Sorry to take this slightly off-topic.

In Live View modes of some DSLRs (excluding the Alphas - hence the off-topic), the mirror and shutter flips back down while focusing so that the AF sensor can be used, then flips back up so that Live View can be resumed. So wouldn't such a system add yet more wear-and-tear on the shutter?

The flowers look too isolated in the centre. Try a tighter crop.

I think if you plan on getting an ultra wide angle lens for an APS-C in the future, then a 24-70mm shouldn't be a problem. Though to be frank, you should probably get the ultra wide angle first, lest you find that 24mm isn't wide enough - that's what I'm planning to do.

shootkk: That actually makes a lot of sense. By the way, how much is a Carl Zeiss 16-35mm?

tanjq87: In that case (and if you're not planning to move up to full frame), I think you should just get the 17-50mm.

This post has been edited by jonjwlee: Jul 27 2009, 03:32 PM

Don't be surprised - Tamron and Sigma have improved pretty significantly. They specialise in lenses, after all.

Actually, lenses from third-party manufacturers are quite often almost as good, if not as good, as those of the camera manufacturer (sometimes even better). It's just that little extra benefit in buying original - extensive manufacturer support, warranty, better build quality, etc. That's probably where the extra money goes to.

You're right. But they still focus more on making lenses, right?

Yup, it comes with the lens. But it's not that big of a deal - I lost mine soon after buying the camera. The hood does nothing to reduce lens flare, actually. And you can still use the lens perfectly normally without it. I think it should come already affixed to your lens.

This post has been edited by jonjwlee: Jul 27 2009, 04:37 PM

Depends on the manufacturer. Sony uses the term DT for APS-C lenses, Tamron uses Di-II and Sigma uses DC.

Which is better, Tamron 10-24, Sony 11-18, Sigma 10-20 or Sigma 12-24 (in case I plan to go full frame)?

I think the 12-24 can, it isn't listed in the DC section (Sigma's name for APS-C lenses) of the website.