Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM

[butterfly2937]

I just received my 300mm f2.8 IS today and I took it out for a test drive. It does have a little learning curve. I put it on a monopod today with a 1.4x and all at f4 wide open with the 1.4x:
:oops:

[butterfly2937]

and a couple more...

[butterfly2937]

and a few more...

[butterfly2937]

Oh and one more....

[xn2b8r]

Well there still appears to be one place left on the web you can still get this lens at it's former price new:
http://robertsimaging.com/stock/Camera%20Lenses/Primes%20(Telephoto)/Canon/EF%20300mm%20f-2.8L%20IS%20USM%20(2531A002).jsp

Looks like the price is good until 9/28

Someone else posted this place in another thread and they appear to be honoring the old Canon prices until 9/28.

I just thought I would pass this along if anyone else wants to beat the price increases.

I looked at that listing and the page "helpfully" recommends buying the ET-120 lens hood to go with the lens. I thought that hood came with the 300 f/2.8L already, no? It doesn't say anything about a case. And the listing also says "all of our products are meant for sale in the USA and where applicable* will include all USA warranties and accessories." All of sudden that price isn't looking so good.

*emphasis added

[keith breazeal]

I looked at that listing and the page "helpfully" recommends buying the ET-120 lens hood to go with the lens. I thought that hood came with the 300 f/2.8L already, no? It doesn't say anything about a case. And the listing also says "all of our products are meant for sale in the USA and where applicable* will include all USA warranties and accessories." All of sudden that price isn't looking so good.

*emphasis added
Mine came with lens hood, case, and soft cover from B&H.

[butterfly2937]

I looked at that listing and the page "helpfully" recommends buying the ET-120 lens hood to go with the lens. I thought that hood came with the 300 f/2.8L already, no? It doesn't say anything about a case. And the listing also says "all of our products are meant for sale in the USA and where applicable* will include all USA warranties and accessories." All of sudden that price isn't looking so good.

*emphasis added
Mine came with the hood, case and everything. Call them I am sure that stuff is all included as it comes in the factory sealed box.

[keith breazeal]

Mine came with the hood, case and everything. Call them I am sure that stuff is all included as it comes in the factory sealed box.

I would really be carefull on this retailer. The wording seems evasive:

"All of our products are meant for sale in the USA, and where applicable will include all USA warranties and accessories. We guarantee it."

I ordered a 50D from some "great price" company and it didn't arrive when they said it would. It was a verbal hassle to get info from these guys, so I cancelled the Visa order. B&H is more expensive but you get great customer service and everything arrives on time.

[butterfly2937]

I would really be carefull on this retailer. The wording seems evasive:

"All of our products are meant for sale in the USA, and where applicable will include all USA warranties and accessories. We guarantee it."

I ordered a 50D from some "great price" company and it didn't arrive when they said it would. It was a verbal hassle to get info from these guys, so I cancelled the Visa order. B&H is more expensive but you get great customer service and everything arrives on time.
They are an authorized Cannon dealer.

[keith breazeal]

They are an authorized Cannon dealer.

OK, but ask what items are included in the box just to make sure. I didn't see anything that indicated what was included. The lens shade and case for the 300 will be over $1,000 if purchased separately.

[edgar-Junior]

Some shot's From Puerto Rico .......;)


300mm 2.8 IS L + 1.4x Teleconverter
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2530/3954546060_c906c64f18_o.jpg

300mm 2.8 IS L + 2x Teleconverter
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2608/3919399843_fe743e4971_o.jpg

300mm 2.8 IS L + 1.4x Teleconverter
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2442/3901960847_b6042ba7ec_o.jpg

300mm 2.8 IS L + 1.4x Teleconverter
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2534/3902743142_4817361bd8_o.jpg

300mm 2.8 IS L + 1.4x Teleconverter
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2628/3838624288_33206d59f8_o.jpg

300mm 2.8 IS L + 2x Teleconverter
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2541/3837834629_66e37e158e_o.jpg




Here is the bonus !!!!!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3903337751_9d49d2d838_o.jpg

[keith breazeal]

Very nice work!

[thatkatmat]

Wow, stunning shots^^^

[FlyingPhotog]

Excellent Series Edgar!

Posted these in Transportation as well but I figure since I used the 300, I'd help the cause here as well:

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/117692382/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/117692386/original.jpg
Both with 1DMkIII .. No TC .. 1/125 @ f/8 ISO 100

(And now, Keith will trump me...) ;)

[edgar-Junior]

Jay those pic's are really amazing ....:D

[FlyingPhotog]

Jay those pic's are really amazing ....:D

Thanks very much! :D

[tonylong]

Your lens takes nice pictures, Jay:)!

[FlyingPhotog]

Your lens takes nice pictures, Jay:)!

Yes, yes it does Tony...

If it weren't for that lens doing all the work, I'd have chucked my gear a long time ago.

Oh, and by the way... :p Pfffffffft.... ;)

[mitsu13gman]

OK, but ask what items are included in the box just to make sure. I didn't see anything that indicated what was included. The lens shade and case for the 300 will be over $1,000 if purchased separately.

Well, I'll let you know - the credit card's been billed and UPS has been notified, we'll see what I get.

