet]

Does anyone have any experience using this lens with the Kenko teleconverters? I'm going to pick up a non DG 120-300 sometime late next week and was wondering if there is any big difference between the Sigma and the Kenko converters. Any input would be a great help.

[Aust2000]

Can't answer which is best, but both Kenko and Sigma 1.4 TC's will fit and function on the Canon all be it with a slight loss in AF performance. The attached photo is without a TC

[MT Stringer]

I guess I have overlooked this thread. Here are a few of mine. I really like it for softball, baseball, soccer, and wildlife.
Mike
Home run swing!
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/Home-Run01.jpg

Softball
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/Pitcher01-480.jpg

Track
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/Track%20Meet%20at%20Episcopal/StartingBlocks.jpg

Pelican (at 600mm)
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/The%20Duck%20Pond/Pelican1-650.jpg

[H20boy]

These are unsharpened... just messed with the curves a bit before posting

EXIFs should be intact
http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p664787654-4.jpg

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p839934328-5.jpg

100% of the above
http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p644940672-5.jpg

With just a touch of USM, about 50-60%, these really look good. I like this lens... very fast AF on the 1d bodies.

[Borderfox]

Couple of Spring Lambs (click for original size)
http://photos4.pix.ie/2F/45/2F456BC2A3814FFA843C550D4BE1B671-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/921340)

My Horse
http://photos5.pix.ie/BB/37/BB3757D94D914785ADB804104534EC1A-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/921363)

[H20boy]

A couple sports pics from my nieces soccer team, both at f3.2

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p153976262-5.jpg

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p179671743-4.jpg

[Karl Johnston]

I thought I would add one more. This is from before I sent my copy in to Sigma to have a back-focus issue fixed. All is well now with the beast, thanks Sigma service!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y150/LX200/Sports/IMG_2007.jpg

Travis
!!:lol: What a moment captured !! Excellent shot !!

[Supersignet]

Let's get this thread going again.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/Sge6c0ECSAI/AAAAAAAAF-s/QD7cfCRHn_I/s512/_MSG2130.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/Sge6dz79HII/AAAAAAAAF-0/GilyBWVmEAo/s512/_MSG1404.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_UbXK8W9A-Es/Sge6b8XIyWI/AAAAAAAAF-k/9zlvcUYfnxc/s512/_MSG2126.jpg

[DDCSD]

Well, I've got one one the way, got a good deal on a non-DG model. Can't wait!

[jasonleehl]

Please keep the photos' coming...!

[MT Stringer]

Two more.
The moonrise was taken with a Sigma 1.4x and a 2x stacked. The camera was mounted on a tripod with mirror locked up and fired by a wireless remote. Live View was used to aid in focusing.
Mike

[Borderfox]

http://photos4.pix.ie/1B/1F/1B1FF96D4E20453993842A3E2F72E0EF-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/870066)

[GSH]

I really want to know when my 120-300 is going to explode and kill me, like all the POTN "experts" seem to suggest it will...

Until then, i'll have to put up with rubbish like this..

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/geoff.hubbert/Pics/Images%202009/HSCC%20Cadwell/HSCC%20Cadwell0286.jpg

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/geoff.hubbert/Pics/Images%202009/Jim%20Clark/Jim%20Clark%200065-1.jpg

[DDCSD]

I'm very sad, my new-to-me 120-300 is back-focusing rather severely. :( Looks like it'll have to head to Sigma for some calibration. Oh well, that's the chance you take by buying used. First time I've been bitten. Just glad I got it for an amazing price.

[Aust2000]

This one was taken at Winton, Victoria, Australia with the 50D, 120-300 with 1.4x TC, 1/250, f8http://leedingedge.smugmug.com/photos/569412949_a6NRm-X2.jpg

[Borderfox]

Super lens and I get great results out of it but it cant stand up as well to full time work as well as the Canon gear I have. The 70-200 and the 120-300 have the same failure point for me and thats the mount coming loose. No big deal but I have to open the back of the lens up and tighten it but I would prefer no to.

Still love it though :)
http://photos3.pix.ie/B7/D2/B7D2907E302843518B68B8D280D5A85E-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/754428)

Snowy Owl taken at MFD
http://photos2.pix.ie/E3/66/E36633634E2146E199F373BB174ADE37-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/754531)

[DDCSD]

Super lens and I get great results out of it but it cant stand up as well to full time work as well as the Canon gear I have. The 70-200 and the 120-300 have the same failure point for me and thats the mount coming loose. No big deal but I have to open the back of the lens up and tighten it but I would prefer no to.

Still love it though :)


Snowy Owl taken at MFD


Have you tried a little bit of Loc-Tite?

