Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM

[tonylong]

Here's a GBH with a snack, taken with the 1D3 and the 300 w/1.4 TC:

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/105180513/original.jpg

Close crop:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/105180512/original.jpg

[sheawyatt]

That had better not be wide open.

[tonylong]

That had better not be wide open.

Well, we had great light: 1/800, f/5.0, ISO 200

[sheawyatt]

Well, we had great light: 1/800, f/5.0, ISO 200

Ok, so not QUITE wide open, but only stopped down 2/3 of a stop. That lens takes the 1.4X TC very well. I want one, badly.

[tonylong]

Ok, so not QUITE wide open, but only stopped down 2/3 of a stop. That lens takes the 1.4X TC very well. I want one, badly.

Yes it does take a 1.4 TC well. I've taken a lot with the 2x TC as well, but the results tend to be iffy for me, you have to have things very stable, and when I'm shooting wildlife I'm not using a tripod. Many more keepers with the 1.4.

A neat thing about this shot is that my grandson actually got it (with my coaching)!

[scot079]

Mine is listed as "out for delivery" on UPS.com

Having a hard time concentrating at work! :-)

Now it says "delivered":shock:

OK we've met at last...pics coming soon!

[Superficialodds]

Ooh I would just go home sick.

[Tareq]

I am happy [or should i say lucky?] that i have a game [soccer] to shoot every week, so my 300 is in use every week, but the focus ring mount doesn't move, not sure i can focus manually if i want [Thank GOD i don't want] but i have to solve the problem, how can i make it smooth as before?

[tonylong]

I am happy [or should i say lucky?] that i have a game [soccer] to shoot every week, so my 300 is in use every week, but the focus ring mount doesn't move, not sure i can focus manually if i want [Thank GOD i don't want] but i have to solve the problem, how can i make it smooth as before?

I have no idea, Tareq, did you buy it used? I remember you buying it, I just don't remember if it was used or not.

The good news is that AF works, right? I don't imagine that you'll have much use for MF shooting your sports, so you have some time to ponder sending it out for repair.

[Tareq]

I have no idea, Tareq, did you buy it used? I remember you buying it, I just don't remember if it was used or not.

The good news is that AF works, right? I don't imagine that you'll have much use for MF shooting your sports, so you have some time to ponder sending it out for repair.

No, i bought it NEW great amazing, but because i didn't use it for long time last year, and because collecting the dust, i think that ring stopped to be smooth because of that, i don't want MF and AF is amazing as always but who knows when i need to use MF anyway.

[tonylong]

Hey, I'm famous:)!

I got contacted to have a shot with the 300 put into a USGS Web page...

Here's the Web page:

http://or.water.usgs.gov/proj/Conhab/

Here's the shot

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/98943090/original.jpg

[AdamJL]

^ is that heavily cropped?

[S.Horton]

@Tony congrats, you could post a real brag thread about that one as well. (A lot do, take a bow if you want!)

[JC4]

+ 1/4 TC Fairly close to MFD(shoulda used a tube)
http://johncaputo.smugmug.com/photos/407248895_7jUqD-L.jpg

and its 100% crop.

[tonylong]

^ is that heavily cropped?

Yes, it was pretty heavily cropped -- that's just about a 100% crop. Of hundreds of Osprey shots I have it maybe wouldn't have been my top choice, but he said it was exactly what he wanted (and he shrunk it for his Web use), so who am I to argue:)?!

[Keegan]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3048/3050904990_e24ea00e12_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3165/3050904676_515f311175_b.jpg

[tonylong]

Friday I had to bid a fond but sad farewell to this special lens...I think it got a good home with a couple of enthusiastic photogs, but still:(.

I'll stay subscribed to this thread, though, as a "retired" member of the club, and I'll occasionally delve into my archives to post, so, hey, I can share in the fond memories!

[FlyingPhotog]

And as Tony bids a fond farewell, allow me to post a Warm Welcome to my 300mm f/2.8L IS:

Obligatory Ducks:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106400626/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106400627/original.jpg

Tennis Anyone? (This was a first for me .. never pointed a lens at tennis before)
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106400628/original.jpg

And two more birds (that are more my style...)
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106400623/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106400624/original.jpg

[arizona85224]

duck looks soft Jay, I think you need the 400 2.8 :)

[FlyingPhotog]

duck looks soft Jay, I think you need the 400 2.8 :)

Ya think? Ok, I'll start donating more plasma... :p

[arizona85224]

Ya think? Ok, I'll start donating more plasma... :p


right on, why didn't i tink of that :(

[arizona85224]

not sure if i ever added one, don't have it any more

[FlyingPhotog]

not sure if i ever added one, don't have it any more

Sweet shot...

From the sanctuary in Flag or wild?

[arizona85224]

Sweet shot...

From the sanctuary in Flag or wild?


from when we all meet up at The Arboretum at Flagstaff. i'm starting to miss the lens now, thanks to you. :)

[jmik26]

Add a couple from a new proud owner of this fantastic lens.

