Posted to Lenses 2009-09-05
If you are on a budget and you are looking to add a new lens to your SLR collection, then you may want to consider the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC. As a high zoom lens that can cover a variety of different focal lengths, it can give you the power you need to capture nearly any shot without ever having to change a lens. This gives you the chance to be ready and waiting for whenever the perfect shot presents itself. The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC is designed to work with any SLR that is equipped with an AF style mount. Unlike other lenses in this size range, this lens can be considered lighter than the lot at only 14.4 ounces. The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC also provides users with a minimum aperture of f/22 and a max of f/3.5. The lens also provides user with a high zoom ratio of 11.1x and a minimum focus distance of 17.7 inches making it great for the avid photographer who wants a lens that can handle a variety of different shots but may not be able to afford the performance that a higher priced lens can provide.
FeaturesThe Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC provides the performance and features that is sure to satisfy any aspiring photographer. The lens is made up of 15 element in 13 groups which includes two special low dispersion (SLD) elements and two hybrid aspherical lenses that allow the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC to deliver quality optical performance to the aspiring photographer. The glass in this lens helps to correct most aberrations that can appear in your photos while enabling the lens to provide an extended range super zoom in a smaller, lighter package than comparable lenses in this size range. There is also an improved lens coating that can help reduce lens flare and ghosts can be a common occurrence in digital images. The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC also creates an optimal color balance, allowing the lens to deliver the best possible images given the situation. Those who prefer to utilize filters or other accessories on the end of their lens will be please with the performance of the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC. With an inner focusing mechanism that prevents the lens from rotating, it is suitable for those who prefer to use polarizing filters or petal shaped lens hoods depending on the situation. The lens also comes equipped with a zoom lock which prevents zoom creep from occurring, even when shooting straight up or down. PerformanceWhile the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC does provide quality images for a lens in the budget friendly price range, it is not without its flaws. In a sea of lenses that come equipped with a wide range of features, this lens does not come with any form of image stabilization functionality. No matter how stable your hand is, there is still a chance you will notice some form of image blur, especially at long zoom lengths. The auto focus functionality can also take a little longer than higher priced lenses, and the focusing mechanisms are much louder than other lenses which can cause problems if prefer to take photos of subjects that may spook easily due to excessive noise. SummaryIn conclusion, if you are looking for a budget friendly lens that can handle both wide-angle and telephoto shots, then you may want to consider the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC. While this lens provides decent image quality for the price, it does not come equipped with any form of image stabilization and its auto focus mechanics are much louder than other lenses on the market. If you don't mind these flaws, and you want a budget friendly multi-tasking lens, then the Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC may just be the one for you. Pros
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