Which SDM lens to choose

explr1 · 10-13-2008, 09:31 AM

I have a few extra dollars to buy a new lens with. I've decided on either a Pentax 16-50mm DA* off of ebay, or the new 17-70mm DA SDM model. The lens will be will be used for mostly indoor portraits as we have a new baby on the way. Thanks, Chris.

leadbelly · 10-13-2008, 09:44 AM

16-50 for the speed... you'll need it once the little one starts running around!

Though for kids, I'd rather use the 50-135...

*k100d* · 10-13-2008, 09:57 AM

the DA 17-70 isn't that great, seems to be significant sample variation, and it's pricey
DA17-70 side by side with Sigma 17-70: Pentax SLR Talk Forum: Digital Photography Review

however the DA* 16-50 also suffers from significant sample variation as well and should be tested before usage

soccerjoe5 · 10-13-2008, 11:37 AM

for the price of the 16-50 you can get the da40 and da70. much faster AF

RBellavance · 10-13-2008, 11:38 AM

Neither, IMHO. Get yourself the FA35/2 and/or the FA50/1.4.

wlachan · 10-13-2008, 12:22 PM

Originally Posted by k100d

seems to be significant sample variation

Seems to apply to many Pentax DA zooms these days. That makes Pentax primes more attractive than ever.