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After nearly one year of using, and loving, the Sony a7c (since Aug 2021), in combination of the Tamron 28-200mm Lens (Sep 2021)… I am already thinking of getting a new lens and/or thinking about buying a new Sony camera.
While I do like the idea of the “all-in-one” lens of 28-200mm, I find that I’m always in need of more reach, often using the 200mm. You see, how I shoot shows is different than most live concert photographers. I don’t want to fight fans to get up in front, so most of my shots are done at the back of the venue… as if I’m not there and definitely not obstructing any fans. Plus, I find that most of my shots from the photo pit are looking up at the subject, which is not great, in my opinion.
Basically, what I’m looking for is a lens that can go past 200mm… and in the Sony E-Mount world, I have a few choices:
Sony 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 for $2,000
Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 for $1,400
Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 for $1,200
The Sony lens is out of the question, just based on the price. If money was no object, yes, I would like a native Sony lens, for the fact that there is no limit on burst mode and the ability to use extenders.
Between the Sigma and Tamron, I’m starting to lean towards the Sigma, just based on that extra 100mm difference (it max out at 600mm vs Tamron’s 500mm). I’m going to wait for a sale, but if I can’t find one any cheaper… I may have to go with the Tamron because it’s less expensive (as of this writing you can buy it new for $1200).
Both lens have a minimal focus point of 23 inches, so you can get really tight macro closeups. The Sigma is larger and weighs about 1 pound more than the Tamron, but given that it has a longer reach that is to be expected. Both offers lens stabilization and other similar features.
I’ll continue to do more research on the main differences between the two lens, but, as far as I can tell, they are pretty much the same lens, except one is larger and has more reach. To me, Tamron seem to design the lens for compactness and is meant for the traveling photographer.
Also worth noting is that the Sigma has a 4 year warranty, while Tamron offers a 6 year warranty. I’ve never had to use any of the manufacturer’s warranty, but it is nice to know that these companies stand behind their products.
In the end, I think I’ll be happy to buy either lens.
As for new cameras, I’m looking at the new Sony a7IV or the Sony a9 (used). They’re both about the same price, although I’m not entirely confident in buying a used camera.
The new camera will use the super telephoto lens, so I can quickly shoot close ups or wide. I know, I know, this is extreme, but when you’re out shooting in the field, it’s very annoying to swap out a different lens (especially when it’s only temporary). Plus, I’ve always wanted a backup camera. Anyway, for example, the closest I can get using the 200mm lens is shown on the left. I have to get Ian Astbury’s full body… but what I really wanted was Astbury’s head and shoulders to fill out the frame and get more details in his face.
While I do like the idea of the “all-in-one” lens of 28-200mm, I find that I’m always in need of more reach, often using the 200mm. You see, how I shoot shows is different than most live concert photographers. I don’t want to fight fans to get up in front, so most of my shots are done at the back of the venue… as if I’m not there and definitely not obstructing any fans. Plus, I find that most of my shots from the photo pit are looking up at the subject, which is not great, in my opinion.
Basically, what I’m looking for is a lens that can go past 200mm… and in the Sony E-Mount world, I have a few choices:
The Sony lens is out of the question, just based on the price. If money was no object, yes, I would like a native Sony lens, for the fact that there is no limit on burst mode and the ability to use extenders.
Between the Sigma and Tamron, I’m starting to lean towards the Sigma, just based on that extra 100mm difference (it max out at 600mm vs Tamron’s 500mm). I’m going to wait for a sale, but if I can’t find one any cheaper… I may have to go with the Tamron because it’s less expensive (as of this writing you can buy it new for $1200).
Both lens have a minimal focus point of 23 inches, so you can get really tight macro closeups. The Sigma is larger and weighs about 1 pound more than the Tamron, but given that it has a longer reach that is to be expected. Both offers lens stabilization and other similar features.
I’ll continue to do more research on the main differences between the two lens, but, as far as I can tell, they are pretty much the same lens, except one is larger and has more reach. To me, Tamron seem to design the lens for compactness and is meant for the traveling photographer.
Also worth noting is that the Sigma has a 4 year warranty, while Tamron offers a 6 year warranty. I’ve never had to use any of the manufacturer’s warranty, but it is nice to know that these companies stand behind their products.
In the end, I think I’ll be happy to buy either lens.
The Cult at Palace (08 July 2022) |
The new camera will use the super telephoto lens, so I can quickly shoot close ups or wide. I know, I know, this is extreme, but when you’re out shooting in the field, it’s very annoying to swap out a different lens (especially when it’s only temporary). Plus, I’ve always wanted a backup camera. Anyway, for example, the closest I can get using the 200mm lens is shown on the left. I have to get Ian Astbury’s full body… but what I really wanted was Astbury’s head and shoulders to fill out the frame and get more details in his face.
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