300mm + 1.4tc
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/White_Breasted_Nuthach.jpg

300mm
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/Buck_In_The_Sun.jpg

300mm
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/Buck_Stare.jpg

300mm + 2.0tc
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/mallardp.jpg

300mm + 1.4tc
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/Male_Downy_Woodpecker_1.jpg

300mm + 1.4tc
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/Male_Red-Bellied_Woodpecker_2.jpg

300mm + 1.4tc
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/POTN/Male_Downy_Woodpecker_2.jpg

300mm + 2.0tc
http://www.jmikosphotography.com/potn/Northern_Shoveler.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

Excellent Jeff...

[jmik26]

Excellent Jeff...
Thank You...

[FlyingPhotog]

Feathered Four From Phoenix:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106463523/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106463524/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106463525/orginal.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106463527/original.jpg

[andrewhuxman]

Nice bird shots Jay , love them all.

[FlyingPhotog]

Nice bird shots Jay , love them all.

Thanks...

Seeing as they are zoo residents, I guess you could call them "Training Birds" ;)

[tonylong]

Great shots everyone, and I refuse to unsubscribe to this thread. In fact, over the past few days I've been catching up on cataloging and organizing and have been having fun going over my past couple of years of shooting, with a combination of humor at how much better my cameras have behaved over time and sweet moments of seeing shots that I was able to really nail, and the 300 definitely has been a contributor.

I guess my biggest wish was that it played better with a 2x TC, although there were a few shots that came out OK. With the 1.4 TC, though, you can use it with impunity!

I'll post some shots from the archives as I go, just to keep the memory alive:)!

[FlyingPhotog]

Great shots everyone, and I refuse to unsubscribe to this thread. In fact, over the past few days I've been catching up on cataloging and organizing and have been having fun going over my past couple of years of shooting, with a combination of humor at how much better my cameras have behaved over time and sweet moments of seeing shots that I was able to really nail, and the 300 definitely has been a contributor.

I guess my biggest wish was that it played better with a 2x TC, although there were a few shots that came out OK. With the 1.4 TC, though, you can use it with impunity!

I'll post some shots from the archives as I go, just to keep the memory alive:)!

Tony,

If you wouldn't mind, can you post up a couple of "near misses" with the 2x and describe where you think it failed?

I was considering the 2x but maybe I'll change my mind if it's truly BLECH...

TIA...

[tonylong]

Tony,

If you wouldn't mind, can you post up a couple of "near misses" with the 2x and describe where you think it failed?

I was considering the 2x but maybe I'll change my mind if it's truly BLECH...

TIA...

OK, later in the day when I can get into my pics, I'll do that. I've deleted a whole lot of pics over the past few days:), but I should have some samples of near-misses as well as some of the better results.

Bear in mind that I've used this lens almost entirely for wildlife, often small critters at a distance and often with a monopod at best, so we're talking about very close crops and every little wiggle showing up, but also in tripod tests you can see -- with the 2x the shot just looks, well, it loses the "pop" of a good sharp shot. It really makes me want a 600:)!

[futura]

I love shooting wide open with this lens! here is one from the weekend.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3050/3078362734_99843ce543_o.jpg

[tonylong]

Tony,

If you wouldn't mind, can you post up a couple of "near misses" with the 2x and describe where you think it failed?

I was considering the 2x but maybe I'll change my mind if it's truly BLECH...

TIA...

OK Jay, I messed around and tossed out some things into my PBase site. You and any other morbidly curious souls can see them here:

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/300_2x_tc_samples

Have fun!

[jmik26]

I don't want to step on toes. You have 4000+ post so I am sure you know but the first thing that poped into my head was 300mm + 2.0tc wide open with a 1/30 shutter speed will give a soft image...

[tonylong]

I don't want to step on toes. You have 4000+ post so I am sure you know but the first thing that poped into my head was 300mm + 2.0tc wide open with a 1/30 shutter speed will give a soft image...

Heh! I actually thought that little nutria series turned out quite well. I don't remember why I was on that slow shutter speed (with the 5D I could have been using ISO 1600 easily), but on those shots I don't see camera shake. I believe that for those I was using a monopod.

Actually, when I think about it, the 5D was fairly new to me at the time, and I was just testing it out for wildlife and was used to using the 30D, which I would rarely put above ISO 400. I was probably using aperture priority and, on a dim day, that's the shutter speed I ended up with.

No pain, no gain...

[jmik26]

Heh! I actually thought that little nutria series turned out quite well. I don't remember why I was on that slow shutter speed (with the 5D I could have been using ISO 1600 easily), but on those shots I don't see camera shake. I believe that for those I was using a monopod.

Actually, when I think about it, the 5D was fairly new to me at the time, and I was just testing it out for wildlife and was used to using the 30D, which I would rarely put above ISO 400. I was probably using aperture priority and, on a dim day, that's the shutter speed I ended up with.

No pain, no gain...