[Borderfox]

Have you tried a little bit of Loc-Tite?

Yeah blue stuff on the internal screws that are going loose, must be my technique of using it?

One @ f2.8
http://photos2.pix.ie/44/EA/44EAC886CD06448D9C1DED6B2174E186-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/1044014)

[advaitin]

My middle grandson, age 8. Taken with Canon 50D, Sigma 120-300 with Sigma 1.4 pro extender. 168mm, 1/60s @ f4, on camera flash. ISO 1600. Handheld.

[Hermes]

Can any fans of this lens advise on how it performs wide-open or thereabouts. There are some great shots in this thread but I've noticed that people are generally stopping down a bit and the shots where the contrast leaps out at me are usually at f/4 or narrower. Am I way off the mark?

[Waldemar Sikorski]

I really want to know when my 120-300 is going to explode and kill me, like all the POTN "experts" seem to suggest it will...

Until then, i'll have to put up with rubbish like this..


It's no secret. only L lenses do not present that danger. They do explode in the pocket though.

[MT Stringer]

Can any fans of this lens advise on how it performs wide-open or thereabouts.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=7567933&postcount=171

I usually stop down to f/3.2 - f/4 to give me a little room for error because the DOF is really shallow. It is less than 2 feet when shooting from the third base area on a softball field. It's hard to get the whole batter in focus at that distance.

Mike

Example shot at f/3.2

[DDCSD]

Here's a 100% crop, wide-open at 300mm. 1/800s at ISO 800.

http://www.derekcecilphotography.com/photos/562069940_t6Pe8-O.jpg


Full shot, resized.
http://www.derekcecilphotography.com/photos/562070342_BsmwA-O.jpg

[Hermes]

Cheers Mike & Derek.

Would you say you don't hesitate to use it wide open then?

[DDCSD]

Cheers Mike & Derek.

Would you say you don't hesitate to use it wide open then?

I just bought mine off ebay and it back-focuses badly. I sent it into Sigma on Friday. Out of my 300 test shots, they were almost all wide open and were incredibly sharp, just focused way behind my subject ;). I was amazed by it, much sharper than my 70-200 f/2.8. The shot above was likely a bit out of focus.

I plan on using it wide open or close to it 90% of the time. I live at f/2.8. I can't wait to get this thing back and have it spot-on.

[Optic]

i've only got two lenes this 120-300 and a 17-55, the 17-55 is meant to be sharp but the in my opinion the sigma is sharper, only thing that lets it down is me,

these are with a 1.4TC on,


http://memberfiles.freewebs.com/86/79/41867986/photos/Charlies-best/IMG_0497.jpg

http://memberfiles.freewebs.com/86/79/41867986/photos/Charlies-best-ii-12/07_09/IMG_0099.jpg

[Reevo]

I'm thinking about buying this lens. I hear sometimes that the AF isn't so good in SERVO mode, and I'm worried because this is going to be my main sports lens. Is it fast/accurate enough for sports like soccer, football, hockey, etc?

[MT Stringer]

Is it fast/accurate enough for sports like soccer, football, hockey, etc?
I've shot over 20K pics with this lens on 4 different bodies - 20D, 30D, 40D and 1D MK III
Hope this helps.
Mike

Here's a couple of action shots with a 20D and the 120-300.
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/Lacrosse/Running02.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/Lacrosse/Scaretactic.jpg

Same lens with 40D @ f/3.2
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd265/mt_stringer/BCA03.jpg

Out at First!
1D MK III w/ 120-300 @ f/3.2

[Reevo]

great shots.
i think you've already convinced me to get it. can't wait!

[DDCSD]

Anyone know if the 70-200 f/2.8tripod collar works for this lens? I see that it now comes with a more expensive collar. My used one came without the tripod collar, and I'm wondering if it is really worth spending the extra money for the good collar or if the one for the 70-200 will be good.

[Travis F]

You are definetly going to want the new collar. The original was way too small for this lens IMO. It's just too heavy for it. Plus it adds a little height between the lens and collar foot so you can get your hand in there to work the zoom a little easier from the bottom.

Hope it helps,
Travis

[Travis F]

Ooops, forgot to say that yes, it will work, I think. Never had the smaller one but I have read that they were same.

Travis

[DDCSD]

You are definetly going to want the new collar. The original was way too small for this lens IMO. It's just too heavy for it. Plus it adds a little height between the lens and collar foot so you can get your hand in there to work the zoom a little easier from the bottom.

Hope it helps,
Travis

Ooops, forgot to say that yes, it will work, I think. Never had the smaller one but I have read that they were same.

Travis


Thanks for the input Travis. I might just have to suck it up and get the better one. I was hoping to get by on the cheap, but I think you're probably right.


I thought the lens would be bigger, but it certainly has some weight to is. Feels like a gold brick. :lol:

[MT Stringer]

I'm wondering if it is really worth spending the extra money for the good collar or if the one for the 70-200 will be good

@DDCSD - The answer to your question is NO, It won't fit. Unless I misread your post about the 70-200. I just tried to fit the tripod mount from the Canon 70-200 f/2.8 on the Siggy. It's too large and won't tighten down to where you can use it!

Hope this helps.
Mike

[DDCSD]

@DDCSD - The answer to your question is NO, It won't fit. Unless I misread your post about the 70-200. I just tried to fit the tripod mount from the Canon 70-200 f/2.8 on the Siggy. It's too large and won't tighten down to where you can use it!

Hope this helps.
Mike

Mike, I'm talking about the Siggy 70-200 f/2.8's tripod collar. I already tried my Canon 70-200 f/2.8 one. :lol:

[MT Stringer]

Sorry 'bout that.

[DDCSD]

Sorry 'bout that.

Not a problem at all. I tend to ramble irrationaly. :lol:

[GSH]

@DDCSD - The answer to your question is NO, It won't fit. Unless I misread your post about the 70-200. I just tried to fit the tripod mount from the Canon 70-200 f/2.8 on the Siggy. It's too large and won't tighten down to where you can use it!



The Sigma 70-200 tripod collar is exactly the same as the older 120-300 collar though ;)

[DDCSD]

The Sigma 70-200 tripod collar is exactly the same as the older 120-300 collar though ;)


Thanks for the definitive answer! :lol:

[adsayer]

hi chaps, I've just bought a 120-300 after craving one for a looooong time. I've taken a few shots (ducks), but can't wait to test the lens in anger.

Cheers! :D

[DDCSD]

Has anyone here that has the NON-DG (older) model ever had their lens calibrated by Sigma?

[Travis F]

Has anyone here that has the NON-DG (older) model ever had their lens calibrated by Sigma?


I had mine calibrated to correct a back focus issue I was having. Anything in particular you need to know?

Here's a link to my experience with Sigma service, hope it helps:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=221622&highlight=front+focus+Sigma

Travis

[DDCSD]

I had mine calibrated to correct a back focus issue I was having. Anything in particular you need to know?

Here's a link to my experience with Sigma service, hope it helps:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=221622&highlight=front+focus+Sigma

Travis


Thanks for that thread. It seems as if Sigma's service has gone downhill since you dealt with them.

Basically, they're telling me that the non-DG model can't be calibrated, and that my only option is to trade my lens in (along with $2400) to get the DG model. It took three phone calls and 5 weeks for them to tell me that.

Here's my thread:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=740299


Thanks again Travis.

[H20boy]

Just some test shots to add, here's a couple showing the CA that is produced wide open, not too bad actually. And, the shape of the circular highlights. I did the same processing to each one, levels up, contrast up, WB correction and that's it. No sharpening from the raw file, and you can click the pics for the original high res jpg also.

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p809886995-4.jpg (http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p809886995.jpg)

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p654184822-4.jpg (http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p654184822.jpg)

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p951887793-4.jpg (http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p951887793.jpg)

This one is just for fun, no sharpening...only jpg conversion from raw. At or pretty close to MFD.
http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p783901508-4.jpg (http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p783901508.jpg)

And how come this lens did pick up a nickname like the rest of the Sigma lenses? I mean, it's deserving, right?

[H20boy]

A grass test...

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p666526934-4.jpg (http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p666526934.jpg)

[H20boy]

From a recent zoo trip...

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p919423835-4.jpg

this one taken with a 1.4x TC attached
http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p964194303-4.jpg

[versedmb]

^ - looks pretty good to me.

[Travis F]

I haven't had the opportunity to use mine much lately so when my sister called and asked if I would shoot my nephew's football game I had to jump on that!

The lens did a heck of a lot better than I did :lol:. I hadn't shot a football game in about two years. My timing was a little off most of the game.

Anyway, here's a few shots from my NON-DG version shot with a 40D. These are all straight out of the camera; resized and converted with LR2

1 My nephew in hot pursuit!
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/661142532_7LRGi-L.jpg

2 Tearing up the new turf!
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/661142833_tZPGD-L.jpg

3 Dropped the ball...
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/661143676_eniyV-L.jpg

4 And 1 using a Sigma 2x TC attached. Shot wide open at 600mm f/5.6 1/2000 ISO 800. I only include that info because it seems a lot of people wonder how well this lens does with a teleconverter. With a little processing I think it could be a useable image.
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/661145890_PPZpY-L.jpg

[Travis F]

Thanks for that thread. It seems as if Sigma's service has gone downhill since you dealt with them.