I did call to confirm, though - she said the lens comes in the factory sealed packaging with the hood and case, but that apparently they find that the original hoods have a habit of getting broken so they list it with the lens for reference.

Again, I'll let everyone know what I receive - they will attempt delivery on Friday, but I won't be there, so hopefully I can pick it up Monday night.

Mike

[truman]

This has to be my favourite lens!

[PiktorPucci]

This has to be my favourite lens!

Be honest now, did you use the clone tool? ;)

[keith breazeal]

a few from last weekend at the Redding, Ca. show.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3965854863_28ed965758_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3521/3965852809_46751746f7_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3495/3965852487_4edc126a08_b.jpg

[edgar-Junior]

Here this shot I made today to the new pet of the family a Pocket Chihuahua


Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3452/3973182800_ff3327bee6_o.jpg

[keith breazeal]

That's just too darn cute :)

[Cameron Cushman]

Amazing shot

Just wait till the Chihuahua starts walking upside down and peeing everywhere, make sure you let that thing out at least once every hour. My ex had one and they will go whenever they want because they have such a small bladder so it is hard for them to hold it in

[FlyingPhotog]

Married to the 2X TC on a 1DMkIII

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p734509337-5.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p638435622-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p694337599-4.jpg

[edgar-Junior]

Amazing JAY!!!! love mine too on 300mm and 500mm...;)

[keith breazeal]

a little fun at our tiny local airport open house

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2522/3981449041_2446fd2f35_b.jpg

[mitsu13gman]

I'm not going to sully this stunning gallery page of images with the simple test shots I've taken tonight, but suffice it to say I'm STUNNED with what this lens can do!

I was on the fence between this and a used 400 2.8, and having hefted this beast, I made the right call. It looks like I got Robert's last 300, as they now list it as out of stock. It came in the fully sealed Canon packaging with the Canon USA warranty card, so they were absolutely on the up-and-up.

I had read that this was the sharpest lens Canon makes (along with the 200 2.0,) but I guess I just didn't understand what that really meant. The performance with the Kenko 2x TC is as good as I've seen from any of my other lenses. I love that with this lens I can use the aperture to control depth of field only and not be concerned about sharpness.

The focus with the 2x is a little slower than without, and obviously it's not as decisive in low light, but it's still faster than either my Sigma 24-60 or my Canon 35 f/2 are bare.

I dare say I played with it more with the 2x than without, just because it works so well, it's fun to play with that kind of focal length.

My current work situation results in roughly 3 hours of commuting each day, so I don't know what I'll be able to get for images, but I might be able to get a goose at lunch tomorrow - we'll see.

Suffice it to say, I am now a believer - you don't get this image quality at this focal length for less money. I dare say you don't get this image quality at ANY focal length for less money, but I haven't used every lens out there.

[butterfly2937]

I'm not going to sully this stunning gallery page of images with the simple test shots I've taken tonight, but suffice it to say I'm STUNNED with what this lens can do!

I was on the fence between this and a used 400 2.8, and having hefted this beast, I made the right call. It looks like I got Robert's last 300, as they now list it as out of stock. It came in the fully sealed Canon packaging with the Canon USA warranty card, so they were absolutely on the up-and-up.

I had read that this was the sharpest lens Canon makes (along with the 200 2.0,) but I guess I just didn't understand what that really meant. The performance with the Kenko 2x TC is as good as I've seen from any of my other lenses. I love that with this lens I can use the aperture to control depth of field only and not be concerned about sharpness.

The focus with the 2x is a little slower than without, and obviously it's not as decisive in low light, but it's still faster than either my Sigma 24-60 or my Canon 35 f/2 are bare.

I dare say I played with it more with the 2x than without, just because it works so well, it's fun to play with that kind of focal length.

My current work situation results in roughly 3 hours of commuting each day, so I don't know what I'll be able to get for images, but I might be able to get a goose at lunch tomorrow - we'll see.

Suffice it to say, I am now a believer - you don't get this image quality at this focal length for less money. I dare say you don't get this image quality at ANY focal length for less money, but I haven't used every lens out there.
I am very excited about mine too. I will be using it quite a bit this weekend so I hope to have pics to post. This lens is really in a class all it's own and it's versatility and IQ is second to none. I am so glad I finally purchased this lens!

[butterfly2937]

Here are some test shots with the 2x. Due to the size limits here it's hard to appreciate what these really look like. The first is a crop of the original posted below.

[FlyingPhotog]

Heck of an investment for Macro... ;)

[butterfly2937]

Heck of an investment for Macro... ;)
No I did not buy it for Macro that is just a plus and I was just testing the 2x. I will be taking the 300mm out to do sports shots tonight and this weekend.

[butterfly2937]

And another with the 2x shot wide open at f5.6

[thatkatmat]

I'm guessing the 1.4X looks better eh? Or perhaps stopped down a bit the 2X would be better? After shooting the lens with no converter and with the 1.4x I have become very spoiled.
Here's what might be just over 125% crop with no converter at 2.8....Love this lens...just love it...Started shooting all sorts of shots with it...Landscapes, portraits etc....it excells at just about everything.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3434/3982866564_ce93e5b806_b.jpg

A couple more wide open on my 5Dmk2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/3982834464_810deacf10_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2500/3982090787_b268bf4559_b.jpg

[butterfly2937]

I'm guessing the 1.4X looks better eh? Or perhaps stopped down a bit the 2X would be better? After shooting the lens with no converter and with the 1.4x I have become very spoiled.
Here's what might be just over 125% crop with no converter at 2.8....Love this lens...just love it...Started shooting all sorts of shots with it...Landscapes, portraits etc....it excells at just about everything.