Kind of funny because I was thinking they looked pretty good also or at least no shake. Then I clicked on the view full exif and was shocked it was 1/30 shutter speed at f/5.6. When I tested mine with the 2.0tc on my tripod even static images looked soft wide open. For me images started getting good at f/7.1. I would give it another whirl.
Either way, a great example of what people can expect from it...Jeff

[tonylong]

Kind of funny because I was thinking they looked pretty good also or at least no shake. Then I clicked on the view full exif and was shocked it was 1/30 shutter speed at f/5.6. When I tested mine with the 2.0tc on my tripod even static images looked soft wide open. For me images started getting good at f/7.1. I would give it another whirl.
Either way, a great example of what people can expect from it...Jeff

Yeah, in better light yeah you can stop it down. My problem is that nature is often not very cooperative when it comes to lighting! In good light I go manual and there is more latitude, but in any kind of weather I often stay at f/5.6.

[tonylong]

I should add that I moved from the consumer 70-300 up to the "big glass" for the great performance at wider apertures, which is pretty important when you do a lot of wildlife stuff -- the 70-300 at 300 (f/5.6) was pretty weak.

So, I guess that you could say that the 300 with the 2x behaves a lot like, well, the 70-300...on the other hand it is really fine with the 1.4. Too bad I didn't have the 600:)!

[FlyingPhotog]

OK Jay, I messed around and tossed out some things into my PBase site. You and any other morbidly curious souls can see them here:

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/300_2x_tc_samples

Have fun!

Hey Bud...

I see your point in the GBH shots but the Nutria are light years better...Why?

[tonylong]

Hey Bud...

I see your point in the GBH shots but the Nutria are light years better...Why?

I think with the nutria I was using a monopod, with the GBH I was leaning the gear against a car window, and would move the car as the bird moved. A monopod is a bit easier to hold steadily. The nutria, though, would be much better without the TC. I'm kinda spoiled that way, I like 'em sharp.

Funny, because the GBH was taken at a much faster shutter speed!

Anyway, I tried to show the range of results that weren't terrible from camera shake, which to me is a concern with that rig!

[tonylong]

Hey, as a frame of reference, here are a couple samples, shot again with a car window for support, with the 300 without the TC:

GBH
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90628190/original.jpg

100% crop:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90628189/original.jpg

Egret:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90662395/original.jpg

100% crop:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90662426/original.jpg

[tonylong]

Note the better lighting enabled better exposure settings.

Oh, and I love the eyes on these birds!

[FlyingPhotog]

I just happened to snag a GBH today myself. And a little Egret:

40D + 300 + 1.4x TC
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106642504/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106642508/original.jpg

[tonylong]

Nice work, Jay! Puttin' that lens to work!

[Perry Ge]

Wow, those are gorgeous! You mastered that lens quickly Jay ;).

[FlyingPhotog]

Nice work, Jay! Puttin' that lens to work!

Wow, those are gorgeous! You mastered that lens quickly Jay ;).

Thanks!! It's a heavy SOB to hand hold but I'm learning to keep a monopod in the truck...

(These were before my forearms started to tingle... Carple Lens Syndrome?) ;)

[tonylong]

Thanks!! It's a heavy SOB to hand hold but I'm learning to keep a monopod in the truck...

(These were before my forearms started to tingle... Carple Lens Syndrome?) ;)

Heh! Yeah, to me this lens is great with a monopod. Sometimes with BIF I have to hand-hold and hope for the best, but anytime I can the monopod is pretty sweet (with a good fluid ballhead).

Also, the monopod can make it easier to trek around, wih the rig over your shoulder instead of around your neck.

[wtaccord]

Sometimes with BIF I have to hand-hold and hope for the best, but anytime I can the monopod is pretty sweet (with a good fluid ballhead).


Mind sharing which monopod and ballhead you use? I shot a 3 hour air show handheld when I first got the 300mm 2.8 a couple months ago and probably have perminent spinal damage. haha. Right now I have a cheap monopod that I probably wouldnt trust it to put the 300mm on.

[FlyingPhotog]

Couple of Aluminum Birds:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106643486/original.jpg

No Crop! ;)
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106643487/original.jpg

[tonylong]

Mind sharing which monopod and ballhead you use? I shot a 3 hour air show handheld when I first got the 300mm 2.8 a couple months ago and probably have perminent spinal damage. haha. Right now I have a cheap monopod that I probably wouldnt trust it to put the 300mm on.

Well, a good 'pod and ballhead don't come cheap. My monopod is a Manfrotto 680B, and my ballhead is a Manfrotto 488RC4 (the same as I have mounted on my tripod). They are a seemingly spendy setup, but when you consider what kind of stability you want/need for your heavy, expensive gear, to me it's worth it, just like a solid tripod/ballhead setup is worth it.

There are times when hand-holding is more convenient, but even then having a monopod gives you the chance to let the gear "rest" when you're not swinging it wildly around:).

[tonylong]

All right, keeping the fun going!