Basically, they're telling me that the non-DG model can't be calibrated, and that my only option is to trade my lens in (along with $2400) to get the DG model. It took three phone calls and 5 weeks for them to tell me that.

Here's my thread:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=740299


Thanks again Travis.


Hi Derek,

After reading about your problems with service, I e-mailed Sigma inquiring about focus calibration on Non-DG models. It seems that some of the inner PCB boards have changed along with the additional coating on the optics. The service rep told me that some older models can be calibrated while others cannot. It seems it depends on the particular lens in question and what it needs to be made right.

I, for one, wish this wasn't the case. I think they should offer parts and service for at least ten years after the last model was built like auto manufacturers do (most cases alot more than 10 years). For such an investment you should be able to feel confident that a product will at least work long enough to recoup it's costs either financially or by sheer pleasure or use.

Have you found a resolution to your issue in particular? I hope so because it is one heck of a lens when it works properly! I feel your pain because mine didn't work properly at first neither.

Travis

[DDCSD]

Hi Derek,

After reading about your problems with service, I e-mailed Sigma inquiring about focus calibration on Non-DG models. It seems that some of the inner PCB boards have changed along with the additional coating on the optics. The service rep told me that some older models can be calibrated while others cannot. It seems it depends on the particular lens in question and what it needs to be made right.

I, for one, wish this wasn't the case. I think they should offer parts and service for at least ten years after the last model was built like auto manufacturers do (most cases alot more than 10 years). For such an investment you should be able to feel confident that a product will at least work long enough to recoup it's costs either financially or by sheer pleasure or use.

Have you found a resolution to your issue in particular? I hope so because it is one heck of a lens when it works properly! I feel your pain because mine didn't work properly at first neither.

Travis


I have been in contact with someone pretty high up the food chain at Sigma USA. They had me send the lens back to them 3 weeks ago. They were attempting to find either parts for my lens or a replacement and haven't had any luck.

I just talked to my contact today and they are sending me a 300mm f/2.8 prime to use until they can get something done regarding my lens.

[motion_projekt]

here's a sample. I shot this with a 50D, Sigma 120-300 + Canon 1.4x TC.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/kentnish/obamaduty2_pa.png

With out the 1.4x TC and on a 1D Mark III

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/kentnish/obamaduty_pa.png

[andreas612]

http://i.imagehost.org/0421/IMG_2650-klein.jpg (http://i.imagehost.org/view/0421/IMG_2650-klein)

http://i.imagehost.org/0197/IMG_2719-klein.jpg (http://i.imagehost.org/view/0197/IMG_2719-klein)

http://i.imagehost.org/0439/IMG_2625-klein.jpg (http://i.imagehost.org/view/0439/IMG_2625-klein)

http://i.imagehost.org/0576/IMG_3014-klein.jpg (http://i.imagehost.org/view/0576/IMG_3014-klein)

[aviator.4.life]

Is it sharp for most people at 2.8? Any luck with 2x converters? Do Canon or Sigma converters work best?

[H20boy]

Is it as sharp as the Canon (or any other 300/2.8 prime)... no, but its close.

Can it take a TC, either a 1.4x or 2x?... yup, but I wouldn't recommend the 2x (severe IQ degredation, and is typical). I just used the 1.4x on it today at an air show, and all the pics needed a little USM to sharpen them up. W/o a TC, the lens is pretty darn good, even wide open.

Whether or not the Canon or Sigma TC works better, hard to say for sure. I've seen supporters for both. I personally got the Sigma.

[aviator.4.life]

Ok thanks, im debating this and a 300 2.8 non-is

[andreas612]

Is it as sharp as the Canon (or any other 300/2.8 prime)... no, but its close.

Can it take a TC, either a 1.4x or 2x?... yup, but I wouldn't recommend the 2x (severe IQ degredation, and is typical). I just used the 1.4x on it today at an air show, and all the pics needed a little USM to sharpen them up. W/o a TC, the lens is pretty darn good, even wide open.

Whether or not the Canon or Sigma TC works better, hard to say for sure. I've seen supporters for both. I personally got the Sigma.

What do you mean with USM? (I don't think you mean ultra sonic motor). The sigma is not always very sharp, this evening I went to a ice speed skating competition, the low light was pretty tough for the sigma. For example: ISO 1600, f/2.8 >> 1/100, is not much.

