Kerry Pierce wrote:
I'd also like to know why the needs of a professional would be any different than a non-professional, especially if they are shooting the same kind of subjects and desire the same level of performance and IQ?
Several thoughts here. First, a "pro" doesn't always get to choose what they shoot. Typically they are shooting things they don't really find interesting personally. A 'non-pro" can shoot anything they want with no financial consequences. If they fail, there aren't any consequences either. I've also noticed that many non-pros tend to spend a LOT more on camera gear than what they need to. A pro tends to spend as little as possible and still get the job done. I also question if most pros shoot the same subjects as "non-pros." Few of the latter will spend an afternoon taking photos of retail goods for a catalog just for fun. Finally, one of the things I've really begun to question the past couple of years is if a customer can't tell the difference between an image made with a $3,000 camera (or lens) and a $1,000 one, why spend the extra money? Especially if you are trying to make money off the deal.
My main point in this and similar threads is to not start thinking about gear, but rather to begin by thinking of your images--what you want them to look like, how you will shoot them You then select the gear that is the best fit for doing that. It's greatly simplifies your choice.
I have shot some night high school sports. The lighting is not pro level stadium lighting. If I shoot at a high enough shutter speed to stop the action and at f2.8, I have to shoot at ISO 3200 to get a decent image to start with. And then I have to do PP to get the look I want. An f4.0 lens would mean I would have to go even higher on ISO. And I am really reluctant to do that.
I think the Sigma 70-200 2.8 would perform better than Tamron. But I'm with everyone else, if you need f/2.8, get the 2.8, if you need f/4, get the f/4. It's more about what you need. Since you say you're using it for people/events, I'd go with f/2.8 since you'd probably want more bokeh for portraits & more light to work with for low-lit events.
Kerry Pierce wrote:
Exactly where has anyone said that the lens "must be f/2.8 or else", for anyone other than themselves? I can't find a single soul that has said or even implied that, yet you're stating it as if it is fact.
Honestly? You kinda did - you absolutely imply that you can't get the exposure you want without f/2.8.
Maybe I misunderstand exposure, but going from ISO 200 to 400 to get the same exposure at f/4 in a given situation at the same shutter speed as I would at f/2.8 doesn't seem a bad price to pay when it gets the lens in my bag.
If I recall correctly, you shoot a D300 or D300s like I do - we have a bit different level of challenge getting clean images than the OP who is carrying a D600.
I'm not saying I don't occasionally need f/2.8, but I definitely won't miss the 1.5 pounds I shaved off going to the f/4. I guess my point is the advice to the OP should be as much based on what he shoots and how he carries - his original post seemed to indicated weight was an issue.
Kerry Pierce wrote:
Given that amateurs probably buy a dslr because of the higher capabilities and IQ, I'd also like to know why the needs of a professional would be any different than a non-professional, especially if they are shooting the same kind of subjects and desire the same level of performance and IQ?
The difference is a professional makes his/her living at photography. They are dealt a situation, they don't pick it. If they fail, they don't come home unhappy, they might come home unpaid, with a damaged professional reputation. A pro has almost no choice but to get the shots.
The needs of amateurs can be different, and generally speaking the budgets of amateurs are as well. Generally, a pro is going to have completely different gear than someone like me.
But whatever - I'm not trying to fight or argue. Think I'll go out shooting
Weight is an issue and it seems to me that the possibilities you have - if you are not an out-n-out pro shooter - open up a bit with the lighter lens. I understand those that have said that they could not forgo f2.8 if that was an option given; but the poll suggests that most FMers who've looked will stick with the f4, even if that is the opinion of KR who actually says something along that line. (If anything, that would usually have convinced me to go the other way )
Appreciate the feedback given here, even if my own personal jury is still out.
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