Tech: "Sigma 50-150mm F2.8"
Woo! Finally, Sigma are releasing the above lens for the Sony Alpha mount. It will be out in May 2007, according to Sigma. This lens is a down-sized version of a traditional lens, the 70-200mm F2.8, translating the traditional lens for APS-C-sensor digital SLRs.
What's special about this lens?
Practicality
The 50-150mm F2.8 has a reduced image circle, making it unsuitable for a 35mm camera whilst retaining full quality for a 24mm (APS-C) camera. The combined reduction in focal length (25%) and image-circle (33% radius / 55% area) contribute towards this lens's reduced weight; instead of weighing 1.5kg it weighs 770g. The lens costs just £450, which is less than Sigma's 70-200mm F2.8, and a LOT less than any own-brand 70-200mm F2.8.
Using Handheld
In particular; I could realistically use this lens handheld (1/25sec at the tele end), even in reasonably dark conditions. With a monopod, I could easily use it for night shooting. Although some users pretend that they regularly use a 70-200mm F2.8 handheld, I think realistically you would have to use it with a tripod. It is just too heavy otherwise, your shaking would get too severe.
What's special about this lens?
Practicality
The 50-150mm F2.8 has a reduced image circle, making it unsuitable for a 35mm camera whilst retaining full quality for a 24mm (APS-C) camera. The combined reduction in focal length (25%) and image-circle (33% radius / 55% area) contribute towards this lens's reduced weight; instead of weighing 1.5kg it weighs 770g. The lens costs just £450, which is less than Sigma's 70-200mm F2.8, and a LOT less than any own-brand 70-200mm F2.8.
Using Handheld
In particular; I could realistically use this lens handheld (1/25sec at the tele end), even in reasonably dark conditions. With a monopod, I could easily use it for night shooting. Although some users pretend that they regularly use a 70-200mm F2.8 handheld, I think realistically you would have to use it with a tripod. It is just too heavy otherwise, your shaking would get too severe.