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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Zoom on a budget
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05/27/2008 08:47:26 AM · #1
I suspect I already know the answer to this, but thought I'd give it a try anyway...

I'm shooting slalom paddling at present and would like a zoom (or maybe even a long prime) that'll take me to 300+ mm. Problem is, I need to use fairly fast shutter speeds (1/500 or more), am often in fairly dull light and my Pentax really isn't much good beyond ISO800.

So, anyone got any suggestions for a long, fast, cheap lens?

Cheers,
Qiki

05/27/2008 08:52:26 AM · #2
Long + fast + cheap = Nil

However, if you're shooting outdoors you should be able to get away with a standard zoom with a F5.6 at 300mm? If so, the Sigma 70-300 APO DG is a REALLY good lens for all of about $230.

Or if you are really good with manual focus, look for a vintage lens on Ebay and get an adapter?
05/27/2008 09:31:54 AM · #3
Try this, might be a bit short at 200 but its cheap and its very good .

Tamron 55-200
05/27/2008 09:36:14 AM · #4
Originally posted by LoudDog:

Long + fast + cheap = Nil


Actually, Long + Fast + Cheap = Prime.

Of course, you want a zoom, tough luck.

EDIT: added the google link.

Message edited by author 2008-05-27 09:38:36.
05/27/2008 09:48:31 AM · #5
Originally posted by LoudDog:

Long + fast + cheap = Nil

However, if you're shooting outdoors you should be able to get away with a standard zoom with a F5.6 at 300mm? If so, the Sigma 70-300 APO DG is a REALLY good lens for all of about $230.

Or if you are really good with manual focus, look for a vintage lens on Ebay and get an adapter?


Yeah I have the cheaper version of this lens (non APO?) picked it up for approx ~70 on ebay, decent enough lens but a little soft at higher zooms and you get some chromatic abrasion around the edges. I use it as my hiking lens though, so i'm not to worried if I happen to drop it off a cliff.
05/27/2008 09:50:48 AM · #6
Thanks guys. Your answers were as I expected. The Sigma 70-300 APO DG might be an option LoudDog, although I was struggling a little with f/5.6 last weekend. I might check the lens out though. Thanks.

Q.
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