The Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 is the ultimate sports zoom, giving 50% more reach than the traditional 70-200 f/2.8. It’s one of the sharpest lenses we’ve ever tested, and focusing is extremely fast. For better or worse, it’s built like a tank: big, heavy, and seemingly indestructible. You won’t be able to hand-hold it for the length of any sporting event, so you’d better mount a monopod to the lens to support the weight while allowing you to move freely aroundĀ the field. If you’re planning to use it at close ranges, be aware that it has significant focus breathing problems. In our tests at headshot range, 300mm on this lens was actually shorter than 200mm on the Canon 70-200 f2.8. Many professional sports photographers will still need to use the big fast primes, such as the 200mm f/2, 400mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4, and 600mm f/4. However, for sports shot at closer range, or for photographers who don’t have a five-figure budget, the Sigma is a perfect choice. For detailed information, watch our full video review at the link above.
