I am looking at this lens down the road as a cheaper alternative to the Nikon 70-200 VR... I know at least one person on NSOP has one... thoughts? I would like to know specifically about AF speed/accuracy, size, and build. Optical quality is important, but I hardly ever use this range, so it's not as critical.

Keep in mind that I hardly ever use the tele range, but when I do, I am finding I would like to have a wider constant aperture (the 70-300 that I have now is 4.5-5.6).

I am also looking at the 18-200 AF-D that someone has for sale here on NSOP--that would be my Nikon alternative if I don't go with the Sigma since they are roughly equivalent in price.

M

I loved mine. Nice and sharp, good contrast, very good price.

I only sold it because I didn't need the extra stop and went with the lighter/cheaper Canon 70-200 f/4 L.

I assume you've seen this thread?
http://www.newschoolofphotography.co...hp?topic=755.0

- Scott

Oh yeah! Thanks, Scott. I had forgotten about that thread, but I KNEW there was SOMETHING on here about the Sigma.

M

I also have and love this lens for what it is. Optically it's awesome, AF is perfect (fast & accurate), and it has an awesome price. The build isn't as nice as canon's (don't know about anything else) but it's still built well. Just expect some paint chipping if you own it a while.

My only issues with it is the premise of the lens. Do I need a 70-200mm f2.8, or would the 200mm f2.8 be a better choice? I use it at 200mm most of the time. The 200mm prime is smaller, lighter and less expensive.

But if you're in the market for a 70-200mm f? put this on the short list for sure.

Yeah, they do but it's not out yet, they're rumored to be $3k~$5k and they're very big/heavy.... But I still want one. They also made a f1.8 a while back.

agreed. I love the looks of those and the 85mm f1.2. Huge element in relation to the length...
And Canon's is rumored to be le$$ than the nikon because canons always cost less.

the Canon 1.8s are expensive if you find one, there was a short spurt for sale on FM and potn when the new f2 was announced.

The Canon 200 1.8s are the ones with the massive front element right? I think I saw one a while back at a wrestling match. In fact, doesn't Mike (mkfotos) have one or had one?

- Scott

Yes he does, and yes they look very.... interesting.
http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography...00mmf18SHW.jpg

Yeah, that's the one I was thinking of... I think they look pretty damn cool, I bet that can get to be a real pain once the initial cool factor wears off though...