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Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 EX DG - extremely underappreciated by Pentax users?
Posted By: vinceloc, 07-29-2008, 06:07 PM

Sometime early this month, I had the opportunity to purchase a very slightly used, 4-month old Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 EX DG. But before I bought the lens, I did some research in the Net for opinions, reviews and photos taken by this lens.

Well the reviews and opinions about the lens coming from Pentax users just weren't encouraging. Yet, users of this lens from other systems were much more positive and upbeat. Apparently, there are very few Pentax users of this lens, with most advising to get the Tamron 28-75.

However, I just couldn't let go of the good deal I was getting, so I decided to take the leap and purchase the lens, all the negative feedback notwithstanding. Well, I don't regret my decision! The lens may show some softness at f2.8 of 70mm, but other than that, it is sharp in all apertures and ranges. The colors are great (Sigma-wise), contrasty, with DOF really narrow - great for portraitures.

For those thinking of looking into this '05/'06 lens series, here are some of my shots.

- A 100% crop of a photo taken at f3.5 / 70mm


- f3.5 / 70mm


- f2.8 / 70mm / ISO1600


- f4 / 45mm / ISO1600


- f2.8 / 40mm


- f3.5 / 70mm


- f4 / 70mm


- f4 / 70mm


More to follow soon!!!

Last edited by vinceloc; 07-30-2008 at 04:51 AM.
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07-29-2008, 06:53 PM   #2
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I agree on that lens Vincent,
I tried one before buying a Sigma 24 - 70 f2.8, and loved the results from it.
The only reason why I chose the 24 - 70 is because a partial sponsorship made it a little more appetizing

I don't regret my decision, however I wouldn't have regretted the 28 - 70 either.

Oh, I like the turtle shot
07-29-2008, 06:55 PM   #3
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I realize this is not exactly the same lens, but I have the 24-70 and I'm crazy about it!

Your photos are definately proof that the 28-70 can produce some very good images!
07-29-2008, 07:03 PM   #4
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Nice shots! I'm surprised that this lens doesn't get more attention. I like the kitty shot.

Heather

07-29-2008, 07:03 PM   #5
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I love he owl shot - pretty happy with my Tammy 28-75 but the sigma looks to be its equal from your shots.
07-30-2008, 05:19 AM   #6
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As promised, here are more of my shots using this lens during a 3 week period.


- f5.6 / 55mm



- f4 / 70mm / ISO1600



- f3.5 / 70mm / ISO1600



- f3.2 / 28mm



- f4.5 / 65mm



- f5.6 / 28mm



- f5.6 / 70mm



- f4.5 / 28mm



- f5.6 / 48mm



- f8 / 28mm



- f11 / 28mm



- f11 / 70mm



Now, does the Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 EX DG deserve such a low rating? Well, you be the judge!!

Last edited by vinceloc; 07-30-2008 at 05:27 AM.
07-30-2008, 06:35 AM   #7
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QuoteOriginally posted by vinceloc Quote
Now, does the Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 EX DG deserve such a low rating? Well, you be the judge!!
Vince ... I admire the quality of these pics, but I suspect a fair bit of post-processing went into them. If that was the case then it's not entirely accurate to attribute to the lens. Tell me I'm wrong

07-30-2008, 06:39 AM   #8
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Hi Kguru,

You are right, the shots went through my standard PP workflow, but it is the same PP workflow that I use when Postprocessing my other photos using my other lenses (FA 50 f1.4, FA 20-35mm f4 AL and SMC M135mm f3.5). I shoot in RAW, then pp using Raw Essentials Shooter. I then convert to jpg using Raw Essentials Shooter and add a little contrast in CS2 (+5 or 10, depending on each case). But the point is, I use the same workflow whether I use this lens or my Pentax lenses. And the results are very similar.
07-30-2008, 11:33 PM   #9
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I purchased a Sigma 28-70 f/2.8 DF lens ... an older version of the DG (as the dual focus ring on it) ... and I must admit it is a really nice lens.

The reviews weren't the best ... but i jumped at it for the price that it was available.
I was hoping for a Tamron 28-75mm but got this instead ... and I can safely say the Sigma is a very underrated lens indeed ... it is very versatile and takes beautiful shots indeed.
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