Sigma EX - Telephoto zoom lens - 50 mm - 150 mm - f/2.8 APO DC HSM II - Minolta A-type Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I switched to this since my Nikno 70-200 was really getting heavy for a day of wedding photography. What i like: Very light, good working distance, nice easy zoom, fairly good images. What i dislike, a little soft at F2.8. Much better at F4.5. Not as vibrant colors...slighly cooler. Can easily flare...make sure you use the hood. No VR means you better shoot at fast shutter speeds or have really steady hands. Overall, a keeper for me. I now use this more than my 70-200. :-)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma EX - Telephoto zoom lens - 50 mm - 150 mm - f/2.8 APO DC HSM II - Minolta A-type

This F2.8 large aperture telephoto zoom lens is designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with APS-C size sensors and its compact, lightweight body provides freedom of movement and versatility. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting and ensures sharp images throughout the entire zoom range. The addition of the optional 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 70-210mm F4 AF tele-zoom lens and a 100-300mm F5.6 AF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively.

Click here for more information about Sigma EX - Telephoto zoom lens - 50 mm - 150 mm - f/2.8 APO DC HSM II - Minolta A-type

Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG IF HSM APO Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sigma SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I shoot 2-3 sports events a week and while I love my D3 needed more reach (had been trying to shoot soccer & track meets with Nikon 70-200 & Sigma 100-300). I concluded after a lot of thought & soul searching it would be more strategic for me to buy D300/Sigma 120-300mm combo than a 200-400mm for the D3. [the 100-300mm is a great lens too, but that extra stop is so sweet!]
For me, I definitely wanted a f/2.8 lens and felt a zoom would be more versatile than the Nikon 300 f/2.8 (& cheaper too).
There's no question it's a heavy lens by most people's standards, but I always use with a Monfrotto 681B monopod (which I love too).
Have only had this combo for about a 2 weeks but love it. The pictures are tack sharp, and the bokeh is awesome--rivaling Nikon 70-200mm IMHO. People always mention you have to get a good copy from Sigma but buying new I was fairly certain this would not be a problem, and I knew I could always send it right back to Amazon for another copy with no problem.
[....]In summary this combo has helped me take my game to a whole new level, and I'm very, very happy with this lens.



Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG IF HSM APO Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sigma SLR Cameras

The Sigma APO 120-300mm f2.8 EX DG HSM Lens for Sigma Digital SLR Cameras features a large aperture of f2.8 at the 300 millimeter focal length and is optimized for used with digital SLR cameras. This lens transforms a large-aperture f2.8 300 millimeter lens into a zoom lens that allows you to determine the picture composition you want without having to change your vantage point. It has two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements in front group and another SLD element in the rear group for excellent correction of chromatic aberration.The latest in multi-layer lens coating technology and lens design reduce flare and ghosting, which is a common problem with digital cameras, and it also creates an optimum color balance through the entire zoom range. The lens' AF drive is equipped with a silent, responsive and high speed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), which also provides full-time manual focus function. Since focusing and zooming do not change its overall length, this lens is easy to hold and use. In addition, since the front of the lens does not rotate, a circular polarizing filter can be easily attached and used. High-speed focusing is possible when this lens is used with dedicated APO EX 1.4 x or 2x tele-converters (sold separately).

Get 23% OFF

Click here for more information about Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG IF HSM APO Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sigma SLR Cameras

Sigma 100-300mm f/4 EX DG IF HSM APO Fast Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sigma SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this lens to use with my Canon 30D for high school sports (soccer, football, baseball, etc). I already had the Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras and needed more focal length. Like the 70-200 F/2.8, this lens is big, heavy, and built like a tank. The bare lens is about an inch longer than the 70-200, but the 100-300's hood is longer than the 70-200's hood.
The zoom and focus rings are wide and move smoothly with just the right amount of resistance. This lens is sharp wide open. At the overlapping focal lengths, the 70-200 at F/4 is just barely sharper than this lens at F/4 (wide open). At 200mm, this lens is actually sharper (200mm is this lens's sweet spot.) At 300mm, the lens is still sharp wide open, but I like to stop down to F/4.5 just to keep things super-sharp. Up to 250mm, I would not hesitate to use it wide open.
This Sigma lens has HSM which means the focus is fast and quiet. The lens focuses a little slower than the 70-200 F/2.8, but I've found that the 30D is more of a limiting factor in focus speed than the lens is. Servo tracking is very good with this lens, the only time it can't keep up is when track runners are sprinting straight at me (although again, I think the body is the limiting factor here.) For almost every other situation, the focus will definitely keep up.
All in all, this is not an indoor lens by any means, but as an outdoor sports (or wildlife/nature) lens, it is awesome.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 100-300mm f/4 EX DG IF HSM APO Fast Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sigma SLR Cameras

This telephoto zoom lens provides a large F4 aperture at all focal lengths. With minimal light-fall-off, superior peripheral brightness is ensured. It's the ideal lens for digital SLR cameras.The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost, which is a common problem with digital cameras and also creates an optimum color balance through the entire zoom range.This lens uses two pieces of SLD glass elements in the front lens group and another two in the rear group for excellent correction of chromatic aberration. High optic performance is demonstrated throughout the entire zoom range.This lens incorporates an internal focusing system, which eliminates front lens rotation, allowing the use of a Petal-type Hood and more convenient to use of circular polarizing filter. Since focusing and zooming do not change its overall length, this lens is easy to hold and use.The use of an Apochromatic design and 4 SLD (The Special Low Dispersion) glass elements (two SLD glass elements are utilized in the front lens group and two in the rear group) provide for full correction of chromatic aberration and a high level of optical performance.The DG designation applied to certain newer Sigma lenses (mostly wide-angle and wide zoom type lenses) indicates that the lens is especially suited for use with digital SLR cameras. The DG lenses feature improved (more even) light distribution from image center to edge, especially at maximum aperture, compared to conventional fast wide-angle lenses. This is important in digital photography, but is also useful in 35mm photography, especially when slide film is used. Also, the shorter focal lengths are desirable, because most digital SLR cameras have image sensors whose dimensions are considerably smaller than a 35mm negative (usually by a factor of 1.3X to 1.7X), making the lens' angle of view equivalent to that of a longer lens on a 35mm camera.

