They went with a 7-blade circular aperture, I'm guessing the Bokeh is gonna be more pleasing than previous model..
$129.99 pre-order on amazon..
interesting. the bokeh was the big drawback on that lens (as well as the painful AF performance). if the bokeh is nice and the its still as sharp as the old, that will be a killer lens for the price.
From the MTF plots, looks like the basic optical formula is *very* similar, but they did add the latest coatings which should help flare, global contrast and transmission. The upgraded aperture should provide noticeably better bokeh, and the STM will be a boon for video shooters. Overall, at a price of $125, what's not to like?
Indeed. I have the 50/1.4, and I've been thinking about swapping it out for the Sigma. It is very dated at this point, and optically behind.
Sigma Art is just out of this world. Even the older EX version was pretty good but definitely had AF accuracy issues. I tried the new ART and was blown away - had to buy one.
Interesting, it seemed like all the other new lenses they released lately came with a massive price raise. Surprised to see this one priced so well.
Most likely because Canon didn't force the "IS" onto it. Any lens with IS on it doubles in price compared to its non-IS sibling. Canon recognize that they will always need a cheap but optically excellent "nifty fifty" and can't afford to be without one in their lineup.
Has anyone tested this lens yet? I'm thinking of getting one as I would like a lighter lens for (urban) holidays. Don't get me wrong, I love my 24-70, but find it a bit heavy waking/cycling around. If you have other suggestion feel free to advice :)
Here's a review of the lens that I think covers things pretty well. Bottom line, for $125, it's a great value. It is a significant improvement in build over its predecessor, and optically is better in some, but not all respects.
Here's a review of the lens that I think covers things pretty well. Bottom line, for $125, it's a great value. It is a significant improvement in build over its predecessor, and optically is better in some, but not all respects.
Thanks for the link. I've read a couple of reviews and they all seem to agree that the lens is best between f/4 and f/8, which seem appropriate for what I want to use it for. Also, like you say its good value for money. I would probably not buy it if it was still plastic as the optical quality is only slightly improved.
...I would probably not buy it if it was still plastic as the optical quality is only slightly improved.
Yep, the metal mount and higher-quality materials in the body are a game changer here. The other feature that really sets it apart from the predecessor is the AF. The STM focus isn't any faster than before, but it is very quiet by all accounts, and you get full-time manual focus to boot.
As far as optical quality, do try shooting portraits at f/2.8 or f/2; If you aren't pixel peeping in the far corners, I think you will be surprised at how good it can be.
Yep, the metal mount and higher-quality materials in the body are a game changer here. The other feature that really sets it apart from the predecessor is the AF. The STM focus isn't any faster than before, but it is very quiet by all accounts, and you get full-time manual focus to boot.
Yeah, I saw a video comparing a STM and a "regular" ultrasonic motor (can't remember if it was micromotor or ring-type) and the sound difference was incredible! Thanks for reminding me of the full-time manual focus. That is an important feature for me.
Originally posted by kirbic:
As far as optical quality, do try shooting portraits at f/2.8 or f/2; If you aren't pixel peeping in the far corners, I think you will be surprised at how good it can be.
I don't really do that much portrait shooting, but I have no doubt it can make pretty portraits. Also, I like a bit of vignetting in non-studio/non-white background portraits, so the corners won't be an issue for me :) Nevertheless, the most important thing for me is that it will allow me to take good images, according to my abilities of course :), as a urban holiday lens. The rest is bonus!
With your advice I have decided to buy one. Thanks for your help! Much appreciated!
I just got mine today! I was so excited that I pretty much ran to the post office the second I got my pick-up notifications. Bare with me, it's only my second lens :) Hehe... Only done a couple of test shot, but so far I am very happy with it. I really feel like I got my money's worth. Going on holiday to Berlin tomorrow. Can't wait to see if my fifty is as nifty as they say! :)
