[MadChemist]

I am planning to purchase a Sigma 50mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro lens to use on a Rebel XT (1.6x crop) body. Does anyone have any experience with it? I've read that the working distance is too short for insect work and that the bokeh could be more cluttered due to the wider angle of view compared to, say, a 105mm macro lens. These two complaints don't really bother me that much.

If you've used this lens, what did you think of the image and build quality? More importantly, did you have fun using it?

Photography is simply a hobby for me, so I don't need professional quality. This lens is the only true macro I could find within my budget of $350 CDN, so getting a Canon 100mm, Tamron 90mm or a longer Sigma macro would be out of the question.

I like that the lens comes with a 10-year warranty if I purchase it new (plus, their service centre is only a few minutes away from me).

Thanks in advance.