Get 25% OFF

Click here for more information about Sigma 100-300mm f/4 EX DG IF HSM APO Fast Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Sigma SLR Cameras

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG HSM II Macro Zoom Lens for Pentax Digital SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)At this point, almost every lens I own is a Sigma, the only exception being my Tamron 17-50 2.8 (which is a very, very solid lens). I've owned the Sigma 120-300 2.8 for a handful of days (the best lens I've used), and the Nikkor 70-200 2.8 VR. Both were returned due to the cost that I simply couldn't stomach at this point. I had read the professional reviews for this lens, and was worried about purchasing it because they weren't exactly glowing.
Well, I'm here to tell you that from what I've read, the professional reviews for this lens are spot on. That's good and bad, as anyone who's read them will know.
The good is that the autofocus in this lens is stellar. It's very fast, and is at least as fast as the Nikkor. The zoom ring and focusing rings are smooth, and the lens seems to be very well made, like all of my other Sigma lenses. Not only is the autofocus fast, it's quiet. It's really not that heavy, either, and I find it quite comfortable to use (compared to the 120-300, this thing is light as a feather, and it's weighted much better than the Nikkor). I also find the lens to be reasonably sharp through most of the zoom range, especially stopped down (as it is for most lenses, even Nikon). Yes, I did say through most of the zoom range.
The bad rears its ugly head at the long end of the zoom (which is really too bad, considering that's where you're likely to be keeping a lens such as this most of the time). At 200mm, this lens loses a lot of sharpness, and although stopping down does help a lot, it simply shouldn't be this bad. Are the photos unuseable? I wouldn't say that, and Photoshop can almost perform miracles in most cases. But what's worse than the sharpness (or lack thereof) is the chromatic abberation. There's a LOT. I mean, a LOT at 200mm. It's got the worst CA of any lens in my collection, hands down, and the worst of any lens I've used. Perhaps this is in part due to Sigma's valiant attempt to make a macro lens out of this one, and that's really the other fairly bad part about it--the macro isn't that great either.
It also needs to be taken into consideration that I'm using this lens on a Nikon D300s, which is a DX (small) sensor camera. So your results may differ should you use a full frame.
In the end, I'll be keeping this lens for a number of reasons. One is price. At a third of the cost of the Nikkor, this lens makes up some serious ground and can be forgiven quite a bit. The second is the autofocus. Wow it's fast. And accurate. Since I'm going to be using this mainly for sports, that's very important to me. And funny though it may be, the other reason is the macro. Yes, it's not great, but I still love having a lens with this zoom range that has macro capabilities. Apparently there have been major compromises to get it there, but it is what it is. I would have given it 4 stars, simply because of the cost, but in the end I decided on 3, because if Sigma want to play with the big boys, they really need to do a little better than this showing.
So in considering this lens, you need to ask yourself exactly what your needs are as a photographer, and will the advantages of this lens be enough to outweigh the disadvantages. For me, the answer is yes... but you have to make up your own mind.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG HSM II Macro Zoom Lens for Pentax Digital SLR Cameras

This large aperture thelephoto zoom lens has a minimum focusing distance of 100cm (39.4) and maximum magnification of 1:3.5. Two SLD (Special Low Dispersion) and three ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction for all types of aberrations. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), ensuring a quiet and high speed AF and full-time manual focusing capability. An adjustable and removable tripod collar is included as a standard component.

Click here for more information about Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG HSM II Macro Zoom Lens for Pentax Digital SLR Cameras

Lowepro Classified 160 AW Shoulder Bag for DSLR and 1-2 Lenses (Sepia) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a perfect bag for carrying:
- 1 DSLR camera with 70-200mm f/2.8 (i.e. big) zoom lens attached (mine is Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8 which is comparable in size and weight with Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8)
- 1-2 additional lenses and/or flash (I put 17-80mm and 50mm f/1.8 lenses and the SB-400 flash
- a couple memory cards and extra battery
It's pretty sturdy and tight (with the stabilizing strap), but that's good because the camera and lens won't move much inside the bag.
Here are the pros and cons:
Pros:
1. Can fit SLR attached with the big 70-200mm f/2.8 lens (or equivalent)
2. Enough room for extra lenses and flash
3. Topload feature for easy access
4. Sturdy and good padding to protect the expensive equipment inside
5. Slim profile and more discreet design (vs some other pro camera bag)
6. Stabilizing strap to minimize movement
7. Lots of compartment for memory cards, batteries, lens cap, etc
8. Less than 3 lbs, and compact size
9. All weather cover is nice to have (and essential for professional)
10. Expandable (i.e. you can manage the divider/padding to create different size of space)
Cons:
1. Only take 1 full size SLR (I tried 2 D40s + 18-55mm and it works)
2. A bit pricey (for my amateur standard)
3. Close to 3 lbs (depend on how you see it)
4. Not a backpack model (if you prefer carrying backpack type bag when photographing)
5. Can't put your regular 15 inch laptop in this bag (however you can squeeze in the 8.9 inch netbook). If you want to add your regular notebook, you will need to get the Lowepro Classified 250 AW series
6. Might be a bit too much bag/space for a quick short trip where you don't need to bring your 70-200mm f/2.8 lens (use the Lowepro Topload Zoom series bag instead)
7. Not as easy (as I thought it would be) to pull out the camera in and out of the bag but it's reasonable (maybe it's because of the design and position of the zipper and the fact the bag is still stiff since it is new. I'm expecting it will get better as the bag will get softer/break-in with use)
In conclusion, this is a very good (and very stylish) bag if you want to carry a camera attached with the 70-200mm f/2.8 lens (or smaller lens), with 1-2 extra lens (smaller lenses than the 70-200mm f/2.8) and/or flash.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lowepro Classified 160 AW Shoulder Bag for DSLR and 1-2 Lenses (Sepia)

