More Sigma Macro Questions (150 vs. 180)

Hi all...Sorry if I am beating a dead horse here with some of my last questions...

I would like any opinions that you all have out there. Mike Maples (thanks Mike) suggested the Sigma 150mm Macro 2.8 so that it can be used more efficiently with a TC. Juza (thanks Juza) suggested the 180mm Macro 3.5 for the 30mm extra reach. What do you all think?

I am leaning toward the 150 now, with Mike's suggestions, since my current longest lens is a 210. My current macro is a 55mm Nikkor micro. I will be interested in shooting flowers and other macro subjects, hopefully some insects too.

Any thoughts appreciated!

Nathan

The 180 will give just a little bit more working distance. If you are going to be shooting insects every little bit helps. Also with the 180, the angle of view is better for reducing distracting backgrounds. I have used a nikon 105 macro for years (one super lens) . I got the Sigma 180 and now almost never use the 105. Thats because of the increase in working distance and smaller angle of view. Ohh, it takes wonderful sharp photos too!! I think a 1.4x will work with the 180 with no problem. I have not used one with mine. Just my thoughts.
MK

Just so Nathan doesn't misunderstand my previous advice...

The 180mm will work with TC's but only in manual focus mode and you do get a bit more working distance at 1:1

I chose the 150 because I can add the 1.4 TC (210mm f/4 with 1.4:1 capability) and maintain autofocus (no AF with the 2x, but it is a little much for macro due to slight loss of detail). I like to use autofocus on subjects like long-legged flies and bees because they are so mobile and opportunities can be fleeting. So it's an autofocus issue and not a functioning issue and I use AF in macro mode more than most folks, I think.

How much is the cost difference between the two? Do they come with tripod mount?
I'm also looking forward to purchase a macro in this range.

You pay about $60 more for the 180mm

Currently the Sigma 180 is $30.00 cheaper than the Sigma 150 priced at $544.00. Both come with a soft case and a tripod mounting ring. If you examine the Sigme site you will find that they chart nearly the same.The major difference other than the obvious 30mm focal length is that the 150 is a "DG"series lens which has additional internal coating to prevent spurious light reflections in digital cameras. The addition aperture difference may be worth the cost? I shoot the older 180 and find I do not use it wide open for my shooting style. I have used AF to shoot fast moving insects but I manual focus when shooting florals to place the focal plane where I desire. Both lens are the Sigma EX series which allows manual focus override without switching. I can tell you that this is the last lens that I would part with.The working length allows me to stand when shooting flowers,with my 50mm I find I am always on my knees. Either lens would be a winner for you!

Thanks for all the great advice.

Adorama.com (which I have heard from several people is a reliable source) sells the 150 for $599 (US) and the 180 for $609 (US). I think the 180 that they sell is also a DG version. These have a 1 year international warranty, and a 3 year extended USA warranty.

Tom, where is the source for the $544 that you list?

Thanks again for all of the suggestions. I am still mulling it over.

Nathan

I should have rechecked Sigma's site as I now see the 180 is offered in DG. The prices I mentioned are from Sigma4Less.com . I have purchased lens from them several times and find they have the lowest prices.
Sigma 150 mm DG $544.95
Sigma 180 mm DG $569.95
Sigma 180 non DG $519.95
Hope this helps.

Thanks Tom. I saw some pretty good ratings for Sigma4less, their prices did look good. They only list a 1 year warranty on their website. Does this mean that the lenses are not USA lenses (gray market)? Adorama lists the 1 year international and then a 3 year USA extended warranty.

Thoughts? Thanks!

Nathan

All three lenses I have gotten from that site have come with the additional three year USA extension for a total four year period of coverage. I just had Sigma repair a lens with a sticky aperture and it was a fast and painless dealing. The lens was three years old at the time so they were true to their word. I have shopped around alot and have never beaten the price at a site with a decent rating.

I got my 180 from Sigma4less no problems with them. Fast shipping. I called Sigma USA before I purchased the lens from Sigma4less about the 3yr USA warranty on EX lens and they honor it.
MK

Thanks Tom and Mark! Good to know. Saving some cash always helps on these decisions.

Nathan

Hey Nathan, I would go with the 180 for the extra distances if you think you will be shooting insects.

Between the two, my personal choice would be the 180 unless I expected to use teleconverters a LOT. Both appear to be good lenses, however.

Hi Nathan,
I have the Sigma 180 and I think it is a very sharp lens. One of the reasons I chose it was the extra working distance it provides. Hope this helps.

Ed

Thanks all!

Nathan