A couple more wide open on my 5Dmk2




This lens never ceases to amaze me! It is allot of $$$ but it is my most versatile lens. It takes both the 1.4x and the 2x very well. I only found a very slight decrease in AF speed with the 2x. My biggest problem is getting use to getting the center AF point just where I want it and holding it there. I need more practice with AI servo and using all AF points and/or just the center point. I hope to get more practice tonight. This lens is so worth the money because it seems to everything very well. I have so many uses for this lens and I keep coming up with more. This is definitely one of the best purchases I have ever made! It took me so long to take the plunge but I am glad I did!

[FlyingPhotog]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/3982834464_810deacf10_b.jpg


I LOVE this shot... I was passing some of these myself in the fields SE of Phoenix and I should have stopped. They'll probably be gone by next week. :(

[butterfly2937]

Well here are 2 from tonight with flash in probably the worst lighting ever. There was almost no light except my flash! LOL

[dolina]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3547/3506538351_7d4903fae5_o.jpg

[thatkatmat]

Oh yeah...I'm liking that one a lot^^

[butterfly2937]

50D ISO 1600 f2.8 1/640

[keith breazeal]

from Fleet Week in San Francisco. 1.4x used

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3441/4002948634_789e010142_b.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3500/4002947434_75f67d1002_b.jpg


http://www.asb.tv/files/photo/gallery/photos/orig_579_806cb.jpg


http://www.asb.tv/files/photo/gallery/photos/orig_579_aabc6.jpg


http://www.asb.tv/files/photo/gallery/photos/orig_579_0146f.jpg

[Neilyb]

With 2x, wide open
http://neilburton.smugmug.com/photos/680551468_Sw7tv-O.jpg

http://neilburton.smugmug.com/photos/680551478_cDEcX-O.jpg

[AdamJL]

more birds...

c'mon man, you got lions, leopards and cheetahs on file..

[Neilyb]

more birds...

c'mon man, you got lions, leopards and cheetahs on file..

Do appologise, got carried away... :confused:

with 2x,f9 or f8...50D
http://neilburton.smugmug.com/photos/679582931_GgLub-O.jpg

[Neilyb]

2xTC f7.1, 50D
http://neilburton.smugmug.com/photos/681796334_p2Nwz-O.jpg

[Gary2027]

Some nice shots with a 2X there! Here's a couple more. I use mine mostly for sports.
http://www.pbase.com/gary/image/118168350/original.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/gary/image/117910949/original.jpg

This one is the 1.4x
http://www.pbase.com/gary/image/118168396/original.jpg

[AdamJL]

zomg, non-bird shots! Nice! And great pics too :D
2nd is a killer shot

[butterfly2937]

2xTC f7.1, 50D

Gorgeous as usual! Great work!!!

[butterfly2937]

Some nice shots with a 2X there! Here's a couple more. I use mine mostly for sports.



Nice shots! This is such an awesome lens!

[Neilyb]

2xTC.

http://neilburton.smugmug.com/photos/687930181_tcaf4-O-1.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

Couple of adds from my corner of the world:

Eastern Michigan @ Central Michigan
http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p827109411.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p736531440-5.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p935007133-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p979895558-5.jpg

And A Horned Lizard
http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p206378588-4.jpg

[keith breazeal]

Some nice shots with a 2X there! Here's a couple more. I use mine mostly for sports.
http://www.pbase.com/gary/image/118168350/original.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/gary/image/117910949/original.jpg

This one is the 1.4x
http://www.pbase.com/gary/image/118168396/original.jpg


Nice shots!!!

I was at my son's college home coming game(Humbolt) and besides a night game, the fog got so bad that the lights were barely adequate to play by. I had my ISO at 3200 and barely able to shoot. I was actually surprised that auto-focus even worked! This shot was really bad before some adjustments and is still crappy. Just to see how bad it can get and the 300 will still get the shot, I put this up.

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa5/KBVP/IMG_0185a.jpg

[keith breazeal]

Couple of adds from my corner of the world:

Eastern Michigan @ Central Michigan
http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p827109411.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p736531440-5.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p935007133-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p979895558-5.jpg

And A Horned Lizard
http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p206378588-4.jpg


OK, I'm going to find a nice sunny day football game to shoot! Nice shots Jay :)

[FlyingPhotog]

OK, I'm going to find a nice sunny day football game to shoot! Nice shots Jay :)

Hehehe...

Trust me Keith, I know I caught a nice break on this one. Got offered a field pass for Homecoming at CMU and decided I'd take a crack at shooting football.

Been around the game for a long time through my TV work so I just kind of went to spots on the field where I thought my TV Camera bretheren would have gone. Plays went away from me more often than not though. :(

I give big Props to folks who do this for a living in all kinds of conditions and still bring back good stuff.

