Zoom lens choice

[miniman]

Tried out a mate's Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 this weekend and really liked it, although I could have done with an extra 100mm at times. Thinking about a couple of options:

- Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 HSM EX DG Macro at around £620
- Sigma 100-300 f/4 EX DG APO IF HSM at around £640

Question is will I miss the f/2.8 if I go for the longer lens? I have 24-70 f/2.8 covered with an existing Sigma lens. And is the Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L IS USM really worth twice the money for a novice? April is bonus month so might be able to stretch to it.

Any advice welcomed!

[Gemm]

I'd go for 70-200, then get a 1.4x converter as well. More versatile that way and you'll still have f2.8 when needed.

As for comparison with Canon, it was definitely worth it for me. But each person has different needs, so it's difficult for me to say whether it's worth for you or not. You can only decide it. Major differences for me are; faster AF; weather sealing; IS; sharpness wide open. But Sigma is still an excellent lens, so you won't regret it if you decide to get one.

Edited by Gemm on Tuesday 10th April 13:26

[miniman]

I suppose I'm wondering whether I will get the best from a Canon L lens using my 350D body. But it kind of makes sense in the long term as I may well upgrade the body at some point...

[Gemm]

miniman said:

I suppose I'm wondering whether I will get the best from a Canon L lens using my 350D body.

I don't believe it's body-dependent. It's how you use it.

[miniman]

Any further thoughts on this? Am swaying towards the 100-300 f/4.

[rhubarb]

I use a Sigma 70-200mm all the time and it's fantastic, really sharp, nice and crisp, when I need a bit extra I used a 1.4 TC (although I've just bought a 120-300 but thats to get even longer length with a TC). Having F2.8 I think definately outways the extra length as you can get that with the TC which works really well and takes it to 280.

[matthew_h]

I completely agree with Rhubarb. I also have the 2x converter which does slow the AF down a little but still works well.

[Ed_P]

Don't forget the superb Canon 70-200mm F4 L. Not 2.8 I know, but pin-sharp, lightweight, super-fast and quiet USM focusing. The non-IS version is readily available from some UK-based suppliers for well under £400 now. Have a look on eBay.

[lowdrag]

The problem with being a novice is that you'll quickly either get bored with photography or get bitten by the bug. There is no doubt that the f2.8 lens is a darn sight better but the best Canon lens I've seen for semi pro use is the 50/350 which you can find second hand if you want. I'm not sure if you can fit a teleconverter though. When I was with all the other press photographers at the chicane at Goodwood in September and the 24 hour truck race in October (Le Mans) quite a number had this lens and I was very impressed with the results. As regards using or buying a teleconverter, have a look at this thread to give you guidance

www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=377833&f=109&h=0