Michael O'Hara was asking about experience with the Sigma 70-300 APO vs. Nikon lenses. I shoot the Sigma 70-300 APO for personal use, and I use a Nikon 80-200 f/2.8 (new w/ tripod collar) at work. On a few occasions, I've taken them both out to shoot sports. I'll use the 80-200 out to 200mm and then switch over to the Sigma for the longer focal length. Being the Nikon snob that I am, I always assumed the Nikon lens "took much better pictures". I have been surprised that from a color, sharpness, and contrast standpoint, I have difficulty telling the images apart. I should point out that I'm evaluating 4x6 prints (and some enlargements) from ISO 200 Color Neg film. I've never put the two lenses to a side-by-side "Velvia shootout" because that's not the way I use them. I use them for sports. I can't comment on the Nikon 75-300, as I have no experience with it. I am somewhat more cautious about treating the Sigma roughly than I am about the 80-200 f/2.8. The Sigma is lightly built compared to the tank-like robustness of the f/2.8. I have a sample photo from the Sigma lens on the web at: http://home1.gte.net/tpeach/Images/Dogs.htm (I know, it's virtually impossible to evaluate lens quality at web resolution, but the image is already out there). Todd Peach B-XT02 Lab Administration M/S 19-MF Phone: (206) 662-0921 Fax: (206) 662-4540