[H20boy]

Sorry, acronym crossover - unsharp mask :)

Here are a few from the air show yesterday. EXIF is intact, with a 1.4x teleconverter also.

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p620696928-4.jpg

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p61686676-4.jpg

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p512953420-4.jpg

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p513247498-4.jpg

[andreas612]

ok, thanks. Great shots!

[RobertZ]

http://i46.tinypic.com/desh0w.jpg

[anglefire]

I borrowed one of these the other month for a Motorcross event.

Was generally pleased with it - more versitile than the 300mm f2.8 IS Canon I borrowed earlier in the year. AF was not as quick, which didn't surprise me.

What did surprise me was the ability to get sharp shots at low shutter speeds.

http://www.mark.colston-online.co.uk/Motorsport/Mallory%20Park/Rally%20Cross%202009/slides/IMG_5882%20EOS-1D%20Mark%20III%20copy.jpg

[H20boy]

^ f20? wow, were you stopping down, trying to get the 1/40th shutter speed? I'd think with a panning shot of a car, I wouldve thought you could get the blur with more. Surely the lens was being impeded by such a small aperture.

[KevB]

I replaced my Canon 300mm f2.8 IS with the Sigma and have no regrets. Its much more versatile for me.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v64/Mackem/MaltonForestRally20096V1F0964edit.jpg

[anglefire]

^ f20? wow, were you stopping down, trying to get the 1/40th shutter speed? I'd think with a panning shot of a car, I wouldve thought you could get the blur with more. Surely the lens was being impeded by such a small aperture.

I was just seeing if I could get a half decent shot at such a slow shutter speed. Its probably worth noting that I found it very easy to hand hold at 1/125" and lower, even at 300mm.

As for the blur - what do you think? This was taken at 1/100", f7.1 and FL ~200mm

http://www.mark.colston-online.co.uk/Motorsport/Mallory%20Park/Rally%20Cross%202009/slides/IMG_5687%20EOS-1D%20Mark%20III%20copy.jpg

[andreas612]

http://h.imagehost.org/0606/NR6Q3316-01kl.jpg (http://h.imagehost.org/view/0606/NR6Q3316-01kl)

http://h.imagehost.org/0115/NR6Q3344-01k.jpg (http://h.imagehost.org/view/0115/NR6Q3344-01k)

http://h.imagehost.org/0026/NR6Q3313-01kl.jpg (http://h.imagehost.org/view/0026/NR6Q3313-01kl)

http://h.imagehost.org/0596/NR6Q3181-01b-800.jpg (http://h.imagehost.org/view/0596/NR6Q3181-01b-800)

[H20boy]

Some good examples above! ^^

With a good amount of contrast and some sharpening, this lens does really well as a cheaper alternative to canon's 300/2.8.

http://matt.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p867267432-4.jpg

[andreas612]

^ I didn't do any sharpening at all (just straight out of the cam). I've only done some temperature/saturation

[Christopher Perez]

Wonderful images. Sigma makes some mighty fine optics! :)

^ I didn't do any sharpening at all (just straight out of the cam). I've only done some temperature/saturation

[H20boy]

Wonderful images. Sigma makes some mighty fine optics! :)

Careful, sigma bashers just waiting in the wings to prove you wrong. Let's just say, they can produce fine lenses.

[andreas612]

they can produce fine lenses.

Totally agree with that ;)

[Simon Harrison]

The best rally lens there is in my opinion!

http://www.srh-motorsport-photography.co.uk/Galleries/forums/IP/GSR092.jpg

Taken with a 7D.

Simon

[Travis F]

This is a sequence shot yesterday with a Non-DG @ f/4, 120mm ISO 100 and 1/200th handheld. I am only posting the first 8 shots due to forum guidelines. They were shot with a 40D in Hi-speed Drive mode and AI servo using center point focus. There, I think that pretty much covers it LOL. Oh yeah, I really don't know how fast she was coming toward me!

1 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719329_PbecD-XL.jpg

2 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719365_4n6jz-XL.jpg

3 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719398_JauKY-XL.jpg

4 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719437_6jP28-XL.jpg

5 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719489_yZS9L-XL.jpg

6 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719537_Ng8Dm-XL.jpg

7 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719578_GdFEB-XL.jpg

8 -
http://tfredenburg.smugmug.com/photos/752719629_TuUBG-XL.jpg

Hopefully somebody finds it useful,
Travis

[Lindholdt]

I've read trough this thread 5 times now! I just can't wait until mine gets back from Japan, so I FINALLY can test me new "little" baby :D

[foxbat]

The best rally lens there is in my opinion!I know I'm late to comment on this but WOW that shot it just bursting with action. Great stuff Simon.