This spring I visited a local wetlands I affectionately call "Critter Lake" because, well, it tends to have a lot of critters. I got my early Blue Heron shoots in here as well as my first Nutria, and plenty of ducks, including the beautiful wood ducks, as well as several white geese who have made a home there.

Anyway, this March afternoon I had the 300 without a TC mounted on my 1DM3. I assume I was using a monopod. The reason for this assumption is that, going over my shoot, out of 268 shots I only discarded about 30 for any of various reasons, not just out-of-focus or camera shake. Hand-held would have been more hit-or-miss.

The shots below are all 100% crops -- the 300 is just not long enough to closely frame a duck out in a pond -- so these, to me, show how great this lens is. You might note that not all are "tack" sharp (monopod shooting is not perfect, even with IS), but if you consider that as a whole they are representative of a typical shoot, I think they are pretty impressive!

Also note that they were shot at ISO 800 and 1600 and, viewing at 100%, a bit of noise is visible (even with the 1D!) and I applied some RAW NR and sharpening in LR.

The geese act as "guardians", putting up a ruckus when a stranger approaches:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/94796582/original.jpg

The rest of these are the lovely wood ducks:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106670077/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106670080/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106670084/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106670081/original.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

Nice!

I don't think Woodies show up much at our urban ponds (if they come to AZ at all...)

[tonylong]

Here's a few from last month using the 1D3 and a 1.4x TC:

First, some fun (with Jay in mind):
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106954234/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106954236/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106954241/original.jpg

Urban Wildlife:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106954907/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106954911/original.jpg

The 300/TC does mountains!
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/106954926/original.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

Cool Shots Tony! You even got a "FIF" (Foam In Flight!)

I'm certainly finding that this lens gives me a "Bonanza" of shots:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106954569/original.jpg

[steve mac]

While I wouldn't say that it was exclusively all your fault, none the less you all must take some blame for a large parcel arriving today with Canon written on the side. Unfortunately its dark cold and raining outside so it will be tomorrow before I can try it out. Got to say it does feel heavier attached to the 1D Mk 3 than I thought but will soon get used to it and whoever gave that tip about the Ikea bowl lid substituting as a cap, well thank you, now can someone come up with one that will fit the lens itself whilst the hood is reversed? Cant wait to give it a try and look forward to posting the results.
All the best to you all, even though I am now well and truly in the dog house.
Cheers
Steve

[FlyingPhotog]

While I wouldn't say that it was exclusively all your fault, none the less you all must take some blame for a large parcel arriving today with Canon written on the side. Unfortunately its dark cold and raining outside so it will be tomorrow before I can try it out. Got to say it does feel heavier attached to the 1D Mk 3 than I thought but will soon get used to it and whoever gave that tip about the Ikea bowl lid substituting as a cap, well thank you, now can someone come up with one that will fit the lens itself whilst the hood is reversed? Cant wait to give it a try and look forward to posting the results.
All the best to you all, even though I am now well and truly in the dog house.
Cheers
Steve

Rule #1 around here: It's always someone elses fault when you make a major purchase... :lol:

Congrats and welcome to POTN. Looking forward to what you see in your world. As you can tell from the shot above, my world isn't always on an even keel. ;)

[steve mac]

Thanks for the welcome, I drove the length of Arizona last year, as I look out of the window onto a miserable dark winters night in Cheshire wish I was there now! Fingers crossed for a bright day tomorrow.
Cheers Steve

[tonylong]

Congrats on your purchase, Steve!

You know you're in trouble when your latest lens costs more than your latest body:)!

[steve mac]

Well as the price of these things is about $4800 dollars over here and my weary ass is worth about a buck fifty I know I am in trouble.

[FlyingPhotog]

Well as the price of these things is about $4800 dollars over here and my weary ass is worth about a buck fifty I know I am in trouble.

I do believe he meant camera "body..." ;)

Whatever you're worth to the local medical school is an entirely different subject. :)

[steve mac]

So first day with the lens and it is pouring with rain, I haven't been this frustrated since I was 14 and Helen Croston wouldn't let me... oh it doesn't matter.
Anyhow I shot this wildlife in the kitchen (his name is Reuben) used an ergorest to support the 300 and shot at 2.8
Please let it be dry tomorrow
Steve

[tonylong]

Heh! Cute shot -- some days the only "wildlife" we are likely to come across is right in front of our noses, whether human or some other wild species:)!

[llenuts]

Touchdown!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3260/3089181126_8dc5c30b2a_o.jpg

[scot079]

Wildlife again...this time a bald eagle...I was pretty excited since it's the first non-captive one I've seen!:-)

300 2.8 IS + 1.4 TC

full frame
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/7S8F5866-fullframe.jpg

crop
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/7S8F5866-closecrop.jpg

All I can say is wow, thanks to all you guys in this thread, I now own and am VERY happy w/ this lens.

[tonylong]

Sweet, Tim! I get all excited about bald eagles in the wild! I've had a few encounters, but always long for more, closer, bring 'em on!

