Brand name glass, versus non-brand name.

[Tulio]

OK, I know that Canon lenses are good, and so are those made for, or by Nikon.

I have seen however, lenses made by Sigma, Quantaray and other brand names, being used by some photographers, albeit not by many professional photographers (that I am aware).

How good is the quality of these other lenses? I once had a Sigma on my old Canon AT-1, and frankly, the quality of the images was poor.

All the lenses I have now, are Canon, but I would like to purchase something in the 400 or 500mm range, without breaking the bank.

Comments? Suggestions?

Saludos,


Tulio

[Neal Nurmi]

I have in the past used Tokina and Tamron lenses with good results, though not quite as good as the high end (and very expensive) Nikon glass I use now. The "other" brands are however very variable. Both Tokina and Tamron have higher quality lines called ATX and SP respectively that can be quite good while the cheaper consumer oriented lenses from the same makers are often much less so.

Even though you use the grey lenses, I'd suggest a web site called "Nikonians" as a source of information about alternative lenses. Many very knowledgable and helpful people over there, and they do have a couple of forums covering alternative brands. This forum especially may be of some help

http://www.nikonians.org/forums/dcboard ... &forum=157

You might also Google a store called KEH Camera (I think). They are a very reputable dealer of used photographic gear, and you might find a used grey lens in your price range. I have used them and been very satisfied...

[wardie]

Tulio, as you are a Canon user check out these forums as I find that they are extremely helpful with advice.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/

Wardie

[Tulio]

Thank you, guys.

Will check those links.

Saludos,


Tulio