ETA: Full Gallery HERE (http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/p489591531)

[4x4rock]

Some outdoor portraits

http://www.jumpset.com/img/v3/p795192449-4.jpg

http://www.jumpset.com/img/v1/p646348955-4.jpg

[Zivnuska]

Using the 300 and the 1.4TC. (420mm)



A receiver at 40 yards and the band at 140 yards.


.http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q225/zivnuska/_ZIV5041.jpg


.http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q225/zivnuska/_ZIV5109-Edit.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

Where Dreams Begin

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p600097053-5.jpg
EOS 40D
EF 300mm f/2.8L IS + 2X TC
1/1500 @ f/5.6 ISO 400

[aviator.4.life]

Wow fantastic shot Jay!!

[thatkatmat]

Nice Jay....Really nice^^

[airfrogusmc]

Nice Jay....Really nice^^

AGREE...

[FlyingPhotog]

Wow fantastic shot Jay!!

Nice Jay....Really nice^^

AGREE...

Thank You...

Rather proud of that one as I'm sure you can imagine. Strikes a chord in this old plane chasing heart. ;)

[rakesh]

Two images from recent street shootout :

http://www.mg-india.com/gallery/_mg_1003.jpg

http://www.mg-india.com/gallery/_mg_1014.jpg

[shaktipalooza]

shot particulars...

5DmkII w/300 f/2.8 IS L lens. Aperture f/9, 1/160 second exposure, ISO 160 (must have slipped. I thought it was ISO 200). Strobes were a Profoto 7B 1200ws battery pack. Silver beauty dish to the right, med softbox left for fill. The strobe unit was fired with pocket wizards. The image is almost entirely from default settings in lightroom.

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/692991088_qizbQ-XL.jpg

[AdamJL]

^ WOW!

[FlyingPhotog]

^^ What He Said ^^

[rakesh]

shot particulars...

5DmkII w/300 f/2.8 IS L lens. Aperture f/9, 1/160 second exposure, ISO 160 (must have slipped. I thought it was ISO 200). Strobes were a Profoto 7B 1200ws battery pack. Silver beauty dish to the right, med softbox left for fill. The strobe unit was fired with pocket wizards. The image is almost entirely from default settings in lightroom.

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/692991088_qizbQ-XL.jpg


Excellent shot.

[Headshotzx]

Whoa.

[Neilyb]

What he, he, and he said!

[aviator.4.life]

Would you think there's noticeable IQ difference between the IS and non-IS? Mainly with the 2x.

[keith breazeal]

Saw this while doing another shot and grabbed it quick- handheld 1/40th & IS off.

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa5/KBVP/GoatandWheelBarrow.jpg

[keith breazeal]

Country Halloween...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2546/4066330076_ed5d2af9b3_b.jpg

[TeeTee]

shot particulars...

5DmkII w/300 f/2.8 IS L lens. Aperture f/9, 1/160 second exposure, ISO 160 (must have slipped. I thought it was ISO 200). Strobes were a Profoto 7B 1200ws battery pack. Silver beauty dish to the right, med softbox left for fill. The strobe unit was fired with pocket wizards. The image is almost entirely from default settings in lightroom.



Gorgeous shot!

Thanks for the detailed setup as well, love that kind of insight into quality work.

[rakesh]

some images from my Saturday Trip :

Taken from my 7D and 300/2.8 Combination :

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3217/4068448848_7ddcbef9f0_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2546/4068448926_d3e22f35eb_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2660/4067698825_cee4140de1_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2422/4067698869_caa9722ff8_o.jpg

[AdamJL]

that leopard's tail is HUGE!

[Neilyb]

That leopard is cool!

[EbbeJ]

A friend of mine's younger brother, asked if I could take a few of his scooter, so I did:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2494/4069412360_f96fa60288_o.jpg

From a soccer-game at a gymnasium:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2756/4068656233_7819404f7c_o.jpg



- Really a great lens, bokeh is awesome, AF amazingly fast and very sharp at 2.8. A little long and big for most of my uses though.


Kind regards,

Ebbe

[dolina]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3446/3704678290_bc062a51e4_o.jpg

[flayzeraynx]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3515/3941434118_ee8fc8a97d_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3903117727_0a1e5e3920_b.jpg

[flayzeraynx]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2429/3903892404_d8ef89a872_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2647/3903109473_69e3e012f3_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/3734854895_31b5659db3_b.jpg

[keith breazeal]

Coast Guard HH-65C

http://www.asb.tv/files/photo/gallery/photos/orig_579_a6b8d.jpg

[aviator.4.life]

That's sweet. I'd throw that on my wall.

[zelseman]

Thats a great shot, but its a little big for the forum.

[Two]

No such thing as too big, IMHO.

Well done. Keep 'em coming.

[dolina]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2719/4105824303_065476e7c3_b.jpg

[keith breazeal]

That's a great shot- action and emotion. Gotta love the DOF and Boken of the 300 :)

[dolina]

That's a great shot- action and emotion. Gotta love the DOF and Boken of the 300 :)
Thanks... the players were very cooperative.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2764/4106280815_4e204627a7_b.jpg

[butterfly2937]

Nice shot. The 300 is such a nice lens! Which camera did you use?

