The poses are all terrific but I'm not sure about the image quality. Some appear rather noisy even at these small sizes. A bit strange why this should be for the K5, not sure how they'd look at the large sizes that images like this deserve to be viewed at.

All excellent. 2 and 5 are my picks, the splashes of water on the latter are great.

Big improvement on the first set. I like the first for the added interest of the buoy and the last for the action.

I have the Pentax, but I'm not familiar enough with the Sigmas to decide.

The dung fly is definitely the Pentax.

The moth definitely isn't (not sharp enough).

The bee probably isn't - overall it's a bit soft and therefore difficult to tell.

The hoverfly - not sure, could be the Pentax.

The dung fly is very good indeed.

Please stop reminding me how good this lens is as I can't afford it.

I think it's just the normal way that a new idea runs quickly out of steam, I don't think it's any negative reflection on the idea at all. I'll try and do something for this one.

Superb winning shot, a definite for the PPG collection when it returns.

I like my Tamron SP90 macro 52BB version for flowers. Colours (in particular) and sharpness are excellent. It can get close when you need to but 1:2 magnification also means you can fit a lot in.

The cheap as chips M series 50mm f1.7 is also excellent, nice shallow depth of field effects wide open where the softness can suit vegetation.

I buy secondhand lenses, but I will quite happily pay a premium for a brand new lnes with warranty where the price difference isn't too much (eg: next on my wishlist the DA*300 new at £925 versus £800 odd asking price for a used out of warranty example). But I don't want to pay over the odds for bits and pieces. I needed a replacement lens hood for the 55-300 and went for the £5 chinese knock off instead of the £42 original. I don't think there is £37 difference in functionality and quality. I don't feel guilty about it, I think branded accessories should be better priced to compete.

I'm impressed, that's the proper DA version and therefore an excellent price. Rare to find something cheaper here than back home (check the right one arrives). It's a very good lens, used at its optimal settings with good light conditions then I think the results are exceptional for the price. Enjoy.

I know someone who will be mighty jealous