DA* 30mm f/1.4 (DC motor, no SDM)

The 35mm macro is a fantastic lens but I´d say two things. First, take care at infinity because it can focus slightly "off" and require manual over-ride to get it tack-sharp (but it is tack sharp when properly focused). Secondly, the macro function at this focal length is limited in use because you have to be really close for 1:1, or even 1:2, magnification. It would be good for product shots, but not for bugs.

But it is a superb lens.

PM sent.

They´ll accept a Nikon D3100 for professional work? In that case, they surely have to accept any DSLR from the last few years.

I´ve read the Sigma is very good, very sharp even wide open. Check it for focus accuracy first, though.

I buy lens hoods from Amazon, but through third parties. Here´s a link to the 58mm one (for example):

http://www.amazon.co.uk/58mm-Three-Lens-Hood-Rubber/dp/B0051UGTRW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_npd?ie=UTF8&coliid=I6UTS7CWPG3C7&colid=3LTY4HH99FI0S

The three-stage ones are very useful because they´re good for virtually any focal length & they´re good quality.

I´ve got a gorillapod (the SLR version, but not the SLR zoom version). It sees some rare use when the full sized tripod is impractical, but it doesn´t work with the Tammy 17-50 even though it´s not that heavy.

It´s use is far more limited than I thought when I bought it, and I do worry about the camera falling, even when only loaded with a small prime. The problem is, it´s so damn hard to aim the camera at what you want to photograph without it slipping or just drooping.

I´m surprised no-one´s mentioned UV or "protector" filters yet. I have a few cheapies but quickly learned they were best left off the lens.

I bought a third party radio remote rather than the Pentax IR one, as it gives extra flexibility and range. But it´s such a hastle to set up (plug in, switch on etc) that I never use it. I just use the timer. I have had some situations where 12 seconds provided little to get into position, but not that frequently.

VAT on a second-hand item???

Nice review, I didn´t even know that there were Vivitar 24mm f/2 lenses out there. You´re right, the Kiron is the best performer wide open, but loses it´s advantage by f/8. I have the Sigma myself and am happy with it, especially sharpness wide open. The build quality isn´t top-notch though, and it renders with a slight green tinge (noticeable in skies). It also tends to overexpose (a rarity, on a K200D at least) as your copy seems to do too.

What I noticed about your shots is that the FA* has a wildly different colour character to the others. Maybe a yellow tint?

Any such person would have to have SERIOUS LBA!