Testing the SIGMA EX 70-200 1:2.8 APO DG Macro HSM

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What is a better way to test a zoom lense with low aperture than taking it out? Decided to go to Marwell zoo to test the bad boy.



Feast your eyes on some of the photos

   







What do you I think of it?

I managed to get the lens second hand for £330 and I debated whether to review it based on the price I paid for or it's original price. Since I don't make enough money from photography, and also I doubt I will be using this lens for the type of work I get to do... I've decided to look at it as a purchase for pleasure at the value of £330 itself rather that it's original £1100 or so.

Low light capabilities
Compared to a basic zoom lens at 200mm and around f4 to f5, the sigma allows me to have a much faster shutter speed as you'd expect at f2.8 on the same ISO settings. I managed to take some good shots as shown above on a very cloudy dark day. I decided on the day to lower my ISO settings for better quality photos than I would have done with my 18-105 f3.5-5.6 lens and it paid off.

Cloudiness at full zoom
I'm sure the more techie guys will be able to explain to you more on the following. Certain lens at full zoom give quite a cloudy photo with loss of details. My sigma 70-300 f3.5-5.6 for example tends to make the photo look a bit.. misty. The 70-200 f2.8 APO however is amazing and it does not give me that misty or cloudy look.

Is it easy to work with?
It is not a small or light piece of equipment. having it on your camera body and wearing the strap will dip the lens downward due to it's sheer weight and it can be a strain on your neck. I'm quite a strong person who does weight training, so I kind of enjoyed that heavy feeling but for how long? The best thing I find when using the lens is to carry it via the support provided.


Conclusion
I absolutely love it. I think the novelty hasn't gone yet and I have had it for over 5 months now. I like using it and I can't wait to use it again. I'll be using my tripods of course.

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