Hardworking bags specifically designed for the hardworking photojournalists who carrythem. Classified AW shoulder bags help conceal gear (and the mission), while protecting itwith artful balance. These nimble, fast-access bags have a modern, off-hours appeal. Aslimmer profile, contoured to move easily with the body, helps the professional navigate abusy street in Prague or a crowded subway in New York. Soft edges, briefcase styling,leather details at contact points, and an embossed logo create a discreet aesthetic.Collapsible, removable padding in the main compartment allows custom organization. Andthe built-in All Weather Cover protects contents from the elements when getting to thenext assignment by bicycle, bus, motorcycle or foot.

Get 26% OFF

Click here for more information about Lowepro Classified 160 AW Shoulder Bag for DSLR and 1-2 Lenses (Sepia)

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pros: Lightning fast AF, Incredible Sharpness, Build Quality, Hood Design, Excellent IS
Cons: Price $$$$$, a bit big, a little heavy- not too bad.
WOW is all I can say. After getting over that I spent so much on a lens, this new machine is absolutely amazing. The image quality is top notch. 100% crops can be printed large and I can see every detail. I was in Miami and took some pictures of the big hotels, and was wondering what the names were. I looked at some of the pictures, zoomed in, and saw everything. Even small signs hundreds and hundreds of feet away. The IS adds a new feeling of confidence. No longer do you have to worry about shaking a tiny bit and the shot being out of focus or a bit blurry. Canon has really created an astounding piece of technology surpassing others(Nikon) in the lens market. The build quality, as expected from an L series lens, is made to withstand extreme conditions. The zoom ring is large and easy to use. The buttons for different IS and af/mf are easy to use/see. The new focusing distance allows you to get closer to your subjects, and can get quite close if some cropping is done. The Af is also excellent, and focuses very fast even in low light. Now, price... yes... I recommend thinking about this purchase for a while. 2500 - as of now, is a lot to spend, but if you have the money and really really want it, I highly recommend it. The pouch that it comes with is very nice and the hood is easy to put on and is a better material than other hoods. It does not scratch easily like my 24-70 f/2.8L lens hood does. At all apertures, this thing is sharp. If you are an IQ aficionado, this lens is quite a big step up from Mark 1 especially at f/2.8. For me, sharpness is my big thing, so I wanted the best out there. I did not want to step back in terms of technology and get the first generation of the lens even if it is still very good. In a few years if you decide that you want to sell the lens or change to something else, I can assure you that this will retain its resale value very well. I doubt Canon will be upgrading this in the next 5 years, so the sharpness and awesome Af will pay off in the coming days, months, and years to come.
All in all, the new 70-200 is quite a stunning lens which will continue to be one of or the best in Canon's lineup of pro lenses. If you want it and can afford it without selling your house, I would get it haha but as always, research extensively and weigh your options before buying something at these price levels.
I hoped you liked the review. More info and analysis to come in the future...
Check out my unboxing video here: [...]
Thanks
- Alex

Click Here to see more reviews about: Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Improving upon one of the most celebrated lenses in the Canon EF line is no easy feat, but Canon has done just that. The all-new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM increases the speed, performance and optical quality of the EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS USM while maintaining all of the characteristics that have made it a legend for professionals and advanced amateurs alike. The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features one fluorite and five UD elements for increased optical quality and reduced chromatic aberration. It has a minimum focusing distance of 1.2m/3.9 ft. at all zoom settings, which is useful for photographers in smaller spaces trying to get closer to a subject. It features a next-generation Optical Image Stabilizer, providing up to 4 stops of correction at all focal lengths. And as with all L-series lenses, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is dust- and moisture-resistant and designed for use in the challenging environments typical of rigorous professional use.

