Hi,
I'm on the lookout for a telephoto zoom for my 400d, mainly to be used for wildlife shots.I have narrowed it down to three that are within my price range, they are as follows: Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM, the Sigma 70-300mm F/4-5.6 APO and the Tamron 28-300mm f3.5-6.3 XR Di LD

The Canon is really out of my price range but if the photo quality well exceeds the other two I would have to consider it.

Any advice as to which one I should go for would be much appreciated.

Thank you in advance

Donna

I'd go for the Canon lens if you can afford it. Ignore the Tamron superzoom, as it will offer poorer quality than the two dedicated telephoto lenses.

[size=5]hi i'm no expert but i agree, go for the canon, but like you i went for the sigma because the canon was out of my price range. but i'm very happy with the sigma, go for it Paul............

Many thanks for the replies, it's much appreciated

Donna

When I got my first dslr a couple of years back, a Canon 350D, I bought the Tamron 28-300mm f3.5-6.3 XR Di LD with it. Yes, if I had had more money I would have bought a Canon 70-200 L or a Canon DO 70-300mm. But at the time it was all I could afford (sob sob)!

I have since upgraded to the 30D and although I have bought a Canon L lens (17-40), I have stuck by my Tamron as I feel it takes excellent quality pics. Many of the shots in my gallery are taken with it and I have never had any problems with it. Obviously, If money was not an option I would change it for an L series zoom like the 100-400mm, but alas I dont have a spare grand lying around. For a couple of hundred quid, I have found this lense to be great value for money.

Cheers

Richard

It's amazing how many people put down the Tamron 28/300!,,,,,I'm a pentax man so I dont have much option for the price I can afford!........I have the 28/300 and I find it excellent value for money!...and with a bit of time and effort you can turn out some creditable shots!........from portraits to little birdy's!...lol..........It gets my vote anyway.....................

Up to the point when it packed up I'd always been happy with the results I'd got from my Tamron 28-300 lens far too many people seem to treat this lens as a joke. Unfortunately the cost of repairing it was more than it was worth so sadly I no longer have the use of an extremely versatile unit...... Tony

mad-donna,

I agree.... go for the Canon. I have that lens and LOVE IT! The IS is terrific. I bought a Sigma lens on my last trip to Hong Kong and have been disappointed. I should have picked up another Canon. If you can afford a bit more you will not be disappointed.

Cheers,

Red Lantern

http://www.redlanternstyle.com

I have that lens, and i don't like it - at the long zoom, pics are "wooly" and lack contrast.
Fidgety

I eventually opted for the Canon, I am quite happy with the lens, however I do agree with Fidgety at the 300mm end the shots are not as sharp as I would like. I've tried using a tripod but they still appear quite soft....I think this is a common problem with any lenses within this price range.
I'm saving up for the Canon 100-400mm L lens....it might take a while though, they are so expensive!


Donna

Donna,

Thanks for letting us know which lens you went with. Of course there is always the next lens on the wish list, but I have the same problem....they keep going up in price range.

Cheers,
RedLantern

I've shot with a Tokina 200mm F2.8 for while now. Very sturdy lens
but oh my the fringeing!!

Lately my Canon 135mm F2.8 has been oh so beautiful. Sharp as
a tack and no problems whatsoever.