[cwphoto]

EOS 5D Mark II, 300/2.8 IS, ISO 400, 1/1,000s @ f/2.8:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42458&stc=1&d=1228645409

EOS 5D Mark II, 300/2.8 IS, ISO 100, 1/30s @ f/8:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42480&stc=1&d=1228653539

[Perry Ge]

Nice cwphoto! What made you pick the 5DII over the 1DIII for those shots?

[cwphoto]

Nice cwphoto! What made you pick the 5DII over the 1DIII for those shots?

Thanks. Mainly to test out the new camera to see how it performed outside of its natural habitat.

I liked using it and will probably do more sport with it ironically.

I also found the 5D Mark II's AF performed better when shooting the cars from the rear.

[Double Negative]

Touchdown!

Ha ha! That's awesome.

[kirry007]

Just bought a 300 2.8 IS. There's smoke still coming out of my wallet....cos of the cash that got "burned". I will have it after Christmas. Will post photos once I get it. Glad to be assimilated with the borg.

[airfrogusmc]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_7535.jpg

[Perry Ge]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_7535.jpg

Airfrog, since when did you have a 300 2.8L? And why were you shooting Blagojevic? :lol:

[airfrogusmc]

Rented it before I bought the 200 2. I used to have rent one 3 maybe 4 times a year for different things.

It was a press conference at one of my clients for a program they were working on with the state earlier this year.

[Treat me like a tourist]

Well as the price of these things is about $4800 dollars over here and my weary ass is worth about a buck fifty I know I am in trouble.

My favourite quote of 2008!! :)

[anglefire]

I'm toying with the idea of getting either the f2.8 or f4 300mm - and the shoots on here are not helping! I keep convincing my self that I don't need f2.8 - then look on here at threads like these and I'm pulled the other way. Don't know if its me, but the 2.8 images seem to be sharper than the f4 ones?

Mind you the threatened price hikes next year could put it back a while.

[scot079]

I bought mine about a month ago and it was $4100 @ B&H...I saw it on there the other day for like $3850...what's up with that? Holiday pricing?

I say buy the f/2.8...the f/4 is nice but if you'll be using TCs forget it...get the 2.8

[Tareq]

300 f2.8 no doubt, mine is still amazed me always i use, never let me down, sure that f4 can do the same but the problem is that i use this lens in sports mostly at night, so f2.8 for me is MUST.

[tonylong]

I'm toying with the idea of getting either the f2.8 or f4 300mm - and the shoots on here are not helping! I keep convincing my self that I don't need f2.8 - then look on here at threads like these and I'm pulled the other way. Don't know if its me, but the 2.8 images seem to be sharper than the f4 ones?

Mind you the threatened price hikes next year could put it back a while.

I can't help you with the sharpness except to say that the 2.8 is very sharp. Two big plusses are that the 2.8 aperture allows more accurate focusing with the cross-type focus points and it also takes a 1.4x TC very, very nicely -- 420mm at f/4 and sharp with the TC (I didn't have very good results with the 2x wide open).

The only downsides are, of course, price and size/weight. Packing at least a monopod with this lens is a big plus!

[Ddana]

Well I stumbled upon at a time of weakness and now I am the happy owner of a new 300mm f2.8 IS plus 1.4/2x TC's thanks to all the comments on this post. As has already been stated it is an amazing lens. Now what to do with my 100-400L? I guess I will sell as the 300 with TC's gives me as much versitilty as I need for the Formula One shooting that I love.

Anyways only one question regarding the lens. The whirling sound from the IS, it is much more noticible than that on my 100-400L. Is that nomal? I seems to whirl for an extended period even after the shot is taken? Sorry for the novice question but just wanted to make sure my copy is a good copy. Sharpness is superb even with TC. Auto focus with the TC's is slower as expected but maybe to slow for the racing shots with the 2x. Better work on my panning technique! Hey well thanks for pushing me over the edge. I am sure I will have no regrets. Australian GP here I come.

[tonylong]

The IS keeps active a bit after you take a shot and let up on the button. That's normal. It's also normal for it to sound a bit louder, since the lens elements are larger than say the 100-400 or 70-200. It's the f/2.8 that makes for such a big lens, not just the focal length.

And, yes, it's a beautiful piece of work. Sadly, I had to sell mine, but I hope that a 500 or 600 is in the not-too-distant future:)!

[futura]

I'm toying with the idea of getting either the f2.8 or f4 300mm - and the shoots on here are not helping! I keep convincing my self that I don't need f2.8 - then look on here at threads like these and I'm pulled the other way. Don't know if its me, but the 2.8 images seem to be sharper than the f4 ones?

Mind you the threatened price hikes next year could put it back a while.

I ended up selling my F4 off to buy the 2.8 - no regrets what so ever. Also not sure if I had a bad copy but shooting wide open at f4 my shots were ok but not amazing. Wide open on the 2.8, the lens is the sharpest I have. I probably shoot 70-80 percent at 2.8 because I'm guaranteed decent results.

