Who knew size mattered...

*FHPhotographer* · 08-13-2008, 12:46 PM

Just got the Sigma 70mm macro for a walk-around lens on my K100D.

The Sigma is a brick. A very good brick to be sure -- wonderful macro, sharp as a tack -- but a brick none the less. And on a "smaller" camera like the the K100 it seems I'm always walking downhill and balancing against gravity.

Who knew how good my K100D + 50mm f/1.4 camera/lens combination is for size/weight/handling ease? The difference between the camera with the FA50 and camera with the Sigma 70 macro is 329 grams, or 11+ ounces.

Since I really like the 70mm range, looks like another Adorama return and exchange for either the DA70 or FA 77. Who knew those optically wonderful Pentax primes had more to offer than just image quality? Size does matter,
FHPhotographer

*hwblanks* · 08-13-2008, 12:52 PM

I've given a little bit of thought to trading the A100 macro in for something shorter--either something like the Sigma 70 or one of the Pentax 70s. The Pentax lenses definitely have a size advantage, but my concern is that I'd miss the closeup capabilities that a macro lens provides.

If you really don't need the closeup feature of the Sigma 70, then it looks like you're making the right decision by trading it for a smaller lens.

Heather

*Nesster* · 08-13-2008, 12:54 PM

Yah, I was guessing the Sigma might feel that way (why do I think of big boobs here?). The DA70is light as a feather and small as Twiggy's chest. If macro's important and you're willing to stretch from 70 a bit, you might want to feel out the Tamron 90, definitely not as busty as the Sigma.

*k100d* · 08-13-2008, 01:21 PM

the sigma is heavy because it is built well. the tamron 90 and the pentax dfa's pale in terms of build quality.

i'm a bit confused you're giving up the macro for a non-macro lens. i guess only the focal length was important and not the closeup ability :S ?

*FHPhotographer* · 08-13-2008, 02:57 PM

Originally Posted by k100d

the sigma is heavy because it is built well. the tamron 90 and the pentax dfa's pale in terms of build quality.

i'm a bit confused you're giving up the macro for a non-macro lens. i guess only the focal length was important and not the closeup ability :S ?

that's about it... if wanted the focal length and took the macro capability as a bonus. I doubt I'd use the macro on more than one out of 10 shots, so I'm guessing it adds weight and complexity without real benefit (for me). Also, are you saying the Pentax 70 isn't well built, or just not at the same build level as the Sigma?
FHPhotog

ll_coffee_lP · 08-13-2008, 03:32 PM

Meh,...to each his own I guess. I have the Sigma 70 and absolutely love it. It is a big lens, and heavy, but the build quality and the images it produces are amazing.

I tested the Sigma 70 to the DA70 and found no appreciable difference between the shots. The cost was about the same too. The deciding feature for me was the 0.91:1 macro function.

If you're not going to use the macro then the DA70 is your choice.

c[_]

Big Dave · 08-13-2008, 03:55 PM

FH,
My solution to the problem was to order a battery grip, so that the lens weight is better supported. This way all of my longer lenses are easier to carry. I'm still waiting for it to arrive, but it should work well with my 28-70mm/2.8 zoom. I use the 70mm end alot, just as I did with my 105mm with film.

Dave

*FHPhotographer* · 08-14-2008, 09:43 PM

Originally Posted by Big Dave

FH,
My solution to the problem was to order a battery grip, so that the lens weight is better supported. This way all of my longer lenses are easier to carry. I'm still waiting for it to arrive, but it should work well with my 28-70mm/2.8 zoom. I use the 70mm end alot, just as I did with my 105mm with film.

Dave

Wish I had that option, but as far as I know there is no battery grip available for the K100D,
FHPhotog

*k100d* · 08-14-2008, 10:08 PM

Originally Posted by FHPhotographer

that's about it... if wanted the focal length and took the macro capability as a bonus. I doubt I'd use the macro on more than one out of 10 shots, so I'm guessing it adds weight and complexity without real benefit (for me). Also, are you saying the Pentax 70 isn't well built, or just not at the same build level as the Sigma?
FHPhotog

i've never handled the sigma, but i know from what people have read the build quality is quite excellent.

the Limiteds are very well built from my experience, i have the DA21 and FA Limiteds and they are all excellent, all metal bodies if you're into that sorta thing

*roentarre* · 09-04-2008, 02:41 AM

Originally Posted by FHPhotographer

Size does matter,
FHPhotographer

No. Perspective matters.