Get 43% OFF

Click here for more information about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon Digital DSLR Camera Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Actual score: 4.5 stars
2/1/11 - update. Official price drop. New price now $1399 - that's more like it... If you have been on the fence with this lens, time to give it another look. I still love this lens. -TXJAVAMy apologies in advance for a long review. There are not a whole lot of reviews out there for this lens so I'm hoping I can help some others make a good decision. Summary: It is a great Lens, but perhaps not for everyone.
I have been watching this one since it was announced. I tried it out at the local Camera shop and fell in love with it. I decided at that moment, I was going to own this lens.
The initial drawback was always price. At $1699 (sixteen-ninety-nine) it seems a bit high. Yes, this is a quality lens with a 2.8 constant aperture throughout the zoom range and a very good OS optical stabilization (IS in Canon's terminology) but at that price it is only a few hundred less than the highly rated excellent Canon 70-200 2.8 IS ii. So I've been waiting patiently for the price to move.
Well one day, quite unexpectedly, the price at the "B" Camera vendor was $350 (three-fifty) less. Suddenly, at $1349 (thirteen-forty-nine) it was near my strike price (I think the lens should sell for $1200 or so). So I watched to see if the "A" internet vendors would match. They did not. I knew this was less that wholesale for the lens, so I ordered one from the "B" vendor. (The next day the two "A" vendors matched the price - Sorry Amazon, you were not fast enough). The lens arrived a couple days later, VERY well packed. With Amazon, packing can be a bit hit or miss. By the time the lens arrived, all the vendors were priced at the original $1699 (sixteen-ninety-nine). Hmmm, maybe it had been a price mistake.
So enough of that - What do I think of the lens? I still love it; however, there was something that I had not noticed in the store. When the OS system started up (1/2 press of the shutter key), it made a fairly loud click and then the Gyros sounded like very distant fire truck sirens. I literally though that there was a fire truck outside. But it turned out to be coming from the lens. Mind you, it was not loud, but it was disconcerting. I own the excellent Canon EF-S 17-55 2.8 IS and the IS system on that is near silent. I've been spoiled by that lens. I went down to the camera shop to see if their copy had the same sound. It did have some OS sound, but I had not noticed before above the ambient sound in the store. The store model did not sound like my copy. So I called the "B" Vendor and they quickly sent me a new lens.
The new lens arrived today and it too had the OS sound but not as noticeable as the first copy of the lens (I was able to compare side by side). Is the sound bad? No not really, but it is different than the low level "whurl" of the Canon IS system.
That said, the OS system does work very well. It is especially nice at the tele- end of the zoom. You can really see that camera shake through the viewfinder, and then you press the shutter release ½ way and suddenly it locks into place. Very nice, very cool. I have been able to take nice sharp pictures as low as ¼ second - and that is at the long end of the zoom. Impressive!
The rest of the build quality is very good. Both the focus and the zoom rings operate very smoothly and with just the right amount of resistance.
The lens is heavy (over 3 pounds). The rebel series cameras will benefit from the extra holding power that the extra battery grip offers. It comes with a tripod collar so you can use it on a monopod. A lens hood included (wish Canon would include hoods with all their lenses) there is even an extender for APS-c crop sensor cameras. However, I don't intend to use it.
The pictures I have taken have all been great. It is a bit soft at 2.8 (as many lenses are), but still within my tolerances. The 2.8 aperture really helps for indoor shots. It is great because you can sit across the room and shoot away without bothering those in the room. F4.0 lenses just do not give you enough light for indoor shooting, especially sports. Seems like it would be a great lens for weddings and other indoor events. As for picture quality, I've seen some web reviews that compare this with the Canon and the Sigma comes out pretty good. I do not see any CA at all on my copy. Focus is fast and accurate with no front or back focusing - it is spot on. It is not as fast or quiet as the canon, but still focus motor is still very good. You also have full time manual focus override. So for those of us who are mere enthusiasts or hobbyists this is a great lens to have for the all-important 70-200 tele- range. Pros might want to stick to the Canon version.
All and all, this lens is a keeper. It takes great pics, the OS is very effective (although a bit loud) and the nice 2.8 aperture really shines. Lastly, one of the real reasons I got this is because it is black. You are already conspicuous when you have 8" of lens hanging off the end of your camera at your son's basketball game, or your daughter's rehearsal. You really start to look ridiculous when you have 8"s of a white and black striped Canon lens. (I know I have lost some of my credibility with that last statement, but I just prefer black lenses...)
So the choice is yours. If you are looking for a lens in the 70-200 or 75-300 range, save your money up for a fast 2.8 version with stabilization, you will not be sorry. Those less expensive f3.2-5.6 or lower lenses are just not as practical as a good 2.8 lens. If you can afford the Canon and don't mind the black and white stripes, by all means get it, otherwise, get this one, you will be very pleased that you did.
One of these days, i'll upload some pics.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon Digital DSLR Camera

Sigma's New APO 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM is the second generation of this large aperture telephoto zoom lens now incorporating Sigma's Optical Stablization function, OS, Sigma's own anti-shake system.Two FLD glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass have also been added along with three SLD glass elements, all which provide excellent correction of color aberration. In spite of the additions of all of these features, Sigma has managed to make the lens more compact than its predecessor, measuring only 7.8" in length.For any serious photographer where the 70-200mm focal range is often the most important second lens to own after the initialstandards lens or mid range zooms. The fast aperture is extremely useful and important in low light environments or when shooting fast moving situations where a higher shutter speed demands maximum lights thru the lens.HSM ensures quiet and high speed AF as well as full-time manual focus capability. Super Multi-Layer lens coating reduces flare ghosting and assures high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. It has a minimum focusing distance of 55.1 inches throughout the entire zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:8 The rounded 9 blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out of focus images.This lens is equipped with a petal-type hood. Its exceptional versatility as an all-around lens is perfect for journalists and wedding photographers. This latest

Click here for more information about Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large Aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon Digital DSLR Camera

