Review on Sigma 17 70Mm F2 8 4 Contemporary Macro by Gary Duncan

I was looking for a multi-purpose vacation lens to attach to my 7D when I came across this one. I saw reviews of the new Sigma 35 f1.4 Art series on canonrumors.com and was very impressed with what I read. So I thought it was worth trying this lens. It ended up being just $499 versus $2100 for the Canon 24-70 f2.8 L II that I've spent some time with in the real world. You see, I've had almost 100 weddings in the last 6 years. However, I have never had a zoom lens, as I mostly photograph weddings with fast prime lenses (Canon 24 f1.4 L, Canon 50 1.2 L, Canon 85 f1.8 and Canon 100 f2.8 L macro). Back in the day I rented zoom lenses knowing you don't have to carry multiple bodies or switch lenses to shoot a specific event. I shot Canon 17-55 f2.8 IS and 24-70 and I have to say. This lens competes very well with both at a much lower price! The Sigma 17-70 f2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM has a longer range than the Canon 17-55 IS and still gives you image stabilization that the 24-70 f2.8 L II does NOT! And if that were the case, how much could Canon charge you for it? This lens already costs as much as my first car! Bottom line: buy this lens if you want sharp optics, fast focus and a decent aperture. Check out my test photo of my wife cutting the hair of the girl next door.