Wedding Lens? - Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro (OS) HSM | C

I've been shooting family, grad, etc. But I have been getting a lot of requests for weddings lately so I am thinking of getting some new glass to try a couple smaller weddings. I use a T3 with a 50mm 1.8 and the 18-55mm II. Looking to spend under $500 until I shoot enough to pay for something higher end (if need be).

I was looking at the Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro (OS)* HSM | C. I like the focal length and speed. Could see it's use for portraits as well. This would be my "walkaround" lens.

To those of you with wedding experience, would this lens be ideal for a wedding; considering my price range?

Thanks in advance!

I would actually say that you need a better body with much better low-light capabilities before you consider shooting a wedding. Normally, I'd say that equipment doesn't matter that much, but in a high-pressure, get-it-or-it-never-happens-again type of atmosphere such as a wedding, you need pro-quality gear.

Also, never go in without a backup.

steelbluesleepr wrote in post #17064443
I would actually say that you need a better body with much better low-light capabilities before you consider shooting a wedding. Also, never go in without a backup.

I agree on all accounts and I have told clients that but they like my work and prices, which remain low because I don't spend a lot on gear. Also, I've seen some of the "photographers" around here that have been shooting weddings and it's sad what they charge for such low quality. That's why I am considering it. I would prefer better equipment but, if clients want me to do it and they have seen my work and are happy with it, then maybe I will give it a shot.

I would have another T3 for backup as well.

That still does not answer my question though, lol.

Anyone with wedding experience or experience with the Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro (OS) HSM | C feel that it would work well as a walkaround lens for weddings?

I have the lens. But I can't recommend it.

Overall it is a good quality lens but if you can't upgrade body, and need a faster lens, i'd recommend you to go for the full f2.8 tamron or sigma models (in the 17-50 focal range) with that budget. Or save a bit and get the canon one. That's my regret.

aabezz wrote in post #17064483
I have the lens. But I can't recommend it.

Overall it is a good quality lens but if you can't upgrade body, and need a faster lens, i'd recommend you to go for the full f2.8 tamron or sigma models (in the 17-50 focal range) with that budget. Or save a bit and get the canon one. That's my regret.

I did consider that but wasnt sure if I would miss the extra length of the 17-70. Would i be ok at a wedding with that?

I have the tamron 28-75 f2.8 and the sigma 30mm 1.4 on a 5d and 40d accordingly.

That setup worked wonders for my last wedding. Nice and fast glass, and had really good results.

I have heard good things about the sigma in question, but I prefer the constant aperture of the tamron. Even at 2.8 it is sharp corner to corner.

If you don't mind using it on a crop sensor, I would recommend it.