Pixtus - Photography Forum, Photographers, Photo Tips

msabas · **Should I buy the Sigma 85mm -** 09-08-2011, 08:14 AM

I want to invest in a good all around lens. I want tobe able to use the lens for a variety of shooting opportunities such as portrait sessions, and for shooting events such as weddings, parties, fundraisers..etc..

Do you suggest the Sigma 85mm f1.4 will be a good choice to invest in or should I look into something different.

I have also thought about the Sigma 24-70 as an option.

Currently I use the Nikkor 50mm 1.8 AF, 50mm E Series and a Nikkor 28-80mm AF G Kit Lens, and im just trying to upgrade my bag and get away from using the kit lens.

Im open to suggestions.

tc95 · 09-08-2011, 08:29 AM

The Sigma 50 1.4 is a killer lens...I know you have the 1.8 Nikon but there is a difference...the 24-70 is a great lens from sigma...but if you can find a 24-60 an older model...for cheaper...I would go for it...another alternative lens...is the Sigma 50-150 or Tokina 50-135 both 2.8 and both have a nice coverage...

You should be able to pick-up the 24-60 and 50-150 sigma's for the same price as the 85....

Just a thought...but the 85 from what I hear is a killer lens...too...

saifmaster · 09-08-2011, 08:34 AM

I have the sigma 24-70 2.8 and I love it, its a great lens.
Check out the pictures I have taken with this lens.
Barbara Barraza - SaifAli Master Photography
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?...0030366&type=1

KenJulio · 09-08-2011, 08:39 AM

Hmm...tough choice, there is no single lens that will do most/all. If you dont mind this suggestion, I would go with a Sigma 50 1.4 and the Nikon 35 f2. This will cover a lot of range and are fast. I've had the Sigma 50 1.4 in my bag since I started shooting a couple of years ago and I can never get myself to sell it, just about every other lens I've had, I've sold.

Now, if you're set on the 85mm, it's a really nice lens compared to the Nikon G version. The siggy performs a tad better than the D version IMO.

kenw · 09-08-2011, 09:39 AM

Not familiar with those particular lenses but in looking at what you have now and what you what to shoot subject-wise I think going wider may be a better choice. 85mmm on a crop body is starting to get up there for indoors where you might be a bit closer to your subject. I think the 1.4 part is great, you need a fast lens for sure. Since your 50mm is going to give you a field of view much narrower than normal, your wide angle shots are going to be difficult at best with the set up you have now, and an 85mm won't help that at all.

Ken's recommendation of the 35mm seems spot on. It is most definitely fast and it is quite a bit wider than what you have now. And IMHO, wider is a better direction for those indoor/no flash subjects you mention. If you really feel you need long as well, then the 28-70 (2.8?) sounds great as well. Obviously being a zoom it may be more flexible even if a smidge slower.

My preference in these situations is to err on the side of fast and too wide, I can always crop.

msabas · 09-08-2011, 10:11 AM

Wow I really appreciate all the great feedback. I am not set on the Sigma 85 but I did resaerch it and it was one of those that really stood out for me. My initial plan before I buy is to try and rent the lens out for a weekend and see how the lens performs in my hands.

Again thanks allt ot he feedback and keep it coming..

Snarfy · 09-08-2011, 11:01 AM

For a small difference, I'd rather own the 85mm 1.4D AF.

shnitz · 09-08-2011, 12:54 PM

If you're shooting a D200 and your current lenses are a pair of 50mm's and a 28-80, then I wouldn't consider any of what everyone has mentioned, except for the 35mm. For $200, I think every Nikon DX shooter should try it. At the very worst, you can sell it on Craigslist for a minimal loss. Since you have the Nikon 50mm, I wouldn't get another 50mm. What you have now, while not the absolute best for portraits, does give a good focal length and pretty good performance. If you get the Sigma 50mm, you end up with the same field of view, with just better slightly better performance.

Take your money, buy the 35mm. Also, get rid of that 28-80, and get yourself a better midrange zoom. Something that's higher image quality and better aperture range. If you like Sigma, consider their 17-50. If you've never gone wider than 28mm on a Nikon digital body, you've been missing out. To compare, take your N80 and D200. Set them up next to each other and notice how wide the lens is on your film camera, compared to your D200.

msabas · 09-09-2011, 10:53 AM

Well im on my way to pick up a 35mm that a buddy is going to lend me for the weekend. Im going to try it out and see what im missing.

darktiger · 09-09-2011, 11:10 AM

I have the Sigma 85 f/1.4 for Canon. When I use it, I love this lens. I had that and the 85L f/1.2 and decided to keep the Sigma for a few reasons.

Snarfy · 09-09-2011, 11:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by darktiger

I have the Sigma 85 f/1.4 for Canon. When I use it, I love this lens. I had that and the 85L f/1.2 and decided to keep the Sigma for a few reasons.

Focus speed? Weight? Ridiculous size?

crazeazn · 09-09-2011, 12:25 PM

i think he kept both lol

Snarfy · 09-09-2011, 01:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crazeazn

i think he kept both lol

Right, but I'm just trying to get a read on why both. Every time I think about the Canon 85mm 1.2L I want to scream at a Nikon rep (the 50mm 1.2L is even worse).