Anyone using the Sigma 150-500?

[Carrie]

I need something with a longer reach than my 70-300 has and wondered if those using the Sigma 150-500 were happy with it?

Nothing surprising in my wants - I need something that produces sharp pictures, and can cope with fast moving subjects

Thanks

[Just_Dave]

Hi

I have a 150-500mm OS great lens, I love it, a few shots taken with it, all handheld











Dave

[Nod]

Not ideal for fast moving subjects due to its f/6.3 max aperture at the long end. The OS can deal with camera shake but you still need reasonably fast shutter speeds to freeze subject motion.

Keep it stopped down a little from wide open and it's sharp enough but wide open isn't where it's at its sharpest.

It is handholdable - well, it is for me (but I'm around 20 stone...) with the OS on but it is a big, heavy bu99er (a bit like me) so a monopod is a big help with it.

Given its weight, it's not a lens that I take everywhere but I'm happy to carry it if I know I'm going to need it.

[Learning]

Yes. I can get sharp shots in good light using a monopod or when holding it like a rifle in the prone position. It can sometimes be difficult to locate the subject when using it at the long end of the range. This lens can get good results but it demands care, skill and a bit of luck. Hand holding in a standing position is not feasable for me.

[Steve52]

I have the 170-500mm which I used to use on my A100. Not used it for a couple of years as I purchased a Sigma 400mm and recently the Sony 70-400 'G' lens, which I now use on my A350.