New Sigma 105mm f2.8 Macro Lens

[voyager]

I resisted the changeover to digital. I used my Nikon N8008, bought along with lenses for it, in the mid to late '80s, until it began to be difficult and expensive to get film processed. Then, I bought a Nikon D70S, a 6.1MP digital. It was not of high enough resolution to meet my demands for serious photography, which I placed at minimally 24MP and a full frame 35mm equivalent sized sensor. So, all I did for years with that camera was snapshots. I also bought a couple of water resistant P&S cameras for use while canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling and similar recreational activities. Then, 24MP cameras began to appear on the market. Finally, about 2 years ago I jumped for a Nikon D610.

My lenses were about 30 years old by the time I got the D610. They still seemed to work well until I began to look at the photos critically. They were very soft with a lot of flare around the lighter areas. Since moving from Alaska to Hawai'i, mold had begun to grow on the interior surfaces of the lenses.

After few inquiries about getting the lenses cleaned and repaired, I decided they were too old to be worth the expense. So I began looking at replacing my 3 lenses, all Sigmas, a 70-210mm f2.8, a 28-70mm f2.8, and a 105mm f2.8 Macro.

I bought the new 70-200mm f2.8 last summer. I'm impressed with the quiet HSM [Hyper-Sonic-Motor], and the OS [Optical Stabilization] features. I'm very pleased with the photos taken with it so far.

I have just received the replacement for the old Macro lens. It is the same, a 105mm f2.8 Macro also with the HSM and OS features like the new 70-200mm. I've just tried it out. I am very happy with it also.


Heliconia rostrata

This Heliconia has pendant flowers

Miltoniopsis Ambres Charm 'Cream Puff'

These flowers are past their prime. But, they're still fragrant. It's the only fragrant Miltoniopsis I have.

Tiger Brom with orange quills and yellow flowers



Tiger Brom with orange quills and yellow flowers - Closeup


Closeup of flower on large Pink and Blue Brom


Hibiscus pistil Closeup


All these pics were handheld. The OS function does a very good job of removing my unsteadiness. Technically they are not very well done. But in spite of that, I'm still impressed with the camera/lens combo's results.

Now, I'm waiting for Sigma to come out with a 28 [or less] to 70mm f2.8 with the same features as the
two new ones I have already acquired. Then, I'll be back in business with no more excuses to not get serious again.

[jkofferdahl]

Lovely photos! It's always fun playing with a new lens.