[Goincarcrazy]

Its great looking at all the pics from everyone who's posted. I just snagged one of these monsters and from the 5 minutes I had to test and play with it, it seems like we'll be getting along just fine. The weight as most everyone says, could be an issue, but I thought the same thing when I first got my 100-400 and I got used to it right quick. Anyway, hopefully I'll have something to add sometime soon!

[Goincarcrazy]

Alright, had a trial run with it, but not really enough to get the hang of this beast. Heavy, but worth it! So, here are my first 2 keepers with this lens.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2702/4333457164_ba395734b8_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2769/4333456882_8ca5ff3891_b.jpg

[Lindholdt]

Looks great Goincarcrazy, and congratulations with your new lens :)
Did you use TC's for these shots?

[Goincarcrazy]

Thanks! The first shot was just the lens. The second shot (of the Ibis) was with a Canon 1.4x TC.

[Lindholdt]

Ok, thanks for the info, I just hope my 120-300 will do just as good when I get it back :)

[Goincarcrazy]

Well, i finally got to do "The Big Test" yesterday by going to the zoo. I had very little time to go through the pics last night but here were some keepers I picked out so far (all of them lens only, no TC's added):

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2739/4339353113_c638a2ccbd_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4340098118_4100706659_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2687/4340109502_1e85976f05_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4339365825_fe3d1b647b_b.jpg

[Mr. Clean]

Great shots, looks like you got a keeper!

[Lindholdt]

Yeah those look very good from here :) Are you satisfied with the lens?

[Canonopathy]

Wow how do you carry it around the zoo? I'm usually doing the zoo with my kids (hands are full) so I'll usually stick to something light like a 24-105 or at most a 70-200.

[Goincarcrazy]

Thanks all! So far I'm pretty happy with it. I'm coming to this lens from a 100-400L, and that lens was spectacular. That being said, coming to Sigma from L quality was a little bit of a nail-biter... The Sigma, lens alone, seems to be spot on, very sharp, but (and I know I'm limiting it by only having a 50D) it tends to be a little slow when it comes to tracking. Then there's the issue of when I put a 1.4x on the lens, it seems to want to front focus, and I have to use the micro adjust and back it up the entire 20 units to get it to be right again. So time will tell with this bugger.

As far as carrying it around the zoo, I'm nothing but a big kid myself. Its just a fun place to go and get away for a while. The wife and I usually head over there with Manish (Inthedeck on here) and his wife and make a day of it. I used it as both a lens test and a strength test on my part. I can haul a 20lb backpack with the 50D+100-400L around my neck for miles and miles (most has been about 7 so far), but having this beast attached for 3 hours at the zoo while holding and walking and shooting, it gets switched from hand to hand, that's for sure!

Anyway, more pics coming very soon, but overall, I'm impressed with this lens.

[Goincarcrazy]

As stated, a few more pics.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4012/4342179473_aaa200ba24_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4342180263_2f1462b2ea_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2687/4342919920_7cb9b4e766_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2804/4342920986_67489c80e8_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2756/4342917446_b10fb66356_b.jpg

[Lindholdt]

Thanks for sharing the info in the lens :) The problem with the TC sounds strange though, have you tried with another TC?
Great pictures btw ;)

[Goincarcrazy]

Thanks, and no I haven't tried another TC, though next time I meet up with Manish, I'll see if I can pry his from his clutches. And as an example, the Lion shot is with the 1.4x at -20 focus adjustment. Weird stuff.

[zincozinco]

nice shoots guys and gals!! i have just recieved my copy - new to me..... just wondering do you guys attach the strap on that little silver metal hinge on the grip. i really dont feel like getting another if it rips of....

[Goincarcrazy]

I just kept the strap attached to the camera and supported the lens with a hand throughout the day to keep the lens from pulling on the camera.

[zincozinco]

that wont work as i have other cameras to use as well as a monopod attached to the sigma... i dont have the time to put it down carefully each time im using another set up so i need it dangling on the side. hopefully someone else have some insight that is secure.... :)

thanks for the reply btw!!

[zincozinco]

ok this settles it, I always google after I have asked on here - maybe Im lazy....

[Goincarcrazy]

I'm gonna have to look at that cause I have no idea how to attach it, though I spent a whopping 2 seconds looking at the pin, so I'll try to figure it out later (unless someone wants to support my laziness and tell me).

[zincozinco]

i did not get the "strap" with mine so I have attached a normal "canon" strap on mine, same way as to the camera, with both strap ends going to the pin

[Goincarcrazy]

I'll have to look at the foot again when I get home tonight. Very interested in this possibility though! It'd help with carrying it A LOT!

