Edit: More Sample Shots:
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3
I know some users have reported focusing errors and extreme softness wide open, so I've included some test shots of mine:
Shots were taken at 24mm (full wide) ISO 400 using JPEG basic compression on my D70 (photobucket has a 1MB file limit). A tripod and remote control was used for all shots.
The AF point used was the center of the DNA Structures CD.
f/2.8
f/4
f/5.6
f/8
f/11
I think it's pretty nice even at f/2.8, but I'll let you guys look at the pictures and decide for yourselves.
EDIT: Impressions of the lens:
Build quality is excellent; it's not quite as bombproof as the Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8 I used last week, but I wouldn't put it too far behind in terms of build quality. It is noticeably better than the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 in terms of build quality (a friend of mine has the Tamron).
Specified weight is 555g, or 19.7 oz without hood or filters. This is lighter than the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 (760g), but heavier than the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8, at 430g. The weight of this Sigma says a lot about its excellent build quality.
The lens is IF and does not rotate on focus or zoom; it also has a zoom lock at 24mm as well as an aperture ring so it's compatible with older cameras and accessories like extension tubes. The lens is shortest (about 3.5") at 24mm and extends about 2 inches at full zoom (60mm).
It focuses with the camera's built in AF motor (so D40 and D60 are out), but AF is quick and accurate.
The lens is 24-60mm, which is a less useful range than 18-55mm. But...the fast aperture and great optics make it worth the tradeoff IMO. It is compatible with full frame 35mm and digital cameras.
Sigma did not skimp with the optical construction of this lens:
16 elements in 15 groups; 2 super low dispersion elements; 4 aspherical elements.
Image quality on mine is great; sharp even at f/2.8. I haven't gotten to seriously shoot with it yet, but will get to tomorrow.
It comes with a nice Sigma "EX" carrying case and lens hood, as well as 4 year warranty.
Best part: the lens only ran me $235 shipped from Cameta Camera, brand new with 4 year Sigma warranty. It even came with a Hoya 77mm UV filter, cleaning kit, free 1 year subscription to PC Photo, and 50 free prints! This is dramatically lower than Sigma's $570 MSRP, and a steal for the build and optical quality this lens offers.
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3
I know some users have reported focusing errors and extreme softness wide open, so I've included some test shots of mine:
Shots were taken at 24mm (full wide) ISO 400 using JPEG basic compression on my D70 (photobucket has a 1MB file limit). A tripod and remote control was used for all shots.
The AF point used was the center of the DNA Structures CD.
f/2.8
f/4
f/5.6
f/8
f/11
I think it's pretty nice even at f/2.8, but I'll let you guys look at the pictures and decide for yourselves.
EDIT: Impressions of the lens:
Build quality is excellent; it's not quite as bombproof as the Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8 I used last week, but I wouldn't put it too far behind in terms of build quality. It is noticeably better than the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 in terms of build quality (a friend of mine has the Tamron).
Specified weight is 555g, or 19.7 oz without hood or filters. This is lighter than the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 (760g), but heavier than the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8, at 430g. The weight of this Sigma says a lot about its excellent build quality.
The lens is IF and does not rotate on focus or zoom; it also has a zoom lock at 24mm as well as an aperture ring so it's compatible with older cameras and accessories like extension tubes. The lens is shortest (about 3.5") at 24mm and extends about 2 inches at full zoom (60mm).
It focuses with the camera's built in AF motor (so D40 and D60 are out), but AF is quick and accurate.
The lens is 24-60mm, which is a less useful range than 18-55mm. But...the fast aperture and great optics make it worth the tradeoff IMO. It is compatible with full frame 35mm and digital cameras.
Sigma did not skimp with the optical construction of this lens:
16 elements in 15 groups; 2 super low dispersion elements; 4 aspherical elements.
Image quality on mine is great; sharp even at f/2.8. I haven't gotten to seriously shoot with it yet, but will get to tomorrow.
It comes with a nice Sigma "EX" carrying case and lens hood, as well as 4 year warranty.
Best part: the lens only ran me $235 shipped from Cameta Camera, brand new with 4 year Sigma warranty. It even came with a Hoya 77mm UV filter, cleaning kit, free 1 year subscription to PC Photo, and 50 free prints! This is dramatically lower than Sigma's $570 MSRP, and a steal for the build and optical quality this lens offers.