[dolina]

Nice shot. The 300 is such a nice lens! Which camera did you use?
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2773/4108441356_02d3842180_b.jpg

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Lens Model: EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM
Support: Manfrotto 557B Video Monopod w/ 3273 Sliding Rapid-Connect Plate System

[butterfly2937]

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Lens Model: EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM
Support: Manfrotto 557B Video Monopod w/ 3273 Sliding Rapid-Connect Plate System
WOW that's really impressive with a camera that is really not made for sports! You did a fabulous job.

[FlyingPhotog]

WOW that's really impressive with a camera that is really not made for sports! You did a fabulous job.

There's really no such thing as a camera "not made for sports..." Some bodies just offer additional features that can aid in shooting it.

It only takes one shot to tell the story. If you know the sport you're shooting and can properly position yourself, anticipate the action and use the tools properly, any camera can shoot sports.

You can find great action shots all over POTN taken with every body that Canon makes.

[Tareq]

There's really no such thing as a camera "not made for sports..." Some bodies just offer additional features that can aid in shooting it.

It only takes one shot to tell the story. If you know the sport you're shooting and can properly position yourself, anticipate the action and use the tools properly, any camera can shoot sports.

You can find great action shots all over POTN taken with every body that Canon makes.

Next time i will try to shoot those sports with my Hasselblad to have the highest quality, i hope to be successfully done!
I was going to use my film camera to shoot sports, but i remember that i don't have any High ISO film, also my H3D goes up to ISO 400 only [didn't upgrade the firmware to get ISO 800], so i don't know what i will do with bad lighting stadium when i need minimum ISO1600.

[FlyingPhotog]

Next time i will try to shoot those sports with my Hasselblad to have the highest quality, i hope to be successfully done!
I was going to use my film camera to shoot sports, but i remember that i don't have any High ISO film, also my H3D goes up to ISO 400 only [didn't upgrade the firmware to get ISO 800], so i don't know what i will do with bad lighting stadium when i need minimum ISO1600.

Yeah, Ok...

FWIW, there was a photographer at the last Summer Olympics experimenting with a Speed Graphic.

I didn't say that there were not bodies optimized for action and sports I mearly pointed out that it's a falacy to claim that a particular camera can't do sports.

[Tareq]

Yeah, Ok...

FWIW, there was a photographer at the last Summer Olympics experimenting with a Speed Graphic.

I didn't say that there were not bodies optimized for action and sports I mearly pointed out that it's a falacy to claim that a particular camera can't do sports.

I agree, but if i have a choice between 5DII and 1D3 for sports definitely i will go with 1D3, then if people asking me for the reason i will say it is better AF and weather sealing and high FPS so it will help me more than 5DII, not that 5DII is worthless completely, just some people when take one camera for a job they said that other camera is bad for the job or not worthy which wrong, but i don't want to challenge the world and cheat on myself to say that i will be the best of all people using just 5DII or slow camera against faster camera and have more keepers than others, sure many people with faster camera knows about techniques and timing and hunting the peak, so it is like even with my top best skill with 5DII it will be limited in some times and the is the truth, believe it or not, i have a friend who is shooting sports for maybe over 6 years and he is good in following the action but he keep telling me he would like to go with faster camera, and i was using faster camera and got better shots than him in less than 2 years and they chose me to be one of the official photographer in my area sports club, even they choose my photos over my friend [who is using 5fps] camera to shoot sports, and i always telling him or them that they can be so great and great if they use it wisely and watching the action and the timing, but they keep saying that the camera doing the job as well, when i tried his camera and he tried my camera, he got more keepers than me.

[dolina]

WOW that's really impressive with a camera that is really not made for sports! You did a fabulous job.
Thanks! The AF is good enough but the exact perfect moment is plain dumb luck.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/4108911258_b50f01a52a_b.jpg

[dolina]

Next time i will try to shoot those sports with my Hasselblad to have the highest quality, i hope to be successfully done!
I was going to use my film camera to shoot sports, but i remember that i don't have any High ISO film, also my H3D goes up to ISO 400 only [didn't upgrade the firmware to get ISO 800], so i don't know what i will do with bad lighting stadium when i need minimum ISO1600.
All my shots were locked at ISO 160. Why 160? Someone told me it was Canon's 'native' ISO. Whatever that means... ;)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2764/4106280815_5c3b5d1506_b.jpg

[dolina]

I agree, but if i have a choice between 5DII and 1D3 for sports definitely i will go with 1D3, then if people asking me for the reason i will say it is better AF and weather sealing and high FPS so it will help me more than 5DII, not that 5DII is worthless completely, just some people when take one camera for a job they said that other camera is bad for the job or not worthy which wrong, but i don't want to challenge the world and cheat on myself to say that i will be the best of all people using just 5DII or slow camera against faster camera and have more keepers than others, sure many people with faster camera knows about techniques and timing and hunting the peak, so it is like even with my top best skill with 5DII it will be limited in some times and the is the truth, believe it or not, i have a friend who is shooting sports for maybe over 6 years and he is good in following the action but he keep telling me he would like to go with faster camera, and i was using faster camera and got better shots than him in less than 2 years and they chose me to be one of the official photographer in my area sports club, even they choose my photos over my friend [who is using 5fps] camera to shoot sports, and i always telling him or them that they can be so great and great if they use it wisely and watching the action and the timing, but they keep saying that the camera doing the job as well, when i tried his camera and he tried my camera, he got more keepers than me.
Before someone calls me ballsy or crazy... I've been holding off purchase of the 1D3 for over a year for the 1D4. I was promised one of the first five units to land locally so everything's peachy. :lol:

Better gear = Easier time getting keepers

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/4108119669_1589250440_b.jpg

[dolina]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2556/4115117272_298179723f_b.jpg

[Tareq]

All my shots were locked at ISO 160. Why 160? Someone told me it was Canon's 'native' ISO. Whatever that means... ;)



Before someone calls me ballsy or crazy... I've been holding off purchase of the 1D3 for over a year for the 1D4. I was promised one of the first five units to land locally so everything's peachy. :lol:

Better gear = Easier time getting keepers



Nice shots!

ISO 160? Man, come and shoot at night with weak stadium lights here at ISO 160 and let's see your shots, of course with strong light at day time i will shoot at ISO100-250, i don't know if that native iso is 160 or 100, it doesn't matter much if it is native iso or not, just use a desirable iso with SS and F values and here you go.

In fact we can't talk about faster cameras because not all can afford it, i know that those fastest cameras make life easier and you can have more keepers as i found, i used 30D and 1D2N and 1DIII, with faster camera i get more keepers but i can get great shots with all cameras so no one will come and say i can do better with 30D or 3fps, yes you and many can do with 3fps in sports/actions, but isn't it easier you use 8-10fps, you may get 4-5 keepers at those 8fps vs. 1-2 with 3fps, but i am sure those 30D/40D/50D and Nikon equivalent all capable in sports, and members here prove that even with slow cameras like 5D they can do that, i can use my 1DsII or 1DsIII also in sports if i want, but i prefer 1D series now.

[dolina]

Thanks!

When I mean ISO 160 I mean multiples of 160 like 160, 320, 640, so on and so forth. That's what was said to me by a pixel peeping engineer who is stir crazy about image quality and color. For that sunny day I would've wanted to shoot at ISO 50 so I can slow down the shutter a bit even when wide open to say.... 1/500. I was doing 1/1600 to 1/3200 none to good if you want to show some motion blur.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2657/4114149313_02dbd41d65_b.jpg

[Tareq]

Thanks!

When I mean ISO 160 I mean multiples of 160 like 160, 320, 640, so on and so forth. That's what was said to me by a pixel peeping engineer who is stir crazy about image quality and color. For that sunny day I would've wanted to shoot at ISO 50 so I can slow down the shutter a bit even when wide open to say.... 1/500. I was doing 1/1600 to 1/3200 none to good if you want to show some motion blur.



Ah i see, now i understand it!
No, i don't want to show some motion blur in soccer, maybe on another sports. ;)

[dolina]

No problem. :)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2789/4116922884_e789ed436c_b.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

T-45 Goshawk on Short Final at NAF El Centro
http://www.pbase.com/flyingphotog/image/119544477/original.jpg
EOS 1DMkIII + 300mm f/2.8L IS .. 1/1000 @ f/4.5 ISO 100

[keith breazeal]

Not only a great shot, you had a great position :)

[FlyingPhotog]

Not only a great shot, you had a great position :)

Thanks...

We spent 4.5 hours at the LSO Shack. Still putting my internal organs back to rights from the F/A-18 departures. :shock:

Gallery being efforted (tomorrow)

[keith breazeal]

This is one of my favorites from the Reno Air Races. It was shot late afternoon when Steve Hinton gave the A-10 demo pilot a ride.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2479/3949116488_fe058be523_b.jpg

[dolina]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2585/4124795978_a8a554f726_b.jpg

[btoures@yahoo.com]

ABSOLUTLEY FANTASTIC, WAS THAT ON A TRIPOD?

[keith breazeal]

ABSOLUTLEY FANTASTIC, WAS THAT ON A TRIPOD?

mine, no.

[dolina]

ABSOLUTLEY FANTASTIC, WAS THAT ON A TRIPOD?
monopod

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2705/4126439681_a84343d1cf_b.jpg

[Neilyb]

Not the best photo but a good example of what can be achieved with a 1.4 and a 2x TC stacked...the Kenko 1.4 is not seen by the 50D when the 2X is on too, AF was hit and miss but worked in this contrasty case. Stopped down to f11, 200ISO, 30%crop.

http://neilburton.smugmug.com/Kruger-National-Park/Colour/pied840/724318017_WZLUp-O.jpg

[dolina]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2775/4181774516_c99d5cb918_b.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

"In Tribute"

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p790267719-5.jpg
1DMkIII + 300mm f/2.8L IS .. 1/180 @ f/5.6 ISO 100

[dolina]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2772/4185277484_5365c0482d_b.jpg

[Starved]

Took my new 300mm f/2.8L IS out for the first time today. Here's what I found.

Cropped
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/4185568355_c3bd57a330_o.jpg

Original
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2698/4186335816_7241fd977f_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4185568721_aeeb42c6e7_o.jpg

[aviator.4.life]

Awesome, I wish I could find bald eagles like you can in Canada.