[col4bin]

the 2.8 is so sharp. amazing and fun lens to use. the price...not so fun.

[jmik26]

Well I stumbled upon at a time of weakness and now I am the happy owner of a new 300mm f2.8 IS plus 1.4/2x TC's thanks to all the comments on this post. As has already been stated it is an amazing lens. Now what to do with my 100-400L? I guess I will sell as the 300 with TC's gives me as much versitilty as I need for the Formula One shooting that I love.

Anyways only one question regarding the lens. The whirling sound from the IS, it is much more noticible than that on my 100-400L. Is that nomal? I seems to whirl for an extended period even after the shot is taken? Sorry for the novice question but just wanted to make sure my copy is a good copy. Sharpness is superb even with TC. Auto focus with the TC's is slower as expected but maybe to slow for the racing shots with the 2x. Better work on my panning technique! Hey well thanks for pushing me over the edge. I am sure I will have no regrets. Australian GP here I come.

Yep, its normal, at least I hope it is..:rolleyes: Congrats on the lens and have some fun with it. I am keeping my 100-400 for the situations that the zoom will prove useful....Jeff

[anglefire]

Well I stumbled upon at a time of weakness and now I am the happy owner of a new 300mm f2.8 IS plus 1.4/2x TC's thanks to all the comments on this post. As has already been stated it is an amazing lens. Now what to do with my 100-400L? I guess I will sell as the 300 with TC's gives me as much versitilty as I need for the Formula One shooting that I love.

Anyways only one question regarding the lens. The whirling sound from the IS, it is much more noticible than that on my 100-400L. Is that nomal? I seems to whirl for an extended period even after the shot is taken? Sorry for the novice question but just wanted to make sure my copy is a good copy. Sharpness is superb even with TC. Auto focus with the TC's is slower as expected but maybe to slow for the racing shots with the 2x. Better work on my panning technique! Hey well thanks for pushing me over the edge. I am sure I will have no regrets. Australian GP here I come.

I went to Wales yesterday and was shooting Red Kites (They are wild, but are fed everyday) I was using my 400mm f5.6 and was struggling with the light (Not much of it!).

Obviously the 2.8 with a 1.4x would make a 420mm f4 - would the AF be much if any slower than the 400mm? I guess it would because the 400 is very quick?

I want to go back when the light is better - seeing several hundred Kites is a good thing to see!

[FlyingPhotog]

Couple more for the 300mm archive:

Cessna T210J Low Pass
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/107717957/original.jpg

Female Harris Hawk (Captive)
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/106772889/original.jpg

[VariEze]

Couple more for the 300mm archive:

Cessna Cardinal RG Low Pass
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/107717957/original.jpg



Great Shot! Nice wingtips.

[kwkodiak]

I bought my 300 about a year ago and it has rarely left my camera.

Here's some samples:

#1
http://leephotography.smugmug.com/photos/248427178_hRUNc-L.jpg

#2
http://leephotography.smugmug.com/photos/447878487_hF6T7-XL.jpg

#3

http://leephotography.smugmug.com/photos/447883609_PyVAn-XL.jpg

[steve mac]

over two flippin weeks I have had this lens and on fine weather days I am working and when I am off it pours down, like today, I know they are lame but literally ran out of the car whilst getting soaked and took these couple of shots, please let the weather dry up soon, I am going stir crazy to use this lens.
BTW a belated all the best for the new year to everyone
cheers
Steve

[tonylong]

Hey, nothing lame about those shots! You are getting out and exercising a fine piece of gear!

[Zivnuska]

Wicked stepsisters on stage performing Cinderella. 1/500, f/2.8, ISO 3200


http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q225/zivnuska/Cinderella385of485-Edit.jpg

[leftofedge]

Shot this today with the 1.4x at work. The pilot saw my lens from the air and was watching me :D:D

85% crop, resize, slight sharpening, and noise ninja were the only adjustments.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/leftofedge/photography/A10jan14.jpg

[tonylong]

Nice!

I have four Oregon Air National Guard fighter jets that fly from Portland to Seattle and back every day over this area, but those suckers move fast, and I'm never prepared when I see them -- wrong camera settings and just not prepared to jump up and get a shot. Some day, though...:)!

[FlyingPhotog]

Wicked stepsisters on stage performing Cinderella. 1/500, f/2.8, ISO 3200

Ahhhh nice.

Shot this today with the 1.4x at work. The pilot saw my lens from the air and was watching me :D:D

85% crop, resize, slight sharpening, and noise ninja were the only adjustments.

Good catch. A-10s rock. May be a my monitor/your monitor thing but it looks a tad dark here (but very, very sharp...)

[leftofedge]

Ahhhh nice.



Good catch. A-10s rock. May be a my monitor/your monitor thing but it looks a tad dark here (but very, very sharp...)

