| Latest Review Posted | Sigma 28-84mm F3.5-4.5
My lens was included in an ME Super bundle, so my cost was only about $10. The other reviewers have already touched on the main points - it's a decent walkaround lens, not outstanding in any way. I find my copy to be decently sharp, even wide-open. Colors & contrast are not up to SMC Pentax standards, but with a little pp, can be much improved upon. The focus ring is wide, turns smoothly, and has a long throw. The stock hood is pretty much useless. It's too small, and screws into the focusing barrel, which limits its usefulness. I fitted a 58mm rubber 3-stage hood, and saw IQ improvement immediately. Don't try using this lens without a hood, you will get flare & washed-out images. In my opinion it's a worthwhile lens for a beginner, or for someone looking for an economical MF zoom, who's not afraid of doing some pp on their images.
edit May 3, 2012: I upgraded my rating a bit. The flare can be mostly controlled with a decent hood, and I like the way this lens renders OOF areas. Smooth & pleasing bokeh under certain conditions.
Some sample shots taken with an *istD here: https://picasaweb.google.com/pindfw/Sigma2884F3545MFZoom?authuser=0&feat=directlink |