Lowepro Fastpack 350 Backpack Digital SLR Camera Case (Black) + Tripod + Accessory Kit for Canon Rebel T3, T3i, T1i, T2i, EOS 60D, 50D, 5D, 7D, Nikon D3000, D3100, D5000, D7000, D300s, Olympus Evolt E-5, E-30, E-620 & Sony Alpha A560, A580, A33, A55 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had a fairly specific set of needs while looking for a camera bag:
- I wanted a separate compartment for misc. accessories
- I like the backpack style design
- I needed to put my 15" MacBook Pro in it
- and the camera compartment had to fit my Canon 40D with the 70-200mm 2.8 lens attached.
The first three requirement were easy to find, but finding a camera compartment big enough to be able to fit the camera and lens (attached) in it so i don't have to take off the lens every time I put it away, was a tough job. I got really close with some Kata bags, but in the end this Lowepro has everything I wanted. I've been very pleased with it so far (I've had it about a month now) - if anything, it's a little disconcerting to be as excited about the bag as I am about the gear inside.
The tripod that comes in the bundle is really geared more toward the weight of a point & shoot - I wouldn't trust it with my SLR and zoom lens, it's just too much weight. The cleaning kit is from the bargain bin, but some extra lens cloths and blowers aren't bad to have around. Not worth paying extra for, but the price for the bundle was the same as it was for the Lowepro bag alone.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lowepro Fastpack 350 Backpack Digital SLR Camera Case (Black) + Tripod + Accessory Kit for Canon Rebel T3, T3i, T1i, T2i, EOS 60D, 50D, 5D, 7D, Nikon D3000, D3100, D5000, D7000, D300s, Olympus Evolt E-5, E-30, E-620 & Sony Alpha A560, A580, A33, A55

Kit includes:♦ 1) Lowepro Fastpack 350 Backpack Camera Case♦ 2) Precision Design Deluxe Camera Tripod with Carrying Case ♦ 3) Precision Design Deluxe 6-Piece Lens & Digital SLR Camera Cleaning Kit
Go all day with the lightweight, comfortable Fastpack 350 backpack. It protects your pro digital SLR and 17" widescreen notebook compactly while providing generous storage for other gear. Side-entry compartments let you quickly grab equipment and accessories, even while you're on the move. Customize the easy-to-access main compartment with adjustable dividers.Capacity: 1 pro digital SLR with lens attached (up to 70-200mm f/2.8), 2-3 additional lenses or flash units, 17" widescreen notebook, memory cards, batteries and cables

Get maximum image quality and avoid camera shake with this lightweight and sturdy 57-inch tripod, supplied with a fitted carrying case and strap.

This 6-piece cleaning kit contains everything you'll ever need to properly clean your lenses, including a Hurricane Air Blower, Lens Cleaning Tissues, Lens Cloth, Lens Cleaning Liquid, Brush and Cotton Swabs.

Click here for more information about Lowepro Fastpack 350 Backpack Digital SLR Camera Case (Black) + Tripod + Accessory Kit for Canon Rebel T3, T3i, T1i, T2i, EOS 60D, 50D, 5D, 7D, Nikon D3000, D3100, D5000, D7000, D300s, Olympus Evolt E-5, E-30, E-620 & Sony Alpha A560, A580, A33, A55

LensCoat Lens Cover for the Nikon 70 - 200 f/2.8 VR Zoom Lens - Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had my 70-200 for over a year and felt I needed some protection from knocks and abrasions so felt this product would give me some protection.
I installed it per the instructions and it looks great and seems to be able to protect the lens like I thought it would.
Just a few complaints.
It doesn't stay on my lens shade as it's just a slip on fit. When I try to drop it down into my camera bag the LensCoat curls up and falls off.
The glue-on portion that goes on the tripod collar did not work because the adhesive came off the neoprene. (like it had gotten hot or was just old)
Liked how the switches worked thru the clear window material.
Overall I'm happy except for the few items mentioned.
After seeing the black on the lens I wish I had gotten one of the camo patterns instead.

Click Here to see more reviews about: LensCoat Lens Cover for the Nikon 70 - 200 f/2.8 VR Zoom Lens - Black

LensCoat Lens Covers... Moving a big white (or black) lens near skittish wildlife is like waving your arms a sure way to flush your subject and ruin what could be a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. LensCoat Lens Covers mask your 200 mm to 600 mm lens, giving you a better chance at getting the shot.LensCoat Lens Covers are manufactured from 100% closed-cell neoprene, offering protection from bumps, jars and nicks, with a camouflage-pattern fabric cover. LensCoat Lens Covers also provide a thermal barrier, protecting your hands from cold lenses in lower temperatures. They are easy to install and remove, leaving no residue on the lens. And LensCoat lens covers are waterproof, providing protection in harsh conditions.Other features include a clear, flexible UV-PVC window over the AF/IS/VR controls and the distance-scale window. The LensCoat also features custom holes that reveal the red-dot for easy alignment to the camera body without removing the cover.LensCoat for the Nikon 70-200VR:LensCoat 70-200VR telephoto lens cover offers your valuable equipment some protection from scrapes and bumps, preserving its resale value. It also helps break up the shape of your lens, making it less noticeable to wildlife.The LensCoat 70-200VR features a clear plastic windows over the auto focus controls and also the distance scale. A small hole on the last segment lines up with the white dot indictor, making it easy to quickly line u

Click here for more information about LensCoat Lens Cover for the Nikon 70 - 200 f/2.8 VR Zoom Lens - Black

Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom-Nikkor Lens Kit, 5 Year U.S.A. Warranty - with Tiffen 77mm Photo Essentials Filter Kit, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom Nikkor Lens is a very good quality lens. It's fast (fixed f/2.8), solid (built like a tank), produce great quality image, and priced very reasonably for a professional grade telephoto lens.
Having said that, there are some additional features that would be nice to have for this lens such as image stabilization, more silent autofocus (AF-S), and shorter minimum focus distance but those features will make this lens a lot more expensive (as those feature is included in the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 AF-S VR lens). If budget is not an issue, then I would recommend the 70-200mm f/2.8 AF-S VR (the Vibration Reduction technology and faster and more silent focus are very useful) or the 80-200mm f/2.8 AF-S (which has faster and more silent focus). If large aperture (fast lens)is not your main requirement, then you can get the 70-300mm VR (at a lower price)
There are several version of 80-200mm f/2.8 lens, and the latest one (non AF-S model and that Nikon still produce as of 2009) is the two ring model. The one ring push pull model is also good quality lens (solidly built and produce great image quality) but autofocus is much slower. If budget is an issue, the older push pull model would still be a good choice too.
If you are wondering whether you should get a fast lens or a lens with VR (Vibration Reduction), here's my take: In overall, VR does help a lot (as it will reduce camera shake) and will produce better/sharper picture than equivalent lens without VR (especially if the object is static). If the object is moving (sports/action) then VR feature alone might not help (depending on how fast the object is moving and how much light is available), and a fast lens often end up being a far better solution, even without VR feature as it will allow much faster shutter speed to freeze motion. Using tripod (and a remote) will substitute for the need of VR feature. In general I would recommend getting a fast lens with VR feature (and usually it is expensive) such as the 70-200 f/2.8 VR, but if one can only get for one or the other, then find out what do you want to use the lens for and then use the guideline mentioned here.
FYI: This lens will not autofocus with Nikon D40, D40x, D60 or D5000.
Pros
1. Great quality lens (very sharp pictures. 3 of the glasses made/coated with ED technology)
2. Very fast (fixed f/2.8 throughout the zoom range)
3. Very reasonably priced (compared to 70-200mm f/2.8 AF-S VR and 80-200mm f/2.8 AF-S)
4. Built to last. Very solid
5. Great for sport, action, wedding and low-light photography
6. Uses standard 77mm lens filter
7. Bokeh is very nice at f/2.8
8. Autofocus much faster than the older 80-200mm f/2.8 model (the push pull version)
9. The price is very stable (I bought mine several years ago and I could still sell it at the same price today)
10. With non full frame Nikon DSLR, the focal length becomes 120-300mm equivalent (nice reach). you can get Nikon 80-400mm for more reach but that lens is not fixed f/2.8).
Cons
1. Heavy at 2 lbs 14 oz or 1.3kg. (Good arm exercise :), or using tripod or monopod would be nice)
2. Autofocus not as fast and silence as the AF-S model (70-200mm f/2.8 AF-S and 80-200mm f/2.8 AF-S), but the autofocus limiter switch improves autofocus time
3. Tripod collar is too close to the zoom ring (you can remove or adjust the tripod collar though)
4. Thread for the filter can be better (it's made of plastic)
5. Lens hood is sold separately (highly recommended to reduce flare and internal reflection)
6. More expensive than Non-Nikon (sigma, tamron etc) brand alternative (some comparable price but they have faster and silence focus)
7. Lens could jump around a bit during autofocusing if you are not strong enough (due to the glass moving fast as the lens autofocus)
8. No Manual focus override mode on Autofocus mode
9. No Macro mode (can't be use for macro shot). closest focusing distance is quite far
10. No VR (Vibration Reduction), which will help a lot for this type of lens (heavy and telephoto)
In conculsion, if you are looking for a Nikon professional grade telephoto lens that is reasonably prices, you can't really beat this Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom Nikkor lens. This lens is really good choice for sport, action, wedding, low-light, indoor photography.
Happy Photographing!
Sidarta Tanu

Click Here to see more reviews about: Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom-Nikkor Lens Kit, 5 Year U.S.A. Warranty - with Tiffen 77mm Photo Essentials Filter Kit, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit

Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom-Nikkor Lens Kit, 5 Year U.S.A. Warranty - with Tiffen 77mm Photo Essentials Filter Kit, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit: Superb telephoto-zoom lens for sports and nature photography. 3 ED glass for high resolution and high contrast even at maximum apertures. Maintains fast f/2.8 aperture throughout zoom range.

Click here for more information about Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF Zoom-Nikkor Lens Kit, 5 Year U.S.A. Warranty - with Tiffen 77mm Photo Essentials Filter Kit, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit

Sigma 2x EX DG APO Tele-Converter AF for Nikon AF Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)When I ordered the product I was not aware that it was solely intended for the Sigma Telephoto lens product lines. I'm sure its a beautiful product that works in concert with the intended lens.
My intention was to 2x my Sigma 18-200mm for macrophotography and was immediately discouraged upon receiving it and fiddling. However... It * does * work with the Sigma 18-200mm lens. Be aware that you must be extremely careful because you cannot fully retract the lens and "Lock" it in place.
You may not be able to seat other Sigma lenses onto the 2x due to the depth of the internal condensor.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 2x EX DG APO Tele-Converter AF for Nikon AF Cameras

