Two lenses to choose from, and a 3rd of interest

[rcpromike]

Since I'm doing the CP this semester I want to be able to make the most of my photo opportunities while I'm there, which means a better lens (currently have the kit 18-70mm and a 75-300, both Sony lenses). I would love a true wide angle, so I've found two pretty decent lenses in my price range. However I also ran across another lens that piqued my interest. The first lens pair are UWA that I feel is the most important lens to add to my camera bag for photography at WDW. The biggest difference besides the brand (Tamron vs. Sigma) is the f-stop. Autofocus is something I would like, but that I don't need. Oh, and my camera is a Sony Alpha A200. Thoughts, opinions, comparisons, etc. are welcome.

The Sigma:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/413424-REG/Sigma_201205_10_20mm_f_4_5_6_EX_DC.html

The Tamron:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/583994-REG/Tamron_B001S_700_B001_SPAF_10_24mm_f.html

The other lens that caught my eye was a Sony 50mm. I'm not really sure what I would use it for, as it says it isn't really a prime lens. It isn't too expensive either, which raises some other questions. Here it is...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/622190-REG/Sony_SAL50F18_SAL_50F18_50mm_f_1_8_DT.html

[VVFF]

Since I'm doing the CP this semester I want to be able to make the most of my photo opportunities while I'm there, which means a better lens (currently have the kit 18-70mm and a 75-300, both Sony lenses). I would love a true wide angle, so I've found two pretty decent lenses in my price range. However I also ran across another lens that piqued my interest. The first lens pair are UWA that I feel is the most important lens to add to my camera bag for photography at WDW. The biggest difference besides the brand (Tamron vs. Sigma) is the f-stop. Autofocus is something I would like, but that I don't need. Oh, and my camera is a Sony Alpha A200. Thoughts, opinions, comparisons, etc. are welcome.

The Sigma:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/413424-REG/Sigma_201205_10_20mm_f_4_5_6_EX_DC.html

The Tamron:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/583994-REG/Tamron_B001S_700_B001_SPAF_10_24mm_f.html

The other lens that caught my eye was a Sony 50mm. I'm not really sure what I would use it for, as it says it isn't really a prime lens. It isn't too expensive either, which raises some other questions. Here it is...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/622192-REG/Sony_SAL30M28_SAL_30M28_30mm_f_2_8_DT.html

The sigma is significantly better than the Tamron. If you limited it down to those two lenses then I'd definitely go with that.

How is the Sony 50mm not a prime lens??

[KAT4DISNEY]

I have the Sigma in the Sony mount and have thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a pretty popular UWA lens in all the mounts. Do be aware that there have been several reports of getting copies that are not as sharp as they should be so you should pay attention to that and return for a different one if you see any problems.

At the time I bought the Sigma I knew the Tamron was going to be coming out in the Sony mount and if it had been available at the time I would probably have gone with it due to the f stop difference and a little longer range. But the difference isn't great enough that it made me sorry for getting the Sigma which I would have no problem recommending and the Sigma seems to get better marks for sharpness.

The other lens you provided a link to is a 30mm, not 50. Is that correct? It kind of depends on why you're looking at it. It's a pretty fast lens that would give you a macro option. A 30mm macro is short for moving objects like bugs IMO but would work for many other situations. If it's a fast, inexpensive prime you are looking for then I'd consider the new Sony 50mm f/1.8 for $150 or a used Minolta 50mm f/1.7 that you should be able to find for $100 or maybe less. Nice primes that are even faster than the 30 - unless you want the Macro and the wider angle. The new Sony does have a plastic mount and the Minolta's are metal mounts.

[YesDear]

Others will tell you about the lens. Tell me about your upcoming program. What role did you get? My son did it in 2001 and it was one of the best experiences of his life!

[ukcatfan]

Do you have a compact p&s? I imagine that there will be times during the program where you will not want to carry a DSLR but still want a camera.

[DznyFan]

Congrats on your CP! What role did you get? Enjoy your time there, it will be an experience you'll never forget. Or won't want to give up...

Although I can't help you much on your choices, I will tell you I have the Minolta 50mm 1.7 that Kat4Disney mentioned, and I like it - a lot, on my A200.
Personally, I have some Sigmas and they're not too bad, IMHO. One of my faves is an old Sigma I've had for 16 years - it's got a LOT of miles on it and still going strong. Good luck with your choice, and let us know what you get and how you like it.

[rcpromike]

I just realized that I linked the wrong Sony lens! Let me fix that real quick...lol

As for my CP, I'm in Attractions and I check in on Feb. 1. I likely won't be able to get the lens for a few months after I get there, but you will definitely know when I do, because I'll be posting pictures!

As for having a compact P&S I do have one, but the glass has gone to crap and has developed spots like crazy. I'm not one to take pictures while I'm working and such anyway (why I'm guessing you asked if I had a P&S for the Program), so it doesn't matter to me. I plan on setting aside days off specifically for taking pictures, since I have 7 months to take in and enjoy the resort.

[ukcatfan]

As for having a compact P&S I do have one, but the glass has gone to crap and has developed spots like crazy. I'm not one to take pictures while I'm working and such anyway (why I'm guessing you asked if I had a P&S for the Program), so it doesn't matter to me.

Actually, I meant more like when you are hanging out with your new friends. There are likely going to be times where a DSLR is going to seem too bulky or not appropriate for the situation. I doubt you would even be allowed to use a camera while on duty.

[rcpromike]

Eh...I've never really been one to take pictures in situations like that, plus I'm camera-shy anyway. I love being behind the camera, not in front of it. lol

[handicap18]

I just realized that I linked the wrong Sony lens! Let me fix that real quick...lol


If its not a zoom lens then it is a prime lens. If it is not a prime lens then it is a zoom lens. The link you posted is for a Sony 50mm f/1.8 lens. That is a prime lens.

Maybe your confusing it because it is a lens built for a digital crop body and using it on a full frame SLR body will give it sever vignetting (or maybe it is like Canon and the mirror will bump it when the shutter is pressed.

But that being said, it is a prime lens because it is a fixed focal length.

[KAT4DISNEY]

That is an interesting description they give for the Sony 50mm but it is a prime even though it can't be used on a full frame. FYI - the older Minolta 50mm is a full frame lens should that make a difference to you.