Some dam fine shots there Christian.
If i go for the Sigma (and viewing your site has got me closer to a decision)
i would be
doing the
same,using it mostly with the istD.
Funny about the manual focus.The mf on the 100-300 is crap.Must of had a bad
day that day
in the
lab.<vbg>
Thanks for the help everyone,so far.
Now to see if Henrys or Vistek or whom ever has any of the EX APO teles.
Dave Brooks
>
>
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote on 2/22/2005, 2:57 AM:
>
> > I am looking at several possbilities,a Sigma 300 f4 for one. Anyone
> > have experince with
> > this and either
> > the Sigma 1.4 or 1.5 or 2x tele's.
>
> Yes, I've had this lens for several years now and think it's great. See
> http://www.skofteland.net/thumbnails.php?album=1 for examples. All
> these were shot with the 300/4 on the *ist D with and without the 1.4x
> or 2x EX TCs.
>
> Why I like the lens:
>
> 1. it's pretty sharp (as sharp as I've ever needed, but I can only
> compare it to a crappy Kalimar zoom).
>
> 2. it focuses close (<4ft). This gives several advantages IMO. It
> allows 1/3 lifesize macros which works well for large bugs and
> butterflies and it also let's me capture critters that have wandered
> very close to my shooting position where non macro lenses would not
> allow those intimate portraits.
>
> 3. It has a tripod collar (I looked at the A* 300/4 and FA 400/4.5 as
> -more expensive- alternatives).
>
> 4. build - it's a tank and has a built-in hood
>
> Only problem with the lens: The manual focus feel is utter shit. That
> being said, I use it 100% of the time in manual focus mode. Basically
> it takes some getting used to. close focus to infinity is just 1/4 turn
> of the focus ring (YES, JUST 1/4 TURN!). The focus ring is VERY LIGHT
> and requires a very light touch.
>
> They don't make it any more so you'd have to find a used one and it is
> not that expensive ~US$300. The 100-400/4 has "replaced" it.
>
> Also, be sure to ONLY use the "EX APO" TCs which I believe only come in
> 1.4x and 2x.
>
> > I know Pentax has primes in the 300-600 range but the price...........
>
>
> mmmmm I lust after the FA* 600/4.....
>
> > Any suggestions on long glass from the nature crowd. I'm open to other
> > manufactures like
> > Tamron
> > Tokina Sigma Pentax.Cost is a bit of a factor at this time.(see what
> > the taxman does to me
> > here)
>
> Sigma has some interesting zooms. The 100-300/4 as mentioned has
> replaced the 300/4 and the 120-300/2.8 is also available. Reviews that
> I've read seem positive. Also the discontinued AF 400/5.6 Macro (make
> sure it is the APO AF Macro version; other sigma 400/5.6 lenses are
> crap) gets good reviews. They also have a 170-500 that looks
> interesting but would probably be too slow for my uses (f6.3 at the long
> end)
>
> HTH
>
> --
> Christian
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
