Just acquired Sigma 150-500mm...

[kirbym2]

Hi Everyone,

Looking for some suggestions here. I've been looking for a decent (translation, reasonably priced), zoom for my D7000. I like the idea of photographing wildlife, but don't have the opportunity a lot. Let's say this may have been more of an impulse purchase, but I really like the idea of having it in my arsenal of lenses.

I've really got to justify this purchase to my wife. Any tips/suggestions for other uses? Can I use this lens for portraits, macro - anything beyond wildlife?

Any help would be much appreciated.

 

[kirbym2]

I didn't include in my original post, but I would also like any suggestions for shooting with this type of lens. Is this a tripod only lens, or are hand held shots an option?

 

[2WheelPhoto]

Had you googled the question, you'd find sigma's web page shows it being used for portraiture

150-500mm F5-6.3 APO DG OS HSM - Telephoto Zoom Lenses - SigmaPhoto.com

 

[hirejn]

It's a bit much for portraiture unless you keep it at the low end. Realistically you're not taking portraits at 500 mm. Sports is a good application.

 

[2WheelPhoto]

It's a bit much for portraiture unless you keep it at the low end. Realistically you're not taking portraits at 500 mm. Sports is a good application.

Yeah I agree, the question was a bit much too

 

[kirbym2]

Sorry 2WheelPhoto - Didn't mean to overwhelm you with my question. The "google it" response was well thought out and articulated. By following your easy to read instructions, I was able to get a lot of great information.

With my vent out of the way, perhaps some of you "seasoned" vets that have used a longer than average zoom can post a pic or two. I'd love to see some of the successes you've had. Portraits, Macro shots, Sports, Wildlife - I'm open to all of it. I'm also interested in seeing some panning techniques.

If you have any advice for using this type of lens - tripod vs monopod vs handheld, ideal aperture, etc, please let me know.

Thanks again everyone - really appreciate the advice.

 

[2WheelPhoto]

Sorry 2WheelPhoto - Didn't mean to overwhelm you with my question. The "google it" response was well thought out and articulated. By following your easy to read instructions, I was able to get a lot of great information.

With my vent out of the way, perhaps some of you "seasoned" vets that have used a longer than average zoom can post a pic or two. I'd love to see some of the successes you've had. Portraits, Macro shots, Sports, Wildlife - I'm open to all of it. I'm also interested in seeing some panning techniques.

If you have any advice for using this type of lens - tripod vs monopod vs handheld, ideal aperture, etc, please let me know.

Thanks again everyone - really appreciate the advice.

No worries, you didn't overwhelm me. I found a plethora of info and example pics on this forum with its search tool too. I'll paste links if it helps you

 

[Mully]

Have your wife stand on the other side of a lake and take her portrait ....then tell her how great she looks with the new lens.

 

[2WheelPhoto]

Have your wife stand on the other side of a lake and take her portrait ....then tell her how great she looks with the new lens.

+1

Then across the room for a headshot shot at 150mm

 

[manicmike]

I've used it for motorcycle racing and daytime sports. I've always used it hand held.

 

[SCraig]

I use mine primarily for wildlife and birds, and it works quite well handheld or on a tripod. It needs lots of light though, and doesn't like dimly lit conditions. I've had it for about 18 months and have been well-pleased with it.

 

[sm4him]

I don't think your wife is going to be pleased at all with this impulse purchase of yours. I think you should sell it to me at a heavy discount. :lmao: