12-24 zoom or 14mm prime
Both Sigmas are considerably less expensive than the Pentax 12-24 but, going on reviews alone, the 12-24 would seem to be the best option if price doesn't matter.
I haven't had any issues with it though so can't complain too much (just a bit!)
edit - if I hadn't got my 12-24 for a bargain price I would have definately gone for one of the Sigma's.
You can get a good used copy for around £230 and if you decide you don't like it, won't lose out on re-sale.
The 10-20mm sigma sounds a good option but uses a 82mm filter thread. I intend to carry/use a variable ND and a polariser for photo and video work. the 12-24 uses a 77 mm thread which means that the same filter will fit my 16-50. Saving some pennies and less to carry around.
Thanks for all the comments at least I can now feel comfortable that my initial thoughts were sound and the 12-24 is the way to go.
There are currently 2 ex-display lenses on ebay at £599 and £589 one from the Camera Centre Cardiff and one from the White Group. Both have good feedback scores does anyone have any experience of either?
CaptureLight Ltd
flickr
"I carry a camera to capture memories and the occasional photograph worthy of sharing"
The older version of the sigma has 77mm filter and is non HSM
The 'older' version is also reputed to be better, but I haven't tried the newer one so can't speak from experience.
Simon
My Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/landscapephotographyuk
Find me on Google+ link
While I love the 12-24 for street photography, when it comes to studio work, the 14 gets the nod. A zoom lens is very handy for speedy operation, but when you really want to control everything, nothing comes close to a fixed focal length.
It really depends on what you intend to do with the lens.
I ruled out the 15mm because it was f4 which meant I gained nothing over the 12-24. The 14mm was F2.8 and so could have gained me something in lower light situations.
The 10-20mm sigma sounds a good option but uses a 82mm filter thread. I intend to carry/use a variable ND and a polariser for photo and video work. the 12-24 uses a 77 mm thread which means that the same filter will fit my 16-50. Saving some pennies and less to carry around.
Thanks for all the comments at least I can now feel comfortable that my initial thoughts were sound and the 12-24 is the way to go.
There are currently 2 ex-display lenses on ebay at £599 and £589 one from the Camera Centre Cardiff and one from the White Group. Both have good feedback scores does anyone have any experience of either?
Cardiff Camera Centre had the chance of selling me my K5. They were listed on Ebay as one the cheapest and as having 5 in stock. As they were local I phoned them up to be told they didn't actually have any, but were expecting them in at anytime within the next two weeks. So I asked them to le me know and I'd call in and pick one up. I also sent them an email reminder.
22 months and I'm still waiting for the call.
Add Comment
To leave a comment - Log in to Pentax User or create a new account.
461 posts
11 years
Norfolk,
UK
I used to have an Olympus 9-18mm on my previous camera and found this fantastic for interior and landscape shots. Due to the 2x crop factor this equates to 18-36mm FF equivalent.
I have been planning to go for the 12-24 DA zoom but then had a thought that a wide prime lens might be a better option as it could be a bit faster and may even give better IQ.
Ideally I wanted weather sealed but this doesn't seem to be an option at this focal length.
So can anyone here rate the DA 14mm prime and compare the IQ to the 12-24 zoom?
This site link doesn't score it as highly but I would be interested in any other views out there.
Of course any other options to consider in the 18mm FF area would also be welcome.
Any help would be apreciated
CaptureLight Ltd
flickr
"I carry a camera to capture memories and the occasional photograph worthy of sharing"