Some examples with my old model Sigma 70-200. The thing is, I think a better photographer could have gotten better results. The opinion varies as to how close the Sigma is to the Canon, some think just as good, some apparently think it is a joke.
On this one, the batter doesn't look good, but I think that is a DOF issue, as the catcher is sharp. I was in love with 2.8 that day, when I had light for a smaller f-stop and would have benefited from it. http://i.pbase.com/o6/56/683956/1/76001591.XqH7Wt87.IMG_9694W.jpg
And here is one done with the cheap 50 1.8. The 85 1.8 is definitely better than either of these, although of course focus point becomes even more critical and the skill needed and demands on the camera increase. http://i.pbase.com/o6/56/683956/1/72984043.Mfl6YZ1S.IMG_8695W2.jpg
Not great shots, I know, but at least you have some idea of what the lens can do in a hobbyist's hands.
OP, if you're dead set on getting a fast zoom, I'd check out the EF 80-200 f/2.8L. You can get it pretty cheap on KEH used. It'll save you from having to purchase a lot of lens for personal use (especially if you're on the fence).
If you can deal with a prime, you might want to consider the EF 200mm f/2.8L which is cheaper than any of the 2.8 zooms and also high quality.
For the hobbyist, the Sigma line is fantastic. The above examples show the issue of dof more than anything else - same results would probably have come from a Canon lens. The shallower the DOF, the more accurate your focusing needs to be.
If I was only able to have one lens, it would be the 70-200 f2.8 It's good enough for indoors (you may have to bump the ISO, so a 40D/50D is a good option for body.) and long enough with a 1.4 tc for outdoor field work. (and you'll have an option if you're shooting under outdoor lights, though short.) Yes, as a walk around lens it's a little big, so the 50mm 1.8 is cheap and fits that pretty good (though it's a little limiting - a good walk around for me is the kit lens that came with my 50D - 17-55)
mh2000 wrote:
most people that I know who buy this lens for your uses find it to be too big and too heavy after the initial excitement of owning an L-lens wears out.
I use a little 135SF and Kenko pro 1.4... sold my 70-200/4L
I still find my 1st and only "L" right now exciting...
