Sigma 18-200 DC Zoom Creep

[andyo]

Hi - I have had a Sigma 18-200 DC for about 4 years on my EOS 400D and use it as a walkabout lens and for some landscapes and sailing photos. I've recently tried photographing stars (inspired by the Stargazing Live programmes) but have found the zoom creep to be very annoying. I've zoomed in a little from the 18mm minimum to get the framing correct, but then as the lens is pointing upwards, the lens shrinks back to the minimum zoom length. Has anyone a solution for this - to get the focal length to stay where I want it? Normally it is not a problem as I shoot horizontal-ish - or handhold the zoom ring.

Suggestions welcome!

 

[StewartR]

I used to have a Sigma 18-200 as my walkabout lens so I'm familiar with the zoom creep issue. (To be fair, it affects many zoom lenses when you point them upwards; gravity is like that.)

The only options I think you have, realistically, are:
1. Shoot at 18mm.
2. Use a different lens.

 

[Byker28i]

hum, small piece of tape or bluetack to stop the creep if you want it to stay zoomed out?

 

[Glynn]

hi. I have the same problem with my Sony 18-250. I solved it with a lens band. Similar to the charity arm bands you can get. You put it over the zoom ring and lens body and it stops the creep but still allows you to use the zoom. I got mine on ebay.

 

[huffy]

I have the same problem with my Canon 18-135mm lens and solved it in the same way as Glynn but I used a charity style arm band.

 

[andyo]

Good ideas, Glynn and Mark. I had also thought of using a length of stretchy elastic I have from a physiotherapist. I could tie the ends to make a wide elastic band and put that on. Will try the charity bands as well.

Thanks,