Lens advice

[JohnP]

Hi Happy People

I have a Canon 400D with a Sigma 18-200mm 1:3.5-6.3 DC bolted on the front and have been a little disappointed with the results of some low light (no flash) moving subjects.
I was thinking of trying the optically stabilised version of the same lens mostly for taking shots in a theatre using only the available stage lighting, and similar situations. I also have a Canon 50mm 1.8 lens which is a bit better for this type of thing but no zoom of course.

Does anyone have any opinions on the subject that they would like to share?
Different lens?
Different body?

Thanks

John

[Analog6]

I have seen complaints re the low light capabilities of the 400D on many forums. It may be the camera not the lens.

[Tim N]

I think I might have said in another thread how disappointed I am with the low light performance of the 30D at high ISO even with a f2.8 lens.
As Odille said perhaps its the body not so much the lens ... BUT ... you are using f6.3 at the long end as the wide open apeture which isnt great ... I guess it depends on how much $$$ you want to part with ! You could look at upto $6000 for a 1D mark III which apparently has awesome high ISO performance (will let you know next week !) OR you could look at going between $1200 - $2500 for a 70 - 200 f2.8 L (or IS version) which is an INCREDIBLE lens with your nice wide open apeture !

For low light no flash moving subjects you need to have your shutter somewhere near 1/320th or above to catch the action without blur, depending on what the action is as I would assume the world chess championships isnt that fast moving . Ideally you would look at 1/640th or above !

[admin]

Hi John,

I noticed in this months 'Better Photography magazine' (Aust publication) that Tamron have just released a new series of low dispersion, stabilis(z)ed f.28 zooms.
I use their 17 - 50mm and find it very satisfactory at quite a saving on the name brands. Take a look at www.tamron.com
(I have no commercial relationship - promise)