I have the Sigma 70-300mm APO DG Macro (brand new). I shoot almost exclusively at 300mm and 5.6, 6.3, 7.1. As I said in another post, I get some puzzling results quite frequently. I have been using a tripod for the last 2 weeks exclusively and I have almost eliminated camera shake problems. However, I notice that many images still seem to lack 'umph!' A good example is the olive-backed sunbird in my gallery. I was very close and the evening light was excellent. I got almost 40 shots off and didnt get even 1 that I thought was special. I know that I have a lot to learn as a photographer and there are probably many factors at play. Basically, I know I cant blame the equipment. By the way, I picked up the ML-L3 remote shutter control today. I will be back out this weekend seeing if this little device will give me a boost!
The question is: All things being equal, does the Sigma 400mm f5.6 outperform the 70-300mm in terms of sharpness and overall quality? I know neither option is classified as 'great' glass, but this is what I think I can afford right now. I want to keep working on my bird shooting technique and I want to have the best lens I can get for the job (while I am learning). Lastly, I have been pricing a few manual 400mm lens. Will these lens work with the D50 or is some type of modification required?
Thanks in advance for everyone's assistance
Scott
The question is: All things being equal, does the Sigma 400mm f5.6 outperform the 70-300mm in terms of sharpness and overall quality? I know neither option is classified as 'great' glass, but this is what I think I can afford right now. I want to keep working on my bird shooting technique and I want to have the best lens I can get for the job (while I am learning). Lastly, I have been pricing a few manual 400mm lens. Will these lens work with the D50 or is some type of modification required?
Thanks in advance for everyone's assistance
Scott