[ErnieT]

Starved, you in Vancouver i see, where bouts did you see these eagles? I've been to Brackendale a few times, and its starting to get good over there. Not quite peak, but coming pretty soon. Nice images by the way, though with a 300mm lens, i would want alot more reach!

[Starved]

This one was right at Spanish Banks. Usually see 1-2 around the UBC area.

[ErnieT]

Cool! Nice to see another local Vancouverite!

[restyles]

Taken with a 300 f2.8 on a 1D Mk3. This shot was taken handheld at 250th @ f6.3 and is un-cropped. The car was travelling at about 70-80 mph. This lens is very managable for handholding and also takes converters well. Focusing accuracy for fast moving subjects is very good on A1 servo.

http://i719.photobucket.com/albums/ww191/restyles/0C5I0086-copy-2.jpg

[Morlow]

I plan on picking up one of these lenses in a couple months, and was wondering whether the Canon teleconverters are required or if the Kenko are just as good? If there is any image quality difference I plan on going the "correct" rout with the Canon brand, but if I can get the same results for $100 less then why not. I've never used teleconverters before so this will be a first for me.

[AdamJL]

Kenko's 1.4x is preety much identical to Canon's.
Canon's 2x is noticeably better than Kenko's.

[tonylong]

I plan on picking up one of these lenses in a couple months, and was wondering whether the Canon teleconverters are required or if the Kenko are just as good? If there is any image quality difference I plan on going the "correct" rout with the Canon brand, but if I can get the same results for $100 less then why not. I've never used teleconverters before so this will be a first for me.

I did some testing of both back when I first got the 300 and decided that the Kenko 1.4x was pretty much in the same ballpark as the Canon, but the Kenko 2x showed more loss of IQ, so I acted accordingly.

In practice I didn't use the 2x much because it made things too "iffy" for me. I use the 1.4x a lot though on my 100-400 (I sold the 300 a year ago).

[Morlow]

In practice I didn't use the 2x much because it made things too "iffy" for me.

What exactly does it make iffy? I have read through quite a few pages here and it seems that people are praising this lens as one of the best when combined with the 2x. I know the IQ takes some hit with the 2x but a lot of the shots I have seen are still very much sharp enough for my eye.

[tonylong]

What exactly does it make iffy? I have read through quite a few pages here and it seems that people are praising this lens as one of the best when combined with the 2x. I know the IQ takes some hit with the 2x but a lot of the shots I have seen are still very much sharp enough for my eye.

Well, I do have shots that I've been happy with using the combo, but most of my attempts were aiming at things that were pretty far off and required close cropping to have a decent image. In those cases 600mm was not enough, and yet when you are shooting at 600mm, especially with a 2x TC, you need to get everything just right to maximize sharpness, and I found that things typically didn't go that smoothly. I found that the 1.4x on my 100-400 gave me better results overall.

But it's true that the 300 is one of the best for use with the 2x -- that and the 400, 500, 600, 800...gotta love the long primes:)!

[Morlow]

Well, I do have shots that I've been happy with using the combo, but most of my attempts were aiming at things that were pretty far off and required close cropping to have a decent image. In those cases 600mm was not enough, and yet when you are shooting at 600mm, especially with a 2x TC, you need to get everything just right to maximize sharpness, and I found that things typically didn't go that smoothly. I found that the 1.4x on my 100-400 gave me better results overall.

But it's true that the 300 is one of the best for use with the 2x -- that and the 400, 500, 600, 800...gotta love the long primes:)!

Thanks. That makes sense.

[TC_Fenua]

http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/6586/vini02.jpg

[restyles]

The attached shot was taken with my 300 + Canon 2X extender. It was taken hand held at 320th @ f6.3. I think the quality is very acceptable, and is even better with the 1.4X. I often use the 300 + 1.4X on a 40D 1.6 crop body for motorsport as the A/F does slow down with the 2X. Obviously there is not a problem with static subjects.
(My cat is watching the bird in the previous post !!)

[FlyingPhotog]

EF 300mm f/2.8L IS .. Accept No Substitute

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p221843492-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p389796058-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p108523478-4.jpg

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

Great pics, Jay (and everyone).

I'm still torn between this lens and the EF 400mm f/2.8L I.S. (both with & without TCs)

I shoot mainly nature/wildlife and I LOVE the fast 2.8 aperture of both lenses.

I might have to rent both to see which one I'll love MORE.

[tonylong]

Great pics, Jay (and everyone).

I'm still torn between this lens and the EF 400mm f/2.8L I.S. (both with & without TCs)

I shoot mainly nature/wildlife and I LOVE the fast 2.8 aperture of both lenses.

I might have to rent both to see which one I'll love MORE.

This here is good advice you're giving yourself. I hear the 400 is a monster.

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

This here is good advice you're giving yourself. I hear the 400 is a monster.
Thanks. Yeah it really is hefty, esp compared to the 300. I've had the chance to "play" with both lenses at a camera store, and both are incredible pieces of glass.

I was able to handhold the 400 for a while, but it definitely needs solid support for proper use.

I also got to "play" with the 500 f4L I.S., and of the three, there was just something a little more "special" about the 400. I don't know if it's the ability to shoot at 400mm @ f2.8 under lowlight conditions and not have to use a super high ISO, or the ability to transform it into a 560mm f4 & 800 f5.6 with TCs, but I'm strongly leaning toward the 400.

