Sigma AF 50mm f/2.8 EX Macro Reviews

I love this lens, and bought it as a fluke, simply because I needed a macro lens for my 20D, and this was the one I could afford.

I have shot extensively in the past with a Nikkor 55mm Macro on my F3 nikon, and was looking for the same quality, but knew I couldn't get it at this price.

Was I pleasantly surprised. Edge to edge sharpness and contrast beat anything I've ever shot with before, save for the lenses from my old Mamiya C-330.

The one thing folks need to beware of is bad Bokeh. For out of focus elements in the far background, the bokeh takes on some wierd and often distracting shapes.

Also, the f/45 is so soft as to be almost useless, but f/32 and up are good.

I was very surprised.Sharpness was good in macro & standard.If you don't want to go to the poor house buying a macro?This is a good one to get.
Camera:Nikon N80.

I purchased the older MF 50 version one week ago. The price was a killer. My version (old) is very sharp. Metal build quality, true Made in Japan. Impeccable sharpness! I have not tested it extensively for normal shooting since I have the pentax A, 1.7. My feeling is that this one is great for macro, while in normal shooting it may be just above average. Found only a couple of opinions in the Internet, both overwhelming!