can you recommend this lens ?

[mirax]

hi everyone,


ive been looking at getting a lens with a fixed focal length for macro shots and came across this one

http://www.sigma-imaging-uk.com/lenses/macro/50mm.htm

i was wondering if anybody had any experience with this lens, and if it was worth dipping into my pocket for as i have seen one brand new for £159

[miketoll]

Not experience but it was certainly well written about in the mags. The main drawback as I see it is how close to the subject you have to be so it very much depends on what you want macro shots of.

[Birdsnapper]

Try Googling 'Fredmiranda' and 'Photozone' for lens reviews.

[Gidders]

Its also been reviewed on slrgear.com

Try one in a shop the ensure that you will be happy wth the close working distances that you'll experience with this lens compared to say the Sigma 105 f2.8

[mirax]

might do that, i was looking at the sigma 105 but its about an extra £100 for the pleasure of standing an extra 1/2 meter back

[Dave Smith]

Standing that extra 1/2 metre back may well mean your subject it still there to be photographed. I use the Sigma 150 and can still feel too close. If your subject is not going to move away then the 50mm would be fine. I use mine mainly for butterflies and other insects.

[blackmarlin]

Personally I'd opt for the Sigma 105mm DG macro, you will be able to get good results and you will be that bit further away from your subject. I have the 105 and find it good for insects and I've also used it for portraits.

Alan

[mirax]

thanks for your help

[woolleson]

PM SDPhotography (Scott), I know he has just bought this lens.

I'm looking at the 70mm myself as another option to the 180mm I have.

Jason

[gordon g]

Originally Posted by Dave Smith

Standing that extra 1/2 metre back may well mean your subject it still there to be photographed. I use the Sigma 150 and can still feel too close. If your subject is not going to move away then the 50mm would be fine. I use mine mainly for butterflies and other insects.

I moved from the sigma 105 to the tamron 180 for that very reason. Also I dont get in my own light now, which could be a problem when working very close up.