But the handhold ability and versatility of the 300 is very intriguing.

The 33% extra reach of the 400 @ the same f/2.8 though is so tempting!

*buys lottery ticket so he doesn't have to make the decision!

[FlyingPhotog]

FWIW, I frequently (like 90% of the time) hand hold my 300 and I know several folks who actually hand hold the 500 but I don't know anyone who hand holds the 400 with any regularity.

It's just a beast!

[Candor]

Not the best photo but a good example of what can be achieved with a 1.4 and a 2x TC stacked...the Kenko 1.4 is not seen by the 50D when the 2X is on too, AF was hit and miss but worked in this contrasty case. Stopped down to f11, 200ISO, 30%crop.

http://neilburton.smugmug.com/Kruger-National-Park/Colour/pied840/724318017_WZLUp-O.jpg

That is very impressive with TC's stacked!

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

FWIW, I frequently (like 90% of the time) hand hold my 300 and I know several folks who actually hand hold the 500 but I don't know anyone who hand holds the 400 with any regularity.

It's just a beast!

Thanks for the feedback.

Yeah the weight of the 400 (and the cost of course) are probably the two most negative aspects that might sway my decision.

Of course, I would use the 400 on a tripod & most likely a solid ballhead + wimberley sidekick almost 95% of the time. (if not more). And having that 800mm f/5.6 with the 2x TC is sooo appealing!

And I'm sorry but the "ego boost" of just holding the 400 (it's sheer size is awe inspiring) is one of those can't put into words feelings. :lol:

But the 300 is such a sweet piece of glass as well.

Decisions decisions.

[FlyingPhotog]

A Few From The Zoo...

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p60639038-5.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p238048865-5.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p26857684-5.jpg
1DMkIII + 300mm f/2.8L IS + 1.4X TC .. EXIF Intact

[tonylong]

Very nice, Jay!

[FlyingPhotog]

Thank You Sir... :D

BTW .. Check the EXIF on the Mandrill .. SS = 1/20 ! Yeah, I loves me an IS lens and a monopd!!

[tonylong]

Thank You Sir... :D

BTW .. Check the EXIF on the Mandrill .. SS = 1/20 ! Yeah, I loves me an IS lens and a monopd!!

Yeah, I think the 300 was made to sing with the monopod -- one of my favorite tools!

[keith breazeal]

Nice zoo shots Jay :) I have a zoo shoot goal this spring and the 300 will be the mainstay. I have to get a heaver monopod though.

[FlyingPhotog]

Thanks Keith...

Filling out your Airshow calendar for 2010 yet?

[keith breazeal]

After shooting a few days at the Reno Air Races, it took a few days to recover. The 300 performed well with the fast action, but weighed about 50 pounds by the end of the day. ;) Next time I'm taking a monopod to hold the weight.

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa5/KBVP/WildcatGearDown.jpg

[sanjeedbd]

Hi all. New to this thread. Weighing between the EF 500mm f/4L IS USM versus EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM and 2X Extender combo.

Would appreciate some briefing on 300mm f/2.8L IS + 2X Extender performance re the following:

a. What's widest aperture available?
b. Does the IS remain operational?
c. Does the autofocus work?

Thank u in advance.

[hollis_f]

Hi all. New to this thread. Weighing between the EF 500mm f/4L IS USM versus EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM and 2X Extender combo.

Would appreciate some briefing on 300mm f/2.8L IS + 2X Extender performance re the following:

a. What's widest aperture available?
b. Does the IS remain operational?
c. Does the autofocus work?

Thank u in advance.

a. f/5.6
b. Yes
c. Yes

A friend of mine sold her 500 f/4 after she tried my 300 f/2.8 because she just could not carry the 500, tripod and gimbal head around all day. Now she can just take the 300 (although she does like to bring the tripod/head if its a short walk).

[TC_Fenua]

This lens is great for portraits too :)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4245665127_3a6e21fbc7_o.jpg

Iso 100 , f/2.8 , 1/60 sec

[sanjeedbd]

Thanks hollis_f. This has been of great help. Hope the image quality will also equal the EF 500mm f/4L performance. At present I own and use an EF 400mm f/5.6L USM with great satisfaction. However, the 200mm additional reach obtained from the combo will give me more flexibilities. Thanks again.

[sanjeedbd]

May I request users to kindly upload some images shot with this combo (EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM + Canon 2X Extender).

Thanks in advance.

[FlyingPhotog]

May I request users to kindly upload some images shot with this combo (EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM + Canon 2X Extender).

Thanks in advance.

As Requested:

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p285167979-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p780857654-4.jpg

http://jcbeckman.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p258991687-4.jpg

[sanjeedbd]

FlyingPhotog, Wow!!! These are superb images of highest pro quality. Really amazing. Thank you very much for the nice presentation.

[FlyingPhotog]

FlyingPhotog, Wow!!! These are superb images of highest pro quality. Really amazing. Thank you very much for the nice presentation.

Thank You .. Hope they satisfy your curiosity about using the 2X with the 300.

At pixel-peeping zoom levels, you will see a slight degradation of quality but I've done 12x18 prints of the B-17 and at "arms length" viewing distances, they look fantastic.