Macro Capabilities for the Sigma 18-200mm OS? This lens obviously has great long-range capabilities (according to most of the reviews I have read), but how good is it in taking macro pictures?
154902
It should be pretty good. It has a specified magnification of 1:3.9, so if you have a normal Canon with a 15x22mm sensor then smallest object you can photo is 22mm*3.9x = 8.6 cm ~= 3.3 in for it to be full screen. The PopPhoto review said it can do 1:3 mag so 22mm*3 = 6.6 cm or 2.6 in to be full frame. Your Canon Kit lens is listed at 1:3.5, so 7.7 cm is the best. Macro is a function of the highest zoom and shortest focus distance. Anyway look for the "Macro Magnification Ratio" in the spec and it'll let you know.
725617
I use my Sigma religiously! It has actually become my favorite lens! As far as a comparison, I do not own a Canon version and have not tried one. Many reviews here http://reviews.cnet.com/lenses/sigma-apo-70-200mm/4505-13038_7-35643871.html
130813
Really quite Good. This is an excellent lens. I still have mine. Maybe the photos I took with it are still on http://amazon.com. Check out Kurtmunger for excellent review of this lens.
372804
Yes, I would think it's the main reason to have this lens. Some say the lens gets too close to the subject when used for macro work, I have not found that to be a problem. I find the lens very useful especially all around, but would probably not own it if not for its macro capability.
884487
It is an excellent lens, i use it a lot for video, the stabilizer is the best, the macros are impressive, i have a Canon MT-24EX Macro Twin Lite to be a winner.
150331
Deepak, I am currently using this lens on a Nikon D300 with 12.3 megapixels. I own several Nikkor lenses, ranging from wide angle to 300mm. This 18-200 is the best of all. Since receiving it, I have not taken it off the D300. I use it exclusively. It is a great lens. The VR feature is also fantastic. Low light shots come out great. I would highly recommend this lens for high megapixel cameras. It works great on my D300. I think you will be very happy once you use it too.
1770834
works great for macros! seriously this lens is amazing for the price. You do need to be 2-3 ft away but works and looks awesome!
160523
I wasn't aware Sigma made this same lens in a "macro" version? Becarefull believing the discriptions as some "used" products are misrepresented. Any how, macro will allow for a shorter minimum focus distance. Good luck
2075463
It works good at a macro but because it is a zoom with AF, it can be difficult to use it as a 'true' macro lens. I prefer to use this for wildlife and landscapes but I have used it for macro. Use the MF if going to use for macro. I hope this makes sense.
1160044
I have the same lens bro and it went well.But you'll have to use the lens on its longest zoom (135mm) to get the macro effect.It's not a macro lens, but it's quite handy if you need to shoot a big closeup.
1048469
This is probably not a great lens for such a purpose. It is a macro lens, meaning that it has a long focus throw and is pretty slow to focus at times. Not sure how long a lens you want, but the Da 70 limited might be a better choice.
1845477
It can focus pretty close at all focal lengths, but it doesn't have a formal "macro" position. There's a discussion of this on cameralabs site, see the review of this lens. He claims a magnification ratio of 1:2.6 is possible. I haven't measured it myself, but it is a good lens for closeups.
840152
Thank you guys, really appreciate you help. I was in confused state in selecting sigma 50-150mm f/2.8 or tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 macro, but after a week study i have selected this sigma 50-150mm which is exactly in my budget. Once again thank you guys.
888895
I have not been happy with the auto focus. I have used this lens with both a cannon T3 and a cannon 70D. The problem is it will no come into focus. I have contacted sigma asking if there is anything that can be done about this. I have not yet gotten a reply.
1770840
It really depends on how close a macro shot you are looking to take. I tried to use this lens for some really close macro shot and it did not focus well. Have to use manual focus. This is overall a very good lens but if you are looking for specific lens to take exceptionally good close macro shots then it is better to get a true macro lens.
155655
Love my Sigma. It is fantastic lens for the money. If video is a requirement, I recommend the Sony. The OSS makes for much better video. BTW - when I shoot video, I change to 16-50 lens with OSS.
138089
Yes, it is very good for macro close-ups, blurring the background beautifully! A very versatile lens. You can't go wrong! Very sharp photos.