ISO user advice for Tamron 70-200 2.8

[mr2step]

I am in the market for a new longer focal length lens to shoot the occasional concert. I've rented the canon 70-200 2.8 L and the 70-200 2.8 IS L and really liked them both though a tad heavy. I've been doing some research and am on a budget so I cannot afford the Canon L as much as I would like. So, I was reading about the Tamron 70-200 2.8 DI and came across a review that said the auto focus was poor in low light situations such as concerts. Does anyone have this lens and if so, have they shot concerts with it and had any issues with the autofocus? I typically shoot on Auto Serve if subject is moving a lot or on one shot. I really want to get a new lens as the price is in my budget but don't wanna buy something that I'm gonna regret buying because it doesn't do the one thing I need it to do.So I'm looking for actual user advice and reviews. It would be oh so helpful! Thanks!

[CosmoKid]

have you thought about the Sigma 70-200?

[mr2step]

I hadn't considered Sigma actually. My main reason for Tamron was the 6 yr warranty which I don't believe Sigma can match. Also, I had "heard" that Sigma was a cheap built lens. Is this wrong? How is autofocus in dark situations like concerts?

[DC Fan]

Originally Posted by mr2step

I hadn't considered Sigma actually. My main reason for Tamron was the 6 yr warranty which I don't believe Sigma can match. Also, I had "heard" that Sigma was a cheap built lens. Is this wrong? How is autofocus in dark situations like concerts?

From a Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX II non stabilized lens, at an indifferently-illuminated stage.



Camera Maker: Canon
Camera Model: Canon EOS 60D
Lens: 70-200mm
Image Date: 2012-02-11 13:42:26 (no TZ)
Focal Length: 165.0mm
Aperture: f/3.5
Exposure Time: 0.0040 s (1/250)
ISO equiv: 6400
Exposure Bias: none
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: aperture priority (semi-auto)
White Balance: Auto
Flash Fired: No (enforced)
Orientation: Normal
Color Space: sRGB


Camera Maker: Canon
Camera Model: Canon EOS 60D
Lens: 70-200mm
Image Date: 2012-02-11 16:03:48 (no TZ)
Focal Length: 200.0mm
Aperture: f/4.0
Exposure Time: 0.0031 s (1/320)
ISO equiv: 6400
Exposure Bias: none
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: Manual
Exposure Mode: Manual
White Balance: Auto
Flash Fired: No (enforced)
Orientation: Normal
For comparison, a stage image from a Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 lens.



Aperture: f/2.8
Exposure Time: 0.0040 s (1/250)
ISO equiv: 1600
Exposure Bias: none
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: program (Auto)
White Balance: Auto
Flash Fired: No (enforced)
Orientation: Normal
Color Space: sRGB

From having owned and used both the Tamron and Sigma lenses, the Sigma version has the far more effective autofocus response. The Sigma lens will handle a basketball fast break from the end line and properly track focus, while the Tamron lens can be indifferent under those conditions. Optically, the Tamron lens is a good performer,

[mr2step]

Great shots and insight. Both lenses looked good and the image were nice for being at ISO 6400. I appreciate the opinions. I will be using this lens for mainly concert shooting as I think I said before so low light tracking is a MUST.

[applstew]

I use the Canon 70-300 4-5.6 IS USM which by know means is a fast as some of the Canon or Sigma lens you are looking at, but find myself stopping it down to 5.6 and shooting somewhere in the range of 1/320 ISO 3200. I haven't had any issues with low light tracking when I shoot concerts or shows. Plenty sharp in my opinion. http://www.flickr.com/photos/applste...7630438660180/

All shot with said lens.