My 24" Samsung is really bright but I think I picked the darker of the 20 or so that I got. :)

[FlyingPhotog]

My 24" Samsung is really bright but I think I picked the darker of the 20 or so that I got. :)

FWIW, on my end, I can't see any detail on the underside. It's all black...

[steve mac]

sticking with the military theme I took this (and the 100% crop below) last Sunday its the HMS Ark Royal parked up in Liverpool. I was on the other side of the River Mersey which I guess is about a mile away. I used an Indian copy of a Kirk cobra gimbal.
all the best to you all Steve

[andydajo]

I sent mine off for a recalibration of the focus, glad I did.:D

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/andydajo/Wildlife/Amur-Tiger_eat.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/andydajo/Wildlife/Amur-Tiger.jpg

[futura]

I sent mine off for a recalibration of the focus, glad I did.:D


Very nice - what was wrong with the focus if you don't mind me asking. I thought your kite surfing shots were nice and sharp.

[andydajo]

Very nice - what was wrong with the focus if you don't mind me asking. I thought your kite surfing shots were nice and sharp.

The kites were taken using Mall1962's 300 as mine arrived 2 days after the event, at first the focus seemed great but deteriorated in autumn, decided I'd send it in after christmas before the warranty runs out in June.

Cost me nothing and turnaround was 5 days including a weekend (CPS member).
It's bang-on now.

[scot079]

Here's 3 fullframe + crops. First is bare, second is w/ 1.4x TC and the third w/ the 2x TC. No sharpening applied.

1D3, 300 2.8L IS, f/2.8, 1/250, ISO 1600

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/7S8F6285.jpg

crop

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/7S8F6285_crop.jpg

1D3, 300 2.8L IS + 1.4x TC II, f/5.6, 1/3200, ISO 800

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/7S8F6038.jpg

crop

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/7S8F6038_crop.jpg

50D, 300 2.8L IS + 2.0x TC II, f/8, 1/800, ISO 400

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/IMG_0449.jpg

crop

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/IMG_0449_crop.jpg

[tonylong]

Nice shots, Tim! The 300 is the one lens I've had that I really set out to use it with the 2x! You kept some real detail in that last shot (nice you could shoot it at ISO 400, eh?)!

[futura]

The kites were taken using Mall1962's 300 as mine arrived 2 days after the event, at first the focus seemed great but deteriorated in autumn, decided I'd send it in after christmas before the warranty runs out in June.

Cost me nothing and turnaround was 5 days including a weekend (CPS member).
It's bang-on now.

Thats really good news, I took mine out today (not shot with it for ages due to a back problem) and it looks pretty sharp wide open. Just need to get into more wildlife shots before by 1 year is up.

I think you got your lens the same time as me, have you seen the prices for it recently, talk about a hike!

[ukactionsports]

I just bought one too....loving mine as well....

Jon

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3229/2839908338_118d6481e8.jpg


Great shot!

Damn I wish I could afford a 300 2.8!

[FlyingPhotog]

Something a bit different. The 300mm f/2.8L IS does celebrity portraits!
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109066512/original.jpg

[shaktipalooza]

5DmkII, f/3.2, 1/200 second, ISO 500
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/471082913_Ci5cY-XL.jpg
100% crop
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/471082806_7pBRf-O.jpg

[tonylong]

Something a bit different. The 300mm f/2.8L IS does celebrity portraits!
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109066512/original.jpg

Where the heck did you get this?

For your next act, how about Jessie "The Body" Ventura in his classic pre-gov garb:)?

[FlyingPhotog]

Where the heck did you get this?

Would you believe at the Kennedy Space Center visitors complex?

For your next act, how about Jessie "The Body" Ventura in his classic pre-gov garb:)?

It's a lens Tony, not a wayback machine... ;)

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

Something a bit different. The 300mm f/2.8L IS does celebrity portraits!
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109066512/original.jpg
Too bad you didn't get a pic of Brooke. :cool:

[Leeuwarden]

Is there anyone out there who has some shots made with the 300-2.8 with a 2x TC of flying jets?

[shaktipalooza]

Is there anyone out there who has some shots made with the 300-2.8 with a 2x TC of flying jets?

Not quite, these have the 1.4x

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/349411307_2xiQN-XL.jpg

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/349411299_wwnNF-XL-1.jpg

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/349411594_Y3Zb2-XL-1.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

Not jets but it is a good example of how the 300 + 2X can track focus. These were with a 40D:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/108209831/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/108403276/original.jpg

And this is with a 5D:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/108209721/original.jpg

[Leeuwarden]

Thanks! I know this lens performs well wit a 1.4 but the results with a 2x are really amazing. Love to see more if possible.

[FlyingPhotog]

Thanks! I know this lens performs well wit a 1.4 but the results with a 2x are really amazing. Love to see more if possible.

How about a couple of "Egg Beaters?"
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/108209716/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/108209717/original.jpg

And a little "Beach Banner Bingo" from the other evening in Daytona:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109192225/original.jpg

[MClassImages]

I can't wait... I'm excited. But my wallet isn't.