The dedicated 1.4x APO Teleconverter features a high performance 5 element/3 group optical design, and it is optimized for use with long telephoto and telezoom lenses.The high performance optical characteristics of these teleconverters maintain the optical performance of the compatible lenses with which they ca n be used. Sigma APO Tele Converter 1.4x and 2x are dedicated Tele Converter lenses, which should be used only with the listed lenses. The 2X Convertor will fit the following lenses 180mm f/3.5 APO MACRO EX HSM - MF300mm f/2.8 APO EX HSM - AF300mm f/4.0 APO MACRO - MF400mm f/5.6 APO MACRO /HSM - MF500mm f/4.5 APO EX HSM - MF800mm f/ 5.6 EX HSM - MF70-200mm f/2.8 EX HSM - AF70-210mm f/2.8 - MF50-500mm f/4-6.3 APO - MF100-300mm f/4 EX HSM - MF120-300mm f/2.8 EX APO - AF300-800mm f/5.6 EX APO - MFWill also fit the following Orginal Nikon AF Lenses300mm f2.8 AF-S - AF300mm f4.0 ED AF - MF On the lists, the lenses marked "AF" will retain auto focus operation when used with a Tele Converter. The lenses marked "MF can only be used for manualPlease refer to the manufacturers Teleconverer Matching List for an updated compatability chart.http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/acc/condaitr.htm

Click here for more information about Sigma 2x EX DG APO Tele-Converter AF for Nikon AF Cameras

Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 DG APO OS (Optical Stabilizer) HSM AF Lens Kit, for Nikon AF Cameras with Tiffen 86mm UV Filter, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Only had this lens for a couple of months but so far it has been a great lens for the price.
Takes great photos from a distance, focus is a bit slow but so far I am real happy with this lens.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 DG APO OS (Optical Stabilizer) HSM AF Lens Kit, for Nikon AF Cameras with Tiffen 86mm UV Filter, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit

This ultra-telephoto zoom lens covers a telephoto range up to 500mm and allows photographers to bring the subject close and short perspective. Sigma's original OS (Optical Stabilizer) function offers the use of shutter speeds approximately 4 stops slower. It is ideal for sports, wildlife and landscape photography with handheld shooting. Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements provide excellent correction for chromatic aberration. This lens is equipped with a rear focus system that minimizes fluctuation of aberration caused by focusing.The super multi-layer lens coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. This lens incorporates HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), which ensures a quiet and high-speed AF as well asfull-time manual focusing capability.The addition of the (optional) 1.4x EX DG APO or 2x EX DG APO Tele Converters produce a 210-700mm F7-9 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens or a 300-1000mm F10-13 MF ultra-telephoto zoom lens respectively. A removable tripod socket (TS-31) is included as a standard component.

Click here for more information about Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 DG APO OS (Optical Stabilizer) HSM AF Lens Kit, for Nikon AF Cameras with Tiffen 86mm UV Filter, Lens Cap Leash, Professional Lens Cleaning Kit

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX HSM Lens for Nikon SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Having used the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX HSM lens for portrature and wildlife work in Costa Rica recently, I can highly recommend this lens. The lens is very strong and well built, extremely fast, silent, and sharp. There are times when the lens will hunt a little bit when focusing, but this is not enough of a problem to cause you to miss a shot or cause a problem. The ability to imediately manualy focus the lens without having to switch to manual focus is not only a great convenience, it is absolutely a necesity when photoghaphing wildlife in the jungle, or even through the brush or in a tree in your own backyard. If your camera should focus on the foreground clutter instead of the desired subject matter, all one has to do is to rotate the focusing ring to focus on the subject, and shoot. I have found this lens to be extremely sharp and acurate over the entire frame area. The F2.8 light gathering ability is excelent, alowing you to add the Sigma APO 2X EX teleconverter to have a fully auto 140-400 F5.6 lens as well for little more money. Using this combination as well I have noticed no decrease in sharpness of image quality, although focusing may be slightly slower. In continuous focus mode this combination still had no trouble keeping up with birds in flight, although a tripod would be highly recomended. A nice feature is the tripod mount which can be used to grip and hold the lens and camera while shooting, or in less than a second can be detatched from the lens if so prefered. The camera can also be rotated a full 360 degrees within the tripod mount instead of the stndard 90 degrees of most other brands of lenses. The lens comes complete with with end caps, a padded soft side storage case, and even a lens hood, specialy designed to eliminate vigneting- at no extra charge. Although normaly dedicated to Nikor lenses, after inspecting and using this lens I found it to be equal in quality and better designed (in my opnion) in some areas than the Nikor 80-200 F2.8 silent wave lens. It is also smaller and lighter than the Nikor lens, a big plus in all day use, in or out of the jungle. On top of everything else I was able to purchase the Sigma lens for...less than the Nikor lens. A great lens at a great price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX HSM Lens for Nikon SLR Cameras

The Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX HSM Lens is an easy-to-use telezoom lens with good close-focus optical quality. Its Hyper Sonic Motor provides silent, responsive autofocus action, and permits manual adjustment of focus without having to switch off the autofocus function. Lens features an apochromatic optical design and 4 elements composed of Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass for high image contrast, resolution and color saturation, and due to the internal focusing system, the front barrel keeps from rotating during focusing. For use with Nikon cameras.

