[doggydude]

Well, the end of 2007 was good, and 2008 is shaping up to start well.

I'm starting a new job, and as luck, and negotiations, would have it, I'm going to see a nice signing bonus, ...so what's a guy to do - besides pay off a loan? That's right - snick some cash aside and stock the lens pile a bit more!

Now, I'd like to find a couple of quality items to replace current lenses.

I'd like to get an 18 - 250-type zoomer for everyday carrying, and a 100mm macro (1:1) for close up work.

So, any ideas on which lenses I should look at? I expect prices to be around $500/lens, and while expensive, doesn't scare me off.

I'll be selling my Sigma 70 - 300 APO DG (with macro). It's less than a year old and served me very well on a recent trip through Europe. I'll miss it, but want to be able to snap shots without needing to change lenses as often. I'll give up the 50mm of zoom in favor of convenience.

Now, I know zoomers are all a bit of a compromise, but I'm after a solid shooter with crisp, clear, clean optics.

So, what are your thoughts on a good zoom and a good macro?

Thanks

Duane

[Confused]

Hi Duane (doggydude)

Here are a some useful 'links' that should be of some interest to you. Just 'left-click' on the one that appears below, which will you take you to the others:

https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/137637-post2.html

Best regards
Richard

P.S. Here is a 'link' to a macro shot I took with Tamron's 18-250mm Di II Zoom lens:

https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/136007-post15.html

[doggydude]

Thanks Richard! I was actually looking for that thread before I posted mine! I guess I didn't look hard enough...

[doggydude]

Anyone care to voice some suggestions on a prime macro lens? I'm thinking in the 100mm range, but open to ideas, though I'd like 1:1 if possible.

[mer]

My first choice would be pentax DFA 100mm . Then Sigma 105mm or Tamron 90mm

[Mechan1k]

I really love my Tamron 90mm f/2.8 SP Macro lens.
Makes for a beautiful longer portrait lens as well.

Here's a quick shot i took with it on Xmas Eve ... was a windy day as well ... hendheld too ... so not the best conditions for macro.
Would have been better stopped down a fair bit more and a tripod (although blur would have been had due to the wind)



It's the stamen from a hibiscus.