Bought a Bigma, now what? Hints/tips?

Giphsub

I just bought a used Bigma here in Japan. Many of you have said that it is a good lens, but needs some getting used to and you have to know how to use it properly. So what tips or hints do you guys have for me to help me get this thing under control as soon as possible? Any and all comments/advice will be much appreciated. I am really looking forward to getting out with this and the d300, and hopefully not taking too long to start getting some decent pics.

Tee Why

Since it's a long and heavy lens, you have to learn how to hold it still so that you prevent motion shake.

The lens' center of gravity seems to be right at the zoom ring, so that's where I tend to suppor it with my left hand. You have to assume a shooting stance, much like a rife, to help support the lens/camera and learn good breathing techniques. Keep ISO high enough to get fast shutter speeds.

All of these are shot with the bigma handheld.
http://tomyi.smugmug.com/gallery/575260#184946898
http://tomyi.smugmug.com/gallery/889890#141286549

BigAl

Work on techniques to stabilize it. I use a monopod or a tripod and *very* occasionally try handheld shots.

I would recommend a good tripod and a good head. I use a Kirk BH3, but think the BH1 would be better and the Manfrotto 055CLB for legs.

dbaker1221

I shoot it hand held alot for sports , but that means shooting with as much shutter speed as I can get. nothing under 1/500 & if I'm using all 500mm then I make sure I'm shooting with even more shutter speed. I also use a mono pod some with it , but I'm more comfortable handheld.

i hope you enjoy it.