We went to the zoo today. I really like zoo trips.

Today's trip was specifically to try out the new Sigma 150-500mm lens.

Technical Data: Canon EOS 7D, Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 APO DG OS HSM at 500mm, 1/660 sec at f/12.9. OS Mode 1. ISO Auto. No post production. Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.

Not too shabby, huh? Ignore the focus, I was a bit off most of the day. But the reach of this lens was pretty nice. Being able to zoom in so close to subjects like the lions and tiger at the zoo was a big reason for picking up this lens.

And then I threw my 2x teleconverter into the mix.

Technical Data: Canon EOS 7D, Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3 APO DG OS HSM at 1000mm with Kenko Teleplus PRO 300 "DG" AF 2x Teleconverter , 1/660 sec at f/12.9. OS Mode 1. ISO Auto. No post production. Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.

Pretty awesome, no?

The lens really needs to be tripod mounted at 1000mm, but I found that I was able to take some nice shots handheld at 500mm with the Opitical Stabilization turned on.

I had a nicer shot of the tiger, but it was when I was having even worse focusing issues. I really wish this set had come out nicer....

500mm

1000mm

I have a couple more photos worth sharing from this trip, and maybe a bit more of my thoughts about my new lens. I was starting to think I was getting some buyer's remorse on this lens, but after today's trip, I think that is all gone now.

Now I'm looking forward to more zoo trips. So here's hoping the nice weather gets here soon so Anya and I can take some long weekend trips to other near-by zoos.

- Bill