Product Description

The telephoto zoom lens 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG MACRO HSM has a large constant maximum aperture of f2.8 through the zoom range and it is optimized for digital SLR cameras.This large aperture telephoto zoom lens has a minimum focusing distance of 100cm (39.4") throughout the entire zoom range, making it very convenient for close-up photography. It maintains a greater working distance that enables you to capture the small animals and insects without disturbing them. This lens uses two ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass elements and two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements for utmost correction against chromatic aberrations. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. The HSM models provide quiet high-speed AF function, as well as full time manual focus capability. This lens incorporates an inner focusing system, which eliminates front lens rotation, allowing the use of a Petal-type Hood and more convenient to use of circular polarizing filter. Since focusing and zooming do not change its overall length, this lens is easy to hold and use.

Product Details

• Brand: Sigma
• Model: B000F8PYJ4
• Released on: 2006-06-15
• Dimensions: 7.30" h x 3.40" w x 3.40" l, 3.04 pounds

Features

• Minimum focusing distance of 39.4 in.(100cm), maximum magnification of 1:3.5.
• The super multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost.
• ELD and SLD lenses for correction of aberrations.
• HSM ensures a quiet and high-speed AF.
• Sigma USA 4 Year Service Protection, Camera Lens, Camera Bag and Strap.

Customer Reviews

Great moderately priced sports lens
I've now been shooting sports with this lens for over a year and am absolutely in love with it. Have shot and sold thousands of super sharp publication quality images. I purchased this lens a year ago as an upgrade from my Canon 70-300. Wow!!! I could not believe the sharpness of the images I was now shooting. I shoot sports with a monopod from the sidelines particularly football and lacrosse. Now I am getting crystal clear helmeted faces at 50 yards. This lens is silky smooth and a dream upgrade. The lens collar is well marked and allows easy and smooth transition from horizontal to vertical. The zoom moves from 200 to 100mm with a quick flip of my finger as the action gets close. I've been shooting my kids sports for 15 years and am absolutely delighted with this lens but you better have a monopod because it's a big heavy hunk of glass and not a carry around vacation shooter. It also makes a great portrait lens when tripod mounted with the sharpest eyelashes I have ever shot with any lens.

SIGMA Has it ALL for $475 Less
After Lot's of research, and hand's on at Canoga Camera I decided to purchase the Sigma over the Canon.

What you get for $839 is amazing package!
-lens
-case with shoulder strap
-hood
-tripod collar

The collar alone is worth $145. That is what you have to pay extra for the Canon f/2.8L.

It focuses very fast & precise. The images are absolutely stunning. I also like the matte black finish rather than the Stand Out White.

So it is up to you if you want to spend an additional $475 for the White "Cannon"

Great all around lens
I really have enjoyed this lens so far. My passion would be for sports, particularly my children's soccer games. I took one of the pictures above handheld, but would recommend a tripod for any other games. Her games are close and my son's games are a little trickier to get a good shot. I use a Canon Xti and really like how it works. I have taken school photos with this lens, and they have surpassed any professional taking them in the past. The only reason I didn't give the lens a 5 star is because mine is at the service dept at Sigma due to the AF not working. The nice thing is the lens carries a four year warranty. I'm hoping that it's just a fluke since I've had the lens only two weeks now. You will not be disappointed buying this lens. I thought I should get the Canon version, but have been extremely pleased so far with this lens. I also have the 70-300mm, f/4-5.6 Canon lens, but like others have mentioned it's nice to have that macro capability. Good Luck:)