[zincozinco]

it looks fragile but - if sigma says that, thats what its for...

[zincozinco]

this guys was hanging around the house, processed in DPP because A3 is killing my computer, have no idea how its gonna look....

[zincozinco]

strap: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=9638643#post9638643 :)

[advaitin]

nice shoots guys and gals!! i have just recieved my copy - new to me..... just wondering do you guys attach the strap on that little silver metal hinge on the grip. i really dont feel like getting another if it rips of....

I'm gonna have to look at that cause I have no idea how to attach it, though I spent a whopping 2 seconds looking at the pin, so I'll try to figure it out later (unless someone wants to support my laziness and tell me).


it looks fragile but - if sigma says that, thats what its for...

strap: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=9638643#post9638643 :)

Good solution in the last quote. Here's the strap and pin as intended by Sigma. I use mine all the time, the whole rig hangs very nicely, but upside down.

[zincozinco]

nice one, that is a good proof!! thanks advaitin!!

[Canonopathy]

Has anyone used a 1.4X with the 120-300 and compared to the 100-400?

[zincozinco]

no but its a bit different as you get f4 at 420.... id say its better by a mile but im not sure as I have never owned an IS lens in my life.... normally the bigger the glass (physically) the sharper the image. ie the sigma 50 1.4 vs the canon 50mm 1.4 better bokeh as well - as i said dont take my word for it....

[Goincarcrazy]

Has anyone used a 1.4X with the 120-300 and compared to the 100-400?

I have, and having a 50D (crop body) its truly apples to oranges. On the 120-300mm oddly enough it tends to front focus quite a bit for me, but having the focus adjustment makes it all better. Putting the 100-400 on with the 1.4x kills me. It makes it nearly impossible for me to accurately focus through the viewfinder because it appears grainy or what not, so having AF with the 1.4x really helps! 420mm @ f/4 still provides some nice bokeh, and is still very usable. I will say that the IQ takes a hit on both lenses, but it tends to sharpen up better on the 120-300mm. It boils down to your needs. If you need a low light telephoto, the 120-300 is your lens. If you need length and have a 1 series camera that can AF at f/8, then I'd choose the 100-400mm.

[Goincarcrazy]

Here's one from an airshow this weekend. I'll be posting a couple more up as time allows me to go through and review the pics. This airshow seriously made me wish I had a CPL for this thing, but those get a smidge pricey and are a bit hard to find.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4381428048_0698bddb20_b.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

Another from the air show:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4384003698_4246855937_b.jpg

[zincozinco]

looks good, yeah the CPL will set you back... Details are good so i would not fret it!!

[asysin2leads]

Ok, ok, I've gone through the last 3 years of this thread. I will be picking up something in the 300 2.8 range in the next couple of weeks. I have seen several people who swore by the 120-300 now have Canon primes. What is the reason for the switch? Did the 120-300 fall out of favor with you? Unfortunately, I don't have the funds for a Canon 300 2.8 IS. I've seen results showing the 120-300 has almost identical IQ as the older Canon non-IS 300 2.8. What are y'all's recommendations?

[Goincarcrazy]

well, I guess it all depends on what you need it for and how important the versatility of a zoom is to you. For me, since I try to get to races every once in a while, and I shoot a lot of nature stuff, I never know what I'll encounter, so a zoom is nearly essential for me, but if you're doing indoor (or outdoor for that matter) sports, then a prime would be alright I would assume.

I know y'all are probably getting sick of my postings of mediocrity, but here are a few from a little hike I took yesterday:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4391840441_e31ae38c36_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4392609486_b8ec1dfe06_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2730/4392608990_e84ffe8da6_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4391840245_96f65b3a48_b.jpg

And now for something completely different:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4391841415_cbe1b597b9_b.jpg

[H20boy]

Like the armadillo shot alot. Just an observation on your final results, but it seems your images are very bright, perhaps its just my monitor, but lowering the curves a bit, maybe some added contrast (which will result in more detail and a 'darker' image) may help. Just an idea to try.

[Nikolas]

No issue here.
No teleconverter
http://nickaxrs.customer.netspace.net.au/Superbikes%202010/IMG_7678.jpg

2 x kenko teleconverter

http://nickaxrs.customer.netspace.net.au/Superbikes%202010/IMG_7712.jpg

1.4 x Tamron teleconverter

http://nickaxrs.customer.netspace.net.au/Superbikes%202010/IMG_8104.jpg

[Nikolas]

Like the armadillo shot alot. Just an observation on your final results, but it seems your images are very bright, perhaps its just my monitor, but lowering the curves a bit, maybe some added contrast (which will result in more detail and a 'darker' image) may help. Just an idea to try.


