Sigma Superzoom 18-250mm

Posted by Philip Northeast Mar 15, 2009

With a zoom range from a wide angle focal length of 18mm to a telephoto length of 250mm this lens is set to appeal to those new to DSLRs a seeking one lens to do everything.

The Sigma comes with their inbuilt fast focusing motor (HSM), something needed as there is trend from some manufacturers to phase out the focusing motor in the cameras, such as the Nikon D60.

Another fashionable feature is image stabilization, and the Sigma has an optical system in the lens. This is needed for Canon and Nikon cameras as well as Sigma’s own DSLR. Versions intended for Sony and Pentax cameras still have the optical stabilization system included, even though these cameras already have image stabilization in the camera body.

Sigma’s Marketing Manager, Tom Sobey, emphasizes, “This is the world’s first optically stabilized lens available for Sony and Pentax digital cameras. It will allow them to do what they have never been able to do before. It’s truly innovative.”

It is probably easier on a production line to leave the optical system in for the cameras that do not need than to make special models without it.

Sigma says “This feature is significant as this system now allows the Sony and Pentax photographer to see the stabilized image in the viewfinder where in the past this was not possible.”

My experience with Pentax image stabilization is that any camera shake problems are never evident in the viewfinder and do not interfere with composition or photo taking processes.