[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

By Alanbataar from Wheaton, MD on 1/28/2008

I bought "The Bigma" to replace a disappointing Canon 70-200 f5.6L lens, which is "L" in name only.

This lens and a 2x teleconverter (don't waffle about it, just get a 2xTC) extended the reach of my gear quite significantly at a very reasonable price.

It's quite unique - the range you get for the money is stunning. I'm satisfied with the quality of construction and the images.

If you respect it's limitations (or, if you like, shortcomings) it will deliver sharp, neutral-color, well-saturated images for you. The bokeh is pleasing as well.

The main limitation is that it's not fast glass at f4-6.3. Despite the monstrous 86mm filter size, it doesn't collect a lot of light at the far end of the zoom. It's even slower with the 2xTC.

The downside to having a 450mm range is that the focusing mechanism has to travel a long way while moving heavy bits. It's simply not a fast focusing lens.

I've shot wildlife, and the occasional outdoor portrait, but I bought it primarily to shoot motorcycle racing. I find that when I'm close to the edge of the track, and the bikes are whizzing by, the AF can't keep up. If I position myself further away from the action, use a tripod, and take advantage of the long reach, I get fine results. It's surprisingly easy to manual focus, as well.

One other "unintended side-effect" worth mentioning is that you spend a lot of time talking to people. Fully extended, it looks a bit like a rocket launcher with a camera hanging off the back. It's hardly stealthy.

I'd say the key to happiness with The Bigma is that you should consider this a 200-500mm lens that can be used as a 50mm in a pinch. It's not a good replacement for a faster, lighter, smaller 50-200mm zoom.

I use this lens for photographing birds. I've had it for a month and am finding too many con's about it as i use it more and more. This lens would be good for still photo's and Landscape photo's. As for photographing birds, i think the focus is too slow. The lock for the lens only works at 50mm and if you don't have it locked it will creep.

[1 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

By Dick from Danville, Pa. on 5/9/2007

I was disappointed with the sharpness of my pictures with this lens. I didn't read on any of the reviews or specifications that the tele-converter could only be used between 100-500 and the focus is manual.

[4 of 4 customers found this review helpful]

By Ed from Panama City, Fl on 3/27/2007

I've used to to shot soccer & softball and have gotten great shots no matter where I am on the pitch or field. I the last time I used it I didn't have my monopod and after the second game my arm was sore, so make sure you have some kind of support