Get 24% OFF

Click here for more information about Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX HSM Lens for Nikon SLR Cameras

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO HSM Large Aperture Macro Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently just picked up this lens for myself. I have to say this is one of the best lenses I have used. The auto-focus is fast and silent. It doens't hunt, even when you zoom straight to 200mm. I also love that the minimum focusing distance is 3 feet. My dad has an older version of this lens for the Minolta mount and he is envious of the focusing distance.
I will say that at 200mm at f/2.8, there is a touch of softness, but it's not objectionable for my taste. I would recommend trying this lens if you can to make sure you would be willing to deal with the softness. Otherwise at all other focal lengths, it is tack sharp!
This lens is also heavy at 3 pounds. It can get tiring to hold it all day long, so I would recommend a monopod for support. Overall, I really love this lens and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good telephoto lens.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO HSM Large Aperture Macro Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

L1)SIGMA 70-200MM F2.8 F/NIKON (569)

Get 18% OFF

Click here for more information about Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO HSM Large Aperture Macro Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Flash + AA Batteries with Charger + Bounce Flash Reflector + Cord + Bracket for Nikon D5000, D3100, D3000, D7000, D300s, D300, D90, D60 & D40 Digital SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Used this flash to shoot a graduation, and had no problems at all shooting 140+ shots with no overheating. All the extra items came in handy too. Batteries have lasted to satisfaction so far. Good recharge rate. Very Satisfied.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Flash + AA Batteries with Charger + Bounce Flash Reflector + Cord + Bracket for Nikon D5000, D3100, D3000, D7000, D300s, D300, D90, D60 & D40 Digital SLR Cameras


Kit includes: ♦ 1) Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Flash ♦ 2) Multi-Voltage Rapid Charger with 4 NiMH Batteries ♦ 3) Set of 4 High Capacity 2900mAh NiMH Rechargeable Batteries ♦ 4) Precision Design Heavy Duty Off-Camera Flash Ext Cord-HD Nikon iTTL ♦ 5) Stroboframe Quick Flip 350 Flash Bracket ♦ 6) Precision Design Bounce Flash Reflector with Velcro Strips♦ 7) Precision Design Deluxe 6-Piece Lens & Digital SLR Camera Cleaning Kit ♦ 8) Cameta Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
The Nikon SB-900 Speedlight's automated zoom head can cover 17mm to 200mm range in just 1.2 seconds. Select from three light distribution patterns: Standard, Center-weighted, and Even. It will also detect if it is connected to a DX or FX camera and adjust itself accordingly. It can work as a stand-alone flash or as part of a wireless group. The i-TTL system supports Advanced Wireless Lighting for up to four groups of Speedlights with 3 remote i-TTL Speedlight groups.
Provide your camera with plenty of power with 8 ultra-high capacity 2900mAh Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries and a multi-voltage rapid charger.
The i-TTL Off-Camera Flash Coiled Extension Cord allows an external flash to be used away from the camera and still perform all the automatic functions possible with flash photography.
The Stroboframe Quick Flip 350 is an economical flash-rotating bracket that offers high value, compact size, lightweight and fast handling.
The Precision Design Flash Bounce Reflector can be utilized with nearly any electronic flash in order to create diffused lighting that will greatly enhance your photographs.
This 6-piece cleaning kit contains everything you'll ever need to properly clean your lenses, including a Hurricane Air Blower, Lens Cleaning Tissues, Lens Cloth, Lens Cleaning Liquid, Brush and Cotton Swabs.

Click here for more information about Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Flash + AA Batteries with Charger + Bounce Flash Reflector + Cord + Bracket for Nikon D5000, D3100, D3000, D7000, D300s, D300, D90, D60 & D40 Digital SLR Cameras

Nikon HB 29 - Lens hood - black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The lens hood functions well. The matte finish on the inner surface is effective in stopping random light from reflecting on the lens glass. The button release is a little sloppy and doesn't lock well.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Nikon HB 29 - Lens hood - black

Twist-lock mounting for extra security.

Get 23% OFF

Click here for more information about Nikon HB 29 - Lens hood - black

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This lens has only two "faults." First, it is big and heavy--quality construction often yields a heavy lens. Second, once the photographer has seen the results that this lens can produce, there is a likelihood that he or she will be unhappy with the other lenses in the camera bag.
Results first: the images are razor sharp with this zoom mounted on my Nikon D70s. I can get shots that I never could get before because this lens is so crisp that subjects taken at a distance nevertheless can be cropped to produce an acceptable close-up image. Subjects taken at more normal distances are breathtakingly sharp--as if shot with an excellent prime lens. This is a fast lens (F/2.8 throughout its entire zoom range). Almost more importantly, this lens has the best "Bokeh" that I have ever experienced in a lens. "Bokeh," to the extent that I understand the concept (it is a Japanese word meaning roughly "unfocused"), is a word describing whether the out-of-focus portion of an image (i.e. a blurred background in a photo in which only the subject is in focus) has a pleasing look to it. This lens produces wonderful, creamy Bokeh. The sharpness and Bokeh, combined with the excellent bright color rendition of this lens, makes this one a true classic.
I have occasionally experienced minor ghosting on this lens when shooting into a very bright subject, i.e. the sun reflecting off of the ocean. This is a normal shortfall of a zoom lens comprised of a multitude of elements, and I have sometimes experienced this. But such occasions are rare.
The autofocusing action of this lens is very good. Even birds at very long distances usually produce a quick, snappy autofocus lock on my Nikon D70s. Very seldom does it "hunt" for an AF lock, and these occasions are likely due to operator error rather than the lens. This lens also features Vibration Reduction (VR) which enables it to produce acceptable images below what an F/2.8 lens would otherwise be suitable for. The VR really works, too, although it is by no means a panacea for dim lighting.
This is one of Nikon's professional lenses, and the quality of construction is excellent. The critical mount is metal, and the entire lens is built like a tank. The lens comes with a nice squeeze-style lens cap, and a very good lens hood that can be easily reversed for storage.
The reader can see that I am extremely enamored with this lens. The reason is that, notwithstanding its bulk and weight, this lens produces the best nature shots that I have ever managed to take, by far.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Compact, lightweight G-type fast telephoto zoom lens with Vibration Reduction (VR).

Click here for more information about Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras