[horribleman]

Thinking of getting rid of my 70 - 200 f4L as I don't have it on the cvamera as much as I would like and replacing it with one of the above.

To be used as a prime for portraits as well as macro on my 30D.

Anyone have any info that might help me chose?

Also, what's the difference between the 'Di' and 'sp' variations of the Tamron?

Thanks!

[stevegreen]

I have seen some cracking results from the Tamron and have considered it myself, however the external focussing puts me off. I'm not convinced that a 60mm macro will allow you much space when photographing wildlife (insects etc) and so would maybe look at the 10mm version which has internal focussing and a longer range.

[1LeeDenton]

Both are featured in this month's Digital Photo (which conveniently enough I have with me at work at the moment).

The Canon wins the review test:
"the build is first rate"
"the AF is near silent and fast"
"manual focus ring allows for excellent level of control"
Features & Build: 5 Stars (out of 5)
Performance: 5
Image Quality: 5
Value for Money: 4

However, the Tamron came quite a close 2nd to the Canon:
"though the construction is plastic, everything is finished to a very high standard"
"the AF can be loud, and rather mechanical sounding"
"focuses without problems"
"one of the biggest strengths of the Tamron is its manual focus ring - the operation is beautifully smooth and makes focusing a breeze"
Features & Build: 5
Performance: 4
IQ: 5
VFM: 4

The Sigma 50mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro looks to have finished in 3rd place, and definitely the one to go for if one is on a limited budget, and can be stopped down to f/45 on a Canon, Sony or Sigma dSLR.

Hope this helps in some way, and I've been using www.photozone.de to research my next glass purchase.

[Radiohead]

I'd take a good look at the Sigma 70mm macro.

[Yandros]

For static subjects 60mm would be fine (though the working distance could pose lighting challenges). For insects, even my 105mm is borderline.

[stevegreen]

Originally Posted by Radiohead

I'd take a good look at the Sigma 70mm macro.

Agreed, It has received very good reviews and is EX glass so the IQ is superb

[horribleman]

Might save a bit and get the Canon 100 macro then.

[richard plumb]

what are the relevant working distances for the Canon 60, Tamron 90 and Canon 100?

I've only played with extension tubes and am wondering about getting a 'proper' lense for some macro fun.