It's your monitor
The shots look perfect.

[tutwood]

this has took forever to actually figure out how to post i do not know if it will work but here goes nuthatch with kenro 1.4 tele

[tutwood]

4th attempt

[tutwood]

just getting the hang of how to post images the next 2 were taken with 120-300 with 1.4 tele very poor light one is a firecrest the over a warbler of some kind (if you know please tell) . this was a second hand 120-300 i think i was lucky with my copy

[Goincarcrazy]

Looks pretty good to me! Has anyone had the experience of getting a "warmer" look to their pics with this lens compared to other lenses?

Also, I got the chance to try this out as a portrait lens. Mind you I had to stand about 30 feet away, but I'm fairly happy with how it performed.

http://www.photographybync.com/People-1/Babies/2010022008493PSL/808139075_bBcQX-XL.jpg

http://www.photographybync.com/People-1/Babies/2010022008422PSL/808072164_qBcw3-XL.jpg

[tutwood]

one from today very poor light 120-300 on its own

[andreas612]

nice shots above!

[zincozinco]

gotta love it with a 7d....

Talk about these guys loosing concentration....

[Borderfox]

http://photos4.pix.ie/06/5E/065E5B9939A441E5B598C055AA2ECF6D-800.jpg (http://pix.ie/keithjack/1627605)

[beske]

Belgrade zoo

http://i413.photobucket.com/albums/pp214/beske_67/_MG_4025.jpg

http://i413.photobucket.com/albums/pp214/beske_67/_MG_4177.jpg

http://i413.photobucket.com/albums/pp214/beske_67/_MG_4248.jpg

[AzzKicker]

Have any of you had an issue with the section where the camera mounts coming loose?

[H20boy]

Not jiggly loose, but not as tight as my other lenses however. You can feel some play in the mounting section. Its common though.

[AzzKicker]

Not jiggly loose, but not as tight as my other lenses however. You can feel some play in the mounting section. Its common though.

Ya I knew there was a reason I'm not purchasing 3rd party lenses anymore. Their QC sucks. I decided to open her up and noticed a screw missing, and all screws were loose. I gave her a tighten and it fixed it. Then the Sigma 1.4TC was also Loose, had to tighten that too. No wonder all my Baseball shots were odd looking this past weekend. I had a Lens that was loose on a TC that was also Loose.

[Goincarcrazy]

yeah, it's a shame. I think Sigma could be a huge player in the lens market if only their QC was better.

[AzzKicker]

yeah, it's a shame. I think Sigma could be a huge player in the lens market if only their QC was better.


I agree! Cuz their glass is excellent and their lens bodies etc.

[Goincarcrazy]

I just can't understand why they wouldn't step back, say wait a minute, and really fix the problems they have. I mean with multiple lenses (like the sigma 50 1.4 or the 30 1.4) it's almost part of buying one is to send it back to them to re calibrate it. Kind of ridiculous, but it really speaks for them that people are willing to put up with that BECAUSE of the IQ and build quality, etc.

[Goincarcrazy]

Alright, I actually got to use this lens again after a crazy long period of not having a need (heck, the only lens I DID use was a 50mm 1.8 in the last couple of months!). So here goes...

My first attempt at anything pertaining to sports, these are from a co-worker's son's tee-ball game and are of his son:

http://www.photographybync.com/People-1/Sports/201005080325PSL/863407420_SPSLP-XL.jpg

http://www.photographybync.com/People-1/Sports/2010050803131PSL/863421221_eEzG6-XL.jpg

http://www.photographybync.com/People-1/Sports/201005080342PSL/863408122_SbSXL-XL.jpg


And this one going back to my first love of nature:

http://photographybync.smugmug.com/Nature/Animals/201005140563PSL/866988819_fEhL8-XL.jpg

[~Lefty~]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4617280942_8183eaec6d_b.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

What aperture was that taken at?

[~Lefty~]

Can't remember off hand and I'm on my phone at the moment. I'll check when I get home.

[~Lefty~]

What aperture was that taken at?


f/5.6

[Simon Harrison]

One from the weekend with a 7D

http://www.srh-motorsport-photography.co.uk/Galleries/forums/POTN/vscc2205102.jpg

Cheers,

Simon.

[anglefire]

Thats a cracking shot Simon.

[jj_glos]

That is a cracking shot Simon and one of the reasons I just picked up one of these bad boys, crikey it IS heavy though! Just waiting for some decent weather so I can get out and use it! Quick couple of test in the back garden shows it likes the 1.4x and isn't that bad with the 2.0x. Happy days ahead!