[airbutchie]

You picked one up, Mikey?! Nice... And I hear ya about the "wallet" thang... Hhehehehhe... Post pics when you can...

- airbutchie

[MClassImages]

You picked one up, Mikey?! Nice... And I hear ya about the "wallet" thang... Hhehehehhe... Post pics when you can...

- airbutchie

Nah not yet. I will in a few months. ;)

[FlyingPhotog]

Straight up with no extender on a 40D:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109307215/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109307216/original.jpg

[SoaringUSAEagle]

Got him as he flew in today eh?

[FlyingPhotog]

Got him as he flew in today eh?

I did indeed... :cool:

[airbutchie]

^ Very nice FP...

- airbutchie

[FlyingPhotog]

^ Very nice FP...

- airbutchie

Thanks. I was just telling my AZ friends that the Birding afficianados have their "Life Lists" and I have mine. This is a "bird" that I can now cross off as having been successfully captured.

[Leeuwarden]

Great pics! I think it's time to sell my 300f/4...

[SoaringUSAEagle]

Thanks. I was just telling my AZ friends that the Birding afficianados have their "Life Lists" and I have mine. This is a "bird" that I can now cross off as having been successfully captured.

That's really cool... I am really surprised you were able to get those. Congrats.

[Leeuwarden]

If all goes well I'll be the new owner of this lens. Found a used one nearby and it is being sold together with a 2xTC.

[FlyingPhotog]

That's really cool... I am really surprised you were able to get those. Congrats.

There was no LE of any kind (in plain sight) where I shot froml.

If all goes well I'll be the new owner of this lens. Found a used one nearby and it is being sold together with a 2xTC.

Congrats. It's a great combo. IMO, the 2X does begin to show a little softness in some situtations (the 1.4X is totally transparent) but it's entirely useable.

[Leeuwarden]

Thanks, can't wait to shoot some F16's at the AFB over here!

[FlyingPhotog]

Thanks, can't wait to shoot some F16's at the AFB over here!

Where's "Over Here?"

[Leeuwarden]

Leeuwarden Air Force Base. In the north of the Netherlands.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leeuwarden_Air_Base

[FlyingPhotog]

Leeuwarden Air Force Base. In the north of the Netherlands.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leeuwarden_Air_Base

Thanks for clarifying... ;)

[GregMik]

My Dream lens.....

Greg

[Leeuwarden]

Picking one up in an hour :-) together with a 2x TC! Can't wait to try it!

[tonylong]

That's a great piece of kit you've got coming! Congrats!

[Leeuwarden]

Thanks! As I am 44 years young (celebrating my mid-life crises next to the financial crisis) I still remember that the word "teleconverter" was a dirty word. These things have made a giant step forward in my opinion. My very first shot with this lens and 2xTC is made at ISO 800, f5.6 and 1/250. This is straight out of the camera uploaded to Flickr.
Photography has really made a giant step forward since my Praktica STL-2.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3451/3299865878_a4b42060b4_b.jpg

[AdamJL]

Come on! You bought one of the best lenses ever, and you took that?! :(

[Leeuwarden]

I'm sorry... I bought this lens for aircraft spotting and in the weekend there is no flying over here... Weather is lousy too I'm afraid. Next week the only aircraft I'm going to see is probably on friday. Because the first part of the week they practising night flying...

[Leeuwarden]

300+1.4 Kenko 300 pro.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3452/3306066589_a3f2e72d31_b.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

More "Birds"
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109598753/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109598757/original.jpg

[Leeuwarden]

Nice!

[tonylong]

Great stuff, Jay, squeezin' the love from that lens!

[ukactionsports]

Nice work Jay!

I want this lens!! :D

[FlyingPhotog]

Thanks Gents... :)

[DDWD10]

You've put every pixel to work with those shots! Amazing!

[Leeuwarden]

Finally some (more or less...) decent weather...
300 2.8 with kenko 1.4.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/3350774231_994a0f6d15_b.jpg

[Leeuwarden]

And another one with the 2x TC

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3430/3350877183_da7cc7dcf7_b.jpg

[flayzeraynx]

i purchased 2nd hand 300 2.8 Non-IS about $1900 last month.. here is some samples (i don't have much time on these days) with 300mm

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3565/3340022953_3f7e3b407e_b.jpg

300mm + 1.4X extender (handled)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3405/3340021455_d7439f5135_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3596/3300474539_85b9552a6a_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3574/3300475807_9df7bcba57_b.jpg

and here is the macro with 300mm f/2.8 :)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3654/3327108531_0c8f961dd0_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3066/3327108613_460b88f77b.jpg http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3610/3327108675_a586a5c167.jpg

[pratman64]

Straight up with no extender on a 40D:
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109307215/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/109307216/original.jpg

Is that Air Force One.??

[FlyingPhotog]

Is that Air Force One.??

Yeppers... ;)

[romulus_be]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3565/3340022953_3f7e3b407e_b.jpg


great atmosphere in this picture