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Archive for June 11th, 2009

Since I’m all giddy about my new Sigma lens, I thought I would write a few notes about the 18-200 lens I bought a few months back and how’s it worked for me.

In the latter part of 2008, December I think it was, I decided to upgrade my everyday lens from the 18-55 kit lens that came with the camera to something a little bit better. The all-in-one lenses like the Sigma 18-200 or the Tamron 18-270 were all the rage and definitely had my interest. The Sigma version went on sale right when I was looking to buy so I grabbed one as my primary lens. I have not been disappointed. To put it simply, this is a great lens that is extremely versatile, produces very good pictures and I’ve had no regrets in buying it.

I haven’t taken as many pictures as I like with it, but I have been happy with everything I have been able to take. This lens stays on the camera 98% of the time since the range works well for so many situations. It works extremely well outdoors and I have had no problem getting 1/1000 sec or high shutter speeds. For indoor use the OS does work quite well, although you can’t always see it working in the lens. Unless you are zoomed in tight you may not notice it taking the shake away, but you can hear it kick in from time to time.

When I first got the lens the zoom was pretty tight. However, it has loosened just a little, so when you point the lens down it does begin to creep. It’s really not that big a deal since the lens does have the lock button to keep it in place. It’s just something that happens once it gets a bit of use.

If you don’t already have a lens with this sort of range, I highly suggest the investment in one. It’s great to be able to take a “wide angle” shot of a landscape or classroom and without moving, zoom in for a closer shot. For “sightseeing” trips, trips to the beach, and just general walking around this is the lens is very handy.

The only thing I would change is that right after I bought this lens, Sigma came out with the 18-250mm version. Not only would the extra zoom be beneficial, but it also has HSM which is certainly quieter and quicker than the non-HSM version. I’m not normally tracking fast objects and it only hunts in very low situations, but these two extras would have been nice. I don’t think this lens is loud, but compared to HSM, yes there is some noise. If only I’d known it was coming out!

I have no regrets though since I am nothing but pleased with what I have. However, I would grab the new version if I didn’t already have my copy.