I have it. It is okay overall. Really hits the sharpness at F4 and will focus fast in low light situations. I prefer the Tamron 28-75mm but if you can get a good deal on the price, take it.
Hmmm...What about the sigma 18-50mm f2.8? Didn't find a great deal on that one but wondering if I should spend more or just grab the 28-70 for the heck of it?
I have the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 EX DC (the model before the current "Macro" version) and I like it a lot. It misses focus every once in a while but not so often to be more than a nuisance. I use it as my backup lens for event work but I often use it for family/personal stuff.
I do think that the Tamron 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di-II LD SP Aspherical (IF) is somewhat better and still very reasonable in price.
I have the Sigma 24-70 2.8 EX DG. It stays on my camera at least 90% of the time. I absolutely love it. I have 5 Sigma lenses and have become a big fan of them. The build quality of the Sigma EX lenses are great. They are extremely robust and aren't plastic-feeling like most other lenses. Focus is fast and sharp at all ranges, even in low light. F2.8 through the zoom range is a nice plus.
It does use 82mm filters, which are more expensive. The added size of the front of the lens, plus the petal hood will block the on-camera flash toward the 24mm side, but hopefully you won't be using simply a built-in flash. All in all, I LOVE this lens. For the price, I don't think you can go wrong.
I had the 28-70 but found it was not wide enuff for me...so I sold it and then purchased the 24-70 f2.8 DG EX.....which was a bit better but still not wide enuff....both focused quite fast even in low light...sharp as tack ...both were.....but still left me wanting more on the wide end.
Comments
Edited to add correct Tamron lens
Website
Very good reviews found here: http://www.pbase.com/lightrules/shootout
And other lenses, such as the Sigma 24-70 reviewed as well: http://www.pbase.com/lightrules/lenstests
I do think that the Tamron 17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di-II LD SP Aspherical (IF) is somewhat better and still very reasonable in price.
Moderator of the Cameras and Accessories forums
It does use 82mm filters, which are more expensive. The added size of the front of the lens, plus the petal hood will block the on-camera flash toward the 24mm side, but hopefully you won't be using simply a built-in flash. All in all, I LOVE this lens. For the price, I don't think you can go wrong.
-Rob Pauza
Rob Pauza Photography
Rob Pauza Photography